Driving in Halifax

Navigating Halifax by car or public transit is a practical option for many newcomers. This guide outlines the essentials for driving, including licensing, car ownership, insurance, and additional resources for safe and economical travel.

Owning a car in Canada can be costly, with annual expenses averaging over $9,000. Key costs to consider include:

Purchase price of the car (including taxes and fees)
Insurance
Regular maintenance
Driver’s license, vehicle registration, and safety inspections
Fuel and parking fees

Registry of Motor Vehicles: The Registry of Motor Vehicles in Nova Scotia handles driver’s licenses, vehicle permits, license plates, and other vehicle-related services. These services are available online or at Access Nova Scotia centers throughout the province.

Access Nova Scotia Website

Getting a Driver’s License

Eligibility and Process:

Must be at least 16 years old to apply for a learner’s license.
New drivers go through a Graduated Licensing program.
Drivers with a license from another country can use it for 90 days; some countries’ licenses may be directly exchanged for a Nova Scotia license.

Steps to Obtain a License:

Knowledge and Vision Test: No appointment is necessary.
Road Test: Requires an appointment.

Renewing Your License:
Licenses must be renewed every five years. You can renew up to six months before the expiration date.

Study Resources: For preparation, the Nova Scotia Driver’s Handbook is available online: Driver’s Handbook

Driving Rules in Nova Scotia

Knowing the rules of the road is essential to drive safely in Canada. Some fundamental regulations include:

Seat Belts: All passengers must wear seat belts.
Child Safety Seats: Young children require car seats or booster seats. For more information, visit Child Safety
Handheld Devices: Using a handheld phone while driving is illegal.
No Smoking with Minors: It is illegal to smoke in a car with passengers under 19.
Zones: The speed limit in school zones is 30 km/h or 50 km/h.• School

For a complete list of regulations and the demerit points system, see the Nova Scotia Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal website.

Buying a Car

Cars in Nova Scotia can be purchased new or used. Here’s a quick guide:
Buying New:

New cars are available at dealerships, with options for financing if you have good credit.
Buying Used: Used cars can be found at dealerships or online platforms like Kijiji ((www.kijiji.ca) and AutoTrader (www.autotrader.ca)
You can order a CarFax report to check the car’s history, including any accidents, maintenance, or theft reports.
Additional Costs: You will need to pay HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) on the value of the car to the Government of Nova Scotia.

Car Insurance

Insurance is required by law to drive in Canada. Insurance covers various types of protection:
Mandatory Coverage:

Third-Party Liability: Covers damages if you’re responsible for an accident.
Direct Compensation
Accident Benefits
Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Optional Coverage:

Collision: Covers damages to your vehicle in an accident.
Comprehensive: Protects your car from events like theft, fire, and natural disasters.
All Perils: A combination of collision and comprehensive coverage.•

Where to Get Car Insurance:

Sonnet Insurance: www.sonnet.ca
Aviva Canada: www.aviva.ca
Intact Insurance: www.intact.ca
TD Insurance: www.tdinsurance.com
Desjardins Insurance: www.desjardinsgeneralinsurance.com

It is wise to consult an insurance broker who can compare multiple providers to help you find the best rate. Additionally, taking a driver training course or providing a driving history report from your country may help reduce insurance costs.
Insurance Guide for Nova Scotia

What to Do in Case of an Accident

If you are in a car accident, follow these steps:

Stay at the Scene: Ensure safety for yourself and others.
Call 911 if necessary for police, fire, or medical assistance.
Exchange Information: Share your contact and insurance details with the other driver.
Limit Conversations: Avoid discussing fault.
Report to Insurance: Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible.

For further details, check out these resources:

Parking in Halifax

Parking Options:

You can park in lots, garages, or on the street.
Downtown parking meters are free after 6 pm, on weekends, and on most holidays.
During winter, a parking ban may be in effect (1:00 am to 6:00 am), requiring vehicles to be parked off-street to facilitate snow removal.

For more information on parking, visit Halifax Parking Services.

Bridges Between Halifax and Dartmouth

Halifax and Dartmouth are connected by two main bridges:

MacKay Bridge
Macdonald Bridge (the only bridge with a pedestrian and cycling lane)

Toll Fees:

Cash tolls cost $1.25 each way.
MacPass: An electronic pass available online for easy, automated payment.
For more information, visit MacPass.

Checking Unpaid Toll Fees for Halifax Bridges

If you’ve missed paying a toll fee on the MacKay or Macdonald Bridges, you can easily check and pay outstanding fees to avoid penalties. Here’s how:

MacPass Account: If you have a MacPass account, log in to the MacPass website or app. Your account will show any unpaid tolls or low-balance notifications. You can also set up automatic top-ups to prevent missed payments.
Missed Tolls Without MacPass: If you don’t have a MacPass, missed tolls are typically tracked by your license plate, and you may receive an invoice by mail for unpaid tolls. Ensure your address with the Registry of Motor Vehicles is up-to-date so that you receive these notices promptly.
Contact Halifax Harbour Bridges: For inquiries on missed payments, you can contact Halifax Harbour Bridges customer service at 902-463-3100, or visit their website for assistance.
Payment Options: Payments for unpaid tolls can be made online through the MacPass website, by phone, or in person at a MacPass service center.

By regularly checking your MacPass account or contacting Halifax Harbour Bridges, you can stay up-to-date with toll fees and avoid any late charges or penalties.