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
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Ukrainian license (original).
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Certified translation of your license into English (e.g., through APTS).
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Proof of residence in Alberta:
Your trusted real estate agent in Calgary — Anna Gogol -
Rental agreement.
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Utility bill (less than 90 days old).
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Proof of legal status:
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Work permit or permanent resident status (PR Card).
Astropsychologist -
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?