Renewing Your Nunavut Driver's License: A Simple Guide to the Process

Renewing your driver's license is a routine but essential task for every driver in Nunavut. It ensures your photo and personal information remain current and that you stay legally able to drive on the territory's roads. While it's a process that only comes around every few years, understanding your options can make it quick and painless.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about renewing your Nunavut driver's license, including when to do it, where to go, what it costs, and what to expect.

When Do You Need to Renew Your License?

In Nunavut, you have the option to renew your driver's license for a term of one, three, or five years. Your license card has a clear expiry date printed on it.

The Government of Nunavut will typically mail you a renewal notice to the address they have on file for you. However, it is ultimately your responsibility as the driver to know your expiry date and renew your license on time. Driving with an expired license is illegal and can result in fines. Nunavut residents are encouraged to give their current license to their local issuing office for replacement during the 30 days before their birthday.

How to Renew Your Nunavut Driver's License

In most cases, you will need to renew your driver's license in person at a Motor Vehicles Division issuing office or by visiting your local Government Liaison Officer (GLO). This is because a new photo is often required, and your identity must be verified.

Step 1: Visit Your Local Issuing Office

You can renew your license at Motor Vehicles offices in communities like Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet, and Cambridge Bay, or by contacting your GLO in other communities.

Step 2: What to Bring With You

To ensure your visit is quick and efficient, make sure you bring the following:

• Your Driver's License Renewal Notice: If you received it in the mail, bring it with you.
• Your Expiring Driver's License: This is the primary piece of identification you will need to present.
• Payment for the Fee: Be prepared to pay the renewal fee. Issuing offices accept various forms of payment.
• Proof of Address Change (if applicable): If you have moved, you will need to provide proof of your new residential address, such as a bank statement, utility bill, or signed lease agreement.
• Completed Medical Examination Report (if required): Drivers with certain medical conditions, commercial drivers, and senior drivers (at age 75, 80, and every two years after) must submit a medical report from a physician.
• Corrective Lenses (if needed): If you wear glasses or contact lenses for driving, bring them with you as a vision test may be required.

Step 3: The Renewal Process

The in-person renewal process is simple and usually takes just a few minutes.

1. Present Your Documents: Hand your renewal notice and your expiring license to the customer service representative.
2. Vision Test: You may be required to take a simple vision screening test to ensure your eyesight still meets the minimum standard for safe driving.
3. New Photograph: A new photo will be taken for your updated license card.
4. Confirm Information: You will be asked to confirm that your name, address, and other personal details are correct.
5. Pay the Fee: You will need to pay the renewal fee based on the term you select.
6. Receive Your Temporary License: Once the process is complete, you will be given a temporary license document. Your new, updated driver's license card will be mailed to your address on file.

Renewal Fees in Nunavut

The cost of renewing your license depends on the term you select. Seniors (age 60+) receive a reduced rate. The fees are as follows:

• 5-year renewal: $103.00 (Seniors: $51.00)
• 3-year renewal: $79.00 (Seniors: $40.00)
• 1-year renewal: $43.00 (Seniors: $22.00)

Note: Fees are subject to change. Always confirm the current cost with Motor Vehicles Division.

What if Your License Has Already Expired?

Do not drive! It is illegal to operate a vehicle with an expired license.

• Expired for less than 12 months: You can typically renew your license following the standard process outlined above, without needing to retake any tests.
• Expired for more than 12 months: You may be required to start the licensing process over, which includes passing the written knowledge test and a road test.

By staying on top of your expiry date and understanding the simple in-person renewal process, you can ensure you remain a legally licensed driver in Nunavut without any unnecessary stress or interruption.