Free practice test
ICBC practice test: free knowledge test for your L
ICBC practice test: free knowledge test for your L
About 50 questions, answers explained as you go
Like the real test, you pass with 80%. A new random set every time, from 230 questions.
How this practice test matches the real one
- 50 questions, pass at 80%. ICBC’s test is 50 multiple-choice questions and you need 40 correct.
- About one in five on signs. ICBC says almost one in five real questions are about road signs, so each full practice test draws 10 sign and signal questions and 40 rules questions.
- Same source. ICBC says every knowledge test question is based on Learn to Drive Smart. Ours are written from the same guide (March 2026 edition), with the chapter shown under each answer.
- Same time limit, if you want it. The real test gives you 45 minutes, online or in person. Try to finish a practice round in that time.
What the knowledge test covers
Learn to Drive Smart has eight chapters you can be tested on: being a thinking driver, your vehicle and its controls, signs and signals, rules of the road, see-think-do, sharing the road, personal strategies (alcohol, drugs, fatigue, distraction) and emergencies. Chapters 9 and 10 (your licence and the road test) are reference only, though we include a few licence questions because B.C.’s learner rules changed in October 2026 and you need to know them to drive legally.
| Topic | Questions in our bank | Chapter in Learn to Drive Smart |
|---|---|---|
| Road signs, signals and markings | 62 | Chapter 3 |
| Rules of the road, sharing the road, safety and emergencies | 168 | Chapters 2 and 4 to 8 (plus ICBC’s L and N rules) |
B.C. rules that trip people up
- Default speeds: 50 km/h in cities and towns, 80 km/h outside them, 20 km/h in lanes and alleys.
- School zones: 30 km/h, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on school days unless the sign shows other hours. Playgrounds: 30 km/h every day from dawn to dusk.
- A flashing green light in B.C. is a pedestrian-controlled signal, not an advance left turn.
- Slow down, move over: 70 km/h where the limit is 80+, 40 km/h where it is under 80, and change lanes if you’re in the lane next to the stopped vehicle.
- Passing cyclists: 1 m; 1.5 m where the limit is over 50 km/h; 0.5 m from a sidewalk or protected lane.
- L and N drivers can’t use any electronic device, even hands-free, except to call 911.
When you’re ready
You can take the real test online from home or at a driver licensing office. Read our knowledge test guide for booking, fees and what to bring, then practise the road signs test until you get them all right. Once you pass, here are the Class 7L learner rules.
Study every question
Road signs and signals (62)
What must you do at this sign?
Answer: Stop completely, then go only when it’s safe
A stop sign means a complete stop. You continue only when it’s safe.
What does this sign tell you to do?
Answer: Give the right-of-way to other vehicles and crossing pedestrians, stopping if you need to
Yield means traffic on the through road and crossing pedestrians go first. Slow down, and stop if you need to wait for a safe gap.
When does this sign’s speed apply as the safe maximum?
Answer: When the road is bare and dry and visibility is good
The posted limit is the maximum legal speed in good conditions: bare, dry road and good visibility. Go slower when conditions are worse.
What does this sign mean?
Answer: Do not enter
A red circle with a white bar means do not enter. You’d be going the wrong way.
A sign like this on a cross street tells you…
Answer: Which way traffic on the cross street moves
One-way signs show the direction traffic travels on that street.
This sign means…
Answer: Keep to the right of the divider
Keep to the right of the divider or traffic island ahead.
What does this sign mean?
Answer: No left turn
A red circle and slash means the action shown isn’t allowed. Here: no left turn.
This sign means…
Answer: No right turn
The red circle and slash over a right arrow means right turns aren’t allowed here.
What does this sign prohibit?
Answer: U-turns
The slash over a U-shaped arrow means no U-turns.
What does this sign mean?
Answer: Do not park here
A red circle and slash over a P means do not park here.
You’re stopped at a red light and see this sign. What may you do?
Answer: Wait for the green light before turning right
This sign means no right turn on a red light. Wait for a green light to turn right.
A school zone sign has a tab showing only “30 km/h”. When does that limit apply?
Answer: From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on school days
If the tab shows only the speed, the limit is in effect from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on school days.
What colour are school zone signs in B.C.?
Answer: Fluorescent yellow-green
School zone signs are fluorescent yellow-green so they stand out.
A school zone sign’s tab shows 50 km/h. When does that limit apply?
Answer: From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on school days when children are on the road or shoulder
A 50 km/h school zone limit is in effect from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on school days when children are on the roadway or shoulder.
How do you know you’ve reached the end of a 30 km/h school zone?
Answer: When you pass the back of the school zone sign on the other side of the street
When you reach the back of the school zone sign facing the other direction, the 30 km/h zone has ended.
This sign warns you that…
Answer: A playground is nearby, so be prepared to slow down
The playground sign means a playground is nearby. Be ready to slow down and watch for children.
When is a 30 km/h playground zone limit in effect?
Answer: Every day from dawn to dusk
A playground zone’s 30 km/h limit applies every day, from dawn to dusk.
This yellow diamond sign warns of…
Answer: A curve ahead: slow down
Yellow diamonds warn of hazards. This one shows a curve ahead. Slow down before you reach it.
What does this sign warn you about?
Answer: Two-way traffic ahead
The arrows going in opposite directions mean two-way traffic is ahead.
This sign means…
Answer: Traffic signal lights ahead
It warns of signal lights ahead. Be prepared to stop.
What should this sign make you watch for?
Answer: Vehicles entering from a side road ahead
It warns of a side road ahead, which may be hidden. Watch for vehicles pulling out.
You’re in the right lane and see this sign. What should you do?
Answer: Adjust your speed and move left when there’s a safe gap
The right lane ends ahead. Adjust your speed, keep within the limit, and change lanes into a safe gap.
This sign warns of…
Answer: Merging traffic ahead
It shows another lane of traffic joining yours: merging traffic ahead.
What does this sign mean?
Answer: The road narrows ahead
The lines that come closer together warn that the road narrows ahead.
This sign warns that…
Answer: The road may be slippery ahead
The car with skid marks means the road may be slippery ahead. Slow down and avoid sudden moves.
What does this sign tell you?
Answer: Steep hill ahead: slow down
It warns of a steep hill ahead. Slow down and use a lower gear if you need to.
This yellow sign means…
Answer: A stop sign is ahead
It warns of a stop sign ahead, often one you can’t see yet. Get ready to stop.
What does this sign warn of?
Answer: A roundabout ahead
The circular arrows warn of a roundabout ahead. Slow down and choose your lane early.
You see this sign on a rural highway. You should…
Answer: Watch for deer and be ready to slow down
It means watch for deer ahead. Scan the sides of the road, especially at dusk and dawn.
This yellow sign tells drivers that…
Answer: Cyclists may be on the roadway
It warns that cyclists may be on the roadway. Give them plenty of room.
What does this sign warn of?
Answer: Rocks on the road ahead
It warns you to watch for rocks on the road ahead.
What does the orange colour of this sign tell you?
Answer: Construction or maintenance work ahead
Orange signs warn of construction zones. Obey them, travel at the posted speed and stay back from equipment.
This sign means a traffic-control person is ahead. What must you do?
Answer: Obey their directions
You must obey traffic-control persons in a construction zone, from the start of the zone to the end.
This sign marks a railway crossing. Who has the right-of-way?
Answer: Trains, always
You must always yield to trains.
You see this sign on the back of a vehicle. It means…
Answer: The vehicle moves slowly: keep your distance and pass only when it’s safe
This sign marks a vehicle that moves slowly. Keep back and pass only when you’re certain it’s safe.
A blue sign like this one gives you…
Answer: Information about services: here, a hospital nearby
Blue signs tell you about motorist services. The H means a hospital is nearby.
What does this white regulatory sign require?
Answer: Don’t pass other vehicles here
Do not pass. It’s a regulatory sign, so it’s an offence to disobey it.
On a multi-lane highway you see this sign. You should…
Answer: Drive in the right lane except when passing
Keep right unless you’re passing. Driving the speed limit doesn’t entitle you to the left lane.
A lane control signal shows this over your lane. What does it mean?
Answer: Do not drive in this lane
A red X over a lane means do not drive in that lane.
A lane control signal shows this green arrow over your lane. It means…
Answer: You may drive in this lane
A green arrow pointing down at a lane means you may drive in it.
The lane control signals over all lanes are flashing yellow. What should you do?
Answer: Slow down and go ahead with caution
Flashing yellow lane control signals over every lane mean slow down and proceed with caution.
A steady white rectangular light like this at an intersection means…
Answer: Only buses may go on this signal
It’s a transit priority signal. Only buses may go on it.
At a steady red light, after a full stop, what may you do if no sign forbids it?
Answer: Turn right, or turn left onto a one-way street
After a full stop, and when it’s clear, you may turn right, or turn left onto a one-way street, unless a sign forbids it.
A flashing green light at an intersection means…
Answer: It’s a pedestrian-controlled light: go only if the intersection is clear
In B.C. a flashing green circle is a pedestrian-controlled light. Go only if the intersection is clear, and watch for someone pressing the button.
You see a flashing green arrow with a steady red light. What does it mean?
Answer: Left turn allowed; through traffic must stop for the red
A flashing green arrow with a steady red allows a left turn. Traffic going straight must stop for the red.
A yellow arrow appears on the advance left-turn signal. You should…
Answer: Slow down and stop before the intersection unless you can’t safely stop in time
The yellow arrow means the advance left-turn signal is about to change. Stop unless you can’t safely stop in time.
A flashing yellow traffic light means…
Answer: Slow down and proceed with caution
Flashing yellow means slow down and go ahead with caution.
A flashing red traffic light means…
Answer: Stop, then continue only when it’s safe
Treat a flashing red light like a stop sign: stop, then go only when it’s safe.
A red circle with a slash through it on a sign means…
Answer: The action shown is not permitted
A red circle and slash shows an action that is not permitted. A green circle shows a permitted action.
Most yellow, diamond-shaped signs…
Answer: Warn of possible hazards ahead
Most warning signs are yellow diamonds. They warn of hazards ahead.
Green information signs on the highway usually show…
Answer: Distances and directions to destinations
Green destination and directional signs show distance (in kilometres) and direction.
What does a double solid yellow line between you and oncoming traffic mean?
Answer: No passing
A double solid yellow line means no passing.
There’s a broken yellow line and a solid yellow line side by side. When may you pass?
Answer: Only when it’s safe and the broken line is on your side
You may pass only when it’s safe and the broken line is on your side.
A solid white line between two lanes going the same way means…
Answer: Do not change lanes
White lines separate lanes going the same direction. A solid white line means do not change lanes.
If there’s a yellow line to your left, what’s on the other side of it?
Answer: Traffic coming toward you
Yellow lines divide traffic moving in opposite directions.
Double broken yellow lines on both sides of a lane mean…
Answer: The lane is reversible: lane control signals show if you may use it
A lane marked with double broken yellow lines is reversible. The lane control signal shows whether you may use it.
A white diamond painted on a lane tells you…
Answer: It’s a reserved lane, such as an HOV or bus lane
A white diamond marks a reserved lane. Signs say which vehicles may use it.
What should you do at a painted island on the road?
Answer: Keep to the right and don’t drive on or over it
Keep to the right of a painted island and don’t drive on or over it.
Is it legal to drive over freshly painted, wet pavement markings?
Answer: No
It’s illegal to drive over freshly painted, wet pavement markings.
A centre lane is marked with a solid and a broken yellow line on each side. What is it?
Answer: A two-way left-turn lane shared by drivers going both ways
This is a two-way left-turn lane. Drivers from both directions share it to turn left.
Where are object markers mounted?
Answer: On obstructions
Object markers are mounted on obstructions. Pay special attention to them.
A sign before a tunnel tells you to remove your sunglasses. What else should you do?
Answer: Slow down and turn on your headlights
Slow down before tunnels so your eyes can adjust, take off your sunglasses and turn on your headlights.
Rules of the road (168)
At an uncontrolled intersection, two vehicles arrive at the same time. Who must yield?
Answer: The vehicle on the left
If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the left yields to the vehicle on the right.
You come to an uncontrolled intersection and another vehicle got there first. You should…
Answer: Slow down and yield
If another vehicle reached the intersection before you, slow down and yield to it.
How should you treat an unmarked T-intersection?
Answer: Like any other uncontrolled intersection
Treat an unmarked T-intersection the same way as any other uncontrolled intersection.
You’re going straight through an intersection. A vehicle already in it is turning left in front of you. You must…
Answer: Yield to the turning vehicle
If you’re going straight and a vehicle is already in the intersection turning left, you must yield.
There’s a stop sign and a stop line. Where do you stop?
Answer: Just before the line
If there’s a stop line, stop just before it.
There’s a crosswalk but no stop line. Where do you stop?
Answer: Just before the crosswalk
With a crosswalk and no stop line, stop just before the crosswalk. Stop at the same spot for an unmarked crosswalk.
There’s no stop line, no crosswalk and no sidewalk. Where do you stop?
Answer: Just before you enter the intersection
Where there’s no stop line, crosswalk or sidewalk, stop just before you enter the intersection.
A traffic control person is directing traffic at a signalled intersection. Who do you follow?
Answer: The traffic control person
If a traffic control person is directing traffic, follow their directions.
You didn’t see the light ahead turn green. What should you assume?
Answer: It may be a stale green: be prepared to stop
If you didn’t see the light turn green, it may be stale and about to turn yellow. Be prepared to stop.
What is the “point of no return” when approaching a stale green light?
Answer: The point past which you can no longer stop safely
It’s the point where you can no longer stop safely. If the light turns yellow after you pass it, keep going.
The traffic lights at an intersection are out or all flashing. How do you treat it?
Answer: Like a four-way stop
If traffic lights stop working properly, treat the intersection like a four-way stop.
You stopped past the stop line and are partly in the crosswalk. Can you back up?
Answer: No, it’s illegal to back up into an intersection or over a crosswalk
It’s illegal to back up into an intersection or over a crosswalk.
The light has just turned green. What should you do first?
Answer: Scan the intersection to make sure it’s clear
Don’t move forward on a fresh green until you’ve scanned the intersection and it’s clear.
You’re turning left on a steady green light (no arrow). You must…
Answer: Yield to oncoming traffic and wait for a safe gap
On a steady green, yield to oncoming traffic and wait for a safe gap before turning left.
You’re in the intersection waiting to turn left and the light turns yellow. What can you do?
Answer: Complete your turn, watching for drivers trying to beat the red
You’re legally allowed to complete your turn. Watch carefully for oncoming drivers trying to beat the red.
At a separate left-turn signal, the green arrow turns yellow before you start your turn. You must…
Answer: Stop and wait for the next green arrow
Once the green arrow turns yellow at a separate left-turn signal, stop and wait for the next green arrow.
The advance green arrow on a regular traffic light turns off and only the green light stays on. Can you still turn left?
Answer: Yes, but you must yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic
You may still turn left on the regular green, but you must yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic.
At a two-way stop, only your street has stop signs. Who has the right-of-way?
Answer: Traffic on the through street
Traffic on the through street has the right-of-way. Wait for a safe gap before going through or turning.
Two vehicles stopped facing each other at a two-way stop arrive at the same time. One wants to turn left, the other to go straight. Who goes first?
Answer: The vehicle going straight
The driver turning left must yield, unless that vehicle is already in the intersection and has started its turn.
At a four-way stop, who should go first?
Answer: The first vehicle to arrive and come to a complete stop
The first vehicle to arrive and stop completely should go first.
Two vehicles arrive at a four-way stop at the same time, at right angles to each other. Who goes first?
Answer: The one on the right
If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the one on the right should go first.
At a four-way stop, you and an oncoming vehicle arrive together. You’re turning left; it’s going straight. Who goes first?
Answer: The vehicle going straight
When two vehicles face each other, the one turning left yields to the one going straight through.
At a yield sign with no traffic, pedestrians or cyclists on the through road, you may…
Answer: Enter without stopping
You may enter without stopping if the through road is clear. Otherwise slow down, stop if you need to, and wait for a safe gap.
Which way do you go around a traffic circle or roundabout?
Answer: Counter-clockwise (to the right)
Go around to the right, counter-clockwise. You turn right to enter and right again to leave.
At a traffic circle with no signs, you and another vehicle arrive at the same time. Who yields?
Answer: You yield to the vehicle on your right
Treat it as uncontrolled: yield to traffic already in the circle, and if you arrive together, yield to the vehicle on your right.
In a two-lane roundabout, which lane should you use to turn left?
Answer: The left lane
To turn left, use the left lane. Use the right lane to turn right. You may go straight from either.
What should you do just before you leave a roundabout?
Answer: Signal right
Signal right before you exit, don’t change lanes in the roundabout, and be ready to yield to pedestrians at the exit crosswalk.
A large truck is in the roundabout. Should you drive alongside it?
Answer: No, it may need more than its lane to get through
Don’t ride alongside large vehicles in roundabouts. They may need more than their lane.
You entered a roundabout in the left lane. Where can you go from there?
Answer: Straight through or left
If you entered in the left lane, stay in it. You may go straight or turn left, but not take the first exit right.
An emergency vehicle with lights and siren is approaching as you near a roundabout. What should you do?
Answer: Stop before entering, or exit the roundabout and then stop
Avoid blocking the roundabout. Stop before entering, or leave the roundabout and then stop to let it pass.
You’re pulling out of a driveway onto a road. Where do you stop first?
Answer: Before the sidewalk or area where people may be walking
Stop before the sidewalk or pedestrian area, then pull out carefully, yielding to traffic on the road.
On a freeway with more than two lanes each way, which lane should you usually drive in?
Answer: The centre lane or a right-hand lane
Use the centre or a right-hand lane. Leave the left lane for faster traffic and passing.
How do you track a normal right turn?
Answer: From the right lane into the right lane of the cross street
Move to the right lane and turn into the right lane of the cross street, unless markings allow a turn from a centre lane.
Turning left from a one-way road onto another one-way road, which lanes do you use?
Answer: From the left lane into the left lane
From a one-way onto a one-way, turn from the left lane into the left lane.
May you turn left across a solid double yellow line into a driveway in the middle of a block?
Answer: Yes, if it’s safe, you don’t impede traffic and no sign prohibits it
You may, if you do it carefully and safely, don’t impede other traffic and no signs prohibit it.
A U-turn is illegal on or near the crest of a hill where other traffic can’t see you within…
Answer: 150 metres
U-turns are illegal near the crest of a hill where you can’t be seen by other traffic within 150 metres.
Where is a U-turn always illegal?
Answer: At an intersection with a traffic light
U-turns are illegal at intersections with traffic lights, on curves, near hill crests, where signs or by-laws forbid them, and where they interfere with traffic.
In a business district, where may you make a U-turn (if nothing else forbids it)?
Answer: Only at an intersection with no traffic light
In a business district, U-turns are illegal except at an intersection with no traffic light.
Where should you enter and leave an HOV lane?
Answer: Where there are broken lines marking a crossing point
Enter and exit HOV lanes where broken lines show a crossing point, and watch for faster traffic in the lane.
Who may use a bus lane if a “Vanpool Permitted” tab is shown?
Answer: Vanpools with six or more occupants
Vanpools (vehicles with six or more occupants) may use the bus lane when a “Vanpool Permitted” tab is shown.
When may you cross a bicycle lane?
Answer: Where the white line is broken, or to turn into or out of a driveway
Don’t drive, stop or park in a bike lane. Cross it only where the line is broken or to use a driveway, and yield to cyclists.
You’re changing lanes. Who has the right-of-way?
Answer: Vehicles already in the lane you’re moving into
Vehicles in the lane you’re moving into have the right-of-way. Make sure no one has to slow down for you, and signal.
When may you pass on the right?
Answer: On a road with two or more lanes your way, or when the driver ahead is turning left
Pass on the right only on a road with two or more lanes in your direction or if the driver ahead is turning left. Never use the shoulder.
Someone is passing you. What should you do?
Answer: Slow down a little and make room for them to get back in
It’s illegal to speed up while someone passes you. Help them by slowing down and making room.
A sign says the passing lane is about to end. What happens?
Answer: Vehicles in both lanes must merge before the passing lane ends
Vehicles in the right lane and the passing lane must merge before the passing lane ends.
What is the acceleration lane on a freeway entrance for?
Answer: Matching your speed to freeway traffic
Use the acceleration lane to match the speed of freeway traffic. Avoid stopping in it: you could be rear-ended.
How should you leave a freeway?
Answer: Signal, keep your speed until you’re in the exit lane, then slow down gradually
Signal, keep your speed until you enter the exit lane, then slow down gradually.
You’re in the right lane of a freeway and a driver is merging from the entrance. How can you help?
Answer: Move left if it’s safe, or adjust your speed to leave a gap
Move into the left lane if it’s safe, or adjust your speed so there’s a big enough gap for them.
Should you change lanes in an intersection?
Answer: No, it can confuse other drivers and cause a crash
Don’t change lanes in an intersection. You may not move into or out of a designated lane while you’re in an intersection.
How close to a fire hydrant may you park?
Answer: No closer than 5 metres
It’s illegal to park within five metres of a fire hydrant (measured from the curb beside it).
It’s illegal to park within how many metres of a crosswalk or intersection?
Answer: 6 metres
Don’t park within six metres of a crosswalk or intersection, or within six metres of a stop sign or traffic light.
How far from the nearest rail of a railway crossing must you park?
Answer: At least 15 metres
It’s illegal to park within 15 metres of the nearest rail of a railway crossing.
When you parallel park, how close to the curb should your vehicle be?
Answer: Within 30 cm
Park parallel to and within 30 centimetres (one foot) of the curb.
You park facing uphill beside a curb. Which way do you turn your front wheels?
Answer: Left, away from the curb
Uphill with a curb, turn the wheels to the left so the car rolls back into the curb.
You park facing downhill, with or without a curb. Which way do you turn your front wheels?
Answer: To the right
Downhill, with or without a curb, turn the wheels to the right.
You park facing uphill on a road with no curb. Which way do you turn your wheels?
Answer: To the right
Uphill without a curb, turn the wheels to the right so the car would roll off the road, not into traffic.
You park uphill beside a low, rolling (mountable) curb. Which way do you turn your wheels?
Answer: To the right
A rolling curb isn’t high enough to stop the car, so turn the wheels to the right.
You park a standard-transmission car facing downhill. What gear do you leave it in?
Answer: Reverse
Set the parking brake and leave a standard in reverse facing downhill, and in first facing uphill or on level ground.
Which of these is a legal place to park, if no sign says otherwise?
Answer: Beside the curb, 10 metres from an intersection
Parking is illegal on a bridge or in a highway tunnel, in a bike lane, and across a driveway, lane or intersection entrance.
How far ahead should you scan while driving?
Answer: At least 12 seconds
Scan at least 12 seconds ahead: one to two blocks in the city and about half a kilometre on the highway.
How often should you check your mirrors?
Answer: About every five to eight seconds
Look in each mirror about every five to eight seconds, and before you slow down or stop.
Before changing lanes, after checking your mirrors, you should…
Answer: Shoulder check, looking at least 45 degrees in the direction you’ll move
Mirrors leave blind spots. Shoulder check at least 45 degrees over the shoulder on the side you’re moving to. Detectors don’t replace it.
Before backing up, you should…
Answer: Do a 360-degree check, then turn and look out the rear window
Do a 360-degree vision check, then turn your body and look out the rear window as you back up.
Unless a sign says otherwise, what’s the speed limit within B.C. cities and towns?
Answer: 50 km/h
The default is 50 km/h within cities and towns.
Unless a sign says otherwise, what’s the speed limit outside cities and towns?
Answer: 80 km/h
The default outside cities and towns is 80 km/h.
Unless posted otherwise, what’s the maximum speed in a lane or alley within a municipality?
Answer: 20 km/h
The maximum in a lane or alleyway within a municipality is 20 km/h unless posted otherwise.
The posted speed limit is…
Answer: The maximum for ideal conditions only
The posted speed is the maximum for ideal conditions. Slow down when roads are slippery or visibility is limited.
What’s the best way to take a curve?
Answer: Slow down before the curve, then accelerate gently out of it
Slow down before the curve so you don’t need to brake in it. From the middle, straighten the wheels and accelerate gently.
You start to lose traction in a curve. What should you do?
Answer: Ease off the accelerator, don’t brake, and re-apply gas gently once you regain traction
Don’t brake. Ease off the accelerator and re-apply gently when you get traction back.
Is it legal to coast downhill in neutral or with the clutch pressed in?
Answer: No
It’s illegal to coast downhill in neutral or with the clutch in. You need to be in gear to control the vehicle.
Your steering wheel has an airbag. Where are your hands safest?
Answer: At 9 and 3 o’clock (or 8 and 4)
With an airbag, 9 and 3 (or 8 and 4) is better than 10 and 2, where your hands could hit your face if the airbag deploys.
In good weather and road conditions, what’s the minimum following distance?
Answer: Two seconds
Keep at least two seconds in good conditions, three seconds on high-speed roads and four in bad weather or on slippery roads.
What following distance should you keep in bad weather or on slippery roads?
Answer: At least four seconds
Increase your following distance to four seconds in bad weather, or on uneven or slippery roads.
How much following distance should you leave behind a motorcycle?
Answer: At least three seconds
Allow at least three seconds behind a motorcycle. Motorcycles can stop very quickly, and riders can skid and fall.
When you stop behind another vehicle at an intersection, how much space should you leave?
Answer: About one car length
Leave about one car length so you have room to move. Leave more behind a large vehicle.
Someone is tailgating you. What’s a good response?
Answer: Slow down slightly to increase the space in front of you
Slow down slightly to increase your space in front, so you can stop gradually. You can also change lanes or pull over to let them pass.
On a road with a speed limit of 50 km/h or less, how much space must you leave when passing a cyclist?
Answer: At least 1.0 metre
You must leave at least 1.0 metre when passing a cyclist, pedestrian or other vulnerable road user.
On a road with a speed limit above 50 km/h, how much space must you leave when passing a cyclist?
Answer: At least 1.5 metres
Where the limit is above 50 km/h, you must leave at least 1.5 metres.
How much space must you leave when passing someone on a sidewalk or in a protected cycle lane?
Answer: At least 0.5 metre
If the person is on a sidewalk or in a protected cycle lane, you must leave at least 0.5 metre.
May you cross a single solid yellow line to pass a cyclist?
Answer: Yes, if you can do it safely
You’re allowed to cross a single solid yellow line when passing a cyclist, provided you can do it safely.
You plan to turn right at the next intersection, but there are driveways before it. When should you signal?
Answer: When you’re close enough that people can see exactly where you’re turning
Signal well ahead but not so early that people think you’re turning into a driveway.
How do you signal a left turn by hand?
Answer: Left arm straight out the window
Left turn: arm straight out. Right turn: arm bent up. Stop: arm bent down. (Cyclists may also signal a right turn with the right arm straight out.)
A driver’s left arm is out the window, bent down at the elbow. They are…
Answer: Stopping or slowing down
An arm bent downward signals a stop.
Is it a good idea to wave a pedestrian or another driver through in front of you?
Answer: Generally no: they may face hazards you can’t see
Waving people on is generally not a good idea. They may face hazards you can’t see, such as a vehicle in the next lane.
Your load sticks out past the back of your vehicle. What should you attach to the end of it?
Answer: A red flag
Attach a red flag to the end of a load that extends behind your vehicle.
In ideal conditions, about how long does it take most vehicles stopped at an intersection to turn left and reach 50 km/h?
Answer: Seven seconds
About seven seconds to turn left and reach 50 km/h (five to turn right). Add two more seconds for safety.
A vehicle ahead in the next lane has stopped at a crosswalk. What should you do?
Answer: Don’t pass it: someone may be crossing
Don’t pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk. It’s illegal and unsafe: the driver may have stopped for pedestrians.
At an intersection with no marked crosswalk, a pedestrian is crossing near your half of the road. Who has the right-of-way?
Answer: The pedestrian
Pedestrians at intersections have the right-of-way even without a marked crosswalk. It’s always the driver’s job to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
A person with a white cane raises it at the curb. What does it mean?
Answer: They’re unsure about crossing: stop and give them the right-of-way
A raised cane signals uncertainty about crossing. Stop and give them the right-of-way, without honking or revving.
A school bus ahead has alternating red lights flashing at the top. You must…
Answer: Stop, whether you’re approaching from the front or the rear
You must stop for flashing red school bus lights from either direction. Vehicles in all lanes must stop.
You’ve stopped for a school bus. When can you go again?
Answer: When the bus moves on or the driver turns off the lights and pulls in the stop sign
Don’t move until the bus moves on or the driver signals it’s safe by turning off the lights and pulling in the stop sign.
A transit bus is signalling to pull out from a stop and shows a yield-to-bus sign. On which roads must you let it out?
Answer: Roads with a speed limit of 60 km/h or lower
You must let a signalling bus with a yield-to-bus sign pull out on roads where the speed limit is 60 km/h or lower.
An emergency vehicle with flashing lights and siren is coming. What should you usually do?
Answer: Pull over to the right and stop, clear of intersections
Emergency vehicles always have the right-of-way. Pull to the right and stop, but don’t stop in an intersection.
You’re in the left lane of a divided highway when an emergency vehicle comes up behind you. Where should you pull over?
Answer: To the left
Usually pull right, but pull to the left if you’re in the left lane of a divided highway or on a one-way street.
How far back must you stay when following a fire truck?
Answer: At least 150 metres
When following a fire truck, you must stay back at least 150 metres.
Is it legal to drive over a fire hose?
Answer: No
It’s illegal to drive over a fire hose.
You approach a tow truck stopped on the shoulder with flashing lights on a highway posted at 90 km/h. What’s the most you may drive as you pass?
Answer: 70 km/h
Where the limit is 80 km/h or more, slow to no faster than 70 km/h when passing a stopped vehicle with flashing lights.
On a 60 km/h road, you approach a stopped vehicle with flashing lights on the roadside. What’s the most you may drive as you pass?
Answer: 40 km/h
Where the limit is under 80 km/h, slow to no faster than 40 km/h.
You’re in the lane next to a stopped vehicle displaying flashing lights. Besides slowing down, what must you do?
Answer: Change lanes if it’s safe to do so
If you’re in the nearest lane, you must also change lanes if it’s safe.
Which stopped vehicles does the slow-down, move-over rule cover?
Answer: Any vehicle allowed to show flashing yellow, red, white or blue lights, such as tow trucks and road crews
It covers every vehicle authorized to show flashing lights: police, fire, paramedics, tow trucks, highway maintenance, utility workers, garbage collectors and more.
When do posted construction zone speed limits apply?
Answer: 24 hours a day
Posted construction zone speed limits apply 24 hours a day. Workers may be there even if you can’t see them.
What happens to traffic fines in construction zones?
Answer: They’re doubled
Traffic fines are double in construction zones.
When you must stop at a railway crossing, where do you stop?
Answer: No closer than 5 metres and no farther than 15 metres from the nearest rail
Stop between five and 15 metres from the nearest rail.
Your vehicle is stuck on the tracks. What should you do first?
Answer: Get everyone out and move at least 30 metres from the track
Get everyone out, move at least 30 metres from the track, then call the number on the back of the crossing sign, 911 or police.
There’s a red light at an intersection just past a railway crossing. Traffic is backed up. What should you do?
Answer: Stop before the crossing unless there’s room on the other side
Never stop on the tracks. Stop before the crossing unless there’s room for your vehicle on the other side.
Driving a standard-transmission vehicle over a railway crossing, when should you change gears?
Answer: Before you start to cross, never on the crossing
Gear down before you cross. Never change gears on the crossing because you could stall.
About how far does a typical train need to stop?
Answer: About two kilometres
Most trains need about two kilometres to stop. Never try to beat one.
Following a truck, how can you tell you’re likely out of the driver’s blind spot?
Answer: You can see both of the truck’s side mirrors
You should be able to see both mirrors of the truck or bus in front. If you can’t, the driver can’t see you.
After passing a large truck, when is it safe to move back in front of it?
Answer: When you can see the truck’s headlights in your rear-view mirror
Wait until you can see the truck’s headlights in your rear-view mirror, then keep your speed.
You’re stopped facing uphill behind a large truck. What should you do?
Answer: Leave extra space: it may roll back when the brake is released
A large vehicle may roll backward when the driver releases the brake. Leave extra space in front of you.
A large truck ahead is signalling a right turn. Where should you avoid being?
Answer: On its right side
Big vehicles need lots of room to turn right. You could be squeezed between the truck and the curb.
May you share a lane with a motorcycle?
Answer: No, a motorcycle needs the whole lane
Never try to share a lane with a motorcycle. It needs the whole lane to travel safely.
How should you pass a horse and rider?
Answer: Slowly and carefully with extra room, without sounding your horn
Horses can be startled. Slow down, leave extra room, don’t honk, and stop if the rider is struggling.
You’re driving on a B.C. logging road. Who do you yield to?
Answer: Logging trucks, always
Always yield to logging trucks. Turn on your headlights and be cautious near curves and hills.
You’ve parked on a street. Before you open your door, you should…
Answer: Check your side mirror and shoulder check for cyclists
Doors swung open without a check are one of the most common causes of crashes with cyclists. Mirror check and shoulder check first.
As an L or N driver, when may you use a hands-free phone while driving?
Answer: Never, except to call 911 to report an emergency
GLP drivers may not use any electronic device, hand-held or hands-free, while driving, except to call 911 in an emergency.
Does B.C.’s hand-held device law apply while you’re stopped at a red light?
Answer: Yes, whenever you’re in control of the vehicle
The law applies whenever you’re in control of the vehicle, even stopped at a red light or in bumper-to-bumper traffic.
What lowers your blood alcohol content?
Answer: Only time
Only time sobers you up. At a BAC of .08 it takes about six hours to get back to zero.
How does a glass of beer compare with a glass of wine or an average cocktail?
Answer: It has about the same amount of alcohol
A glass of beer has about the same amount of alcohol as a glass of wine or an average cocktail.
What happens when you combine drugs with even small amounts of alcohol?
Answer: Impairment can increase greatly
Many drugs greatly increase impairment when combined with even small amounts of alcohol.
Your cold medicine label says it may cause drowsiness. What should you do?
Answer: Don’t drive: take the bus or get a ride
Don’t drive if the label says the drug may cause drowsiness or dizziness.
Can police prohibit you from driving if your BAC is under .08?
Answer: Yes, if they believe alcohol or drugs affect your ability to drive
You may be prohibited if an officer considers your ability affected. You don’t have to be over .08.
How much alcohol may an L or N driver have in their blood while driving?
Answer: None
L and N drivers must have zero alcohol and zero drugs in their blood when they drive.
Police can impound your vehicle on the spot for excessive speeding. What counts as excessive?
Answer: 40 km/h or more over the limit
Driving 40 km/h or more over the posted limit is excessive speeding, and police can impound the vehicle for seven days to start.
On a long trip, when is tiredness most likely to affect you?
Answer: The second day
Be especially careful on the second day of a long trip, when tiredness is most likely to affect you.
Driving a long time on an unchanging highway can make you unaware of your surroundings. What is this called?
Answer: Highway hypnosis
It’s highway hypnosis. Turn off the cruise control, scan systematically and use strategies to stay awake.
Another driver is acting aggressively and you feel threatened. Where should you go?
Answer: To a police station or a busy public place
Drive to a police station or somewhere with lots of people. Don’t go home, and keep doors locked and windows closed.
The rear of your car starts to skid to the right on ice. What should you do?
Answer: Ease off the gas and steer smoothly where you want to go (to the right)
Ease off the accelerator and look and steer where you want to go. Don’t brake. You may need to correct more than once.
The steering suddenly feels very light on a wet road: you’re hydroplaning. What should you do?
Answer: Decelerate and drive straight, never brake
If you hydroplane, decelerate and drive straight. Never brake.
On wet roads, how much braking distance should you allow?
Answer: At least twice the normal braking distance
Allow at least twice the normal braking distance on wet roads, slow down and brake gently.
Stopping on ice can take up to how much longer than normal?
Answer: 10 times the normal braking distance
It can take 10 times the normal braking distance to stop on ice.
Which temperature is more dangerous for ice on the road?
Answer: Near freezing
Temperatures near freezing are more dangerous, because ice can form unexpectedly and may not be visible.
Where does ice tend to form first?
Answer: On bridges and overpasses
Bridges and overpasses ice up before other road surfaces. Shaded areas and intersections can also be icy.
When should you not use cruise control?
Answer: In wet, icy or snowy conditions
Never use cruise control in wet or slippery conditions.
You’re stranded in snow. How should you use the engine to stay warm?
Answer: Run it about five minutes every hour, with a window slightly open
Run it about five minutes an hour, keep a window slightly open and check the exhaust isn’t blocked, because of carbon monoxide.
Moving water of what depth can carry a car away?
Answer: Deeper than half a metre
Moving water deeper than half a metre can carry a car away. Consider turning back.
When must you use your headlights?
Answer: From 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise
Use headlights from 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise, and whenever visibility is under 150 metres.
You must dim your high beams when you’re within how far of another vehicle, meeting or following?
Answer: 150 metres
Dim your high beams within 150 metres of another vehicle, whether you’re meeting or following it.
In daytime fog, you must turn on your headlights when visibility drops below…
Answer: 150 metres
You must use headlights if visibility is reduced to less than 150 metres.
Which lights should you use in rain, snow or fog?
Answer: Low beams
Use low beam headlights in rain, snow and fog. High beams reflect back and make it harder to see.
About how far ahead do low beam headlights light the road?
Answer: 30 metres
Low beams light up to about 30 metres ahead; high beams about 100 metres. Don’t overdrive your headlights.
Is it legal to drive at night with only parking lights or daytime running lights on?
Answer: No
It’s illegal to drive at night with parking lights or daytime running lights instead of headlights.
A front tire blows out on the highway. What should you do?
Answer: Grip the wheel firmly, ease off the gas and slow down gradually
Keep a firm grip, don’t brake suddenly, ease off and decelerate slowly, then brake gently and pull off when it’s safe.
Your brakes fail. What should you try first?
Answer: Pump the brakes hard and fast
Pump the brakes hard and fast, gear down, and apply the parking brake gently while looking for an escape route.
Your engine dies while driving. Why shouldn’t you turn the ignition off?
Answer: The steering will lock
If you turn the ignition off, the steering will lock. You can still steer with more effort.
Your gas pedal sticks. What should you do?
Answer: Brake and shift into neutral
Apply the brake, look for an escape path and shift to neutral. Never reach down with your hand.
Your vehicle catches fire. What should you avoid doing?
Answer: Opening the hood
Stop and get everyone out. Don’t open the hood: that could spread the fire.
A large animal is in your path and you can’t stop in time. What does the guide advise?
Answer: Brake firmly, steer to hit it at an angle, and let up on the brake just before impact
Brake firmly, aim to strike at an angle, and release the brake just before impact so the front rises.
A car is coming straight at you in your lane. Which way should you steer?
Answer: To the right
Avoid a head-on crash at all costs. Steer right, not left, because the other driver may steer to their right.
If you double your speed, the force of impact in a crash…
Answer: Quadruples
Doubling your speed quadruples the force of impact.
You’re involved in a crash. What are you legally required to do?
Answer: Remain at the scene, give reasonable help, and exchange information
Remain at the scene, give all reasonable assistance, and exchange information. Avoid discussing fault.
After a crash, which information must you exchange?
Answer: Your name and address, the registered owner, the plate number and insurance information
Exchange your name and address, the registered owner’s name and address, the plate number and insurance details.
A baby must ride in a rear-facing seat until at least…
Answer: One year old and 9 kg (20 lbs)
Stage 1: rear-facing from birth until at least one year old and 9 kg, in the back seat, never in front of an active airbag.
In B.C., a booster seat is required until a child is at least…
Answer: Nine years old or 145 cm (4’9”), whichever comes first
Boosters are required until at least nine years old or 145 cm, whichever comes first.
A forward-facing child seat should always be used with…
Answer: A tether strap
Stage 2 seats (over one year and 9 kg, up to at least 18 kg) go in the back seat and always use a tether strap.
Until what age is it recommended that children ride in the back seat?
Answer: 12
It’s recommended that children stay in the back seat until 12 years of age.
A 14-year-old passenger isn’t wearing a seatbelt. Who gets the fine?
Answer: The driver
If the passenger is under 16, the driver gets the fine. Drivers must make sure every passenger is properly secured.
How should a seatbelt be worn?
Answer: Snug over your chest and low over your hips
Wear it snug over the chest and low over the hips. Never put the shoulder strap under your arm or behind your back.
What’s the top speed on a space-saver spare tire?
Answer: 80 km/h
Never drive faster than 80 km/h on a space-saver spare.
Where do you find the right tire pressure for your vehicle?
Answer: In the owner’s manual or on the sticker on the driver’s door
Use the owner’s manual or the driver’s door sticker, and check when tires are cold. Don’t use the number on the tire.
Who may supervise a Class 7L learner?
Answer: Someone 22 or older with a valid Class 1–5 licence and no zero BAC/BDC restriction, seated beside you
ICBC’s current rule: a supervisor 22 or older with a valid Class 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 licence, without a zero alcohol/drug restriction, in the front passenger seat.
How many passengers may a learner carry, besides the supervisor and immediate family?
Answer: One
One passenger is allowed. The qualified supervisor and immediate family don’t count toward the limit.
When may a learner not drive?
Answer: Between midnight and 5 a.m.
Learners may not drive between midnight and 5 a.m.
Where must a learner display the L sign?
Answer: On the back of the vehicle
The red, magnetic L sign must always be displayed on the back of the vehicle while you drive.
Which novice (N) drivers must display the green N sign?
Answer: N drivers under 25
ICBC’s current rule: display the N sign on the back of the vehicle unless you are 25 or older.
An N driver under 25 with no supervisor may carry how many passengers who aren’t immediate family?
Answer: One
One passenger (not counting immediate family), unless the driver is 25 or older or has a qualified supervisor 22+ beside them.
After you move, how long do you have to update the address on your licence?
Answer: 10 days
You must update the address on your licence within 10 days of moving.
If you’re under 25, how long must you hold your L before taking the Class 7 road test?
Answer: At least 12 months
At least 12 months if you’re under 25 (nine months if you’re 25 or older), staying prohibition-free.
Questions people ask
+How many questions are on the ICBC knowledge test?
50 multiple-choice questions. You need 40 right to pass.
+What is the pass mark for the ICBC knowledge test?
80%, which is 40 out of 50.
+How long do I get for the knowledge test?
45 minutes, whether you take it online or in person.
+Are these the real ICBC test questions?
No. They’re our own questions, written from Learn to Drive Smart, which ICBC says the real questions are based on. ICBC’s own practice test is free at practicetest.icbc.com.
+What if I fail the knowledge test?
You can take it again after one day in person (24 hours online). There’s a $15 fee each time.
Sources
- ICBC, Get your L · checked October 26, 2026
- ICBC, Take the online knowledge test · checked October 26, 2026
- ICBC, Learn to Drive Smart: your guide to driving safely (PDF, March 2026 edition) · checked October 26, 2026
- ICBC practice knowledge test (free) · checked October 26, 2026
Updated October 26, 2026. Not affiliated with ICBC or the Government of British Columbia.
Keep going
- ICBC road signs testPractise B.C. road signs for the ICBC knowledge test: 62 sign, signal and road marking questions, drawn by shape and colour, with every answer explained.
- The ICBC knowledge test, step by stepHow the ICBC knowledge test works in 2026: 50 questions, 80% to pass, online or in person, the $15 fee, what to bring, languages and what happens after you pass.
- Class 7L: the B.C. learner’s licenceThe B.C. learner’s licence (Class 7L) rules in 2026: supervisor 22+, one passenger, no driving midnight to 5 a.m., L sign, zero alcohol, and how long until your N.
- The best ways to study for the ICBC knowledge testThe best ways to study for the ICBC knowledge test, honestly ranked: the Learn to Drive Smart guide, ICBC’s free practice test and app, this site and a school.