Canada uses a 6-character alphanumeric postal code system, consisting of alternating letters and numbers (e.g., A0A 0A0 to Y1A 9Z9). This system ensures efficient mail and parcel delivery across the country’s 10 provinces and 3 territories, supporting both administrative and commercial activities. The Canadian postal code system is managed by Canada Post.
Key Information About Canada Postal Code
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | Canada |
| Postal Code Range | A0A 0A0 – Y1A 9Z9 |
| Calling Code | +1 |
| Area Codes | 204, 306, 403, 416, 418, 514, 604, 613, 879, 902 |
| ISO Code | CA |
| Capital | Ottawa |
| Region | North America |
For more details on the list of Canadian postal codes, see the provinces and territories below.
Postal Codes of Canada by Province / Territory
| ABBR. | Province / Territory | Postal Code Range | Capital |
|---|---|---|---|
| AB | Alberta | T0A – T9X | Edmonton |
| BC | British Columbia | V0A – V9Z | Victoria |
| MB | Manitoba | R0A – R8N | Winnipeg |
| NB | New Brunswick | E1A – E9H | Fredericton |
| NL | Newfoundland and Labrador | A0A – A8A | St. John’s |
| NT | Northwest Territories | X0E – X1A | Yellowknife |
| NS | Nova Scotia | B0C – B9A | Halifax |
| NU | Nunavut | X0A – X0C | Iqaluit |
| ON | Ontario | K0A – R5J | Toronto |
| PE | Prince Edward Island | C0A – C1N | Charlottetown |
| QC | Quebec | G0A – J9Z | Quebec City |
| SK | Saskatchewan | R5K – S9X | Regina |
| YT | Yukon | Y0A – Y1A | Whitehorse |
Canada Postal Code Format
Canada uses a six-character postal code format written as A1A 1A1. It is a mix of letters and numbers, with a space in the middle for easy reading.
- The first letter shows the province or territory
- The first three characters (A1A) are called the Forward Sortation Area (FSA) and identify a region or city area
- The last three characters (1A1) are the Local Delivery Unit (LDU) and point to a specific street, building, or group of addresses
Example: K1A 0B1 (used for federal government offices in Ottawa)
Canadian postal codes are case-insensitive but are usually written in uppercase. Each code is very precise and helps ensure fast and accurate mail delivery across Canada
Canada’s postal code system is designed to pinpoint locations down to individual streets, neighborhoods, or large buildings. Each province and territory has a unique range of postal codes, which helps Canada Post efficiently process and deliver mail and parcels nationwide.