Obtaining a licence
Generally speaking, all new Quebec residents
Must obtain a driver’s licence in order to drive around Quebec roads. The holder of a valid driver’s licence, delivered by another administrative authority, that establishes themselves in Quebec, can, within 90 days of their arrival, drive a passenger vehicle without holding a permit delivered by the SAAQ. Following this delay, the holder must obtain a Quebec driver’s licence. In order to obtain a class 5 licence, different norms may apply depending on the country of origin.
- Similar norms to those of the SAAQ.
- Exchange of permit without a competency examination (recognized permit)
- Different norms than those of the SAAQ.
- Exchange of permit after passing examination (permit not recognized)
- Diplomatic personnel as well as their spouse and children of driving age, may obtain permit without passing an examination (recognized permit).
- If your permit has been expired for more than three years or if you have never gotten a driver’s licence
If the driver’s licence is delivered in a language other than French or English, it must be accompanied by the international permit or by an official translation. Exchange without having an examination. The SAAQ can exempt one from examination for holders of class 5 permits, valid or expired for less than three years, delivered by the following authority.
Eligibility
- Be at least 16 years old
- Hold a valid international permit valid or expired for less than three years.
- If you are not a Canadian citizen or are a new Canadian citizen, you must provide proof that you are authorized to stay in Canada for at least 6 months or provide a Canadian citizenship certificate.
- Fill out the medical certificate provided by the SAAQ.