Driving
a Motor Vehicle in British Columbia
Motor Vehicles
To
operate a motor vehicle in British Columbia, you
must have a valid driver's license. Drivers' license
from the U.S. or from other countries and international
drivers' licenses are accepted and valid in B.C.
Vehicles
and holiday trailers that do not exceed 2.6 m. (8.6
feet) in width will generally have no problems entering
B.C. Permits will be issued at port of entry, if
required. Motor vehicle registration forms should
be carried in your vehicle at all times.
If
it's a rental unit from a rental company, you should
carry a copy of the rental contract with permitted
entry into Canada.
Three
unit RV combinations are illegal on B.C. highways,
as they usually do not meet the minimum 5,000 kg
(11,000 lbs.) weight restriction.
Motor Vehicle Insurance
U.S.
motorists should obtain a "Canadian Non-Resident
Interprovincial Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance
Card" from their insurance company. All out of country
visitors, before leaving home should check out their
motor vehicle insurance needs with their insurance
company. Anyone involved in a motor vehicle accident,
while visiting B.C., should contact the nearest
Insurance Corporation of British Columbia office
for advice.
Laws
It
is illegal to operate a motor vehicle in B.C. without
a valid driver's licence.
When
driving or travelling in B.C., the law is, that
drivers and passengers must use seat belts while
in a motor vehicle. Infant car seats are required
for all children weighing up to 18 kg (40 lbs.).
Motorcycle
and bike helmets are mandatory in British Columbia.
It
is a criminal offence to operate a motor vehicle
while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The
limit is .08%, anything over this reading means
you are impaired and will be subject to the law.
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