When you think about driving in Canada, what comes to mind? Vast, open highways? Snow-covered roads? Winding mountain passes? While Canada is known for its beautiful and sometimes challenging driving conditions, it’s also a country with specific driving rules that newcomers need to understand. Whether you’re planning to rent a car or get a Canadian driver’s licence, knowing the driving laws and debunking myths will ensure you're well-prepared.
Key Takeaways
- Canada has unique driving rules and quirks that differ from other countries.
- Myths about driving, such as the “Churchill law” about polar bears, persist but aren’t true.
- Winter driving rules and practices are essential to safe driving in many parts of Canada.
- Understanding the differences in laws, like speed limits and right of way, will help prevent costly fines and accidents.
The Government of Canada says:
“You must follow Canada’s driving laws. Before you start driving, take time to learn the laws in your province or territory.
For a full list of laws and rules about driving, get a copy of the driving guide issued by the department that regulates cars and driving in your province or territory. You can usually get these guides at service centres, online and in stores.”
Driving licenses in Canada
Common Driving Laws in Canada Everyone Should Know
Canada’s driving rules can vary slightly between provinces, but there are several federal laws that everyone must follow. Below are some of the most common ones:
Speed Limits
Canadian speed limits are measured in kilometers per hour (kph), which can confuse newcomers from countries like the United States, where miles per hour (mph) are used. The general speed limits are:
- Urban areas: 50 kph (30 mph)
- Rural areas: 80 kph (50 mph)
- Highways: 100-120 kph (62-75 mph)
Variable Speed Limit Corridors
Canada has some variable speed limit corridors. The limits on these will be posted on digital signs along the route, and they vary depending on the weather conditions, as well as for construction. You will need to comply with the posted speed limit.
Seatbelt Law
Seatbelt use is mandatory for all passengers in a vehicle in every province across Canada. Fines for not wearing a seatbelt can range from $200 to $1,000, depending on the province.
Accident Laws
It is a crime to leave the scene of an accident if you have hit another vehicle or pedestrian. This includes if you hit a car in a parking lot – even if it appears there is no damage.
You may need to call the police, or you can exchange information with the other driver (including leaving a note if you can’t locate them).
You need to exchange the following information with the driver:
- name
- address
- telephone number
- licence plate
- driver’s licence numbers
- insurance company name
- insurance plan number.
Right Turns on Red
In most Canadian provinces, drivers are allowed to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, provided no signs prohibit it. However, in Montreal, this is forbidden. Always check for local signage when traveling between cities and research the laws in advance before driving into a new province.
Impaired Driving Laws
Canada has strict laws against driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs – and they do vary from region to region so do your research before driving into a new province or territory.
Alcohol
At the federal level, it is a criminal offence to drive with a blood alcohol concentration at or above .08%.
But in most provinces, it’s also an offence to drive with a BAC of .05% or above.
THC
Recently, laws have been expanded to address cannabis-impaired driving, and law enforcement now conducts roadside tests to ensure compliance.
Drivers are not permitted to drive with levels of 2ng of THC/ml of blood or above. It’s a more serious offence to have 5ng of THC or higher while driving.
Penalties include heavy fines, imprisonment, and even a permanent criminal record.
Winter Tire Laws
Some provinces, including Quebec and many highways in British Columbia, mandate the use of winter tires during certain periods. In British Columbia, many highways require winter tires from October 1st to March 15th. While Quebec requires all vehicles to have winter tires between December 1 and March 15. As you can see, this requirement varies from region to region.
This rule is due to the heavy snowfall and icy road conditions typical in Canadian winters. Winter tires significantly improve traction, making driving safer for everyone on the road.
Emergency Vehicles
In Canada, drivers must pull over to the right and stop for emergency vehicles such as ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines. This rule is similar in many countries, but penalties in Canada are steep, ranging from $400 to $2,000 in some regions.
Distracted Driving
Holding a mobile phone or any electronic device while driving is prohibited in Canada. Hands-free systems are allowed, but even touching your phone while driving can result in a fine. In Ontario, fines for distracted driving can reach up to $1,000, and repeat offenders risk losing their license.
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Quirky Driving Rules in Canada
Canada is a vast country with some interesting regional quirks when it comes to driving. These quirks add a unique flavor to navigating Canadian roads.
Churchill’s Polar Bear ‘Law’
In Churchill, Manitoba, residents are known to leave their car doors unlocked to provide a quick escape in case a polar bear approaches. Many newcomers and tourists believe this is a law, but it’s simply a local courtesy. You won’t get fined if you don’t leave your car unlocked, but it might be a lifesaver!
The Car Is Insured, Not The Driver
In Canada, insurance covers the vehicle, not the driver. So you’re generally able to drive any insured vehicle with the driver’s consent (so long as it’s not a restricted vehicle, like a motorcycle, boat, bus, or semi-truck).
That being said, there are limits to this and there may be financial consequences for you if an unlisted driver crashes your vehicle. So, learn your local rules, read your auto insurance policy, and be aware of the risks of letting others drive your vehicle.
Idle-Free BC
Vancouver is leading the charge on environmental conservation, and one of its unique laws is the anti-idling rule. You can be fined for leaving your car idling for more than one minute. This rule is designed to reduce emissions and keep the air clean, and it’s something most drivers in other parts of the world don’t encounter.
This rule is only a rule in certain parts of BC, while in other regions drivers are encouraged to not idle but it is not illegal. In any event, it’s uncommon for drivers to idle in BC, so get used to turning off your vehicle.
Snow Removal Priority in Quebec
If you live in Quebec, be aware that snow removal takes precedence over parked cars in winter. If your car is parked where snow needs to be cleared, it may be towed without warning. This is something to keep in mind, especially if you’re parking on the street during a snowstorm.
There are similar rules across Canada, with winter parking rules in effect when it snows. It’s not worth risking parking in an area with snow parking rules in effect. Your vehicle will very likely get towed.
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