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National · Canada

Does National require an IDP in Canada?

Recommended
Canada lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
Get my permit for Canada All National requirements
National in Canada
National IDP policyRequired for non-Roman-alphabet licences
National footprintGlobal
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Minimum rental age16+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theRight

National in Canada: the policy in plain terms

Requires an IDP for non-Latin-alphabet licences and where local regulations require it. Business-traveller brand known for Emerald Aisle.

Visitors can usually drive on a valid foreign licence; an IDP is required if your licence is not in English or French.

In Canada specifically, canada lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter. Recommended for non-Latin-script licences.

National runs a global network; at its Canada desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Canada drives on the right, uses the CAD, and sets a minimum driving age of 16; an IDP is still the safest way to avoid a refused booking.

What to bring to the National counter in Canada

  • Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
  • Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format.
  • Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
  • Local payment for the CAD deposit; Canada drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.

Driving rules in Canada National renters should know

  • Right turn on red permitted unless signed otherwise (except Montreal Island).
  • Winter tyres mandatory in Quebec in winter.
  • Seatbelts mandatory.
  • Alcohol limit 0.08% federally; provinces add warn-range penalties.

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to rent from National in Canada?
Canada lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
02
What documents should I bring to the National desk in Canada?
Bring your original national driving licence, your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format, your passport, and the payment card in the main driver's name. Canada drives on the right and the minimum rental age is typically 16+.
03
What is National's general policy on International Driving Permits?
Requires an IDP for non-Latin-alphabet licences and where local regulations require it. Business-traveller brand known for Emerald Aisle.
All National countriesDriving in Canada