QUEBEC DRIVER’S LICENCE

 

Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ)

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You can drive on Quebec roads for 6 consecutive months with a Driver’s Licence from outside Quebec.  After that time, you  must obtain a Quebec Driver’s Licence.  You may apply for a Quebec licence as soon as you arrive in the province.

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Obtaining A Driver’s Licence

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The steps to obtain your Driver’s Licence depends on your current licence and from where you are moving from.  For detailed steps, please visit:  Obtaining a Driver’s Licence and follow the prompts.

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Obtaining a Driver’s Licence (New Driver)

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If you do not have a current driver’s licence and would like to obtain one in Quebec, please visit: Obtaining a Driver’s Licence for more details.

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Contact Information

For more information, please call:
Québec area: 418-643-5213
Montréal area: 514-873-5803
Elsewhere (Québec, Canada, United States): 1-888-667-8687

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A Few Important Driving Laws:

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• Canadians drive on the right side of the road.

• Drinking and driving is dangerous and against the law. There are serious penalties if you are caught.

• Right turns are allowed at red lights (after a full stop) unless otherwise noted.

• The speed limit is posted on the right side of the road and shows the maximum speed in kilometres. The typical speed for city streets is 50 km, 30 km in school zones and 100 km on highways.

• Wearing of seatbelts is mandatory.

• Do NOT pass a school bus with flashing lights.

• If you see an ambulance, fire truck or police car approaching with their lights flashing, reduce your speed or completely pull off the road to the right and stop.

• The use of all cellular and handheld devices will soon be prohibited while driving. Hands free devices will be allowed.

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Driving and Roads Conditions

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Winter driving can be a challenge for all motorist.  Conditions can be icy and slippery. Snow drifts and black ice are common.  Here are a few tips to keep in mind when driving in the Winter:

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• Some provinces require that all taxi and passenger vehicles be equipped with winter tires. .

• Slow down and always give yourself more time to get where you are going during the winter months.

• Always leave more space between you and the car ahead of you allowing for more room to stop.

• Winter driving courses are available from many local driving instructors

• Stay on the main roads as it is unlikely that back roads will be well plowed.

• Never pass a snow plow on the right-hand side. It is best to stay well back when you see the blue flashing light of a plow.

• Practice emergency braking to understand how your vehicle will react.

• Skidding occurs when your wheels slide out of control on a slippery surface. To reduce the likelihood of this occurring, slow down well in advance of turns and avoid sudden stops.