In order to get from one point to another, you need to drive. Unless you are going to be able to walk everywhere in your new location, you will need to be able to drive a car occasionally. But while your current driver's license works in Canada, you need to apply for a different kind of driver's license when you move overseas. This will ensure that you are able to be easily identified by the local police and that you are driving legally, no matter what country you live in.
In Canada, you will want to contact the CAA to get an international driving permit. This will allow you the opportunity to get a permit that allows you to drive anywhere internationally. However, some countries will require that you have a local driver's license after a certain period, so be certain to check on the rules and regulations before your license expires.
Just as with any driver's license, there are number of things to keep in mind when you are driving overseas. The rules are different in nearly every country in relation to the traffic laws. It can help for you to study the local road rules via online sources or through the local driver governing bodies. You can call ahead to receive a copy of the driving rules and then make sure to keep these in mind when you hit the road.
When you first get your international driving permit, you will want to carry this permit as well as your old driver's license to show that you are not a permanent resident yet. This will also help to verify your identify should you be stopped. This two ID system helps you when you need to get through checkpoints or when you want to travel across the borders of other countries.
You will want to try out driving in the area in a slower traffic setting first, if possible. When you just get onto the open road in a high volume traffic situation, you can not only make mistakes, but you might also be prone to getting into an accident. But if this is not possible and you need to drive right through the middle of town, you will want to have a map in hand or someone with you who knows the area.
Always look around you to see who is coming toward you and to make sure that no one is walking across the street, as this is a common problem in high tourist areas.
