🇨🇦 Do you need an IDP to drive in Canada?

It depends on the licence you hold — Canada accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Confirm the rule for your specific licence country before you travel. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required. Canadian provinces accept foreign licenses for visits (typically up to 90 days). Non-English/French licenses should carry an IDP or translation.

A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Canada read your licence, but where Canada requires an IDP it must be one issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Always carry your original national licence with it.

Rental companies require a license in Latin script or an IDP alongside the original.

Canada recognises IDPs issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.

Because Canada follows the 1949 Geneva Convention, an IDP is valid for one year from its date of issue. The permit is only valid alongside your original national licence, and it cannot be renewed — you apply for a new one from your home country's authorised issuer when it lapses.