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International Driving Permit

Some countries require travellers to carry special driving permits in addition to their regular driver's licence. These International Driving Permits (IDP) are available in Canada exclusively at CAA Stores and are available to Members and non-members alike.
Driving in Europe

Frequently asked questions (FAQ).

The IDP is proof that you possess a valid driver's licence issued by a competent authority in Canada. It translates your driving qualifications into ten of the world's most commonly used languages, and it allows travellers to drive in over 150 different countries without further tests or applications.

NOTE: The IDP is only valid when used in conjunction with a valid Canadian provincial driver's licence.
 
An IDP provides you with an extra piece of photo identification for international travel. Plus, most international car rental agencies will request an IDP, even though one may not be required to drive in that country.

First you will need the meet the following requirements;

  • You need to be 18 years of age or older,
  • Hold a valid Canadian provincial driver's licence, which includes Ontario's full G and G2 licences - An IDP cannot be issued for learners permits (including Ontario's G1 driver licence), provisional or suspended licences and any type of vehicle not presently covered by the same provincial driver's licence.
  • Two identical passport-sized photos are required - You can obtain the passport photos at any CAA South Central Ontario Stores. Colour photos are available for $8.95 (Member price) or $19.95 (non-member price), taxes not included and prices are subject to change. Plus, Premier and Corporate Members receive complimentary passport photos.

There are 2 options available to obtain an IDP:

1. Visit a local CAA Store – If you are applying in person:

  • You must have your valid Canadian provincial driver's licence
  • Two identical passport-sized photos or you can purchase photos at the store.
    Please note: Computer generated scanned images are not accepted.

 

2. Apply by mail - If you are mailing the application to a local CAA Store:

  • You must fill in the online application form then print out a copy of it
  • You must sign the application form
  • You must include two identical passport-sized photos
  • You must provide a clear photocopy front and back of your valid Canadian provincial driver's licence
  • You must provide a valid email address and telephone number to be used by the CAA Store to contact you for further validation
  • You will need to provide credit card payment - the CAA Store will need to contact you for further validation

An International Driving Permit (IDP) costs $31.00 Canadian dollars, tax included, per IDP. This fee can be paid by cash, debit card or credit card. In-store applications are usually ready same day.

For mail-in applications we are only able to accept payment by credit card. Visa, MasterCard or American Express are accepted. There are additional fees to have the IDP delivered to you when mailing in the application. All shipping prices are subject to change by Canada Post.

CAA sends IDPs by registered mail, thus an additional charge of approximately $12.06 (1 IDP) & $12.49 (2 IDPs) for Canadian addresses or approximately $28.10 (1 IDP) and $29.47 (2 IDPs) for international addresses is required. Canada Post no longer delivers registered mail to the United States; therefore, any IDPs going to the US will be sent via Xpresspost Courier, which has a cost of approximately $40.67.

In-store applications can be processed immediately during your store visit. For applications by mail, allow at least 4-6 weeks for the IDP to reach you. International addresses may take longer to arrive.
  • The IDP must be issued at a CAA Store in Canada and cannot be obtained or renewed elsewhere.
  • The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue OR until your Canadian provincial driver's licence expires, whichever comes first.
  • Your valid G or G2 Canadian provincial driver's licence must accompany the IDP at all times.
  • An IDP cannot be post-dated, extended or renewed. A new IDP application form must be completed each time a new IDP is required.
  • Only CAA is authorized to issue IDPs in Canada, under an UN-approved mandate. Any non-CAA issued IDP is fake, and may not protect you in a foreign country. For more information, visit the Government of Canada website.