Approving an instructor trainer

ICBC–authorized instructor training certification facilities must use qualified instructors to train instructor candidates enrolled in their training program.

Learn how to apply for instructor trainer approval under the instructor training certification program.

Getting started

An instructor trainer needs to meet these basic requirements:

Class 1 instructor trainers must:

hold, and have held for at least three years, a valid practical and theory driver training instructor's licence (with the appropriate class) — or an acceptable combination of training and experience, and
have at least 2000 hours of Class 1 driver training experience — or an acceptable combination of training and experience.

Class 5 instructor trainers must:

for a practical (in-car) instructor trainer designation,

have a GLP (practical) designation
hold and have held for at least three years, a Class 5 practical driver training instructor's licence — or an acceptable combination of training and experience
have at least 500 hours of practical Class 7 new driver training experience — or an acceptable combination of training and experience, and
qualify on a practical teaching evaluation conducted by ICBC

for a theory (classroom) instructor trainer designation,

have a GLP (practical) and GLT (theory) designation
hold and have held for at least three years, a Class 5 practical and theory driver training instructor's licence — or an acceptable combination of training and experience
have at least 500 hours of practical Class 7 new driver training experience, and at least 100 hours of Class 5/7 classroom teaching experience — or an acceptable combination of training and experience, and
qualify on a practical teaching evaluation conducted by ICBC.

Motorcycle instructor trainers must:

hold, and have held for at least one year, a valid Class 6/8 practical and theory driver training instructor's licence — or an acceptable combination of training and experience, and
have a minimum of five years experience operating Class 6 vehicles.

Air brake instructor trainers must:

hold, and have held for at least three years, a valid air brake instructor certificate of qualification — or an acceptable combination of training and experience, and
hold or have held a valid B.C. driver's licence.

Steps to approve an instructor trainer

Submit your application

Class 5 designation

For a Class 5 designation, the first step is to complete an application form.

Send us your completed application form and include the instructor's proof of qualifications.

All other designations

For a Class 1-4 , motorcyle, or Air brake designation, submit your request in writing and include the instructor's proof of qualfiications.

If you wish, you can send us your application by email.

Undergo an instructor trainer evaluation (Class 5 only)

Class 5 instructor trainers who meet the basic requirements must undergo an evaluation with a driving school inspector. If pre-approved, we will let you know how your instructor can arrange for their evaluation.

Note: The evaluation requirement does not currently apply to other designation types.

After the evaluation, the inspector will provide comments and may give suggestions for improvement. The inspector is there to help, so your instructor can feel free to ask questions.

Get your approval letter

Class 5 designation

If your Class 5 instructor is successful on their evaluation, we will send you an approval letter — when you receive it, your instructor can can begin training Class 5 instructor trainees at your facility.