Does Thrifty require an IDP in Canada?
Thrifty in Canada: the policy in plain terms
Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.
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 Thrifty 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.
Thrifty 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 Thrifty 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 Thrifty 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.