How to Get a Driver's Licence in Canada (Newcomers)
Each province runs its own licence system. Ontario, BC, Alberta, and the others all differ. New drivers go through a graduated program. In Ontario, that is G1, then G2, then full G. Newcomers from exchange countries can swap their licence directly. People from some other countries only get credit for past driving experience. This makes the waiting periods shorter.
At a glance
- Cost:
- $100–$200 total (varies by province)
- Total time:
- 8–12 months (new drivers) / days (recognized exchange countries)
- Steps:
- 7 steps
- Where to apply:
- ontario.ca
Last reviewed October 2026 against official sources. Re-checked annually · next review due October 2027.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official CAN sources(October 2026).
0 of 7 steps
- Before You Go 30 min
Check your province's rules
Each province is different. Ontario uses a three-stage system: G1 knowledge test, then G2 road test, then full G. Some countries have full licence-exchange agreements. These include the US, UK, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, Germany, France, and more. Other countries allow only experience credit. Examples are India, Nepal, and Brazil, in some provinces. Look up your own case on your province's driver licensing site.
Click to mark as done
- Go 1–4 weeks to obtain by mail
Gather proof of driving experience
Are you from a country with no exchange agreement, but you drove at home? An official driving record can give you credit. It must come from your home licensing authority, on letterhead or stamped. In Ontario, 12+ months of proven experience lets you book the G2 road test right away. Since July 1, 2026, foreign-experience credit is capped at up to one year: you must pass the G2 road test and wait at least 12 months before the G test. 24 months of foreign experience no longer gives a direct-to-G route. Without a record, you start as a new driver.
Click to mark as done
- Go 1–2 hours + study time
Take the vision and knowledge tests
Visit a DriveTest centre (Ontario), an ICBC office (BC), or a registry agent (Alberta). First, pass the vision test. Bring your glasses. Then pass the written knowledge test on the rules and road signs. It usually has 20–40 multiple-choice questions. Some provinces offer it in many languages. Since 11 May 2026, Ontario applicants must also declare two things. Ontario is their main place of residence. And their presence in Canada is legal. Pass, and you get a learner licence, like a G1. It has limits: zero alcohol, and a fully licensed driver must sit beside you.
Click to mark as done
- Wait 8–12 months (or shorter with credit)
Complete the graduated stages (new drivers)
With a G1, you must hold it for 12 months before the first road test. An approved driving course cuts this to 8 months. Pass the G2 test, and you can drive alone. Zero alcohol applies to all G1/G2/M1/M2 holders of any age, as well as all drivers 21 or under (Ontario rule). The full G test covers highway driving. It comes after 12 months at G2. Experience credit can shorten the G1 wait, but the 12-month G2→G wait still applies. The agent tells you your exact timeline when you apply.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay —
Pay fees as you go
Ontario: the $159.75 G1 package covers the knowledge test, your first G2 road test, and a five-year licence. The G road test costs $91.25. A knowledge-test retake costs $16. These are from the DriveTest fee list. BC and Alberta charge in different ways. You pay for each attempt. If you fail, you book again and pay again. Has it been years since you drove? Take a few practice lessons first.
Click to mark as done
- Follow Up 4 weeks
Consider driving school
An approved beginner driver education course (Ontario) shortens the G1 wait by 4 months. It often lowers your insurance too. Shop around. The cost is usually $500–$800. Insurers like Desjardins and Intact give certificate discounts for 1–3 years.
Click to mark as done
- Receive —
Full licence
Your full provincial licence is a plastic card. It shows your licence class, like G. It arrives by mail after you pass the final test. A temporary paper licence covers you until then. Your licence also works as photo ID everywhere in Canada. Keep it up to date. If you move, update your address with the licensing office within days.
Click to mark as done
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
I have a US licence. Can I just swap it?
Yes. All provinces exchange a valid US licence for the same class, with no tests. Many other countries count too. Your licence must be valid, or expired less than a set period. That period is often 12 months. In most provinces, you hand in your foreign licence when you swap.
How long can I drive on my foreign licence after arriving?
Usually 60–90 days after you move to the province. The exact time depends on the province. After that, you need the provincial licence. Insurance is a separate matter. If you crash without a provincial licence, your coverage may not pay. So swap your licence early.
Why is my insurance so high as a newcomer?
Insurers give credit for driving history they can check. Get your official abstract (letter of experience) from your old insurer abroad. Some Canadian insurers credit up to 10+ years of foreign experience. This can cut your premiums by half or more. Shop around with brokers. The first quote is never the best.
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