Tips for Expats Driving in Toronto
Summary: Driving in a new country can be daunting. These tips offer insight into what to expect when driving in Toronto.
1. Understanding Toronto's Driving Conditions
Toronto is a bustling city with heavy traffic, especially during rush hours. The city is known for its grid-like road system, which can be easy to navigate but can also lead to congestion. Winter driving can be challenging due to snow and ice, so it's important to be prepared for these conditions.
2. Car Recommendations
There's no specific car recommendation for Toronto. However, considering the winter conditions, a car with good winter performance like a 4-wheel drive would be beneficial. Also, a smaller car might be easier to park in the city.
3. Parking in Toronto
Finding parking in downtown Toronto can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Most parking in the city is paid, either through meters on the street or in parking lots. The cost can vary greatly depending on the location and time of day.
4. Driving with an International License
Foreigners can drive with an international license in Ontario for up to 90 days. After that, you will need to get an Ontario driver's license. It's important to note that the international license must be in English or French, or accompanied by a certified translation.
5. Getting a Driver's License in Ontario
To get a driver's license in Ontario, you will need to pass a written test and a road test. The process can take several months, so it's recommended to start as soon as possible. If you have a license from another country, you may be able to exchange it for an Ontario license without taking the tests.
6. Tips for Driving in Toronto
Be prepared for heavy traffic and be patient. Always follow the speed limits and traffic rules. Be especially careful during winter months and adjust your driving to the conditions. Also, be aware of cyclists and pedestrians, as Toronto is a very pedestrian-friendly city.
It's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.
It's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
