Canada

International Driving Permit for Canada license holders

In short

Canada drivers need an IDP in any country that requires one for foreign licences. It is a translation of your Canada licence, carried together with it. Canadian drivers should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their provincial licence when driving abroad.

Canadian drivers should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their provincial licence when driving abroad. Your International Driving Permit is the recognised multilingual translation of your existing licence, issued in the official UN-convention format and carried alongside your national licence.

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Last reviewed June 2026

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Driving abroad on a Canada license

Tap a country for the exact verdict for Canada drivers — required or recommended, the convention basis, and what to carry.

Canada drivers — common questions

01

Do Canada license holders need an International Driving Permit?

Canada drivers need an IDP in any country that requires one for foreign licences. It is a translation of your Canada licence, carried together with it. Canadian drivers should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their provincial licence when driving abroad.

02

Is Canada part of the driving conventions?

Canada is party to 1949 Geneva Convention on road traffic, which govern which IDP format applies abroad.

03

How fast can a Canada driver get an IDP?

As fast as 8 minutes — enter your details and licence, pay, and your digital permit is emailed to you.