New to Canada: start with your province

Provinces and territories administer driving licences and most road rules. Your route depends on residence, existing licence and arrival date; there is no single nationwide exchange deadline.

• Find the licensing authority’s newcomer instructions.
• Gather identity documents, licence history and required translations.
• Read the handbook, arrange insurance and registration, and practise unfamiliar signs, intersections and winter conditions.

Foreign experience counts only when accepted evidence supports it. An IDP translates a valid licence but does not replace provincial obligations. Visitor rules, exchange agreements and commercial licensing require separate checks.