Driving Licence Conversion & International Driving Permit
New in Canada, the UK or Australia? A BRTA verification letter or translation can save you a full year of graduated licensing — here is exactly what each country accepts.
Canada — BRTA letter waives the 1-year wait
Ontario, BC and Alberta normally put new residents through a graduated programme with a 12-month learning stage. An official BRTA verification letter proves your experience and lets experienced drivers jump straight to the G2 / road-test stage.
Apply at BRTA (brta.gov.bd) or through the Bangladesh mission; a relative in Dhaka can collect it with the authorisation letter below.
United Kingdom — 12 months, then the DVLA route
You can drive on your Bangladeshi licence for up to 12 months from becoming a UK resident. Before that closes: get a DVLA provisional licence, pass theory and practical tests.
Australia — NAATI translation & 3-month grace
NSW, Victoria and Queensland generally allow about three months on an overseas licence. Your Bangladeshi licence needs a NAATI-certified English translation (or an IDP) — book it before you land.
International Driving Permit (IDP)
An IDP is a translation document alongside your BRTA licence — useful for rentals and short visits. In Bangladesh it is issued through BRTA / the automobile association.
BRTA authorisation letter (copy-ready template)
Have a family member in Dhaka collect your verification certificate from BRTA on your behalf.
Frequently asked questions
Is my Bangladeshi licence valid in Canada before conversion?
Most provinces allow 60–90 days on a foreign licence (Ontario: 60 days). Book your knowledge test early and keep the BRTA letter with you.
Does the UK accept the Bangladeshi licence directly?
For driving, yes — up to 12 months from residency. For exchange, no: Bangladesh is not on the DVLA's exchangeable list, so you go through provisional + tests.
Who provides the NAATI translation?
Only NAATI-accredited translators can certify it — many offer Bangla licence translation online within 2–3 business days. Order early; uncertified translations are rejected.
Also useful: NID & dual nationality, Canada hub, UK hub, Australia hub.