Driving In Alberta

Prepare for an unforgettable urban / rural outdoor experience if you plan to tour Alberta by car! Every corner of this vast province offers distinctive sights and opportunities. If traveling by car, here is what you need to know:

• If you are flying in and want to truly experience Alberta, plan to rent a car; our convenient online booking system offers competitive rates and lets you plan ahead.

• A typical Alberta vacation is equal parts wilderness adventure and urban bustle. Driving is often the only practical way to travel around Alberta. Distances within Alberta should not be underestimated when planning your trip. 

• Driver’s licenses from other countries are usually recognized, but if your license is in a language other than French or English, you should get an international driver’s license before leaving home.

• Seat belts are mandatory, as are safety-approved car seats for infants and children up to 8 years or 27 kg (60 lbs).

• Speed limits are 100 km/h (62 mph) on most major highways; 110 km/h (68 mph) on double lane highways; 90 km/hr (56 mph) on most secondary routes and 50 km/hr (31 mph) in cities (unless otherwise posted).

• Alberta’s main east-west commuter routes are Hwy 1 through Calgary and Hwy 16 through Edmonton; the north-south corridor is the Queen Elizabeth II Hwy through Edmonton and Calgary; if you are venturing into the mountain parks, the spectacular scenery on the Icefield Parkway is well worth the drive.

• Gas and oil are sold by the litre; while price is similar across the province, it can vary slightly depending on vendor and location; major chains are Petro-Canada, Esso and Shell, but all stations offer regular to premium unleaded fuel at competitive prices.

• Summer driving is typically worry-free but winter storms can create hazardous icy conditions; check road conditions first; you can also consult our weather page for current conditions, as well as short term and long term forecasts.

• If you visit in the winter with your own vehicle, snow tires are strongly recommended (in fact, snow tires are required for winter driving in the mountain parks).

• When travelling in rural areas, watch carefully for wildlife on or crossing the road – for their safety as well as yours!

• You can turn right on a red light, but only after you come to a complete stop and it is safe to proceed.

• Helmets and headlights are mandatory for motorcyclists.

• Cell phone use while driving is illegal.

• While Alberta is typically a safe, welcoming province, you are encouraged to lock your vehicle when parked and hide valuables out of sight.

• Watch out for both traditional and photo radar. Major urban centres also use cameras to ticket for red-light infractions.

• According to Alberta’s regulations, children under six years who weigh less than 18 kg (40 lb.) must be properly secured in a child safety seat.

• For cyclists, Alberta's highways are well-maintained and a pleasure to ride, with wide smooth shoulders.  Helmets, lights, bells and reflectors are required. In national and provincial parks, be aware of the restrictions to off-road cycling.