This is phase 3 of the Sacred Circles Driver's Licensing Pilot to support Indigenous people in rural and remote communities in acquiring valid BC driver's licenses. Phase 3 is aimed at peoples facing continual barriers in this process and include the support of a "Navigator" to help inform and change the procedures which are preventing Indigenous people from moving forward.

Remote communities often have a higher representation of pedestrians, "vulnerable road users", and are exposed to higher risk of harm than those in urban areas. By increasing the number of community members that are licensed to drive, it will serve to reduce the risk to people and property in community and beyond. When drivers are licensed, rules and laws governing driving will be acknowledged and accepted. Driver conduct and accountability are cornerstones of safer roads.

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The overall project goal was to continue the work that was started in Phase 1 & 2. Some additional goals for Phase 3 were:

• Create a contact person in each of the key organizations involved in driver licensing for Indigenous customers. This would allow customers to contact someone comfortable and informed rather than use the website or 1-800 number for ICBC & Road Safety BC (RSBC).  
• The previous consent forms and processes were not user-friendly. ICBC updated their consent form and follow up procedures for Indigenous customers and it has been successful in a few test cases. Based on community input, final updates to RSBC’s consent form were approved and made available in late 2024.
• Lower or remove interest on debt repayments. Legislation would be necessary and fell beyond the scope of this project; however, both ICBC and RSBC have improved their responses to options for debt resolution. ICBC is able to use some discretion on reducing debts and payment options. RSBC implemented new and more flexible options for debt repayment in 2024.

Rural and remote communities face significant challenges with transportation but everyone deserves safe routes to travel.

Photo source: Pexels. Photo is shown for illustration purposes only and may not be an accurate representation of the project.