International Driving Permit

What is an International Driving Permit?

The International Driving Permit, or IDP, is an international travel document regulated by the United Nations. It is recognized in countries that are signatories to the 1949 Convention on Road Traffic (except Vietnam), as well as in some other countries. 

It is an official translation of your Quebec driver’s licence into a dozen languages. It allows you to drive in a number of foreign countries, in combination with your valid provincial driver’s licence. 

How long is an International Driving Permit valid? 

The IDP is valid for 1 year from the date of issue. 

What is the International Driving Permit used for?  

  • Drive legally in many foreign countries that require it. 

  • Facilitate communication during roadside checks, particularly in non-French-speaking countries. 

  • Allow car rental from suppliers who may require it. 

  • Serve as a complementary ID. 

Who can apply for an International Driving Permit?  

Anyone aged 18 or older who holds a valid driver’s licence issued in Quebec can apply for an International Driving Permit from CAA-Quebec.  

Canadians from other provinces or territories must turn to the CAA Club in their area of residence. 

Caution

The International Driving Permit does not replace your Quebec driver’s licence or your passport. It must always be carried with your valid driver’s licence issued in Quebec.

How to get your International Driving Permit?

CAA is the only organization authorized to issue the IDP in Canada. In Quebec, you can get your International Driving Permit in 2 ways, either at a CAA-Quebec Travel Centre or by mail.

Step-by-step IDP application

Visit us at one of the CAA-Quebec Travel Centres.  

Documentation required to obtain your IDP 

  • Your valid Canadian driver’s licence  

  • Preferably, the completed IDP application form (the address on the form must be the same as on the driver’s licence) 

  • 2 identical passport-type photos 

Criteria that must be met for photos 

  • Dated within the last 2 years from the time of your application 

  • Accepted size: 5cm (2in) wide and 7cm (2¾in) high 

  • Face: Must measure between 31mm and 36mm from the chin to the top of the head 

You can have your photos taken at the same time at a Travel Centre.* 

Fees 

The International Driving Permit costs $32.  

The following payment methods are accepted: 

  • Cash 

  • Debit card 

  • Credit card 

  • Cheque (from a Canadian bank, payable to CAA-Quebec) 

  • Money order 

IDPs are non-refundable. 

Timeframe 

You will receive your permit on site, on the same day. No appointment available.

* Fees apply for photos. 

Documentation required to obtain your IDP 

  • Completed IDP application form (the address on the form must be the same as on the driver’s licence) 

  • A clearly legible photocopy of both sides of your valid driver’s licence 

  • 2 identical passport-type photos  

Criteria that must be met for photos 

  • Dated within the last 2 years from the time of your application 

  • Accepted size: 5cm (2in) wide and 7cm (2¾in) high 

  • Face: Must measure between 31mm and 36mm from the chin to the top of the head  

You can have your photos taken at one of our Travel Centres or at some of our Registration Centres.* 

Fees 

A fee of $37 is required, which includes $32 for the permit and $5 for postage.  

Use one of these payment methods: 

  • Credit card 

  • Cheque (from a Canadian bank, payable to CAA-Quebec) 

  • Money order 

IDPs are non-refundable. 

Mailing 

Send everything to the following address: 

CAA-Quebec 
International Driving Permit 

8000 Rue Armand-Viau, Suite 500 

Québec, QC  G2C 2E2 

Timeframe 

Please allow 15 business days for your IDP to be sent by mail. This does not include Canada Post delivery time.

* Fees apply for photos. 

Is the International Driving Permit mandatory?

It depends on the country. Some accept the Quebec licence, others require the IDP. Rules may vary from country to country, or even from region to region. 

Before you go, check out the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories. Information on driving can be found in the “Laws and Customs” section for each destination. 

You should also check your car rental agreement. The agency may require you to have an International Driving Permit, even if it is not mandatory in the country you are visiting.  

Frequently asked questions about the International Driving Permit

Have you thought of everything for your trip?