International Driving Permit

An International Driving Permit, or IDP, is a special driver's licence that allows licensed motorists to drive in other countries without further tests or applications. It is proof that the holder possesses a valid driver's licence, issued by a competent authority, in his or her country of residence. The IDP provides you with additional photo identification and includes a multilingual translation of your valid Canadian driver’s licence. You must contact the Canadian Automobile Association to apply for an IDP.

The IDP is valid in all countries that have signed the 1949 Convention on Road Traffic and is recognized in many countries that are not signatories to the Convention. You may be required to have a valid IDP to drive in some countries and some foreign car rental agencies may require you to have one to rent a car.

A Canadian IDP is only valid outside Canada and is valid for only one year from the date of issue. You must reapply if you need another one.