Road tests for certain types of driver licences set to resume in B.C.

The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia is resuming on-road testing for commercial licences, but drivers waiting for passenger vehicle tests must hold on a little longer.

In line with B.C.'s COVID-19 restart plan, the corporation says commercial road tests resume next week and appointments can be booked starting Thursday.

The tests are for drivers seeking licence endorsements ranging from a Class 1, which is for the operation of a semi-trailer, to Class 4, which covers school buses, ambulances, taxis and limousines.

ICBC says a decision about tests for other licence types, including Class 5 passenger vehicle licences, depends on the effectiveness of the first phase of testing and access to enough protective gear.

Examiners will use a combination of masks, shields, goggles, gloves and disposable seat covers when doing the tests.

Those taking the tests will be asked several health questions and must wear a supplied medical-grade mask during the test.

Pandemic forces testing suspension

ICBC suspended all road tests on March 17 because of the pandemic.

Nicolas Jimenez, the corporation's president and CEO, says the safety of its customers and employees is the top priority.

"We have taken a thoughtful approach to develop a plan that allows us to resume road tests in the safest manner possible," he said in a statement.

"Customers have been eager to see these services resume and we're happy to have found a way to do so safely."

Some knowledge tests, required in advance of a road test, resumed on May 4. The corporation expanded its approach on June 1 by including knowledge tests for all types of licences.