Driving in BC

Getting around the City of Vancouver is easy – great for walking enthusiasts and cyclists alike – as it is well serviced with a transit system, small commute ferries and taxi firms.  However, hiring a car can give you greater flexibility and convenience when going further afield to explore Vancouver Island, the Okanagan, and other communities and regions.

Getting to know the area by road is straightforward too and before setting out on your excursion, familiarize yourself with BC driving laws. Following are just a few driving tips and things to know that might be different from your hometown:

• In Canada driving is done on the right hand side of the road (unless the street is designated one-way!)
• From January 1, 2010 it is against the law in British Columbia to drive while using a handheld cell phone (mobile), and typing, texting or dialling on a handheld device or watching a video – set up your GPS before starting your trip, not while driving.
• Seatbelts are mandatory in Canada for all passengers and child car seats or booster seats for children (check with your car rental company for child passenger requirements). Buckle up!
• Roads are generally well posted with warning and road signs.
• Speed signs are posted in kilometres (km/h).
• Speed limits apply for school and playground zones during certain hours which will be posted as you approach the zone.  Watch out for these signs especially.
• If a school bus stops with alternating red flashing lights all traffic on both sides of the road must stop, until the flashing lights are turned off.
• The first vehicle that arrives at an intersection with a 4-way stop has the right-of-way.
• At traffic lights watch for overhead signs which may restrict turning left or right during peak hours, or signs that designate one-way streets.
• At a red traffic light, vehicles may proceed to turn right after first stopping completely and ensuring the intersection is clear of other vehicles, cyclists or pedestrians.
• Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks.  Please give way.
• Requirements for renting a car include presenting a credit card and valid driver’s license.  Age restrictions and/or extra charges may apply.  Pick-up and drop-off services may be available.
• Road rules apply the same to riding bicycles, scooters, and motorcycles.  Helmets must be worn.

RV is an abbreviation for Recreational Vehicle, and also refers to motorized campers and trailers used for camping and other recreational activities.  This style of vacationing is popular in British Columbia and across Canada and allows freedom to travel around to secluded campsites within a self-contained motorhome.

Bicycle, Scooter and Motorcycle Rental Companies

Car Hire and RV Rental Companies