International students’ guide to driving and car insurance in Canada

The International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that's designed to support your driver's licence outside of the country that issued it, by presenting your driving credentials in a way that people in other countries can more easily understand. Note that you'll need to obtain your IDP in the country your licence is from, and it's only valid for a year from the date of issue.  Plus, not all countries participate in the IDP program. You can see the list of countries that issue IDPs here.

An IDP is a good document to get before you leave home for your Canadian studies, especially if your home country’s language isn’t English or French: An IDP clearly shows your name and other driver details in multiple languages so local traffic authorities and rental car services can quickly verify your licence.

If you're here to study and have a valid driver's licence from back home, you can use it to drive in Canada temporarily (the specific grace period during which your licence will be valid will depend on your province or territory).

After this temporary period, you can continue driving using your international driver’s licence if you have an IDP from your home country. Remember, though, IDPs are only valid for a year, so if you plan to continue driving after your IDP expires, you’ll need to apply for a Canadian driver’s licence.

You may also be able to exchange your international driver’s licence for a Canadian licence if your home country has a reciprocal licensing agreement with your province or territory. Reach out to your local Ministry of Transportation to see if you’re eligible for a licence exchange and to learn about the steps involved in an exchange, including any documents you’ll need to provide.

Yes, you'll be able to apply for a Canadian driver's licence as an international student. It's also a good idea to apply as soon as possible, even though you're able to use your international licence during the grace period, since the processing time for a Canadian licence may take a while. 

Since driver's licences are regulated by the provinces and territories, you should first check with your province or territory for full details of the application process and any specific requirements.

Keep in mind, if you have no driving experience in Canada, you'll be considered a new driver. But, depending on your province or territory, you may be able to use your foreign driver's licence, or official government documentation from your home country about your driving history or record there, to prove that you have past driving experience. Be sure to check with your local Ministry of Transportation to see what they'll accept as proof of driving experience.

Once you're ready to apply for your licence, you'll need to pass several tests to ensure you're prepared for the road. These include a written test on traffic laws and road signs, a practical driving test to assess how well you drive, and a vision test to make sure your eyesight meets the required standards. When you go to take these tests, you’ll need to bring essential documents such as government-issued ID, proof of residence, and your international driver’s licence.

Changes to your study permit conditions won't generally affect your Canadian driver's licence directly (but remember, if this change involves your enrolment in a different post-secondary educational institution, it's essential that you notify Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) of this change).

However, if your personal information, such as your name or your address, has changed, you’ll need to provide your local Ministry of Transportation with your updated information. This ensures your information stays current and correct, and helps avoid issues if, for example, you need to show your licence as identification.

Absolutely. If you're driving any car regularly in Canada, whether it's yours or not, insurance is necessary. Of course, if you own or lease a car, you need to have at least the mandatory basic coverage required by your province or territory. But what if you frequently drive someone else’s car?

If the car is owned by someone you live with, you should be listed as a driver on their car insurance policy to ensure you have adequate protection. If you don’t live with them but you drive their vehicle often (for example, a neighbour or family member regularly lets you use their car to run errands) or if you frequently drive rental cars or cars from car-share services, then getting non-owner car insurance is a smart move. This type of insurance covers you when you drive cars that aren’t yours.

 Depending on the insurer you're purchasing your policy from, you might also find it helpful to have official documentation of your past driving record and insurance history in your home country to submit with your application.

Want to get started with TD Insurance for your car insurance needs? You can get a quote from us in minutes for a policy that's personalized to your needs. And be sure to check out 30 ways you can save on your insurance with us!