Getting around and driver's licences

In many small Francophone communities outside Quebec, public transit is limited and a car is almost a necessity. This article summarizes IRCC's guidance on driving in Canada.

Driver's licences

• To drive legally in Canada, you need a licence issued by the province or territory where you live. With it, you can drive anywhere in Canada.
• A valid licence from your home country can usually be used for a short time after you arrive; each province sets the period.
• IRCC advises getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country before you leave. An IDP translates your licence into English and French.
• Exchanging your licence or getting a new one depends on the province and your driving history, and may include a written test on the rules of the road and one or two road tests.

Car insurance

• Driving without car insurance is illegal in Canada.
• The cost depends on the plan, your age, driving record, where you live and your experience. Newcomers without a Canadian driving history often pay more.
• IRCC suggests bringing a reference letter from your previous car insurer, if you have one, to prove your driving record.

Road rules

• Traffic laws are strictly enforced and penalties are severe.
• Each province publishes a driver's handbook, available at service centres, in stores or online.
• Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious crime. In an accident: call 911, stay at the scene and exchange information with the other driver.

Buying or leasing

Canadians buy new or used cars or lease them. Count all the costs: the car, insurance, fuel, maintenance and winter tires.

Note Before you leave, get your Vietnamese licence translated and certified, an IDP, and a letter from your insurer. Check your destination province's transportation department for how long you can use a foreign licence.