Do you hold a foreign driver’s licence and intend to drive in Québec? Do you hold a Québec driver’s licence and want to drive outside Canada? You might need an international driving permit.
An international driving permit is a "translation" of your driver's licence and must be obtained in the country that issued your driver's licence. This permit specifies—according to an internationally recognized classification—the types of vehicles you are allowed to drive.
You must apply for an international driving permit before coming to Québec.
An international driving permit does not replace the driver's licence issued by your country of origin—it is used in combination with your licence.
To be valid, an international driving permit must always be accompanied by your original driver's licence. In the event of a roadside check, you must show both documents.
You are staying in Québec for more than 6 months and intend on driving on public roads.
You are allowed to drive a passenger vehicle, a motorcycle, a moped or a scooter for the duration of your studies or traineeship with your foreign driver's licence provided that the licence is valid and bears the appropriate class for the type of vehicle used and that you abide by its conditions. An international driving permit is recommended if your home licence is not in English or French.
If you are a new resident and decide to settle in Québec, you are allowed to drive a passenger vehicle, a motorcycle, a moped or a scooter for a maximum period of 6 consecutive months with your foreign driver's licence provided that the licence is valid and bears the appropriate class for the type of vehicle used.
We highly recommend that you start the process of obtaining a Québec driver's licence before the end of the 6-month period.
Before leaving Canada, you must check to see whether the country to which you are travelling requires an international driving permit.
If you are required to hold an international driving permit, you must apply for one with CAA-Québec. An international driving permit is valid for one year.
Find out about the country's driving rules: traffic laws, right- or left-hand drive, etc.
Last update: May 13, 2022
