Exchanging your driver's license in Calgary depends on the country of origin of your license. The province of Alberta has reciprocal licensing agreements with a number of countries, allowing you to avoid taking a test. For other countries, the process includes a theory test and other requirements. See below for details.
Countries with Reciprocal Agreements
Under the terms of these agreements, citizens of these countries do not need to take a written test to exchange their licenses for an Alberta license:
- Australia, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, Great Britain, the United States, the Isle of Man, and Northern Ireland.
Conditions for exchange without exams:
- Valid license: The driver's license must be valid or expired for no more than 1 year.
- Residency in Alberta: Residence in the province for ≥90 days.
- Age: 18 years or older (parental consent required for minors).
- Documents:
- Original license.
- Proof of legal status in Canada (e.g., work permit, PR card).
- Proof of address in Alberta (utility bill, lease agreement).
Result: You will receive a Class 5 (full license) or Class 6 (motorcycle) if provided for in the agreement.
Countries without mutual recognition agreements
For citizens of Ukraine, India, China, Russia, and other countries not included in the Reciprocal Agreements list, the process includes a theory test and other steps:
1. Theory test (Class 7 Knowledge Test)
- Cost: $17 CAD[11].
- Content: 30 questions about traffic rules (minimum 25 correct answers).
- Languages: English, French, or with the assistance of a certified interpreter[11].
- Where to take the test: Any registration center (for example, AMA, Registry Express).
2. Temporary license (Class 7 Learner's License)
After passing the test, you will receive a learner's license with restrictions:
- Driving only under the supervision of a fully licensed driver (18+ years old).
- No driving between 00:00 and 05:00.
- Zero alcohol level.
3. Exiting the GDL (Graduated Driver Licensing)
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For experienced drivers (≥2 years of experience):
Apply for the GDL Exemption Program. If approved, you can take the practical test directly for Class 5. - For beginners: Wait 24 months (or 18 months with a driving school certificate), then take the practical test.
Exceptions and special cases
- Experienced drivers (≥10 years of experience): Can obtain a Class 5 license without a GDL by providing official proof of experience with a translation.
- Temporary residents (work/study visa): Can use their national license for up to 12 months without exchange[.
- Students: If the course lasts less than 3 years, exchange is not required.
Tips for a successful exchange
- Prepare a translation: For non-English licenses, only through certified translators.
- Gather documents in advance:
- Passport.
- Proof of address (e.g., utility bill).
- Permission to stay in Canada.
- Check the list of Reciprocal Agreements: On the official website of the Alberta government.
- Avoid expired licenses: If your license has expired for more than 1 year, you will have to start with a GDL.
Penalties for violations
- Driving with an invalid license: up to $310 CAD.
- Refusal to surrender the original license: cancellation of the application.
Conclusion
A theory test is only required for drivers from countries that do not have a Reciprocal Agreement with Alberta. For Ukrainians, this is a mandatory step, but it can be completed in a few hours. The main thing is to prepare the documents, pass the test, and comply with the GDL conditions. For those with significant driving experience, there are ways to obtain a full license faster.