ICBC suspends all driver road tests until further notice amidst pandemic

ICBC has announced that in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, they have cancelled all driver road tests starting Tuesday, March 17, 2020.

The company says that they’re “taking a number of measures to protect the health and safety of its customers, partners, and employees.”

“All motorcycle, passenger, and commercial road tests are cancelled until further notice,” reads a statement released online. “ICBC will reassess the situation in two weeks, taking into account public health recommendations and other operational considerations at that time.”

ICBC says that all customers who are scheduled to have a road test are being contacted and that rescheduling will take place when they resume full operation.

The company also notes that they conduct approximately 7,500 road tests a week in British Columbia. Approximately 15,000 road tests will be cancelled over the next two weeks.

ICBC has implemented a number of other safety measures. Customers who are sick or have travelled outside of Canada in the past two weeks are asked not to enter an ICBC office and are reportedly being turned away if needed.

Customers are also being asked to pay for traffic tickets or other fines via phone or mail. ICBC has also decided to limit the number of customers in office waiting areas.

• See also: 
  • All BC schools closed to combat coronavirus spread
  • BC Government to provide financial support for residents and businesses
  • What it’s like to be stranded in a foreign country under quarantine

Additionally, claim centres have restricted appointments and drop-in visits to urgent transactions only and walk-in service is suspended for customers at ICBC’s head office.

“ICBC continues to review our operations as the situation evolves to support the safety of our customers and employees, including reviewing of opportunities in which brokers can issue and renew insurance policies over the phone,” says the company. “More information will be provided on any changes to our operations as soon as possible.”

With coronavirus on the rise, BC public health authorities are reminding individuals who attend events and large gatherings to monitor their health for signs and symptoms of COVID-19. And if you’re not feeling well, they recommend staying home at this time. Also, due to unexpected cancellations, please check the event you plan to attend is still taking place. Keep up with COVID-19 news here.