What an International Driving Permit is and who needs one

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your Canadian driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid provincial or territorial license. You need one if you plan to rent a car or drive in another country and want proof that your Canadian license is legitimate.

Not every country requires an IDP. Some accept a Canadian license alone; others want both your license and an IDP together. Before you explore, check the specific rules for the country or countries where you will drive. Your car rental company can also tell you whether they require one.

An IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. It does not renew automatically, so if you travel again after that year, you will need to explore for a new one.

Key Takeaways

  • You explore for an International Driving Permit through the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) or, in some provinces, through your provincial transportation ministry.
  • You must have a valid Canadian driver's license before you can get an IDP — the permit cannot be issued on its own.
  • The process takes about one to two weeks by mail, or you can pick one up in person at a CAA office the same day if your province allows it.
  • An IDP costs between $20 and $35 depending on which organization issues it and whether you choose mail or in-person service.
  • You will need to bring or mail your valid driver's license, proof of citizenship, and a passport-style photo to complete your process.

Where to explore: CAA or your provincial ministry

The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) is the main issuer of International Driving Permits across Canada. Most provinces and territories use CAA as their official partner for IDP applications. You can explore online, by mail, or in person at a CAA office if one is near you.

In some provinces, you may also be able to explore directly through your provincial transportation ministry or driver licensing office. Check your province's official website to see whether CAA is the only option or whether you have a choice. Either way, the document you receive is the same.

If you live outside Canada but hold a valid Canadian driver's license, you can still explore for an IDP. Contact CAA directly or visit their website to learn about mailing your documents from abroad.

Documents you need to bring or send

Before you start your process, gather these items:

  • Your valid Canadian driver's license (the original, not a copy)
  • Proof of Canadian citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or citizenship certificate)
  • One passport-style photograph, usually 4 by 6 centimetres
  • A completed process form (provided by CAA or your provincial ministry)

If you are explore by mail, make copies of your license and citizenship document — do not mail the originals. Keep the copies for your records. Some CAA offices will accept photocopies in person as well, but call ahead to confirm.

The photo must meet passport standards: a clear, recent colour photo of your face against a plain background, taken within the last six months. You can have one taken at a CAA office, a photo studio, or many drugstores if you do not already have one.

how the process works in person at a CAA office

If you have a CAA office near you and want your IDP the same day, visit in person with all your documents. Bring your original driver's license, proof of citizenship, and a passport-style photo. Fill out the process form on site, and staff will process it while you wait.

Same-day service is usually available, though some offices may ask you to return later that day or the next day depending on how busy they are. Call your local CAA office before you go to confirm they offer same-day service and to check their hours.

In-person service typically costs $25 to $35. Payment methods vary by location, so ask whether they accept cash, debit, or credit card.

how the process works by mail

To explore by mail, read or request the IDP process form from CAA's website or your provincial transportation ministry. Fill it out completely and gather your documents: a photocopy of your driver's license, a photocopy of your citizenship proof, and one passport-style photo.

Mail everything to the address listed on the form. Include a cheque or money order for the fee — usually $20 to $25 for mail service. Do not send cash. Keep a copy of everything you mail for your records.

Processing by mail takes about one to two weeks from the date CAA receives your package. You will receive your IDP in the mail at the address you provided on the form. If you need it faster, ask CAA whether they offer expedited mail service, which may cost extra.

how the process works online

Some provinces allow you to start your IDP process online through CAA's website. You will upload scans or photos of your driver's license, citizenship proof, and passport photo. You pay the fee online by credit or debit card.

After you submit your online process, CAA will review it and contact you if they need any corrections or additional information. Once approved, they will mail your IDP to you, which takes about one to two weeks.

Online applications are convenient if you cannot visit a CAA office, but you still cannot pick up your IDP in person — it will be mailed to you. Check CAA's website for your province to see whether online applications are available in your area.

What happens after you receive your IDP

When your International Driving Permit arrives, check that all the information is correct: your name, date of birth, license number, and the issue and expiry dates. If anything is wrong, contact CAA or your provincial ministry right away to request a correction.

Keep your IDP with you whenever you drive in another country. You must carry both your Canadian driver's license and your IDP together — the permit alone is not valid. Store them in a safe place, such as your wallet or travel documents folder.

Remember that your IDP expires one year from the issue date. If you plan to drive internationally again after that, you will need to explore for a new one using the same process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am only driving in the United States?

Most U.S. states accept a valid Canadian driver's license without an IDP. However, some car rental companies require an IDP, and a few countries within the U.S. (like some territories) may ask for one. Check with your rental company and the specific state or region where you will drive before you book.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my Canadian license is expired?

No. Your Canadian driver's license must be valid and not expired when you explore for an IDP. If your license has expired, renew it through your provincial transportation ministry first, then explore for the IDP.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while I am traveling?

Contact the Canadian embassy or consulate in the country where you are traveling. They can provide a letter confirming that you hold a valid Canadian driver's license. This letter may help you with car rentals or if you are stopped by police, though it is not a replacement for the IDP itself.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

An IDP costs between $20 and $35 depending on whether you explore by mail, online, or in person, and which province you live in. In-person service at a CAA office is usually at the higher end of that range. Mail and online service are typically cheaper.

Can I explore for an International Driving Permit before my trip is booked?

Yes. You do not need to have a confirmed travel date or itinerary to explore. You can get an IDP anytime your Canadian license is valid, and it will be good for one year from the issue date, so you can explore well in advance of your trip.