Key takeaways
- You can drive on a valid foreign licence for a limited time after you become a resident
- Only some countries’ licences can be exchanged without tests
- Licences from India, the Philippines, China and Nigeria generally require tests
- A letter proving your driving experience can shorten waiting periods
- Your driving record can lower insurance, which is expensive for new drivers
How long you can use your foreign licence
Provinces give new residents a short grace period. For example, Ontario allows 60 days, British Columbia and Alberta 90 days, and Quebec six months. After that you need a provincial licence to keep driving.
An International Driving Permit is only a translation. Carry it with your original licence, not instead of it.
Exchange or tests?
Provinces have exchange agreements with certain countries, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan and South Korea, among others. Licences from these places can often be swapped without tests.
If your licence isn’t on your province’s list, you’ll take the knowledge test and one or more road tests. Many provinces use graduated licensing, where new drivers move through stages.
Use your driving experience
Ask your home licensing authority for an official letter confirming how long you’ve been licensed. Many provinces accept it to credit your experience, which can let you skip waiting periods between tests.
Tip: Bring the original letter with a certified translation. Request it before you leave home; it’s much harder from abroad.
Car insurance
Insurance is mandatory and can be expensive for drivers with no Canadian history. A letter from your previous insurer showing claims-free years may reduce your premium. Compare several insurers or brokers.
Winter driving
Winter tires are required in Quebec in winter months and on many British Columbia highways; elsewhere they’re strongly recommended. See our first winter guide.
General information. Rules and grace periods differ by province and change; check your provincial licensing authority before you drive.
