Renewing Your Driver’s Licence in Alberta and Getting a Licence if You’re New to the Province or Country

At Country Hills Plates, we strive to make the process of renewing or obtaining your Alberta driver’s licence as easy and seamless as possible. Whether you’re a long-time Alberta resident or a newcomer from another province or country, here’s what you need to know.

Renewing Your Alberta Driver’s Licence

In Alberta, your driver’s licence typically expires every five years. You’ll receive a reminder from the Alberta government in advance, but it’s essential to renew your licence on time to avoid driving with an expired licence. Here’s how to renew your licence at Country Hills Plates:

  1. Check Your Expiry Date: Your licence’s expiry date is printed on the front. Make sure to renew before it expires.
  2. Gather Required Documents:
    • Your current Alberta driver’s licence
    • Proof of identity and Alberta residency if there have been any changes (such as a new address)
    • Medical report if you’re 75 or older, or have specific medical conditions
  3. Visit Country Hills Plates: Our team will assist you in filling out the renewal application and process your renewal on the spot.
  4. Pay the Renewal Fee: There is a small fee for the renewal, which varies depending on the class of your licence and the number of years you wish to renew.

Once renewed, you’ll receive a temporary licence, and your new card will arrive by mail within a few weeks.

Obtaining an Alberta Driver’s Licence (Out-of-Province and International)

If you’re new to Alberta and have a valid driver’s licence from another Canadian province, territory, or country, you’ll need to exchange it for an Alberta licence within 90 days of becoming a resident. Here’s how:

For Out-of-Province Canadian Licences:

  1. Bring Your Licence and ID: Visit Country Hills Plates with your current out-of-province driver’s licence, government-issued ID, and proof of Alberta residency.
  2. Complete the Exchange Application: Our staff will help you fill out the necessary forms.
  3. Vision Test: A quick vision test will be required to ensure you meet Alberta’s driving standards.
  4. Pay the Exchange Fee: There is a fee for exchanging licences based on the class of licence.
  5. Receive Your Alberta Licence: You’ll receive a temporary licence, and your new Alberta driver’s licence will be mailed to you.
For International Licences:

If you’re moving from outside of Canada, the process will depend on whether Alberta has a reciprocal licence exchange agreement with your country.

  1. Countries with Reciprocal Agreements:
    • If you have a licence from a country with a reciprocal agreement (e.g., United States, United Kingdom, Australia), the process is similar to exchanging a licence from another Canadian province. Bring your licence, ID, and proof of residency, and we’ll guide you through the steps.
  2. Countries without Reciprocal Agreements:
    • If your country doesn’t have an agreement, you may need to take both a knowledge test and a road test. We’ll help you book your tests and provide all the information you need to prepare.
  3. Pay the Appropriate Fees: Whether you’re exchanging a licence or applying for a new one, there will be fees based on the class and type of licence.
  4. Temporary Licence: While your application is being processed, you’ll receive a temporary Alberta licence, and the permanent one will arrive by mail.

Why Choose Country Hills Plates?

At Country Hills Plates, we understand that dealing with licensing can sometimes feel overwhelming. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are here to guide you every step of the way, whether you’re renewing your licence, exchanging one from another province, or navigating the process as a new resident of Alberta.

We offer a fast, efficient, and customer-focused experience, ensuring you have all the information and support you need. Visit us today to get started!