New drivers will be able to hit the road faster in 2026 under proposed changes to the graduated licensing program. 

Drivers with a Class 7 novice licence and a clean driving record won鈥檛 need to take a second road test to get a Class 5 licence under legislation tabled Wednesday. 

Drivers moving toward a Class 5 licence will instead now be subject to a new 12-month restriction period during which they must demonstrate safe driving behaviour. 

Under the current system introduced in the late 1990s, would-be drivers 16 years and older must first pass a knowledge test and undergo vision screening to get their learner's licence, also known as the L designation.

They can take their first road test after at least a year of practice with a qualified supervisor. If they are successful, they secure a novice's licence, also known as the N designation. They can then apply for their full licence after having had their N designation for at least two years of safe driving on their own with no prohibitions.

This final step also requires a second road test.

B.C.'s Minister of Public Safety Garry Begg said Wednesday the change responds to research. "We always look at the way we do things and if things can be done better for the future, that's what we do," he said. 

B.C. and Ontario are the only provinces requiring drivers to pass a second road test. ICBC said on its website that a review of other graduated licensing programs around the world found that the driving records of individuals offer reliable alternatives to a second road test. 

ICBC said on its website that it will release additional details about the changes in the coming months.