Do I need an international driver's license to rent a car?

Renting a car in Calgary is a convenient way to get around the city and its surroundings. However, foreigners may wonder whether a national driver's license is sufficient or whether an international driver's license (IDP) is required. The answer depends on the type of driver's license you have and the requirements of the rental companies.

Basic requirements for renting a car

1. National driver's license

  • Required documents:
  • Valid national driver's license.
  • Passport or other form of identification.
  • Language requirements:
    • If your license is not in English/French or written in a non-Latin alphabet (e.g., Cyrillic, Arabic, Chinese), you will need an IDP for translation.
    • Example: Ukrainian licenses (Cyrillic) require an IDP; German (Latin) do not.

2. International Driving Permit (IDP)

  • What is it?: A document that translates your national license into 10 languages.
  • Where to get it:
    • In Ukraine – through the MRE or the Automobile Federation.
  • In Canada – through the CAA (Canadian Automobile Association) for $31 CAD.
  • Requirements:
  • The IDP is valid for 1 year and does not replace your national license.
    • 12 months of driving experience is required.

When is an IDP required?

Situation Is an IDP required? Notes
License in English/French (Latin alphabet) ❌ Not required For example: United States, Germany, Poland
License not in English (Latin alphabet) ❌ Not required, but recommended For example: Spain, Italy
License not in the Latin alphabet ✅ Required For example: Ukraine, Russia, China
Rental through international companies (Hertz, Avis) Depends on policy Some require an IDP even for Latin rights

Practical tips

For drivers from Ukraine:

  1. Obtain an IDP in Ukraine before your trip.
  2. Check your license: It must be valid for at least 12 months.
  3. Check the rental conditions: Some companies (e.g., Budget) require an IDP for non-Latin licenses.

For temporary residents:

  • Students/workers: You can use your national license for up to 1 year in Alberta.
  • Permanent residents: Exchange your license for an Alberta license within 90 days.

Risks without an IDP

  • Rental refusal: Companies may refuse if the license is not understandable to staff.
  • Problems with the police: Fines for not having a license translation.
  • Insurance exclusions: Insurance may not cover damages if the driver violated the terms.

**Conclusion

An IDP is mandatory for renting a car in Calgary if your national license is not written in the Latin alphabet. For licenses in Latin characters (even if not in English), an IDP is not required, but having one reduces the risk of misunderstandings. Always check the requirements of the specific rental company and have both documents with you – your national license and IDP.