Foreign Driver's License Exchange in Ontario: A Complete Guide

If you've recently moved to Ontario from another country, one of your first priorities is likely to get a local driver's license. Fortunately, Ontario offers a driver's license exchange program that allows eligible newcomers to convert their existing license without starting from scratch.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about exchanging a foreign driver's license in Ontario—including eligibility, required documents, countries with reciprocal agreements, and what to expect if you need to take a test.

What Is the Foreign Driver's License Exchange?

Ontario's driver's license exchange program allows drivers from certain countries to convert their foreign license into an Ontario license—often without having to take a written or road test. This process is managed by ServiceOntario and DriveTest centres.

Who Is Eligible?

You may be eligible for a license exchange if:

You're at least 16 years old
You hold a valid, non-expired foreign driver's license
You're legally allowed to drive in Ontario (e.g., you are a resident or new immigrant)
Your country has a reciprocal agreement with Ontario

Countries with License Exchange Agreements

If your current driver's license comes from a country where you have a consensus agreement, you will not need to take information or a road test as long as you apply for a license within 90 days of your arrival in Canada. Eligible countries include:

Australia
Austria
Belgium
France
Germany
Ireland
Japan
Netherlands
New Zealand
South Korea
Switzerland
Taiwan
United Kingdom
United States

Required Documents

When visiting a DriveTest or ServiceOntario centre, bring:

Original foreign driver's license
Proof of driving experience (e.g., driver's abstract, letter from licensing agency)
Proof of identity and Ontario residency
Completed G1/G2 application form
Applicable fees

Tip: If your license is not in English or French, you'll need an official translation from an approved translator or embassy.

What Happens If Your Country Isn't on the List?

If your country is not part of Ontario's license exchange agreement, you must follow Ontario's Graduated Licensing System:

Pass the G1 knowledge test
Complete a vision test
Pass the G2 road test
After practice or lessons, pass the G road test (for a full licence)

If you have more than 24 months of driving experience (with documentation), you may be eligible to skip the G2 wait period.

Costs Involved

Knowledge test: ~$16
G2 road test: ~$53
G road test: ~$91
License card: ~$90 (valid for 5 years)
Translation or abstract services: Varies

Final Thoughts

Exchanging your foreign driver's license in Ontario can be quick and straightforward—if you qualify and bring the right documents. If you don't, don't worry: Ontario's GDL system offers a clear path to full licensing.

No matter where you're from, the goal is the same: to drive safely and legally on Ontario roads.