Image: ICBC / The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia says demand for driver's licenses in B.C. has never been higher, as a record 35,500 road tests were conducted in B.C. in May, up 24 per cent compared to the monthly average. At the same time, ICBC says nearly half of those applicants are failing their first attempt at a road test.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Nearly half of drivers failing road tests

Nearly half of BC drivers are failing the ICBC road test, as demand skyrockets

Jun 20, 2023 | 8:51 AM

NORTH VANCOUVER — The provincial auto insurer says demand for road tests in British Columbia has never been higher, as a record 35,500 road tests were conducted in B.C. in May, up 24 per cent compared to the monthly average.

At the same time, ICBC says nearly half of those applicants are failing their first attempt at a road test.

In a news release Monday (June 19), the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia said the Crown company has conducted 33 per cent more road tests (343,132) the past year compared to the same 12-month period before the pandemic in 2018-2019.

However, not only are more drivers aspiring to get their B.C. driver’s license than ever before, the failure rate for first attempt road tests is approaching nearly 50 per cent.

As a result, ICBC says these drivers end up booking additional appointment(s), which puts further strain on road test availability.

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“We encourage drivers to take their road test when they’ve gained a lot of driving experience and feel confident about their skills,” said Jerry Boal, ICBC driver licensing office manager. “If you come prepared for your road test, you have a much better chance of succeeding. This helps you avoid another wait for an appointment, and helps other drivers get an appointment sooner.”

ICBC’s tips for road test success:

1. Start with the right mindset. Warm up your driving skills by driving to your road test location and driving around to get familiar with the area. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment. If you’re rushing, it can increase your stress level and not put you in the right frame of mind to take your test.

2. Boost your confidence. Work on some of the more challenging maneuvers you may encounter during your road test, such as parallel and reverse-stall parking. Practice until these maneuvers feel smooth – this will give you a confidence boost during your road test. Ideally, for your road test, use the vehicle you practiced with so that you’re comfortable and familiar with the vehicle. Your vehicle will be inspected before the road test begins so make sure it’s safe.

3. Observe your surroundings. Some of the most common mistakes made on a road test involve drivers not paying enough attention to their surroundings, such as not shoulder checking when turning, merging or changing lanes and during a parking maneuver. Many drivers don’t perform their 360-degree check.

4. Speed maintenance is key. Speeding is a very common mistake during a road test – especially in school, playground and construction zones – where the speed limit can change suddenly. Be aware of the posted speed limits at all times. Watch your speed when driving down or up a hill as the change in elevation can cause your speed to fluctuate quickly. Make sure you come to a smooth stop at intersections and stop signs, and gradually accelerate when it’s time to go.

5. Practice, practice, practice. Drive as often as you can. Driving experience and training are essential. Take some lessons with an ICBC-approved driving school if possible. Even one or two lessons can make a huge difference for a road test. Instructors can help you refine your skills, teach you safe driving practices and let you know what to expect on your test. There are many resources on icbc.com to help drivers get ready for their road test, including Street Sense and Learn to Drive Smart apps, and Tuning Up for Drivers guide.

More information for new drivers is available on icbc.com.