Getting a driver’s licence

You need a valid driver’s licence to drive a car in Canada, and these are issued by the province or territory where you live. Your foreign driver’s licence may be valid for a short time after you arrive in Canada, but eventually you will need to take a Canadian driving test to remain licensed. This will help you to learn the rules of the road in Canada. You may also want to obtain an international driving permit. Find out more from your provincial ministry of transportation or from your provincial motor vehicle licensing agency.

Driving lessons are available from private companies, for a fee. You may want to have a few lessons before you take your test. Look in the yellow pages under “Driving Instruction.”

Remember: It is a legal requirement to carry your driver’s licence with you whenever you drive. You should also carry your car registration and vehicle permit with you. It is good advice to carry a copy of your car insurance certificate.

Use of seat belts

You and your passengers must wear seat belts at all times when you are driving in Canada. This is the law. The use of a seat belt can save your life in an accident and you can be fined for not wearing one.

Car seats for children

Babies and children who are too small to wear seat belts safely must be placed in car seats whenever you drive. These can also help to save lives in case of an accident. There are different types of car seats for different ages and weights. For example, infants must be placed in special seats that face the back of the car. Children over 18 kg need a booster seat.

In case of an accident

In case of a car accident, call 911 or your local emergency number right away if you need medical help. Stay where you are and get someone to call the police. You should report the accident immediately to your car insurance company. It is also important to exchange your name, address and telephone number as well as your insurance and driver’s licence numbers with the other driver.

For more information

Contact the public transit organizations, provincial ministries of transportation, provincial motor vehicle licensing offices or insurance companies listed in the telephone book.

Source: Citizenship and Immigration Canada