Driving in Canada

Key road rules in Canada you need to know

When you are hiring a car abroad, it’s useful to be prepared for the different driving laws in the country you are travelling to as well as checking the documents you need to carry.

To help make your trip to as smooth as possible, we've put together some of the key road rules in Canada.

These rules are to be used as a guide and are subject to change. Please check with your Avis representative if you have any questions.
Your Avis representative can advise you on toll and road charges before leaving the Avis car hire location and whether snow tyres or chains are needed.

Take a look at our Canada location page for ideas, travelling tips and booking information.

Which Side of the Road?

In Canada, please drive on the RIGHT side of the road.

Unique Country Driving Laws

Do not use mobile phone to call or text while driving.
On Roundabouts (Traffic Circles or Rottary), drivers to the left have right of way.
Use the outside lane to overtake on highways.
Do not overtake school buses.
If pulled over by Police, do not exit your vehicle. Turn the ignition off and sit patiently with your hands visible.

Speed Limits

EachProvince will have its own speed regulations to abide by, please use this as a guide to road speeds, not the actual State traffic speed limits:

All speed signs will be in KM:

Urban areas: 25 mph (40 km/h)
Rural areas:55 mph (96 km/h)
Motorways:65 mph (104 km/h)

Please be aware of changing speeds indicated by road signs.

Child Safety / Seatbelt Laws

It is compulsory for all inside the vehicle to be wearing a seatbelt.

Each province has its own rules and regulations about child seats and seatbelt laws.

Please note - It is the child’s parent / guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat.

Compulsory Equipment in your Avis rental car

There is no compulsory equipment needed in Canada.

Please ask your Avis representative whether snow tyres are compulsory or needed for your hire car when you arrive.

Emergency Services

Police: 911
Ambulance: 911
Fire Department: 911