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International Vehicle in Nova Scotia as an International Student

Carson_99

Newbie
Dec 17, 2019
8
0
Hello,

I've recently been in contact with Nova Scotia's RMV to ask about my vehicle (US plates) which I brought into Canada before Covid-19 restrictions were in place. As I have now been in the province more than 90 days I was inquiring about changing my license from a US license to a Canadian one, however when I mentioned my vehicle had US plates they immediately told me that I needed a temporary import form (Form 1) in order to legally operate my vehicle in Nova Scotia. The CBSA never gave me a form (I called to double check this is common practice), as it is not a requirement as long as I am an international student with a visa set to expire at the end of my studies. I also believe that Form 1 is not required from international students, and I plan to bring my car back to the US at the end of my studies. I am wondering if the process of ensuring I can legally drive is as simple as swapping my full US drivers license for a Canadian one, or whether there are extra steps that need to be taken. I have called my insurance and they have assured me that I would be covered both in Canada as well as the US.

Any help is greatly appreciated, I have done a good deal of research without coming across any definitive answers :/
 

hihayleyo

Newbie
Aug 28, 2020
1
0
Hi Carson_99,
Did you figure anything out? I'm in the same boat, and was planning on keeping my US plates during my time here with the exemption that's provided to international students, but my US plates have now become a "hate magnet" and have made life uncomfortable anytime I am near my vehicle. I've contacted RIV and ICBC and am waiting to hear back about temporary imports. Any info you have would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!