Driver's Liscence

[links18]

When first applying for a driver's liscence after landing in Canada, does one need to surrender one's current U.S. liscence to the Canadian authorities? How does that work? Do Canadian provinces and U.S. states share driver records? Would the province return the old U.S. liscence to the state of issue?

[PMM]

Hi

When first applying for a driver's liscence after landing in Canada, does one need to surrender one's current U.S. liscence to the Canadian authorities? How does that work? Do Canadian provinces and U.S. states share driver records? Would the province return the old U.S. liscence to the state of issue?

1.  Yes
2.  Yes, with most states.

[links18]

Thanks! What if the U.S. license has recently expired? Can it generally still be exchaged for a Canadian license if one shows proof of driving experience? I realize that this will vary by province, but is there a general standard?

[PMM]

Hi

Thanks! What if the U.S. license has recently expired? Can it generally still be exchaged for a Canadian license if one shows proof of driving experience? I realize that this will vary by province, but is there a general standard?

there is no standard, check the province's web site where you will be.  for example here is BCs  http://www.icbc.com/licensing/lic_renew_replace_new.asp#caagsjsk  the license cannot be expired for more than 3 years.

PMM

[Balwinder]

You can use your unexpired US driver license in Canada for upto three months and then it must be replaced by local Canadian license. You have to take tests to obtain such license. However, some conditions may vary by each state.
Driving records are not shared as yet. But if adverse info is on your credit file, it may be shared. But I urg you to contact the local driver licensing office in the relavent states.

[links18]

What do you mean about adverse info in your credit file?

[hani]

what if some one is back and forth between u s and canada what the person should do to drive in both countries

[links18]

As long as you have a valid driver's liscence and adequate insurance, there shouldn't be a problem.

[gilipsie]

Is there a certain length of time that you have to get your Canadian license once you get there?  Can you drive on your US one until it expires?

[PMM]

Hi

Is there a certain length of time that you have to get your Canadian license once you get there?  Can you drive on your US one until it expires?

check the province where you are residing, most it is 90 days.

PMM