Driving in Canada: Using or Exchanging a Foreign Licence

How long can I drive on my foreign licence?

Each province sets its own rules. Many allow new residents to drive on a valid foreign licence for a limited time, often somewhere between 60 days and six months after they arrive, while they apply for a local licence. Some also ask for an International Driving Permit alongside your licence if it's not in English or French.

Exchanging versus starting over

Some provinces have agreements that let people with licences from certain countries exchange them for a local licence with little or no testing. For other countries you may need to take a written test, a road test or both, and you may start in a graduated licensing program where new drivers have extra restrictions.

A simple way to approach it

1. 1

   Step 1: Find your province's licensing office

   Search for your province's driver licensing authority and read its page for new residents.

2. 2

   Step 2: Check the rules for your country

   Look for whether your country has an exchange agreement and what documents you need.

3. 3

   Step 3: Gather documents

   These typically include your foreign licence, proof of identity and immigration status, and proof of address. A certified translation may be needed.

4. 4

   Step 4: Book tests if required

   Road tests can have long waiting lists in busy cities, so book early.

Insurance matters

Car insurance is compulsory across Canada, and prices vary widely by province, age, driving record and the type of car. A letter from your previous insurer showing your years of driving history may help lower your premium. Ask insurers or a broker what they accept.