Newcomers: The Essentials on Driver’s Licences and Road Characteristics in Quebec

Canadian or Foreign License

For Non-Quebec Residents

If you’re visiting Quebec and don’t have a principal residence in the province, you can drive with your driver’s license (issued in Canada or abroad) for six consecutive months.

If you want to stay longer in Quebec, you’ll need an international driver’s license. To be valid, it must always be accompanied by your original licence. If you are stopped at a roadside checkpoint, you will need to present these two documents.

For Quebec Residents

If you settle in Quebec, you will be entitled to drive a car for six consecutive months with your valid license (foreign or Canadian). After that, you’ll need a Quebec driver’s licence, and therefore a licence exchange.

Here are two special cases to consider:

• If your original licence was issued in both Canada and the United States, all you need to do is exchange your licence;
• If your original license was issued in another country, and there is an agreement with Quebec, license exchange will also be possible If not, you’ll have to pass theoretical and practical exams.

For Students and Interns

You’ll be able to drive for the duration of your studies or internship if you have a valid driver’s license, issued in Canada or abroad.

Exchanging a Foreign or Canadian Licence for a Quebec Licence

To exchange your driver’s licence, you will need to request an appointment with the SAAQ.

Simply fill in this form Appointment to have driving experience acquired outside Québec recognized online, then send it in.

Once your appointment has been scheduled, you’ll need to gather a number of documents for the big day, including your original driver’s license and proof of residency in Quebec. Then pay the fee required to exchange the permit.

Obtaining a Quebec Driver's Licence

As in most countries, you’ll need to book courses with a driving school recognized by the SAAQ.

Before you can obtain a driving licence, you must:

• Obtaining a learner’s permit;
• Take a driving course;
• Pass the SAAQ theoretical and practical exams.

Here’s a checklist for your Class 5 (car) driver’s license. You will be subject to a demerit point system.

The Particularities of Driving in Quebec

When you drive in Quebec, make sure you:

• Have a valid driver’s license;
• Vehicle registration certificate;
• Vehicle insurance certificate.

Before getting behind the wheel, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the Highway Safety Code.

Here are some examples:

• The traffic lights are on the other side of the intersection: you don’t stop at the lights, but before the intersection;
• As for turning right at a red light, this is permitted in Quebec, but not on the island of Montreal. A stop is mandatory before turning;
• For the left-hand turn, you must turn in front of the car on the opposite side;
• For winter driving, all vehicles must be equipped with four winter tires from December1 to March 15;
• Finally, if you encounter a school bus, a stop is mandatory when the intermittent red lights are flashing.

Car Rentals in Quebec

If you want the freedom to get around, whether to explore your city, commute to work, or go on a getaway, you can rent a car.

Major car rental companies are widely available in Quebec, but they often offer high rates that vary depending on the pick-up location and the type of vehicle.

Skyscanner, a search engine for flights, hotels and cars, will find the best deals for you in the blink of an eye. It’s easy to compare rates using their interactive map.

To save on car rentals, consider car sharing! If you live in Montreal, Laval, Gatineau, Trois-Rivières, Quebec City, Sherbrooke, Boisbriand, Terrebonne or Victoriaville, try Communauto. By subscribing to this service, you’ll have access to a wide range of vehicles that can be rented for a few minutes, a day or even longer.

For other cities in Quebec, turn to Turo, which offers a wide choice of vehicles, shared by local hosts. The option to have the vehicle delivered directly to your home or destination is really convenient.

Car Insurance and Civil Liability

Choosing the right car insurance cover can be a real headache. In Quebec, there are two different insurance plans, as explained in our guide How does car insurance work in Quebec? You’ll also discover our tips for saving on your insurance premiums.

ClicAssure also offers car insurance services. This platform will help you find the best insurance coverage for your needs.

As for third-party liability coverage, this protects you against any damage caused to another car or to the driver of that car. Our guide: What is third-party liability in car insurance? will answer all your questions on this subject.

Save with Points and Cash Back

Do you intend to do a lot of driving? Credit cards that offer reward points or cash back will help you lighten your gas bill. Here are a few card suggestions:

• 5 points per dollar (i.e. about 3.35%) with the BMO eclipse Visa Infinite* Card
• 3% cash back per dollar with the BMO CashBack^® World Elite^®* Mastercard^®*
• 2% cash back per dollar with the Scotia Momentum^® Visa Infinite +* Card

Our How to save on gas prices in Canada guide has all our tips. Concrete examples will show you how easy it is to put strategies in place.

If you take the wheel of an electric car, we invite you to consult our guide How to save even more with an electric vehicle.

Finally, our page on the Best credit cards for gas and transport details the advantages of each card.

Frequently Asked Questions