Renewing your BC driver's license in person or by mail

You can renew your BC driver's license either in person at a Service BC office or by mail, depending on what type of license you hold and how long it has been expired. In-person renewal takes about 20 minutes and you leave with your new license the same day. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and costs less, but you cannot renew by mail if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need to update your photo, or if you have certain medical conditions listed on your file.

The method you choose depends on your situation and how quickly you need the license. Most people renew in person because it is faster and because many licenses require a new photo every ten years anyway. If your license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, and your photo does not need updating, mail renewal saves you a trip and about $15.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person renewal at a Service BC office takes about 20 minutes and you receive your new license when ready; mail renewal takes two to three weeks but costs less.
  • You cannot renew by mail if your license expired more than two years ago, if you need a new photo, or if you have medical conditions on your file that require verification.
  • Bring your current license, proof of BC residency (such as a recent utility bill or lease), and a valid form of ID if renewing in person.
  • The renewal fee is $85 for a five-year license or $130 for a ten-year license when you renew in person; mail renewal costs $70 for five years or $105 for ten years.

Renewing in person at a Service BC office

To renew in person, find your nearest Service BC office on the BC government website and book an appointment or arrive during walk-in hours. Bring your current driver's license, one piece of proof of BC residency (such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last three months), and one valid form of ID if your license has expired. If your license is still valid, you only need the license itself and proof of residency.

At the office, you will have your photo taken, answer health and safety questions, and pay the renewal fee. The staff member will check your driving record and any medical notes on file. You will choose whether to renew for five years or ten years. Your new license is printed on the spot and you can drive home with it when ready. The five-year license costs $85 and the ten-year license costs $130.

If you wear glasses or contacts for driving, you must wear them for your photo. If your address has changed, tell the staff member and they will update it during renewal. If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (such as a marriage certificate or court order).

Renewing by mail

To renew by mail, read the Driver's Licence Renewal process form from the BC government website or pick one up at a Service BC office. Fill in all sections, including your signature. Mail the form along with your current driver's license and a cheque or money order for the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash.

Mail renewal costs $70 for a five-year license or $105 for a ten-year license. Your new license will arrive in the mail within two to three weeks. During this time, you can still drive using your current license as long as it has not expired. If your current license has already expired, you cannot drive until your new one arrives, so mail renewal is not practical if you need to drive when ready.

You cannot renew by mail if your license expired more than two years ago, if you need a new photo (which happens every ten years), if you have medical conditions or restrictions on your file that need to be reviewed, or if you have changed your name. In any of these situations, you must renew in person.

What happens if your license has been expired for more than two years

If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew it. Instead, you must reapply for a new license as though you were getting one for the first time. This means you will need to pass a knowledge test, a vision test, and a road test. You will also need to provide proof of identity, proof of BC residency, and proof of your Social Insurance Number.

Reapplying takes significantly longer than renewal and costs more in fees. You can book your knowledge test at a Service BC office or through a private testing provider. Once you pass the knowledge test, you can book your road test. The entire process typically takes several weeks to several months depending on how quickly you can schedule tests.

Updating your address or medical information during renewal

If you are renewing in person and your address has changed, the Service BC staff member will update it for you at the time of renewal. straightforward tell them your new address and they will enter it into the system. Your new license will show the updated address.

If you have a medical condition that affects your driving, or if your doctor has told you that you need to report a condition to ICBC, you must renew in person. Do not attempt to renew by mail. The Service BC staff member will ask you health and safety questions, and you may be asked to provide a medical report from your doctor. ICBC uses this information to determine whether any restrictions should be placed on your license.

Finding a Service BC office near you

Service BC offices are located throughout the province in most towns and cities. You can find the office nearest to you, check their hours, and book an appointment on the BC government website. Some offices are busier than others, so booking ahead is recommended, especially if you need to renew during a weekday morning.

If you live in a remote area without a nearby Service BC office, you may be able to renew by mail even if you normally would not be able to, or you may be able to use a Service BC agent in your community. Call Service BC at 1-800-663-7867 to ask about options in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

No, BC does not currently offer online renewal for driver's licenses. You must renew either in person at a Service BC office or by mail. In-person renewal is faster and allows you to leave with your new license the same day.

What if I lost my license and need to renew it?

If your license is lost, you cannot renew it by mail. You must go to a Service BC office in person and request a replacement. Bring proof of identity and proof of BC residency. The replacement fee is $35 if your license is still valid, or you can renew it at the same time for the full renewal fee.

Do I need to take a new photo if my license is not ten years old?

No, you do not need a new photo unless your current license is ten years old or older. However, if your appearance has changed significantly or if you want a new photo, you can request one during in-person renewal. There is no extra charge for a new photo during renewal.

What if my name has changed since I got my license?

You must renew in person if your name has changed. Bring a certified copy of the document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The Service BC staff member will update your name and issue a new license with the correct name.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

No, you must renew your own license in person or submit the mail renewal form yourself. A family member or representative cannot renew it on your behalf. If you are unable to visit a Service BC office due to a disability or mobility issue, call 1-800-663-7867 to discuss other options.