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New to New Brunswick? Your Guide to Exchanging a Foreign Driver's Licence

Welcome to the Picture Province! As you settle into your new life in New Brunswick, one of the most important steps is obtaining a local driver's licence. The process, handled by Service New Brunswick (SNB), is a requirement for all new residents. This guide will walk you through every step of exchanging your licence from another country, making the process as clear as possible.

Driving on a Foreign Licence in New Brunswick

When you move to New Brunswick, you can use your valid driver's licence from your home country for a certain period. However, once you become a resident, you must apply for a New Brunswick licence. It is best to begin this process as soon as possible after your arrival.

Understanding New Brunswick's Licence Reciprocity Agreements

The process for exchanging your licence depends entirely on your country of origin. New Brunswick has reciprocal agreements with a specific list of countries. If you hold a valid licence from one of these places, the process is much simpler.

Tier 1: Reciprocal Countries (No Testing Required)

If you hold a valid, non-learner licence from one of the following countries and have at least two years of driving experience, you can exchange it for a full Class 5 New Brunswick licence without taking a knowledge or road test.

Reciprocal Countries Include:

  • Any other province or territory in Canada
  • United States
  • Austria
  • Australia
  • Belgium
  • Denmark
  • France
  • Germany
  • Isle of Man
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Portugal
  • South Korea
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Taiwan
  • United Kingdom

If you have less than two years of experience, you may be placed into New Brunswick's Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program.

Tier 2: Non-Reciprocal Countries (Testing Required)

If your driver's licence is from a country not on the reciprocal list (e.g., India, Pakistan, Philippines, China, Brazil, Mexico, etc.), you must apply as a new driver and pass all required tests.

Process for Non-Reciprocal Licence Holders:

  1. You must first pass a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a signs recognition test.
  2. Once you pass, you can book a Class 5 road test.
  3. Your previous driving experience is still valuable. If you can provide an official driving record, you may be able to bypass some of the GDL waiting periods.

Step-by-Step Guide to Exchanging Your Licence

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process at a Service New Brunswick (SNB) location.

Step 1: Gather Your Required Documents & Translations

This is the most critical part of the process. All documents must be original.

Documentation Checklist for All Applicants:

  1. Your Original Foreign Driver's Licence: You must surrender your valid, unexpired licence.
  2. Official Translation: If your licence is not in English or French, you must provide a translation from a certified translator.
  3. Proof of Identity: You need documents that prove your identity and legal name. A valid Passport is the best document to use.
  4. Proof of Legal Presence in Canada: You need to show your entitlement to be in Canada (e.g., Canadian Passport, Permanent Resident Card, Work Permit).
  5. Two Proofs of New Brunswick Residency: You need two documents proving you live in New Brunswick. These must show your name and current address. Examples include:
    • A utility bill
    • A bank statement
    • A signed lease or rental agreement
  6. Official Driving Record/Abstract (Recommended): To get credit for your driving experience, especially if you are from a non-reciprocal country, you need an official driving record from your home country's licensing authority. This must also be translated if not in English or French.

Step 2: Visit a Service New Brunswick (SNB) Centre

You must apply in person. It is highly recommended to book an appointment online to avoid long wait times.

Step 3: At the SNB Centre

  • An SNB agent will verify all your original documents and translations.
  • You will be asked to complete a medical questionnaire.
  • You will take a vision screening test.
  • You will have your photograph taken.
  • You will pay the required fees. The fee for a new licence is generally around $90 for four years (check for the current fee).
  • You will surrender your foreign driver's licence.

Step 4: Testing (If Required)

  • If you are from a non-reciprocal country, you will take the computer-based knowledge and signs tests.
  • After passing these tests, you can book your Class 5 road test for a later date.

Step 5: Receive Your Licence

After completing all requirements, you will be given a temporary paper driver's licence, which is valid for 60 days. Your permanent photo licence card will be mailed to your New Brunswick address.

Exchanging your licence is a key part of settling in New Brunswick. By preparing your documents and translations well in advance, you can make your trip to SNB a success.