Identification and Getting Your Drivers License in British Columbia

 

Moving forward

There are pathways and supports to helping you get ID.

 

You are not alone in the process

 

Why Identification Matters ...


For many people, access to identification hasn’t always been simple. Documents can be lost, delayed, or difficult to obtain  often due to circumstances outside of a person’s control.


Identification is still required to move forward with a driver’s licence, but there are supportive pathways to help you get there. This page is designed to share clear information, trusted resources, and respectful options so you can move forward at your own pace.



Identification Requirements for ICBC


To apply for a driver’s licence in British Columbia, you must present acceptable identification that confirms your legal name, date of birth, and legal status in Canada. These requirements are set by Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC).


ICBC accepts different combinations of primary and secondary identification, depending on your situation. Because requirements can change, it’s important to review the most up-to-date information before your appointment.


View ICBC's current identification requirements here.



Birth Certificates: A Foundational Document


A birth certificate is often the starting point for accessing other forms of identification. If you do not currently have one — or if it has been lost, damaged, or never issued  you can apply for a replacement through the BC Vital Statistics Agency or Service BC.


Birth certificates are commonly required when applying for:


  • Government-issued photo identification
  • Status or citizenship documents
  • Driver’s licences and other provincial services


Apply for or replace a birth certificate through Vital Statistics here.



Secure Status Cards Through One Feather


For Indigenous learners, a Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) may be used as accepted identification when applying for a driver’s licence.


One Feather is an Indigenous-led organization that supports First Nations individuals with:


  • Applying for or renewing secure status cards
  • Replacing lost or expired documents
  • Navigating identification requirements with culturally informed support


Learn more or apply through One Feather here.



A Note About Online Payments


Some identification applications — including birth certificates and status documents, may require online payment using a credit card. For learners in rural or remote communities, this can be a barrier, especially when local banks or credit unions do not issue debit Visa or debit Mastercard cards.


One option some learners choose is KOHO, a prepaid Visa card that can be used for many online government services. KOHO cards are not a traditional credit card and can be loaded with funds in advance, allowing you to pay online without carrying debt.


Learn more about KOHO and how to apply.


If this option doesn’t work for you, there may be other pathways available — including in-person applications or community-based support.


We're Here To Help


If you’re unsure where to start or which documents apply to your situation, you’re not alone. Identification requirements can feel complicated, but support is available.


Our goal is to make the path toward a driver’s licence clear, respectful, and achievable. If you have questions before booking lessons or tests, we’re happy to help guide you to the right resources.