Before you take a car into another country, an IDP in Canada is mandatory for those who plan on practicing vehicle operation in another country. Using this document, you can legally drive in other countries because it interprets your Canadian driver’s license in various languages.

Below is the process of how to get an IDP.

What is an International Driving Permit and why is it needed?

An International Driving Permit is a document that translates your Canadian driver’s license into 10 languages, therefore, helps foreign authorities to identify your license better. It is legal for up to one year and lets you drive in legally over 100 countries that accept IDPs. However, as mentioned earlier, your IDP is not a license, and so for the license to be valid you need to have it complemented by your Canadian license any time you are driving.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for an IDP in Canada, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Age: You must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Valid Driver’s License: You require a Class 5 full, Class 5 probationary or Class 5 novice driver’s license. Learner’s permits are not eligible for this discount.
  • Residency: You must be a Canadian resident and therefore must possess a Canadian address.
    If you are eligible for this, you can request an IDP which permits you to operate a car in other countries for a year.

Required Documents

To apply for an IDP, you will need the following:

  • Completed Application Form: This form can be obtained from the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) website for download.
  • Two Passport-Sized Photos: These photos must be signed and must also be of the same image.
  • Copy of Your Valid Driver’s License: A photocopy of both the front and back of your Canadian driver’s license.
  • Fee: The cost of an IDP is $31 CAD and you can pay via cash, debit, or credit.

PDF by CAA

Where to Apply

In Canada, the only organization that is legally allowed to issue International Drivers Permits (IDP) is the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA). You can either walk in to your nearest CAA office or you can post your application to the office.

Applying In Person

When you take your application to a CAA office, it normally takes about an hour to have it processed and you are issued with the IDP on the same day you visited the office. This is the quickest way of doing it and especially so if you are in a hurry to travel.

Applying by Mail

If you want to apply by mail, you will have to post all your documents to the CAA office in your region. Remember, that sending the application through the mail may take a few weeks due to the postal services. After processing your application, your IDP will be posted to you.

How Long Does It Take?

  • In-Person Application: Provided within an hour of being issued on the same day.
  • By Mail: The processing time usually takes two business days from the time it is received but please allow for mailing time.

What If You Are Already Abroad?

Applicants who are currently in other countries and who have come to that decision that they require an IDP can go ahead and apply. The application can be submitted by a third party, or the necessary documents can be sent to CAA by mail. Please note that extra fees for the courier service will depend on the location you are in.

Special Considerations

  • Driving Classes: Your IDP restricts you to the operation of only those class of vehicles that your Canadian license allows. For instance, if you have automobile license only, your IDP will not allow operation of motorcycles even if your license allows you to.
  • Insurance: Make certain the insurance policy you take will permit you to drive in foreign countries. Your insurance may not cover you if you are driving without the correct license or permit as sometimes allowed.

Validity and Renewal

An IDP is issued for a year from the time the document was issued. If you intend to drive in another country after this period, then you will have to apply for a new IDP.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not Carrying Both Licenses: When driving in another country, it is recommended that you have your Canadian driver’s license together with your IDP. The IDP is valid only when combined with your Canadian license.
  • Using Fake IDPs: CAA alone is legally allowed to provide IDPs in Canada. As with any other IDPs, one should be wary of scammers and fake institutions that offer fake IDPs that will not be accepted in other countries.

Countries Where an IDP is Required

While some countries accept Canadian driver’s licenses, others will only accept an IDP. Currently, countries like Spain, Italy, and Japan among others demand an IDP for foreign drivers. Before leaving Canada, it will be wise to go through the driving laws of the country you intend to visit.

Conclusion

It is crucial and easy for Canadians intending to drive in foreign countries to apply for an International Driving Permit. Regardless of whether you apply online or by post, this is one of the easiest processes you will ever come across. Do not forget to plan ahead, especially if you are applying through the mail, also, always ensure you have your IDP and Canadian driver’s license when driving internationally.

If you follow these steps, you will be sure that your travel will be anyhow problematic and there will be no issues with laws regarding driving in foreign countries.

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