Can You Take a Road Test with a Cracked Windshield in BC?

Jun 5

If you're preparing for your ICBC road test, it's important to make sure your vehicle meets all safety requirements before you arrive.

The short answer is:

Maybe—but it depends on the size and location of the crack.

A cracked windshield can result in your vehicle being deemed unsafe for the road test, meaning your test could be cancelled before it even begins.

Why Does ICBC Check Your Windshield?

Before your road test starts, the examiner performs a basic vehicle safety inspection. They're looking for anything that could:

Obstruct the driver's view
Create a safety hazard
Affect the safe operation of the vehicle

Since your windshield plays a major role in visibility and vehicle safety, significant damage may prevent you from taking the test.

When Might a Cracked Windshield Fail Inspection?

Your road test vehicle may be rejected if:

The crack obstructs your view of the road
The damage is directly in the driver's line of sight
The crack is large or spreading
Multiple cracks are present
The windshield appears structurally compromised

Even if you've been driving with the crack for some time, the examiner has the final say on whether the vehicle is safe to use for the test.

Can Small Chips Be Allowed?

In many cases, a small rock chip or minor crack that does not affect visibility may not be an issue.

However, there is no guarantee.

Because the decision is made during the vehicle inspection, it's always best to repair the damage before your road test date rather than risk having your appointment cancelled.

What Happens If Your Vehicle Is Rejected?

If your vehicle does not meet safety requirements, you may:

Lose your scheduled appointment
Need to rebook another road test
Experience additional wait times
Potentially lose any associated fees

This can be especially frustrating if you've spent weeks or months preparing.

The Safest Option: Fix It Before Your Test

If you have any windshield damage and your road test is coming up, it's worth having it inspected beforehand.

At Dynasty Glass, we can quickly determine whether your windshield can be repaired or if a replacement is recommended.

We Make It Easy

You don't need to call your insurance company first.

Simply text us:

A photo of the windshield damage
Your vehicle's year, make, and model
Your insurance information (if applicable)

We'll review the damage, verify your coverage, and handle the claim process for you.

Why Drivers Choose Dynasty Glass

As a family-owned and operated auto glass shop serving Langley, Aldergrove, Surrey, Abbotsford, and the Fraser Valley, we make windshield repairs and replacements simple.

Every windshield replacement includes: