Is a theory test required to exchange a driver's license?

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:

  1. Valid license: The driver's license must be valid or expired for no more than 1 year.
  2. Residency in Alberta: Residence in the province for ≥90 days.
  3. Age: 18 years or older (parental consent required for minors).
  4. 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)

  • 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

  1. Prepare a translation: For non-English licenses, only through certified translators.
  2. Gather documents in advance:
  • Passport.
  • Proof of address (e.g., utility bill).
  • Permission to stay in Canada.
  1. Check the list of Reciprocal Agreements: On the official website of the Alberta government.
  2. 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.