New Drivers

Information regarding new drivers and the Graduated Licencing Program.

Electronic Devices and Novice Drivers

BC Courts Coat of ArmsDrivers in the Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) are forbidden to use electronic devices while driving. Mira McEachern was a 17 year old novice driver on September 17, 2016 when she was issued a traffic ticket for violating this rule. She was convicted of that offence (records do not indicate if it was because she paid the fine or was not successful in a traffic court dispute).

Passenger Restriction for Learner Drivers

image of N and L new driver sign for BCQuestion: I have twin daughters who will be getting their 'L' very soon. They believe the passenger restriction for a learner's licence is 1 supervisor and 1 other passenger. This will be a considerable lost opportunity for them to practice driving when we go somewhere as a family. If you've dealt with this situation do you have any advice?

Q&A - First Ticket

New Driver Signs 2011A few days ago, I have just received my first Novice License and had retained my L for a year without any issue or ticket. Today, I have driven up Burnaby mountain, and down for the first time and was ticketed out a speeding at 92km/hour in a 60km/hour zone.

CASE LAW - R v C.J.S.

BC Courts Coat of ArmsC.J.S. is a young person who held a class 8 motorcycle learner's licence. He was participating in a group ride from Campbell River to Gold River on Highway 28. He was seriously injured in a collision near the intersection of McIvor Lake Road when a Prius that he had been following signalled right and turned left.

CASE LAW - Gainder v The Minister of Justice

BC Courts Coat of ArmsMandeep Gainder, a novice driver, was discovered sitting in his idling car which emitted a strong odour of marihuana from the passenger compartment. Constable Troughton performed a Standardized Field Sobriety Test on Mr. Gainder who admitted smoking the drug and failed the test. A 24 hour prohibition for drug use was issued by Constable Earle. This suspension was not disputed.