How to exchange Ukrainian driving licenses for Canadian ones?

Starting in 2024, the province of Alberta has introduced a permanent program for exchanging Ukrainian driver's licenses for Alberta licenses. This simplifies the process for Ukrainians who have moved to Calgary. Below is a step-by-step guide with all the details.

Exchange conditions

1. Residency status

  • Temporary residents (e.g., under the CUAET program): You can drive with a Ukrainian license for up to 12 months. It is recommended to obtain an international driver's license (IDP) for translation.
  • Permanent residents:

Must exchange license within 90 days of obtaining status.

2. Ukrainian license requirements

  • Categories: B (passenger cars) or BE (passenger cars with trailers).
  • Validity: Valid or expired no more than 1 year.
  • Driving experience:
  • ≥2 years: You will receive full class 5 (no GDL restrictions).
  • <2 years: You will receive temporary class 5 (GDL) with restrictions (e.g., no driving after midnight).

Exchange procedure

1. Prepare your documents

  • Ukrainian license (original).

  • Certified translation of your license into English (e.g., through APTS).

  • Proof of residence in Alberta:

  • Rental agreement.

  • Utility bill (less than 90 days old).

  • Proof of legal status:

  • Work permit or permanent resident status (PR Card).

  • Passport (Ukrainian or Canadian).

2. Visit a registration center (Registry Agent)

List of centers in Calgary:

3. Complete the procedure at the center

  • Submit your original Ukrainian license (it will be returned after the process is complete).
  • Pay the fees:
  • $16 CAD (cost of the license).
  • Service fee up to $10 CAD.
  • Pass a vision test (free on site).
  • Receive a temporary document: Valid for 30 days until you receive your plastic card in the mail.

4. Special features for permanent residents

  • No exams required (theory or driving).
  • GDL restrictions are automatically removed with ≥2 years of experience.

Important details

  • Car insurance: Can only be obtained after receiving Alberta rights.
  • Fines: Driving with a Ukrainian license after 90 days (for residents) – fine up to $310 CAD.
  • Medical examinations: Mandatory for drivers over 75 years of age or with chronic illnesses.

Support programs for Ukrainians

  • Free translations: Some centers (e.g., Centre for Newcomers) provide assistance with document translation.
  • Consultations: Contact the Alberta Ukrainian Canadian Congress for legal support.

Conclusion

Exchanging Ukrainian licenses in Calgary is a quick and hassle-free process thanks to the province's ongoing program. The main thing is to gather your documents in time and contact the registration center. For temporary residents, a Ukrainian license + IDP is sufficient, but permanent residents should not delay the exchange. How to exchange Ukrainian licenses for Canadian ones?