Important ID Documents in BC: What Newcomers Should Know

CISM Staff

Publish: July 7, 2026

Last Update: July 10, 2026

Important ID Documents in BC: What Newcomers Should Know

CISM Staff

Publish: July 7, 2026

Last Update: July 10, 2026

Starting life in British Columbia means more than finding a place to live or beginning school—it also means making sure you have the right identification documents. Whether you’re opening a bank account, accessing healthcare, applying for a driver’s licence, or verifying your identity, having the correct BC-issued ID is essential. In this guide, we’ll introduce the most important identification documents in British Columbia, explain what they’re used for, and help you understand which ones you may need as an international student or newcomer to Canada.

🪪 Essential Government IDs in BC

BC Services Card

The BC Services Card is used to access provincial services, including health care under BC’s Medical Services Plan. International students with a study permit valid for six months or longer must apply for MSP after arriving in BC

Where to get: apply for MSP through the Province of BC. You may also need to visit an ICBC driver licensing office for photo ID verification.

✨Visit the BC Government website to learn more about the BC Services Card.

BCID

BCID is a government-issued photo ID for people who do not drive. It has the same security features as a BC driver’s licence. A BCID is very useful for banking, age verification, identity checks, and daily life.

Where to get it: apply at an ICBC driver licensing office by booking an appointment, bringing accepted ID, and paying the fee.

✨Visit the ICBC website to learn more about the BCID card.

BC Driver’s Licence

A BC driver’s licence allows you to legally drive in British Columbia and also works as a government-issued photo ID. If you already have a licence from another country, check ICBC’s rules for new residents and licence exchange. Driving rules may depend on your country, driving experience, and licence type.

Where to get it: apply through ICBC driver licensing services.
Important: After passing the knowledge test, you will receive a learner’s licence, and after passing the Class 7 road test, you will receive a new BC driver’s licence.

✨Visit the ICBC website to learn more about the BC driver’s licence.

Social Insurance Number

A Social Insurance Number is required if you want to work in Canada or access certain government programs. International students usually receive a SIN beginning with “9.”

Where to get it: apply through Service Canada online, by mail, or in person.
Important: Protect your SIN carefully. Do not share it unless it is legally required, such as with an employer, bank, or government agency.

✨Visit the Government of Canada website to learn more about the Social Insurance Number.

☀️Useful Everyday Documents

Library Card

Used to borrow books, access study spaces, computers, printing, online learning tools, and free community programs.

Where to get it: Local public library, such as Vancouver Public Library or Burnaby Public Library.

Compass Card

Used for public transit across Metro Vancouver, including SkyTrain, bus, and SeaBus.

Where to get it: SkyTrain stations, London Drugs, online, or Compass vending machines.

Bank Debit Card / Credit Card

Used for daily payments, online shopping, rent, phone bills, and building financial history in Canada.

Where to get it: Canadian banks or credit unions.
Important: before applying for a bank card, carefully understand the bank’s policies, including monthly fees, transaction limits, credit card interest rates, minimum payments, and any promotion requirements.

RBC student banking offers through FSS/CISM

Eligible students who open a new RBC student account and complete the required actions may qualify for the AirPods 4.

FSS/CISM can also help arrange an RBC appointment and connect with an advisor who speaks your preferred language.

👉Book appointment: https://www.mycism.com/rbc/

School Student Card

Used for campus services, exams, library access, student discounts, and sometimes transit discounts.

Where to get it: Your school after registration.

Having the right ID documents makes life in BC easier, from healthcare and banking to school, work, and transportation. Keep your documents safe, check expiry dates, and update your information when needed.

💡 Just arrived in Canada and want to learn more about the local culture and lifestyle? Check out our Newcomer Magazine to help you feel right at home!

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