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Converting an Indian driving license in Canada: DL extract vs. International Driving Permit

Canada • Permanent Resident • immigration 0 views
By VisaBuddies Communityvia community — compiled from public visa forums

Documents Needed

  • Driving license (DL) extract, with original license

    Sufficient on its own — you don't also need an International Driving Permit.

  • Original Indian driving license

    Submitted at Service Canada alongside the DL extract when applying for your temporary DL paper.

Step-by-Step

A member asked whether a driving license extract along with the original license was sufficient to get a Canadian license, or whether an International Driving Permit (IDP) was also needed.

What the thread clarified:
  1. A DL extract with the original driving license is sufficient — you don't need an International Driving Permit as well. This directly answers the core question: no IDP required if you have the extract.

  2. The actual process: take the online test for Rules and Signs first. After about 4 working days, go to Service Canada for an eye test and to submit your original Indian license.

  3. Service Canada then issues a temporary DL paper, which lets you drive while you prepare for and complete your road test.

  4. Get your DL extract before traveling to Canada, and check its validity period, since you'll want it to still be valid by the time you actually complete your road test in Canada.


The practical takeaway: a DL extract with your original Indian license is sufficient (no IDP needed) — take the online Rules and Signs test, then visit Service Canada about 4 working days later for your eye test and to get a temporary DL paper while you prepare for your road test.

Dos, Don'ts & Tips

  • Tip: A DL extract with your original license is sufficient — an International Driving Permit isn't additionally required.
  • Do: Take the online Rules and Signs test first, then visit Service Canada about 4 working days later for your eye test.
  • Do: Get your DL extract before traveling and check its validity period against your expected road test timeline.

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