Two former ICBC driver examiners in the East Kootenay are raising concerns over the province’s decision to remove the Class 5 road test.
Beginning Oct. 19, eligible Class 7 novice drivers with a clean driving record will instead be assessed based on their driving history before advancing to a Class 5 license.
Cody Martin and Laura Slack of Smart Drivers of Canada said the exit road test consistently revealed common driving mistakes.
“As Driver Examiners, we were on the front line every day evaluating drivers from all walks of life,” said Martin.
“We witnessed firsthand the driving habits, mistakes, and safety concerns that many new drivers brought to their Class 5 road tests. That experience gave us a unique perspective on just how important the exit exam was.”
Slack said it was concerning that driver examiners were not consulted before the decision.
“The people conducting these road tests every day bring valuable practical experience,” said Slack.
“While we understand there are pressures such as reducing wait times, we believe decisions that affect public road safety should include the voices of those who have firsthand knowledge of how new drivers perform behind the wheel.”
She said if B.C.’s licensing system is changing, proper driver education will become increasingly important.
“If the Class 5 road test is no longer part of the process, quality driver education becomes even more critical,” added Slack.
“Our commitment is to help produce safe, confident, responsible drivers who understand that driving is a privilege that carries lifelong responsibility.”
Drivers 25 and older will complete a nine-month learner stage followed by a 12-month novice stage before becoming eligible for a Class 5 license with restrictions.
Drivers younger than 25 will still be required to complete a 12-month learner stage and a 24-month novice stage, which can be reduced to 18 months with ICBC-approved driver training.
