Winter driving in Canada can be a concern, especially if you have recently arrived and have never driven in snow. These seven tips will ensure your winter driving safety and help you prepare for emergencies. Even though winter officially arrives on December 21st, it’s common to see heavy snowfall, slush, and ice before then. While winter in Canada is beautiful, driving in hazardous conditions is stressful.

1. Prepare Your Car for Driving in Winter in Canada

Winter driving conditions are much different than summer and you must prepare your car. This checklist can help you get your car winter-ready! 

2. Install Winter Tires for Greater Control

Winter tires are vital for driving in hazardous conditions and they exceed specifications for grip and traction. A specialized rubber compound helps winter tires adapt to the road surface and dig into snow and ice. The added traction allows the tires to adapt to winter conditions and grip the road without sliding.

Winter tires also improve stability and give you greater control when driving on snow-covered roads or changing lanes in slush or ice.

According to the Canadian Automobile Association, you should switch to winter tires as soon as the temperature is consistently below 7 degrees Celsius. Most automotive service centers or auto body shops in Canada can install winter tires or offer tire-changing services.

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3. Prepare a Survival Kit for Winter Driving in Canada

In addition to ensuring your car is winter-ready, it’s smart to add safety provisions for your comfort if your car breaks down:

Snow left on the roof can slide down the windshield and obstruct your vision. Or it can blow off the car and impede the vision of other drivers.

Remember to add extra time to your schedule to remove snow and ice from your car.

6. Reduce Your Speed in Winter Driving Conditions in Canada

Allow extra time to arrive at your destination and reduce your driving speed.

Winter driving is stressful and drivers need to be alert to changing conditions. You can expect a few big snowstorms each winter in Canada. It’s frustrating when you have to get somewhere during a storm. Traffic slows, snowplows are busy salting, plowing, and removing snow, and people are impatient. But, safety always comes first.  

Drivers must also pay attention to snow plows on the road. In Ontario, it’s illegal to pass snow plows working side-by-side on multi-lane highways. This Highway Traffic Act violation can result in fines ranging from $150 to $1,000.

7. Leave Ample Space When Driving in Winter

While keeping plenty of space between your car and the one in front of you is vital, it can be a lifesaving winter driving tip. A helpful guide is to keep a minimum of three car lengths between the car ahead. Or, keep eight to ten seconds between you and the car ahead.  It takes longer to stop on snow and ice-covered roads.

You can measure the seconds by watching the car ahead of you pass a fixed object such as a road sign or fence. Then, count how long it takes you to pass the same object. If your travel time is less than three or four seconds, it’s time to increase your distance. More space is better when driving in a snowstorm and will allow plenty of time to brake safely.

It’s harder to stop your car in snow and icy conditions. When you brake quickly, your car can easily lose traction. It’s best to drive slower to avoid slamming on the brakes.

8. Watch Out for Black Ice

Black ice is another danger when driving in winter in Canada, or freezing rain. Black ice is difficult to see because the ice is clear and almost the same colour as the road. It increases the risk of car accidents. Road signs will indicate where roads may be icy and slippery.

This dangerous driving condition happens when the road is wet and the temperature drops below freezing. Black ice is common on bridges and overpasses where cold air flows below.

Follow these Winter Driving Tips if You Hit Black Ice:

• Keep your steering wheel straight to avoid sliding or losing control of your car

• Avoid braking because it will cause your car to slide 

• Take your foot off the gas pedal to reduce your speed and let the car stop on its own

• Know how to use the anti-lock brake system (ABS) if your vehicle has it.

The best advice is to give yourself plenty of time if you absolutely must drive during a snowstorm or freezing rain. Your patience will help you to stay calm, make smart decisions, and be aware of other drivers on the road. Remember, driving in winter in Canada is stressful for everyone. But, when you follow these smart winter driving tips, the roads will be safer for everyone.

Driving in Canada and a new country can be stressful until you become familiar with the driving rules and other requirements. Whether you’re moving or have recently arrived, you’ll find vital information from getting your driver’s license to road rules in Canada to car safety. This overview will help you understand 10 key things to know and do to drive safely in Canada!

1. Each Province Issues Licenses to Drive in Canada

The process to get your driver’s license will vary by province. So, check the Provincial Ministry of Transportation (links provided below) where you will live to learn about specific requirements. You need to know:

• What identification to provide (i.e. Confirmation of Permanent Residence Form or Permanent Residence Card)

• What documents do you need from your home country (i.e. driving license extract)?

Gathering the documents you need while still in your home country, will make it easier and faster to get your license when you arrive in Canada. It will also save you time and money.

You must obtain your driving license from the province where you reside. If you move to another province, you must get a valid license from that province.

Related Posts:

Driving Test in Canada: A Full Guide

2. Canada has a Foreign License Exchange Agreement 

You may be able to take advantage of the Foreign License Exchange privilege if you have a valid driving license from one of the following countries: 

You can also use an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP allows licensed drivers from other countries to drive in Canada without testing or applications. However, an IDP is primarily useful for drivers who are visiting Canada. 

Permanent residents can only use the IDP for a defined period. This usually varies from 60 – 90 days depending on the province. You must obtain an IDP from your home country. 

When you take advantage of the Foreign License Exchange you can get your license quickly without testing.

3. You May be Eligible for Foreign Driving Experience Credits 

You may be eligible for credits for previous driving experience if your country is not recognized in the foreign license exchange agreement (i.e. India, Nigeria, Philippines). The driving credits will reduce the time and cost of getting your full license in Canada. 

To apply for foreign driving experience credits you must:

• Have proper documents including a current license, proof of identification, and driver’s extract 

• Pass a vision test, written test, and one or two driving tests depending on the number of years of driving experience and documents that you have

• Provide a Letter of Authentication as proof of your driving experience.

Research what documents you may require to get driving credits. You can obtain this information from the provincial ministries of transportation (see section: Provincial Ministries of Transportation).

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4. You Must Meet the Minimum Requirements to Drive in Canada

While minimum requirements may vary by province, generally you must meet these conditions:

• Age: the legal age to drive in most provinces is 16

• Medical health: including physical, vision, and hearing requirements

• Driver testing: including written tests and in-car driving tests to ensure you know the road rules in Canada.

You can confirm the specific requirements by visiting the website of the Provincial Ministry of Transportation (see links below).  

5. Canada has a Graduated Licensing System

The provinces use a graduated licensing system to ensure drivers have the skills and knowledge to drive safely. The system has three levels:

• G1 is a learner’s permit 

• G2 is a probationary license

• G is a full-license 

To move from a G1 to a full G license can take up to 2 years. But, you have five years to get your G license from the day you pass your G1 test. So take advantage of the foreign license exchange if you can, or obtain foreign driver experience credits to reduce the time and cost to get a full G license. 

6. You Must Have Car Insurance to Drive in Canada

Every province and territory in Canada requires drivers to have car insurance. It is illegal to drive in Canada without car insurance and you can face serious penalties that include: 

• Fines from $5,000 – $25,000 for a first conviction

• Fines from $10,000 – $50,000 for a second conviction

• Suspension of your driver’s license

• Seizure or impoundment of your car for up to three months.

The minimum requirements for car insurance also vary in each province. So it’s important to know what insurance you must carry to drive a car. You can get more information about what car insurance you require from the provincial Ministry of Transportation websites.

While car insurance can be expensive, it is a legal must-have if you want to drive with peace of mind. Also, many insurance companies want your business, so you can shop for the best rates. 

7. Driving Rules and Laws Vary in Each Province

The driving rules are similar in most provinces but, there may be slight differences. You can research the driving rules before you arrive to avoid facing tickets and penalties. This will reduce the stress of driving in a new country, increase safety, and prevent accidents.

Become familiar with the laws in the province where you intend to get your driver’s license to ensure your safety.

Rules of the Road When Driving in Canada

While laws may vary in each province, the basic rules of the road remain the same across Canada

Speed Limits:

Speed limits are vital road rules in Canada to know. Pay attention to posted speed limits. Common speed limits are 50 kilometers per hour in cities, 80 on two-lane highways, and 100 on most highways.

Seatbelts:

Buckle up! All drivers and passengers must wear seatbelts for safety or get a fine. Read more about car seats for children below.

Cell Phone Use:

You can only use your cell phone using a “hands-free” device (i.e. Bluetooth) or a mounted device. Texting or holding your phone will result in hefty distracted driving charges and increase your car insurance rates. Distracted driving is one of the biggest dangers on the road. Learn more about what counts as distracted driving in Ontario.

Alcohol:

Driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) is a serious offense in Canada. With a DUI, the police can suspend your license, impound your vehicle, or arrest you. It is a criminal offense to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08%. Avoid drinking and driving and opt for a taxi, UBER, or public transit.

If you want to learn to drive, consider taking lessons from a recognized driving school. When you take driving lessons, you can also lower your insurance rates. Completing driving lessons shows insurance companies that you have received professional training and can drive safely. In turn, they will reward you with lower insurance rates. Click here for government-approved driving schools in Ontario.

8. Driving Conditions Vary in Canada

Driving conditions vary in Canada depending on the season. So you must prepare your car for both summer and winter driving conditions. Your car may have all-season tires, but winter tires are safer when driving in snow, freezing temperatures, and icy road conditions.

It’s also helpful to prepare for winter conditions and carry additional provisions in your car such as:

• Ice scraper/brush to remove snow and ice before you drive

• Snow shovel

• Jumper cables

• Blankets and extra hats and gloves.

9. You Must Have a Child Car Safety Seat When Driving with Children

Another road rule in Canada is that children must be in a child car safety seat from birth until they meet age, height, and weight restrictions. Four stages of child car safety seats include: 

1. Rear-facing infant seats

2. Forward-facing child car seats

3. Booster seats for children who weigh 18 kg (40 lb)

4. Seat belts for children who have outgrown their booster seats.

It’s important to know which seat your child needs and how to install a safety seat correctly. Ensure the safe use of car seats with these child car seat safety resources.

Related Post:

Getting Your Driving License in Canada

10. You Can Finance a Car with a Loan or a Lease

Operating and maintaining a car in Canada can be expensive. From regular maintenance to annual car insurance, the cost can add up quickly.  However, if you need to buy a car, you can get a loan from the bank, or lease a car. Or, you can pay cash if you readily have the amount for the car cost. A car is a major purchase so most people get a car loan or lease a car.

Related Post:

Buying a Used Car in Canada | What to Know Before You Buy

Whether you finance a car through a loan or a lease, there are key differences to know and understand. So, carefully consider each option to help you make the right choice. 

This overview of the rules of the road when driving in Canada will increase your safety. With additional research and driving tools, you’ll be a confident driver! For more information about the specific driving requirements in each province or territory visit the websites below. 

Contact the Provincial Ministry of Transportation

Click on the province where you intend to live to learn how to get a driver’s license.

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For newcomers, learning to drive a car can be an important first step. If you have never had a driver’s license before, we’ll explore learning to drive and how to get your driver’s license in Canada.

A driver’s license will help you do many practical activities such as: 

• Go to job interviews and travel to work

• Shop for groceries

• Run important errands. 

Learning to drive can also allow you to do personal activities like going on exciting road trips, discovering charming small towns, and enjoying scenic drives.

A driving license can also be used as an official piece of Canadian identification. Just one more benefit of having a driving license.

Obtaining your driving license is also helpful if you plan to live in a suburb where communities are more spread out. That distance can make it challenging to get around quickly and efficiently without a car.

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Related Posts:

Settle in Canada with Confidence and Ease 

Driving in Canada: 10 essential facts to know

Driving Test in Canada: A Full Guide

Winter Driving in Canada: 7 Tips to Increase Your Safety

Already Have Your Driver’s License?

You may already have your driving license from your home country. If you currently have a driver’s license you may be able to take advantage of the foreign license exchange agreement or get credits for your foreign driving experience. This will allow you to obtain your Canadian driver’s license more quickly.

Getting Your Driver’s License for the First Time? Where to Start

Getting your driver’s license in Canada may vary depending on the province where you reside. However, all provinces will require you to pass driving tests:

• A driving theory exam (a written exam that tests your knowledge of driving rules and road signs)
• A vision test
• One or two in-car driving tests.

Getting your G1 Driving License

When you successfully pass the driving theory exam and the vision test, you will get your G1 driving license. With a G1 driving license, you are only allowed to drive when there is a fully licensed driver in the car with a minimum of four years of driving experience. As well, there are other restrictions that you have to follow. 

Getting Your G2 Driving License

To graduate from your G1 to a G2 driving license, you will have to pass a road test. The road test will test your basic driving skills. You can take this driving test after you have been a G1 driver for 12 months. 

Getting Your Full G License

To get your full G license, you must pass a test that covers advanced driving skills such as parallel parking and driving on a highway. You can take this driving test: 

• After 12 months of driving with a G2 driving license, and

• Before the G2 driving license expiry date.

But if your G2 driving license expires, you’ll have to do all of the tests over again. So it’s important to complete your G license driving test before your G2 expires. 

When you pass your G driving test, you will successfully get your full G license! With this license, you can drive any car, van, or small truck.

Learning to Drive a Car with a Professional Driving School 

If you do not have a driver’s license from your home country and have never driven before, you may want to learn to drive in Canada. A beneficial way to learn to drive is to take driving lessons before you get your license.

When you take driving lessons you can gain several benefits. For example, you can:

1. Increase your safety: You’ll learn the rules of the road and the best driving techniques. From driving in changing weather conditions to avoiding a collision, you will increase your safety and the safety of others.

2. Develop good driving habits and skills: You’ll get the practice you need to drive with confidence and the skill to pass your driving test in Canada. 

3. Learn with professional driving instructors: With an experienced and professional driving instructor, you’ll learn the proper driving techniques as well as the common mistakes you need to avoid. Activities like speeding or following too closely can amount to expensive tickets, collisions, and serious injury to yourself or others.

4. Get your driving license faster: When you complete your driving lessons and receive your certificate, you can take your driving test eight months after you complete your written test. Without a driving certificate from a qualified driving school, drivers must wait 12 months before they can take the G2 driving test. Learn more about Canada’s graduated licensing system. 

5. Reduce your insurance rates: With a certificate from a driving school, you may be rewarded for your time and effort with lower car insurance rates. However, the driving school that you attend must be approved by the provincial Ministry of Transportation. Click here for approved driving schools in Ontario.

Key Takeaways About Learning to Drive a Car:

1. Learning to drive a car in Canada can allow you to do many practical as well as personal activities.

2. While the process to get your driver’s license may vary slightly across Canada, all provinces use a graduated licensing system. This system allows you to progress from a G1 license to a G2 license, and finally to a full G license.

3. To learn to drive in Canada with confidence and skill, you can consider taking driving lessons from a government-approved driving school. Driving lessons provide you with many benefits, including lower car insurance rates in Canada which will save you money. 

For more information about living, working, and banking in Canada, check out our upcoming free webinars!

(NC) Summer vacation is here. However, rising fuel prices are influencing plans, and have us looking for ways to make our trips more efficient.

Here are a few tips from Toyota Canada to help you get the most out of your summer trips:

• Be light-footed: Anticipate changes in speed and traffic and respond with gentle acceleration or deceleration. This is particularly helpful with most types of hybrid vehicles.

• Don’t speed: Not only is it dangerous, but speeding also burns more fuel, which will cost you more at the pump.

• Stay on top of servicing: Regular maintenance at your local dealership, such as changing your engine oil and filter and inspecting and replacing air filters, will keep your engine operating at peak efficiency to optimize your gas usage.

• Give the tires some TLC (tender, love, and care): Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for tire size and air pressure. The ideal pressure is listed on the inside of the driver’s side door jam. Believe it or not, this can affect the performance and efficiency of your vehicle.

• Stay sleek: To optimize the vehicle’s aerodynamics, remove roof racks, cargo boxes, bike racks and other accessories when you’re not using them.

• Pack light: A lighter vehicle is a more efficient vehicle, so remove all non-essential items. If it’s not needed on the trip, leave it at home.

• Electrify your ride: Driving a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or battery-electric vehicle is the best way to save on fuel, whether you borrow, lease or buy.  You fuel up and drive a hybrid just like a gas vehicle but you get 30 to 40% better fuel efficiency. A plug-in hybrid gets you all-electric, zero-emission driving when you’re staying close to home, plus a fuel tank as a backup so you never have to worry on those longer journeys. Charging at home means a battery-electric vehicle is an ideal solution for commuting, day trips and stay-in-the-city weekends.

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These simple tips should help you save on gas, and reduce your emissions while you enjoy the pleasures of the open road this summer.

If you’ve recently arrived in Canada you may need a car that meets your lifestyle, work, and family transportation needs. And buying a used car may be a better option than buying a brand new car, especially when you need to manage your expenses as you transition to life in Canada.

But before you buy a used car it’s helpful to think about your needs so that you can find a good car that fits your budget. Buying a used car comes with additional factors to consider. No one wants to buy what they think is a good car only to get stuck with a lemon. If you decide that it’s essential to own a car, here’s what you need to know and do before you buy a used car in Canada. 

10 Things To Do When Buying a Used Car In Canada

 1. Set a Budget

How much you want to pay for a vehicle will help you to narrow down the types of vehicles that are in your price range. Also, when you set a limit to how much you’re willing to spend on a car you won’t be tempted to overspend. Carefully managing your money when you first arrive in Canada is a key priority.

2. Determine How You’ll Pay for the Car: Cash, Loan, or Finance?

Determine how you plan to pay for your used vehicle. Do you want to pay cash? Do you need to take out a car loan? If you do, where are you going to get it – car dealer, bank, or another type of lender? 

3. Decide the Type of Vehicle You Want

You can get almost any car brand, make, or model on the used market. Spend some time to narrow down the type of vehicle you want to purchase. 

Ensure you are buying the right vehicle for your needs. A good used car can offer years of service at an affordable price to help transition into Canada at a time when finances may be tight. Think affordability. Also, it’s important to know that the type of vehicle you buy can affect your insurance costs.

A small car will suit a single person or couple.  If you have a growing family think about a mid-size car with a bigger back seat and a larger trunk.  Mini-vans are ideal if you have a couple of children or an extended family comprised of adults. Minivans offer multiple seats from seven to eight and a larger cargo area.

Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) are a lifestyle choice for some who like the styling and four-wheel-drive that is suitable for driving in Canadian winters. If you have moved to a region of Canada with harsh, snowy winters or live in a rural area with hills and rough roads an SUV may be ideal. Bear in mind, small four-cylinder cars with a manual transmission are still the most fuel-efficient and affordable cars to buy and maintain.

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Related Posts:

Driving in Canada: 10 Essential Facts to Know

Driving Test in Canada: A Full Guide

Tips for Winter Driving to Ensure Your Safety

Settle in Canada with Confidence and Ease

4. Read Reviews

Before you look for a car, ensure you are armed with as much information about the specific make and model of vehicle that interests you.  Tools such as Canadian automotive websites and the Canadian Black Book, list the value for used vehicles of different types according to age and condition.

Look up vehicles you are interested in and check for manufacturer recalls in the past and common problems that need fixing. Your research will reveal which cars are good or bad and could save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars in the future. Reliability is important when buying a used vehicle. Stick to brands and models that have proven to last the test of time. There are websites you can use to see the top used cars such as Autos.ca, and CARFAX. 

5. Research Insurance Costs

 Insurance costs vary based on the car you drive. Be aware of how much it will cost to insure the used car before buying it. 

6. Take a Test Drive

Always take a car out for a test drive before you buy it. You should feel comfortable behind the wheel. There is a big difference between how a car looks and how it feels when you are driving it. The test drive also gives you the opportunity to test out vehicle components to make sure everything is working as advertised. 

On the test drive, try the vehicle out on different road surfaces and at various speeds to check steering, engine noise, vibrations, transmission problems, brakes, shock absorbers, and front-end alignment. Do a few emergency stops and listen closely for transmission, engine, and suspension noises that could indicate trouble ahead. If the vehicle pulls to one side and the steering does not center itself this could spell alignment issues or have been caused by a previous accident.

7. Get the Used Car Checked by a Licensed Mechanic

Always get any used car checked out by a trusted mechanic. You never know what is going on under the hood. A mechanic can tell you if the car is in good shape and if there are upcoming repairs that will need to be done. 

If you feel positive about the vehicle, take it to a mechanic you trust or a diagnostic center for a thorough inspection before you buy it. A good mechanic will do a thorough check of the car to identify any problems and suggest what work that may be needed to keep the car safe and reliable.

8. Follow the Steps to Transfer Ownership for a Used Car in Canada

There is more to transferring ownership than just handing over the cash when you buy a used car in Canada.  You need to follow several steps to transfer ownership. These will vary based on your provincial regulations. 

9. Get the UVIP if Buying from a Private Seller

Always ask to see the seller’s Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP). This will give you an overview of the history of the car. Check the Vehicle Insurance Number (VIN), registration, and lien information to make sure the car is clean. It also serves as the bill of sale. 

10. Negotiate the Price for Used Cars in Canada

Regardless of whether you are buying a new or used car, the price is always negotiable. Make an offer you believe is fair and see if the seller is willing to accept it. Buying a used car in Canada is a negotiation. 

Consider the value of the vehicle from official trade journals such as the Canadian Black book taking into account: age, mileage, general condition, upgrades or extra features- minus any defects, or mechanical issues, you see and the mechanic’s report finds out.

Use any flaws in the vehicle to bargain and reach a price both you and the seller are comfortable with. Remember to be calm and rational and not be let emotion enter into the decision, no matter how much you like the car. You do not want to overpay for it.

Evaluate any counteroffer by the seller, and prepare to walk away if need be, unless you feel inherently the car is worth the money the seller is asking.

If you do not buy the vehicle, be philosophical about it. The used car business is larger than the new car business. And there are plenty of other good used vehicles out there for you. With good basic research and a cautious, knowledgeable approach you can find a decent vehicle to fit your needs at a price within your budget.

When you follow these tips, you’ll be confident that you’re spending money wisely on a used car that will meet your driving needs in Canada.

For information, tools, and free webinars about living in Canada visit our Settling in Canada resource page. We’ll help you to settle in Canada successfully!

Babies and children need special protection while travelling in a car. Child car safety seats are there to help keep your child safe on the road. They prevent multiple injuries among children during road crashes and sudden stops. This is why they are mandatory in Canada.

Note: The numbers provided in this article could be different depending on your province as each province has its own laws. I will provide the numbers that are found most commonly throughout Canada.

Child Car Safety Seats in Canada

Children that are required to have a child car safety seat, must sit in their safety seat at all times when in a car. The rules for child car safety seats apply to any child in Canada that meets the age, weight, and height criteria. 

This restriction includes newcomers as well. A newcomer is required to have a child car safety seat even as they arrive from the airport. If you have a child that should have a car safety seat, then it would be wise to prepare to have one before you arrive in Canada.

4 Types of Child Car Safety Seats

There are four child car safety seat categories. Which one your child should have, depends on their age and height. These four categories, in order from youngest to oldest, are:

1. Rear-facing car seats
2. Forward-facing car seats
3. Booster Seats
4. Seat belts (for children)

Most of Canada uses these four categories. But because provincial governments make their own laws, Alberta, Nunavut, and the North West Territories do not have booster seat laws. Still, booster seats are recommended.

1. Rear-Facing Car Seats

Rear-facing car seats, as you may have guessed, face the back of the car. The children sitting in them will be facing the back of the car instead of facing forward. This type of car seat is for infants and toddlers. They are effective in preventing injuries that could have been caused without one.

There are 3 types of rear-facing car seats you can buy:

1. A regular rear-facing seat
2. A convertible car seat (that can later be converted to a front-facing seat)
3. An all-in-one seat (that can later be converted to both forward-facing and booster seat)

Naturally, the last 2 are more expensive than a regular front-facing seat. However, they are a good investment because you won’t have to buy another car seat in the future when your child outgrows their rear-facing seat.

Requirements for Rear-Facing Car Seats

Rear-facing car seats are mandatory for babies that are under 9 kg (20 lbs) or one year old. As mentioned earlier, these numbers will differ from province to province.

After your toddler has passed their mark, either by age or weight, you can choose if you want to:

• keep the rear-facing seat, or

• upgrade to a forward-facing seat.

It is recommended that you keep a rear-facing seat for your toddler because a rear-facing seat is a lot safer. Many parents chose to keep rear-facing car seats until their child reaches the age of two. 

2. Forward-Facing Child Car Seats

Once your child exceeds the weight limit of their rear-facing car seat, or you decide it’s time to upgrade, your child gets a forward-facing car seat. A forward-facing car seat is not as safe as a rear-facing car seat but, unlike a rear-facing seat, it can hold bigger children. 

There is more legroom in a forward-facing car seat and it usually has a higher weight limit. You can buy a regular forward-facing car seat, a convertible, or an all-in-one seat.

Requirements for Forward-Facing Car Seats

A child must sit in a forward-facing child seat until they are at least 18 kg (40 lbs). After that, you can choose whether or not you want to get your child a booster seat. Even though forward-facing seats are not safer than rear-facing, they are safer than booster seats. This is why you should keep your child’s forward-facing seat for as long as you can before they exceed the seat’s weight limit.

3. Booster Seats

A booster seat is the third and final car seat your child will sit in. Booster seats raise children to a level where a seat belt will fit them. It also provides head and neck protection during a crash. Booster seats are estimated to be about four times safer than a normal seatbelt during a crash.

Booster Seat Requirements

A child is required to be in a booster seat until they:

• Reach age eight
• Are taller than 4’9”, or
• Weigh more than 36 kg

Once they reach one of those benchmarks, they are legally allowed to use a regular seat belt. Of course, you should check the exact numbers for your province as these numbers differ from province to province.

A good way to check if your child is ready for a regular seat belt is to see if their legs drop comfortably over the seat’s edge while their back lines up with the back of the seat. If this is the case, and your child has passed your province’s regulations, your child can use a normal seatbelt.

4. Seat Belts

After a child has outgrown their booster seat, they can use a regular seatbelt. However, there are some restrictions. A child under the age of 14, that uses a regular seat belt, must sit in the back seat of a car. Only people aged 14 and above are allowed to sit in the front passenger seat. 

Before a child starts using a regular seat belt, it is the parent’s job to ensure that the seat belt fits them properly. To ensure a seat belt fits your child, make sure that the lower strap goes around the hips and not the stomach. The shoulder strap (the one going diagonally) should nicely rest on the shoulders and not touch the neck. If this is not the case, your child should stay in a booster seat.

If your child has outgrown their booster seat but isn’t ready for a regular seat belt, then it is recommended that they get a bigger booster seat. Most likely, however, booster seats are designed so that your child will be ready for a regular seatbelt right after they have outgrown their booster seat.

Installing Car Seats

Installing car seats properly is just as important as installing car seats in the first place. Properly installed car seats can mean the difference between life and death during a car crash. I will go briefly over how to install each of the three types of car seats in this section. 

Keep in mind that there are many instructional videos on how to install car seats online. The Ontario Ministry of Transportation has great resources to help you install your child’s car seat. To access the full guide on how to install a car seat, click here. 

Note: Never install a child car safety seat near an active airbag. If there is an airbag where you want to install the seat, have the airbag disabled. Airbags can harm children if they inflate during a crash.

How to Install a Rear-Facing Car Seat

Rear-facing car seats are installed at an angle to allow your child to lie down. Rear-facing car seats will have a sticker at the side indicating the angle at which the seat should be. Most seats have angle adjusters to achieve the correct angle. If yours doesn’t have an angle adjuster, you can use rolled-up towels or some kind of prop to hold the seat at an angle.

Once you have figured out how to get the seat to the correct angle, you can fasten the child’s safety seat to the car. To do this, you will have to use either a seat belt or the Universal Anchorage System (UAS). All new cars in Canada have a UAS. Cars older than 2002 may not have one. 

To learn how to install a rear-facing car seat properly, check out this guide from the government of Canada. It covers both UAS and seatbelt installation methods

How to Install a Forward-Facing Car Seat

Installing a forward-facing car seat is pretty similar to installing a rear-facing car seat. To fasten a forward-facing seat to the car, you can use both the UAS and a seatbelt. Unlike the rear-facing seat, however, a forward-facing seat does not rest at an angle; it must be fastened upright. 

Another thing to keep in mind is that there should be no twists in any of the straps. If a twist appears in one of the straps, make sure you undo that step to keep the strap straight.

To learn how to install a forward-facing car seat properly, check out this guide from the government of Canada. It provides step-by-step instructions to use both UAS and seat belt installation methods.

Installing a Booster Seat in Your Car

The installation method for a booster seat is pretty straightforward. The booster seat rests on top of the car’s seat, fastened by an anchor strap to the car’s UAS. Its purpose is to make sure that the car’s seat belt can fit the child by boosting them up to a higher level. A booster seat makes sure that the lower strap of the seat belt goes across the hips of the child and the diagonal strap rests nicely on the shoulder. 

Here is a government of Canada guide on how to install a booster seat and use it properly. 

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Common Mistakes When Installing a Child Car Seat

There are some things you check in a car seat, especially if you bought it used:

• Make sure it hasn’t passed its expiry date, which will be indicated somewhere on the seat.

• Check to see if there are any cracks. Any cracks can lead to the car seat getting damaged during an accident. This is dangerous for the child sitting in that car seat.

• Make sure that the seat is fastened at the right angle and in the right direction. 

• Make sure the car seat can hold your child’s weight and height. Wrongly sized car seats will not only be uncomfortable for your child, but they will also be less effective during a road accident, or any sudden stops.

Which Car Seat Should I Buy?

Car seats vary significantly in price and quality. And there is always the option of buying used car seats, which are considerably cheaper. However, it is smart to invest in a durable all-in-one, also known as a 3-in-one, car safety seat. You will only have to buy one car seat in your child’s lifetime, which will serve as a:

• rear-facing

• front-facing, and

• booster car seat.

Let’s have a look at some of the most durable and reliable car seat brands.

Britax

Britax is one of those car seat brands that are hard to ignore when shopping for car seats. These child car seats are on the more expensive side of the car seat market, but they are very durable. Some will even last more than 10 years!

Now let’s discuss pricing. A Britax all-in-one child car safety will cost anywhere from $450. Seems expensive at first glance, but it will save you money in the long term by eliminating the need to buy new car seats. A regular Britax rear-facing seat will only cost around $200.

Diono

Diono car seats are usually less expensive than Britax car seats. They tend to have fewer features and a smaller lifetime. Still, they are a great pick for someone that has a smaller budget.

A Diono all-in-one will cost around $350 and a regular rear-facing seat will cost around $150. You can find a Diono booster seat for as little as $50!

Graco

One of the more well-known brands is Graco, and for good reason. Graco car seats are a perfect combination of quality and affordability.

A Graco all-in-one car seat will cost you around $300. A Graco rear-facing car seat will cost you $150 while a booster seat will cost you around $100. There is even a Graco backless booster seat for only $35.

Buying a Used Child Car Seat

If the prices mentioned above sound too expensive for you, there is always the option of purchasing a used car safety seat for your child. Some good places to buy a used car seat for sale are:

• Kijiji

• Facebook Marketplace

Keep in mind that whenever you search for used car seats, that you check to see if there are any cracks or damages. Also, make sure that the car seat comes with the user manual as well as all the straps and parts to ensure your child’s safety. There will be an expiry date on the car seat, to indicate the lifetime of the seat. If the car seat is nearing or has passed its expiry date, it would be a good idea to discard it and continue browsing.

For more information, tools, and free webinars about living in Canada visit our Settling in Canada resource page. We’ll help you to settle in Canada successfully!

Preparing for your driving test in Canada is vital, especially if you want to pass the exam on your first try. Getting a driving license in Canada can be tough and the process to get there can often be frustrating. It involves both written driving test questions and a road test. Still, a driving license is worth it in the end, especially in Canada. With a driving license, you can get around quickly and efficiently. This will save you a lot of time travelling. After all, time is money.

In this guide, I will cover Canada’s graduated licensing system and each of the driving licenses. I will also cover tips and techniques to prepare for your test and pass it on your first try.

Why is a Driving Test Necessary Anyway?

In Canada, provincial governments are responsible for establishing transportation laws. Because of this, a driving test will vary slightly from province to province but the idea behind tests is still the same. The test ensures your ability to drive a car while accounting for your own safety and the safety of others. This makes sure that everyone on the road knows how to drive a car safely, helping to prevent road accidents every day.

Advantages Newcomers Have When Getting a Driving License

Canada and a group of countries got together and made the Foreign License Exchange Agreement. This agreement allows any migrants between these countries to exchange their previous driving licenses with a new one.

The following countries have a License Exchange agreement with Canada:

• Australia
• Austria
• Belgium
• France
• Germany
• Japan
• Korea
• Ireland
• Switzerland
• Taiwan
• United States of America
• United Kingdom*

*United Kingdom: England, Wales, and Scotland are also included in the agreement but Ireland is discluded.

If you emigrate from one of these countries, you can exchange your previous driving license for a Canadian license without a driving test. This opportunity is only available to immigrants for a maximum of 60 days after arriving in Canada. After two months, you will have to go through the normal procedure for getting a driving license.

This is also available to interprovincial migrants. If you already have a license in your current province and are moving to a new province, you can swap your old license for a new one.

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Canada’s Graduated Licensing System

Canada has three driving licenses:

1. G1 license

2. G2 license

3. G driving license.

These are the most common names for the tests but some provinces have different names. Each license has its own driving test. The driving tests are different according to the type of driving license they are for.

G1 Driving Test Questions and License

The G1 driving license, also known as a learner’s license is the most basic of the three. It also is the easiest test to pass because it only has written driving test questions and no driving is required. The test has two parts with 20 driving test questions in each part:

• road rules

• road signs.

In total, the whole G1 driving test has 40 multiple-choice questions. 

To pass the test you need to get higher than 80% on each section. That means at least 16/20 questions correct on each of the two sections. If you pass one and fail the other, you will only need to retake the section you failed.

Here is a practice G1 knowledge test. It is a good idea to do some practice tests before you do your final G1 knowledge test. That way, you will know what to expect from the test.

G1 License Restrictions

Once you pass the test and get your learner’s license, you are allowed to drive a car. However, there are certain restrictions on the new driver:

Not following any of these rules can have your license suspended as well as a fine, depending on your offence.

G2 Road Test and License

A G2 driving license gives you more freedom compared to a G1 license. This is why the test is a lot harder to pass. For starters, the G2 driving test is a road test, so you will have to get in a car and show the instructor that you have the ability to drive a car. Some things that a G2 driving test will cover are:

1. Obeying traffic lights and traffic signs

2. Overtaking and lane-changing

3. Driving through intersections (both with traffic lights and stop signs)

4. Parking (parallel, forward, and reverse)

5. Making u-turns, two and three-point turns, and reversing

6. Turning your vehicle on and off as well as other internal features.

It is recommended that you practice all of the things mentioned above before your driving test. Parallel parking is one of those things that people have trouble with. If you can’t get it right, it’s an automatic fail.

Checking your mirrors and obeying speed limits, traffic lights, and traffic signs are some things to keep in mind during the test. It is also best if you don’t ask for advice. The driving instructor is looking to see whether or not you know the rules.

For more information on the G2 driving test, take a look at Ontario’s Guide to a G2 Driving Test. Even though it is from the province of Ontario, it will give you a good idea of what to expect from a driving test anywhere in Canada.

G2 Driving License Requirements

There are also some requirements you need to meet to take your G2 driving test. These qualifications are:

1. You must have had your G1 learner’s license for at least 12 months.

2. Your car must be fully functioning. The driving instructor can cancel the test even if a single light is not working. This is why it is very important to check your car before the test.

3. And of course, you must pass all aspects of the driving test. Those are listed above.

G2 License Restrictions

There are some minor restrictions on G2 drivers as well. They only apply to G2 drivers aged 19 or under and between Midnight to 5:00 AM.

If you have had your G2 license for less than six months, you can carry a maximum of one person under the age of 19.

If you have had your G2 license for more than six months, you can carry a maximum of three people under the age of 19. This restriction is in place until you get your Full G license or turn 20.

G Driving Test and License

A G driving license is the most advanced of the three. Naturally, it gives you the most driving privileges. This also means that the test to obtain a G license is harder than the previous ones. Once you have passed the test, however, a G License is definitely worth it.

A G road test is a more advanced version of the G2 road test. It will cover:

1. Everything that is covered in the G2 test

2. Highway driving: lane changing and overtaking

3. Merging into and exiting highways.

Since the G2 road test has no highway driving, the G License covers almost every aspect of highway driving plus everything covered in a G2 test. This ensures you can drive a car on any road and in any situation.

G License Requirements

The G road test only has one requirement: You must have had a valid G2 license for at least two years. If you have completed an approved driving course, you only need to have had your G2 for eight months. Again, these timeframes might be different depending on your province.

G License Restrictions

There are no restrictions on a driver with a G license but that doesn’t mean they don’t have to follow the rules. A G licensed driver must follow speed limits, traffic lights and signs, and all driving rules. The driver must also have zero blood alcohol content. This applies to G2 and G1 drivers as well.

When you prepare for both the written driving test questions and road tests, you’ll enjoy the convenience of driving in Canada.

For more information about living and working in Canada, check out our upcoming free webinars!

Getting your driving license in Canada is something you should do as soon as possible when you arrive. You might already have a driving license from your home country and most likely you will be able to use it to drive in Canada for a certain period of time after you arrive (for example, 90 days if you reside in Ontario). If you want to use your foreign driving license, you should get an International Driving Permit in your home country before you leave.

Otherwise, I suggest you start the process of obtaining your Canadian driver’s license as soon as possible. Another benefit of having a valid driver’s license is that it can also be used as an official piece of Canadian identification when necessary.

As I mentioned before, the process of getting a driving license in Canada depends on the province where you reside and on your driving background. In general, you will have to pass a written exam that tests your knowledge of rules and signs, pass the vision test, and pass one or two driving tests. I’m going to talk about it in greater detail below so bear with me.

Driving experience

If you have at least one year of driving experience from your home country, you might be able to fast-track getting your full license in Canada. However, you need to meet certain requirements to be able to get a full license. The process will depend on the country where your driving license was issued and how long you have been driving.

If your driving license was issued in the country that has an exchange agreement in place with the province where you reside, you will be able to simply exchange it for a Canadian driving license. If your license was not issued in any of these countries, you might still be able to fast-track and get credit for previous driving experience.

In Ontario, you are allowed to self-declare one year of driving experience. All you have to do is to show a valid, original foreign driving license.

If you want to claim more than 1 year of driving experience, you will need an official letter from the foreign issuing authority, which confirms that the license is authentic. The letter needs to be translated into English or French.

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Settle in Canada with Confidence and Ease

Driving in Canada: 10 Essential Facts to Know

Where do I start to get my drivers license in Canada?

If you have never had a driving license in your home country, you will need to learn how to drive by taking a driving course. Learning to drive in Canada will include learning Canada’s driving laws and, of course, acquiring the necessary skills to drive a vehicle.

Your journey to driving in Canada will start with passing the driving theory exam which will test your knowledge of road rules and traffic signs. In addition to that, you will need to pass a vision test. If you succeed with both, you will get the G1 Driving Licence.

There are a number of restrictions for those who have a G1 Driving License and the most important one is that you can drive only when there is another fully licensed driver in the vehicle. The accompanying driver has to have a minimum of four years of experience as such and sit in the passenger seat.

Moving on

In order to graduate from your G1 to a G2, you will have to pass a road test which will test your basic driving skills. Be advised, that the test can be taken after you’ve been a G1 driver for 12 months unless you took an approved driver’s training course when you were learning how to drive. This will allow you to save 4 months and go for G2 after only 8 months!

After 12 months of driving with a G2 driving license and before its expiry date, you take the test which covers more advanced driving skills such as parallel parking and driving on a highway. Once you pass it, you will get a full G license.

There are plenty of tools available to learn to drive in Canada, such as the Official Driver’s Handbook (Ontario) that you can purchase in any grocery store or drugstore, online training tests, and a variety of driving schools.

For more information about living and working in Canada, check out our free webinars! We’ll help you to achieve success in Canada!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Driving is a big part of life in Canada. If you are planning to move to Vancouver or anywhere in British Columbia (B.C), you will need to learn about the process for getting your driver’s licence in British Columbia. The steps to complete will differ depending on your current driver’s licence status. Below we will outline the steps to get your driver’s licence in B.C.

You Have 90 Days to Switch to a B.C Driver’s Licence

The local licencing authority is called the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC). Newcomers to the province are allowed to drive using a foreign licence for up to 90 days after arrival. This is referred to as the 90-day rule. After this point, you can only use a driving licence in Canada issued by British Columbia.

How to Apply for a B.C Driver’s Licence

New residents can apply for a licence at an ICBC licencing offer. For the appointment you will need to bring:

• Personal identification
• Your current driver’s licence
• Proof of previous driving experience (driving record)
• Funds to pay for licencing fees.

To get a B.C licence you will need to surrender your previous licence to ICBC. Experienced drivers from approved countries can exchange their foreign licence for a British Columbia equivalent right away.

Reciprocal Licence Exchange List

Licencing requirements are based on your current licence and the country it is from. ICBC has licence exchange agreements with the following countries:

• Austria
• Australia
• Belgium
• France
• Germany
• Guernsey
• Isle of Man
• Jersey
• Ireland
• Japan
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• South Korea (not motorcycles)
• Switzerland
• Taiwan (for passenger vehicles only, not motorcycles)
• United Kingdom (England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland
• United States.

If you hold a license from any of these countries, you will need to bring identification, (including a permanent resident card, or work/study permit). You will also need to surrender your existing licence and answer basic questions about road safety to get a British Columbia licence. 

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What if I am Not from a Country on the Licence Exchange List?

If you have a licence from a country that is not on the list, you can still apply for a B.C driver’s licence. You will need to fill out an application and pass a knowledge test and road test.

• Complete the knowledge test: Book an appointment to complete your knowledge test. This is a multiple-choice quiz about road rules and road signs. You will need to get at least 40 out of 50 questions correct to pass. You can take the practice knowledge test online here.
• Take the class 5 road test: Once you pass the knowledge test you can make an appointment to complete your road test. If you pass the test, you will be issued a B.C driver’s licence.

You will have 90 days to complete the process.

Steps to Complete if You Have Less Than Two Years of Driving Experience

If you have less than two years of driving experience in your home country, you will have to take more steps to get a driver’s licence. 

Those with more than two years of driving experience will get a full, Class 5 licence right away as outlined above. People with less than two years of experience will receive a Class 7 novice licence and may then apply for a full Class 5 licence when they have accumulated two years of experience. Foreign experience will be credited towards the two-year total.

You will enter the graduated licencing program. This is also applicable to newcomers who do not have a driver’s licence and want to get a B.C licence. Here’s how it works:

• Get your learner’s licence – your L: you will need to pass the knowledge test and a vision test
• Get your novice licence – your N: You will need one year of driving experience with a qualified supervisor. You will need to pass the Class 7 road test.
• Get your full licence: Complete 2 years of safe driving with your Class 7 licence and pass the Class 5 road test.

What to Know About Driving in British Columbia

Now that you know how to get a driver’s licence, let’s briefly talk about what it is like to drive in British Columbia. Here are some must-know facts:

In B.C. all drivers must:

• Have car insurance to drive a car
• Wear a seatbelt when driving (including passengers)
• Install winter tires in the winter months
• Be aware of driving conditions that can change quickly – you will experience rain, snow, icy roads at different times of the year
• Watch for wildlife – wild animals often cross the roadways, especially on highways and in mountainous regions.
• Obey speed limits and other traffic signs
• Pay fees to drive on toll roads in the province
• It is illegal to use your cell phone while driving
• The legal blood alcohol level is 0.05 in BC.

Also, to ensure your safety, it’s illegal to use your cell phone while driving and the legal blood alcohol level is 0.05 in B.C. However, it’s best to avoid drinking and driving. 

For more information about living and working in Canada, check out our free webinars. We’ll help you to achieve success in Canada!

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