You need to exchange your current driver's licence to a Nova Scotia driver's licence within 90 days of becoming a resident.
a) you are attending school or college here; or
b) you live here and your children attend school here; or
c) you are employed here for more than 30 days in any given year: or
d) you live here for more than 90 days in any given year.
Canada and United States
People who have a valid regular Driver's Licence from Canada or the United States can usually exchange their licence for a Nova Scotia Driver's Licence, and they do not have to take a road test (Driving Examination). This applies to Class 5 licences, the most common for driving cars, pick-up trucks, sport utility vehicles and vans seating less than 24 people. (see classes of licences).
Drivers from Reciprocal Foreign Countries
Drivers from Austria, Germany and Taiwan may exchange their licence for a Nova Scotia Class 5 Driver’s Licence. Residents coming from Isle of Man, South Korea, Taiwan, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland may exchange their licence for a Nova Scotia Class 5 or Class 6 Driver’s Licence.
To get a Nova Scotia driver's licence, if you're from a country with a reciprocal licence exchange agreement, you must:
- be at least 16 years of age,
- take a vision screening test,
- disclose all medical conditions or physical disabilities that may affect your ability to safely drive a motor vehicle,
- provide an English translation of your licence (if licence being exchanged is not in English or French).
- surrender your driver's licence at the time of exchange, and
- pay normal fees for the issuance of a licence.
Depending on the licence class from your originating jurisdiction or how long you have held your licence, you may be required to enter the Graduated Driver Licensing system.
Drivers from other Foreign Countries
People who have a valid driver’s licence from other foreign countries will be required to purchase a knowledge test receipt and road test receipt and successfully complete vision, signs, rules and road tests. See How to obtain a Regular Class 5 Driver's Licence for additional information.
You can book an appointment for this road test as soon as you feel ready to take it. For information on what you have to do to pass this road test, see the Nova Scotia Driver's Handbook
As soon as you pass the road test, you can get your Driver's Licence.
Licensing Services
To find the closest and most convenient location for you to obtain your Driver's Licence, please visit: Access Nova Scotia Office Locations.
A Few Important Driving Laws
- Canadians drive on the right side of the road.
- Drinking and driving is dangerous and against the law. There are serious penalties if you are caught.
- Right turns are allowed at red lights unless otherwise noted. You must come to a complete stop and ensure the road is clear before making your turn.
- The speed limit is posted on the right side of the road and shows the maximum speed in kilometers. The typical speed for city streets is 50 km, 40 km in school zones and 100 km on highways.
- Wearing of seatbelts is mandatory.
- Do NOT pass a school bus with flashing lights.
- If you see an ambulance, fire truck or police car approaching with their lights flashing, reduce your speed or completely pull off the road to the right and stop.
Car Seat and Booster Seats - Children under the age of 9 MUST be seated in a properly fit car seat for the child’s weight and age. While it might have been okay to have your child sit on your lap in your home country, Canada has very strict car seat laws. For more information see Child Restraints (PDF).
- The use of all cellular and handheld devices is prohibited while driving. Hands free devices are allowed.
