IN line with B.C.’s Restart Plan, ICBC is now moving forward with a phased approach to offering in-person driver licensing services. Commercial road tests (Class 1-4) can resume next week, and will be by appointment only.
Starting June 11, customers wishing to obtain a commercial licence can call 1-800-950-1498 to book an appointment. ICBC is asking customers for their patience as it anticipates high call volumes. Priority appointments will initially be provided to customers who had their commercial road test appointments cancelled between March 17 and March 30.
The plan for resuming road tests is focused on the health and safety of ICBC employees and customers, aligned with the guidelines set out by the Provincial Health Office and WorkSafeBC, and developed in consultation with ICBC employees and MoveUP.
Customers are asked to arrive on time for their appointment with the required identification and ensure the interior of their vehicle is clean. Upon arrival, they will be asked a series of health screening questions and provided a mandatory medical-grade mask to wear for the duration of the road test.
Driver examiners will continue to conduct road tests from inside the customer’s vehicle to ensure the examiner is able to fully assess the road test and to take control of the vehicle in the event of an emergency. Driver examiners will be provided the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) which can include a combination of masks, shields, goggles, gloves and disposable seat covers.
To date, ICBC has secured sufficient PPE for this initial phase. ICBC is planning to expand the availability of road tests to other classes of licences as soon as possible. The timing of that expansion will be dependent on the successful roll-out of this initial phase and ICBC’s continued ability to secure sufficient PPE for our employees and customers.
Nicolas Jimenez, ICBC’s President and CEO, said on Wednesday: “The safety of our customers and employees is our top priority and we have taken a thoughtful approach to develop a plan that allows us to resume road tests in the safest manner possible. Customers have been eager to see these services resume and we’re happy to have found a way to do so safely.”
Dave Earle, BC Trucking Association President and CEO, said: “ICBC’s plan prioritizes the safety of our members and allows us to continue our critical role in helping families and organizations across the province by delivering goods and services during these challenging times.”
