To obtain a Quebec driver’s licence, you will need to follow these general steps:
- Obtain a learner’s permit: If you are a new driver in Quebec, you must first obtain a learner’s permit. You have to register driver’s course with the driving school which must be certified by SAAQ. You can do this by passing a written knowledge test on Quebec’s driving rules and regulations. You will also need to provide identification and proof of residency.
- Practice driving: With your learner’s permit, you can practice driving with a licensed driver who has at least two years of driving experience in Quebec. You will need to practice for at least 10 months before you can take the driving test.
- Take a driving course: Taking a driving course is not mandatory, but it can be helpful to prepare for the driving test.
- Take a road test: Once you feel confident in your driving skills, you can schedule a road test with the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ). The road test consists of a driving test and a vision test.
- Get your licence: If you pass the road test, you will be issued a Quebec driver’s licence. If you fail, you can retake the test after a waiting period.
Note: If you are already licensed to drive in another province or country, you may be able to exchange your licence for a Quebec driver’s licence without taking a driving test. Check with the SAAQ for more information.
More in detail & good to know:
To obtain a learner’s permit in Quebec, you must be at least 16 years old and provide proof of identity, residency, and legal status in Canada. You will also need to pass a written knowledge test on Quebec’s driving rules and regulations.
You can study for the knowledge test by reading the Quebec Driver’s Handbook, which is available online or in print at SAAQ service outlets. The handbook covers topics such as traffic signs, road safety, and driving laws.
- Practice driving:
With your learner’s permit, you can start practicing driving with a licensed driver who has at least two years of driving experience in Quebec. This person must accompany you in the passenger seat and be able to take control of the vehicle if necessary.
You will need to practice for at least 10 months before you can take the driving test, and you must accumulate a minimum of 36 hours of driving experience, including 12 hours of nighttime driving.
- Take a driving course:
While taking a driving course is not mandatory in Quebec, it can be helpful to prepare for the driving test. A driving course can teach you the skills and knowledge needed to become a safe and responsible driver.
There are many driving schools in Quebec that offer courses in both English and French. You can find a list of accredited driving schools on the SAAQ website.
- Take a road test:
Once you feel confident in your driving skills, you can schedule a road test with the SAAQ. The road test consists of a driving test and a vision test.
During the driving test, a SAAQ examiner will evaluate your driving skills, including your ability to control the vehicle, obey traffic signs and signals, and handle different driving situations. The test will take about 30 minutes, and you will need to provide your own vehicle.
The vision test is a simple test that checks your visual acuity and peripheral vision. You will need to pass the vision test to obtain your driver’s licence.
- Get your licence:
If you pass the road test and vision test, you will be issued a Quebec driver’s licence. Your licence will be valid for four years and will need to be renewed before it expires.
If you fail the road test, you can retake the test after a waiting period. You may also need to take additional driving lessons to improve your skills before retaking the test.
If you are already licensed to drive in another province or country, you may be able to exchange your licence for a Quebec driver’s licence without taking a driving test. You will need to provide proof of identity, residency, and driving experience. Check with the SAAQ for more information on licence exchange. Here is SAAQ link: https://saaq.gouv.qc.ca/en/drivers-licences/obtaining-licence/passenger-vehicle-class-5
All the best to you!