International Driving Permit

An IDP is a document which, when accompanied by a valid driver’s licence, enables a person to drive vehicles for leisure purposes in many foreign countries. Only CAA is authorized to issue IDPs in Canada, under a UN-approved mandate. Any non-CAA issued IDP is fake and will not be accepted by a foreign country. For more information, visit the Government of Canada website here.

As of December 1st, 2023, IDP fees have increased to $31.00 CDN.

You must be 18 years or older and have a valid driver’s licence. It cannot be a learner’s permit.

At any CAA store location in Canada. You can visit the store in person or mail all the required documents to the store. Find your closest location here.

If you visit a store, your permit can normally be processed in less than an hour. If you send your application by mail, it will take about two working days following receipt to process and mail back to you. There may be some shipment delays due to COVID-19.

Penalties can vary and can be a fine or a citation.  Check the driving rules and regulations in the country you plan on visiting before you leave to determine if you need an IDP.

An IDP expires one year from the date it is issued or when the associated provincial driver’s licence expires, whichever comes first. While the IDP is valid for one year, some countries may have restrictions on the length of time you can drive there. Check with the country you plan to visit before you leave.

You can use any Canadian Provincial or Territorial driver’s licence. You cannot obtain an IDP with a learner’s level licence.

No.

No.

Yes, but only after you have obtained a temporary driver’s licence or written proof from the Ministry of Transportation in the Province or Territory where you are licenced.

Yes, you can use a temporary licence to obtain an IDP.  If you are applying by mail, include a photocopy of the temporary licence.  Please note that an IDP is only valid with a valid driver’s licence, so we would advise you to ensure the licence you plan to use does not expire while you are away.

No.

Use the address that is shown on your Canadian driver’s licence.

You can still obtain an IDP.  If you are applying by mail, include a note that states you are at a different address than your licence and include the address you would like the IDP mailed to.

The type of vehicle you will be driving with the IDP, based on those listed on your driving licence (car, truck, motorcycle, bus etc.).

Yes, at the bottom of the application form there is an area for your credit card information. However, please phone your CAA club to provide your credit card CVV number or provide a contact number so that the number can be obtained.  Financial industry rules prohibit including this number on your application form or providing it via e-mail.

Please mail your complete application, along with your photos, to your local CAA office. Find your local CAA office here.

Yes, you can still apply for an IDP through the mail.  Please include a note that states you are not in Canada and the address you would like the IDP to be mailed to.  You can also have a loved one apply for you – see question below.

Yes, as long as they have the required documents and a letter from you giving them permission to do this.

Yes, as long as you are still in possession of a valid Canadian driver’s licence.

Yes, please include a note with your return address.  If you would like it couriered, please include this in the note.

No, only CAA can issue an IDP to individuals with Canadian driver’s licences.