What Americans Need To Know To Drive In Canada

The big cities, mountains and incredible waterways ofProof of insurance – It is also possible border
Canada make this a favorite destination foragents will ask to see proof of insurance coverage
Americans. Driving across the border, however, doesbefore you are allowed to cross. If you have a
come with its share of precautions. Unlike a fewrental, bring a copy of your insurance or even
years ago when Americans barely needed to presentconsider buying the riders from the rental car
identification to cross, the rules of the road havecompany.
changed.Once you make it across the border, you will need to
If you plan on driving in Canada and will be bringingknow a few things about Canadian driving to ensure
your own car or a rental, you will need to be certaina safe and fun journey. Be sure to follow these tips:
to have:Drive on the proper side of the road – Canadians
Passports for all passengers – The rules of entrydrive on the same side of the road as Americans. Do
into Canada from the United States have changed.not let the accents fool you.
To err on the side of caution, it is a very good ideaFollow posted speed limits – The wide open
to have passports in place for all passengers in theroads found in many parts of Canada can be
car. Other forms of identification are also a goodtempting. Resist the urge to speed though. Pay
idea, such as a valid license to drive, birth certificateattention to local rules and do exercise common
copies for young passengers and so on. If you docourtesy on the roadways.
not have a passport, check with American authoritiesRemember pedestrians have the right of way –
in advance of a trip for the requirements.Canada gives pedestrians the right of way at
Exercise care when traveling with children - If youcrossings. Keep an eye out for people and give them
are travelling with young children and both parentsthe time they need to cross. Also pay attention for
are not present, it is a good idea to have writtenanimals when driving in rural areas. Canada is not quite
permission from the other parent for the crossing.as developed as America. This means spotting deer,
This can speed up crossing.moose and other creatures is not uncommon. Be
Proper registration – Make sure to have legalwatchful to avoid accidents.
vehicle registration and/or a lease contract for aDriving in Canada is actually a lot like driving in the
rental car. Authorities are on the lookout for peopleUnited States. Just be mindful of the local laws and
trying to traffic stolen vehicles across the border. Ithave the right paperwork in order for the crossing.
is best to be able to fully prove you own or haveTo keep up with any changes in entry regulations,
rights to the car you are driving.check with Canadian customs prior to making the trip.