Driving in Canada
Before you book your car hire in Canada, why not read through our Canada driving guide...
Canada is a very friendly country and has a great reputation for it’s hospitality
Visitors to Canada can use their respective national driver's licence. After three months, an International Driver's Permit should be applied for, but you needn’t worry about this if you are simply visiting for a holiday.
The law in Canada requires using a seat belt. Anyone caught traveling in a car without wearing a seatbelt can be fined up to $500. The driver will be fined as well if his passengers are not buckled up. It is even possible to lose your license for up to 30 days as penalty.
Child Seats
Children should always use a child car seat. These seats are regulated by the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Make sure that the seats meet their requirements. Children 12 years and below should travel in the backseat at all times.
Speed Limits
Speed limits are at 50 kph around towns, cities, villages, and built-up areas. On other open roads the speed liit is up to 80 kmph. Driving is done on the right hand side of the road. Police officers are usually seen directing the traffic. All cars should have functioning headlights, or you could face an on the spot fine.
Drink Driving
Drink driving is a major offence in Canada. If you are suspected to be over the legal alcohol limit, then you may be subject to a breathaliser test and could lose your licence on the spot.
Canadian driving laws are very similar to American driving laws. As a general rule, always drive defensively and follow your good driving instincts, consider safety at all times and you should be ok.
Summary:
- Buckle up as there are large penalties for not wearing a seatbelt
- Drive on the right
- Look out for local speed limits
- For safety reasons, you should never drink and drive
All information on this page is provided as a guide for our customers. It is intended as an overview of different driving rules, customs and points of interest in each country. It is not a comprehensive guide. Although we try to keep information on this page as accurate and up to date as possible, we cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. If you find any errors or there is anything you would like us to add, please contact us.