What you need to do to renew your BC driver's license
You can renew your BC driver's license in person at a Service BC office or online through the BC Services Portal, depending on the type of license you hold and how long it has been expired. Most standard Class 5 licenses can be renewed online if they expired less than two years ago, which takes about 10 minutes and costs $35 to $50. If your license expired more than two years ago, you will need to renew in person and may need to pass a vision test or knowledge test depending on your age and how long the license has been expired.
The process differs slightly if you hold a commercial license (Class 1, 2, 3, or 4), a motorcycle license, or a license with air brake endorsement — these always require an in-person appointment. You will also need to renew in person if you are over 80 years old, as medical review becomes part of the process at that age.
Key Takeaways
- Standard Class 5 licenses expired less than two years can be renewed online through the BC Services Portal without visiting an office.
- In-person renewal at a Service BC office is required for commercial licenses, motorcycle licenses, and any license expired more than two years.
- You will need your current or expired license, proof of BC residency, and proof of identity to renew in person.
- Drivers over 80 years old must renew in person and may be asked to complete a medical assessment as part of the renewal.
Renewing online through the BC Services Portal
Online renewal is the fastest option if your Class 5 license expired within the last two years. Go to the BC Services Portal (www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/driving-and-roads/driver-licensing/renew-license), log in with your BC Services Card username and password, and follow the steps to pay and confirm your information. You do not need to upload documents or visit an office. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 10 business days.
To use online renewal, you must have a BC Services Card account set up beforehand. If you do not have one, you can create it on the same portal — this takes a few minutes and requires your Social Insurance Number, date of birth, and a valid email address. Online renewal is not available if your license has been suspended, cancelled, or if you need to update your photo.
Renewing in person at a Service BC office
In-person renewal is required for commercial licenses, motorcycle licenses, licenses expired more than two years, and drivers over 80. You can book an appointment online at the Service BC website or call 1-800-663-7867 to find the office nearest you and check wait times. Bring your current or expired license, proof of BC residency (such as a utility bill or lease agreement dated within the last three months), and proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate).
When you arrive, a Service BC staff member will check your documents, take a new photo if needed, and process your payment. If you are over 80, you may be asked to complete a medical review form or pass a vision test. The appointment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Your new license will be mailed to you within 10 business days, or you can pay an extra fee to have it printed on site if the office offers that service.
What happens if your license has been expired for a long time
If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew it — you must reapply as a new driver. This means taking the written knowledge test and the road test again, even if you have been driving for decades. You will also need to pay the full fee for a new license rather than a renewal fee. The only exception is if you have been living outside BC during the time your license was expired; in that case, you may be able to renew instead of reapply, but you will need to provide proof of your residence outside the province.
If you are unsure whether your license qualifies for renewal or reapplication, call Service BC at 1-800-663-7867 and have your license number ready. They can tell you which process applies to your situation.
Fees and payment methods
A standard Class 5 license renewal costs $35 if you renew online or $50 if you renew in person. Commercial licenses, motorcycle licenses, and licenses with endorsements cost more — typically $60 to $100 depending on the class and endorsements. If you choose to have your license printed on site at a Service BC office rather than mailed, there is an additional fee of around $15 to $20.
Online renewal accepts Visa, Mastercard, and debit cards. In-person renewal accepts cash, debit, and credit cards. If you are renewing in person and need a vision test or medical review, those services may have separate fees depending on where you have them done.
What to do if you need a photo update or have a suspension
If you want to update your photo but your license is not yet expired, you can request a photo renewal at any Service BC office without renewing the full license. This costs around $20 and takes about 15 minutes. You will need to bring proof of identity and BC residency.
If your license is suspended or cancelled, you cannot renew it online or in the standard way. You must contact Service BC directly at 1-800-663-7867 to find out why it was suspended and what steps you need to take to restore it. Depending on the reason — unpaid fines, medical concerns, or driving violations — you may need to complete additional requirements before you can renew.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I have moved out of BC?
No. Your BC driver's license is tied to BC residency. If you have moved to another province or country, you need to get a license from your new place of residence. If you move back to BC later, you may be able to renew your old BC license rather than reapply, depending on how long you were away.
What if I lost my license and need to renew at the same time?
You will need to replace your lost license first before you can renew. Go to a Service BC office with proof of identity and BC residency, and they will issue a replacement. Once you have the replacement, you can renew it when ready if it is within the renewal window, or wait until the expiry date approaches.
Do I need a vision test to renew my license?
A vision test is required only if you are over 80 years old or if the Service BC staff member has concerns about your vision during the renewal process. If you are under 80 and renewing online, no vision test is needed. If you are renewing in person and are concerned about your vision, you can ask to take a test.
How long does it take to get my renewed license in the mail?
Standard delivery takes 10 business days from the date you renew. If you renew in person and the office offers on-site printing, you can receive your license the same day for an additional fee. During busy periods, mail delivery may take slightly longer.
What if my name has changed since my last license?
Bring proof of your name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order) along with your other documents when you renew in person. Service BC will update your name on your new license at no extra cost. Online renewal cannot process name changes, so you must renew in person.