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8 minute read Published on Jan 5, 2026 by BrokerLink Communications
You've packed your boxes, updated your mailing address, and found the best coffee shop in your new neighbourhood. But have you updated your driver's licence? If you're planning on moving to a new Canadian province, updating your driver's licence isn't just another task on your long to-do list; it's the law. Each province has its own rules and timelines when it comes to switching your driver's licence from another province or a foreign country. Missing this deadline could lead to fines and voided car insurance coverage.
With approximately 540,000 Canadians transferring provinces between 2016 and 2021, you're not alone in this. In this guide, we'll walk you through why updating your licence matters, what each province requires, and what happens if you fail to transfer your licence in time. You’ll also find tips to make the process a whole lot smoother and stress-free. Stick around for more information.
In Canada, driver's licences are regulated by provincial governments, not federally. This means that when you move from one Canadian province to another, your current driver's licence may not be valid after a certain amount of time.
So, why does this matter? Legally, all motorists are required to have a valid driver's licence from their home province if they want to operate a motor vehicle on public roadways. Most provinces provide drivers with 60 to 90 days to update their documents. However, these timelines can vary depending on the province you're moving to.
Therefore, if you're unaware of the laws of your new province, you could miss the deadline and be driving illegally without even realizing it until you're pulled over by a police officer. Here are some scenarios where a new driver's licence would be needed:
You're making a permanent move to a new province.
You're a student studying in a different province for the year.
You’re relocating for work, either temporarily or long-term.
You’re part of the armed forces or a family member being transferred.
Beyond the obvious legal implications of having a valid licence, there are also car insurance implications you need to be aware of. Most car insurance companies require that your driver's licence match your primary home address. If your address and driver's licence don’t match, your insurer could cancel your coverage or deny your insurance claim if you were to file one in the future.
Each province has its own driver's licence requirements. Before planning your out-of-province move, take a look at the driver's licence requirements for some of Canada's provinces:
If you're moving to Ontario, you'll have to change your driver's licence within 60 days of becoming a resident. The process is relatively straightforward if you're coming from another Canadian province, but it may be different if you're moving from another country. Here's what you need:
Documents required: A valid out-of-province driver's licence, proof of Ontario residency, such as a utility bill or your new rental agreement, and a form of secondary ID, such as a passport or birth certificate.
Fees: There are no fees to exchange your current out-of-province driver's licence with an Ontario one, but fees do apply if you need to take a road test if your current driver's licence has expired.
Tests: No test is required for valid Canadian licences unless you have a learner's permit or a permit from a country that is not on the eligibility list.
Where to go: Any ServiceOntario location. Booking an appointment online is highly recommended as the offices can be quite busy.
More info: For more information, you can check out the Ontario driver's licence exchange webpage.
If you're moving to Alberta, you'll need to update your licence within 90 days of becoming a resident. What you need to know:
Documents required: Your current driver's licence, two pieces of acceptable government ID, proof of legal status, and proof of Alberta address. Again, this can be your lease agreement, utility bill, or employment letter.
Fees: $93 for a standard five-year licence.
More info: Look here for more information about exchanging your driver's licence.
Where to go: Alberta registry office.
Tests: If you hold a Class 3, 4, 5, or 6 licence, you will be issued an Alberta driver's licence equivalent to the class of licence you are surrendering. If you have not held a Class 5 or Class 6 licence for at least two years, you may have to go through the graduated licensing program.
Quebec offers a longer 6-month window for updating your licence, which is great if you're finding your move to a new province busier than expected. Here's what you require:
Documents required: Your out-of-province licence, proof of identity, proof of residency (including previous residency from the last province), and immigration documents.
Fees: Varies depending on licence class.
Tests: No tests required.
Where to go: SAAQ service outlets across Quebec.
More info: For more information, please visit Quebec's SAAQ website.
You have 90 days to switch your licence after moving to BC. Here's what you need to obtain a BC licence:
Documents required: Two valid forms of ID, your current out-of-province driver's licence, licensing fees, and proof of driving history.
Fees: $75 for a five-year licence.
Tests: If you do not have two years of driving experience or are unable to prove it, you can still obtain a B.C. licence under the graduated licensing program.
Where to go: An ICBC driver licensing office. You can book appointments online through ICBC's website or call the office directly.
More info: Check here for more information.
Update your licence within 90 days of settling in Nova Scotia. Here's what you require to get a licence:
Documents required: Your current licence, proof of age (must be at least 16 years old), Canadian legal presence (like a PR card or passport), proof of Nova Scotia residency, and medical records if you have medical conditions or physical disabilities that may affect your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.
Fees: $80.15
Tests: Vision screening is standard; written/road tests are required only if your licence has expired or if you have a foreign driver's licence from another country.
Where to go: Access Nova Scotia centres. You can book an appointment online or in person.
More info: Visit the Nova Scotia Permits Directory for more information.
You will need to update your driver's licence within 90 days of moving to the province of Manitoba. You will also need:
Documents required: Your current out-of-province licence, proof of address in Manitoba, and government-issued ID such as a birth certificate or passport.
More info: Check out Manitoba's Public Insurance website for more information
Fees: $65 for a five-year licence.
Tests: Written or road tests depend on the type of driver's licence you have. For example, a learner's permit will require you to complete the graduated driver licensing program, but you will receive credit if you are transferring from another province with a GDL program. Beyond this, there is no knowledge test or road test required for full-licence drivers.
Where to go: Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) service locations.
If you're moving to a new province and need to update your driver's licence, here's what you'll need to do step-by-step:
Before heading to your appointment, make sure to gather all your necessary documents. This includes your valid driver's licence from another province, proof of residency, another piece of ID, and others, depending on which province you are settling in.
Find a local licensing centre in your new neighbourhood and book an appointment. While most take walk-ins, you may want to call ahead and ensure they have you scheduled, as wait times can vary by location and time of day.
At your appointment to get your new driver's licence, you'll need to fill out a couple of application forms throughout the application process. This shouldn't take you more than 10 to 15 minutes to complete.
Once you've submitted your forms and they've been accepted by the service agent, you'll need to go ahead and pay your application fees. Remember, these will vary between provinces. If you aren't sure what you're required to pay, check online or call ahead to ensure you're prepared.
Now that the application process is complete, you'll be asked to surrender your out-of-province licence and be given a temporary one in return. You can expect your new licence to be mailed to you within 5 to 10 business days.
Failing to update your driver's licence when moving to a new province can lead to serious consequences. In Canada, it's your legal responsibility to notify your provincial licensing authority within a certain timeframe that is outlined by provincial law.
Should you fail to update your licence, you could face fines and a possible licence suspension. For example, in Ontario, Section 33(1) of the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) states that failing to update your permit or licence after a change of address is considered a traffic violation, which can lead to a $85 fine.
Beyond this, it could lead to complications in terms of your insurance coverage. Insurance policies are based on your current address and driving record. If the information doesn’t match your official driver's licence, your insurer could void your coverage or deny your claim. To stay compliant, check the local traffic laws of the province you intend to move to and note how long a grace period you have. This will help you avoid any insurance issues and prevent you from paying any fines.
Whether you're moving to a new province or getting car insurance for the first time, there are a few key steps that can make getting and switching your licence a lot smoother. Here's what you need to do:
Each province has specific timelines for updating your driver’s licence and vehicle registration. For example, Ontario gives new residents 60 days to switch to a local driver’s licence, while those in Manitoba have 90 days. Delaying this process could lead to fines or complications with your insurance provider. The best thing to do is get it out of the way as early as possible, so you don't have to worry about your grace period expiring.
If you're new to the province or country, bring your claims experience letter with you when getting coverage. These documents show your previous claims and driving history and can help you secure lower rates.
Different insurers offer different rates and discounts. Use online quote tools or work with a broker like BrokerLink to find the best coverage for your needs and budget.
Each province has its own mandatory coverage minimums you'll need to follow. Make sure you are correctly insured.
Ensure your address, name, and vehicle information match your driver’s licence, vehicle registration, and car insurance policy to avoid confusion and possible complications later down the road.
Moving to a new province can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to switching your current licence to your new provincial one. Remember, grace periods and licensing requirements will vary between provinces. Staying informed ahead of time and understanding what insurance requirements you need to follow can make the process less stressful.
BrokerLink is here to make it easier for you. Whether you have driver's licence questions or need to purchase affordable coverage in your new home province, our brokers are here to walk you through the process. Car insurance policies we can help you secure include:
Third-party car liability insurance
Accident benefits coverage
Accident forgiveness
Comprehensive car coverage
Collision car coverage
Uninsured motorist insurance
Contact BrokerLink over the phone or use our online tool for a free, competitive insurance quote today!
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