What the CAA International Driving Permit Is

The CAA International Driving Permit is a document issued by the Canadian Automobile Association that translates your Canadian driver's license into multiple languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid Canadian provincial or territorial license. The permit itself grants no driving authority; it exists to help foreign police officers, rental car companies, and insurance providers understand that your Canadian license is legitimate.

The CAA is the organization authorized by the Canadian government to issue these permits. You cannot get an International Driving Permit from any other source in Canada and have it recognized as official. The permit is valid for three years from the date of issue.

If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident with a valid driver's license, you can request one. You do not need to be a CAA member, though membership can reduce the fee.

Key Takeaways

  • The CAA International Driving Permit is a translation document only — it must be carried with your valid Canadian driver's license at all times when driving abroad.
  • The permit is valid for three years and costs between $20 and $35 CAD depending on whether you are a CAA member.
  • You can request one in person at a CAA office, by mail, or online through the CAA website, and processing takes 5 to 10 business days for standard service.
  • The permit is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 International Convention on Motor Vehicle Traffic, but some countries have their own requirements or do not recognize it.
  • You must carry both your Canadian license and the International Driving Permit together — the permit alone is not valid for driving.

Who Can Request a CAA International Driving Permit

You must hold a valid driver's license issued by a Canadian province or territory. The license must not be suspended, cancelled, or expired. Permanent residents of Canada with a valid Canadian license can also request one.

You do not need to be a member of the CAA to request a permit. However, CAA members pay a lower fee — typically $20 CAD compared to $35 CAD for non-members. If you are not a member and want the member rate, you can join the CAA at the time of your request.

The permit is issued in the name on your Canadian driver's license. If your name has changed since your license was issued, you will need to update your license first through your provincial or territorial Service Nova Scotia office or equivalent before requesting the International Driving Permit.

How to Request One: Three Routes

In person at a CAA office: Visit any CAA branch with your valid Canadian driver's license and proof of identity. Bring a completed process form (available at the office or online). You will pay the fee and receive the permit on the same day or within one business day. This is the fastest route if a CAA office is near you.

By mail: read the process form from the CAA website, complete it, and mail it with a photocopy of both sides of your Canadian driver's license and a copy of your proof of identity. Include a cheque or money order for the fee. Mail to the CAA address listed on the form. Processing takes 5 to 10 business days after the CAA receives your envelope.

Online through the CAA website: Some provinces allow you to request a permit directly through the CAA's online portal. You will upload a clear image of both sides of your license and pay by credit card. The permit is mailed to you within 5 to 10 business days. Check the CAA website for your province to see if this option is available.

Documents You Need

You will need your valid Canadian driver's license — the original if explore in person, or a clear photocopy of both sides if explore by mail or online. You will also need a form of proof of identity such as a passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card. If explore by mail, provide a photocopy.

If your name on your license does not match your current legal name, bring or send documentation of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You may also need to update your driver's license first before the CAA will issue the permit.

No passport photo is required. The CAA uses the photo already on your Canadian driver's license.

Fees and Processing Time

The fee is $20 CAD for CAA members and $35 CAD for non-members. Some CAA branches may charge slightly different amounts, so confirm the exact fee when you contact them or visit their website.

If you explore in person at a CAA office, you will receive the permit the same day or within one business day. If you explore by mail or online, allow 5 to 10 business days for processing after the CAA receives your request. If you need the permit urgently, in-person process is your fastest option.

The permit is valid for three years from the date of issue. You cannot renew it — you must request a new one when it expires.

Where the CAA International Driving Permit Is Recognized

The permit is recognized in most countries that signed the 1926 International Convention on Motor Vehicle Traffic. This includes most of Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, and many others. However, recognition is not automatic everywhere, and some countries have additional requirements.

Before you travel, check with the national automobile association or government transport authority of the country you plan to visit. Some countries require both the International Driving Permit and your Canadian license; others accept only the Canadian license; and a small number do not recognize the International Driving Permit at all and require you to obtain a local permit or translation.

Rental car companies often ask to see the International Driving Permit even in countries where it is not legally required, because it reduces their liability if there is a dispute about your driving authority. Carry it with you even if the country does not legally require it.

What the Permit Does Not Cover

The International Driving Permit does not extend the validity of your Canadian driver's license. If your license expires while you are abroad, the permit expires with it. You cannot drive on an expired license, even with a valid permit.

The permit does not change your insurance coverage. Your Canadian auto insurance may not cover you in all countries, and rental car insurance requirements vary by location. Contact your insurance provider before you travel to confirm what is covered outside Canada.

The permit does not grant you the right to drive in a country where you would otherwise be prohibited — for example, if you are under the minimum age for that country, or if your license class does not match the vehicle you want to drive. Each country's traffic laws still explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with just the International Driving Permit and no Canadian license?

No. The permit is a translation document only and has no legal authority on its own. You must carry your valid Canadian driver's license with you at all times. If stopped by police, you must show both documents together.

What if my Canadian license is suspended or expired?

You cannot request an International Driving Permit if your Canadian license is suspended, cancelled, or expired. You must first renew or restore your license through your provincial or territorial Service Nova Scotia office or equivalent.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in another country?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Many countries do not legally require it, but most rental car companies ask to see one anyway because it reduces their risk. Check the rental company's website before you book, and carry the permit even if it is not legally required in that country.

How long does it take to get one if I explore by mail?

The CAA typically processes mail requests within 5 to 10 business days after they receive your envelope. Mailing time is not included in that estimate, so allow extra time for your request to reach the CAA and for the permit to be mailed back to you. If you need it faster, explore in person at a CAA office.

Can I request an International Driving Permit if I am not a Canadian citizen?

Yes, if you are a permanent resident of Canada with a valid Canadian driver's license. You will need to provide proof of permanent residency along with your license. Non-residents cannot request one.