Calgary, CanadaTips for Expats Driving in Calgary
Summary: Driving in a new country can be daunting. These tips offer insight into what to expect when driving in Calgary.
1. Understanding Calgary's Driving Conditions
Calgary's driving conditions can be quite challenging, especially in winter. The city experiences heavy snowfall, which can make the roads slippery and visibility poor. Therefore, it's essential to be comfortable driving in such conditions. Also, Calgary has a grid system for its roads, which can be confusing for newcomers. However, once you get used to it, it's quite straightforward.
2. Recommended Car Type
Given the harsh winter conditions, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended. This will provide better traction and control on snowy and icy roads. Additionally, vehicles with good ground clearance can be beneficial due to the occasional heavy snowfall.
3. Parking in Calgary
Finding parking in Calgary can be challenging, especially in the downtown area during peak hours. However, there are numerous parking lots and garages available. The cost of parking can vary greatly depending on the location and time of day, but generally, it can be considered moderately expensive.
4. Driving with an International License
Foreigners can drive in Alberta, where Calgary is located, with a valid international driving permit for up to one year. After that, they will need to obtain an Alberta driver's license.
5. Obtaining a Driver's License
To get a driver's license in Alberta, you will need to pass a knowledge test and a road test. The knowledge test is based on the Alberta Driver's Guide, which you can study beforehand. If your license is from a country with a reciprocal agreement with Canada, you may be able to exchange it for an Alberta license without taking the tests.
6. Be Aware of Speed Limits
Speed limits in Calgary are strictly enforced. Residential areas typically have a speed limit of 30 km/h, while major roads and highways can have limits up to 110 km/h. Be sure to always check the posted speed limit signs.
7. Be Prepared for Wildlife
Especially if you're driving outside of the city, be aware that you may encounter wildlife on the roads. Deer, elk, and even bears can be common, particularly in the mountainous areas to the west of the city. Always be vigilant, particularly at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
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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.
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