The ICBC knowledge test is the written test for your learner's licence (Class 7L) in British Columbia. ICBC says it is harder than many people expect, because many questions test understanding, not just memorised facts. Here is how it works and how to prepare.
What is on the test
- 50 multiple-choice questions, all based on ICBC's free guide Learn to Drive Smart.
- Pass mark: 40 out of 50 (80%). You can miss up to 10.
- $15 for each attempt, and $10 for the Class 7L learner's licence (fees checked October 2026).
- You can take it online at home (since 9 June 2026) or at a driver licensing office. See online or in office.
- In an office it is offered in English, French, Arabic, Cantonese, Croatian, Farsi, Mandarin, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish and Vietnamese.
A study plan that works
- Read Learn to Drive Smart from cover to cover. Every question comes from it. It is free on icbc.com and in the ICBC app.
- Learn the signs by shape and colour, then each sign on the BC road signs page, with every sign and a short quiz.
- Take a full 50-question mock test early. The free BC mock tests on PassDriveTest use the same length and pass mark.
- Understand, do not just memorise. For every mistake, read the explanation and ask yourself why the rule exists. ICBC's questions often describe a situation.
- Learn the numbers: speed limits in school and playground zones, following distances, parking distances, and the L and N rules.
- Aim for 45 or more on several different mock tests, then try ICBC's own free practice test.
Topics that catch people out
- L and N restrictions: supervisor age and licence, passenger limits, no driving from midnight to 5 a.m. as a learner, zero alcohol and drugs, the L and N signs, and no electronic devices at all. All of them are on the BC rules of the road page.
- School zones (30 km/h on school days 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. unless signs say otherwise) and playground zones (30 km/h dawn to dusk).
- Right of way at four-way stops, uncontrolled intersections and roundabouts, and yielding to pedestrians.
- Slowing down and moving over for stopped vehicles with flashing lights.
After you pass
Passing does not license you by itself. At a driver licensing office you complete the vision and medical screening, show two pieces of accepted ID and pay the $10 licence fee. If you are under 19, a parent or guardian must sign consent. Most learners then hold the L for 12 months before the Class 7 road test (9 months if you are 25 or older).
Take a free BC knowledge test mock test to see where you stand.
Checked against official sources on 17 October 2026.