If you hold a valid driver’s licence issued outside Québec, you will remain authorized to drive beyond the usual 6-month period, under certain conditions.
New residents who have settled in Québec:
This measure applies to passenger vehicle (Class 5) driver’s licences only.
If your principal residence is not in the province of Québec and you hold a valid driver’s licence issued by another Canadian province or territory or another country, you can drive in Québec for six consecutive months. After that time, you must hold an international driving permit.
If you are a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident or someone with a different immigration status who has recently moved to Québec and whose principal residence is now in Québec, you must obtain a Québec licence. You can apply for your licence as soon as you arrive.
1-800-361-7620
If you are a student or trainee from another Canadian province or territory or from abroad, you are allowed to drive for the duration of your studies or traineeship, provided:
You are not required to obtain a Québec licence, except if you decide to take up residence in Québec.
If your licence authorizes you to, you may drive:
We recommend that you get an international driver's permit before coming to Québec. This permit can only be issued in the country where your driver's licence was issued and is valid for one year.
1-800-361-7620
If you are travelling in Québec, you may drive for 6 consecutive months with your licence that has been issued by another Canadian province or territory or another country, provided your licence:
You may drive any type of vehicle, as long as the licence issued by your country of origin authorizes you to and you abide by its conditions.
You must hold a valid international driving permit to be allowed to continue to drive on Québec roads.
You must always drive with both licences – your driver's licence issued by another Canadian province or territory or foreign country, and your international driving permit. You are allowed to drive in Québec for as long as your international driving permit remains valid.
The international driving permit can only be issued in the country in which you obtained your driver's licence, and it is valid for one year. You must apply for your permit before coming to Québec.
We recommend that you get an international driving permit before coming to Québec, regardless of the length of your stay.
If the licence issued in your country of origin so authorizes, you may operate an automobile, motorcycle or moped or scooterA 2- or 3-wheel passenger vehicle equipped with an electric motor or a gasoline-powered engine with a cylinder capacity of no more than 50 cc and an automatic transmission. for a maximum period of 6 consecutive months.
After that time, you are required to hold a Québec licence. You may apply for a Québec licence as soon as you arrive in the province. The process for obtaining such a licence varies depending on which country issued your driver's licence.
Licence Fees for the Current Year
The fees to renew, replace and exchange a driver's licence vary depending on the class(es) sought and the validity period of the licence.
Licence exchange – Documents required at the time of your first appointment to check your eligibility
Your driver’s licence issued elsewhere in Canada is valid during the first 6 months of your stay in Québec if you drive:
However, make sure that your licence:
Here is the procedure to obtain a Québec licence, according to the road vehicle that you drive. You can begin the application process as soon as you arrive in Québec.
You must exchange your Canadian licenceL'échange permet au titulaire d'un permis délivré dans une province canadienne autre que le Québec, aux États-Unis ou dans un pays ayant signé une entente avec le Québec d'obtenir un permis équivalent du Québec sans avoir à suivre un cours de conduite. Dans certains cas, le titulaire doit réussir des examens de compétence avant de pouvoir échanger son permis. for a Québec licence corresponding to the equivalent class.
Even if your current licence authorizes you to, you may not drive:
You must exchange your licence issued in another Canadian jusrisdictionL'échange permet au titulaire d'un permis délivré dans une province canadienne autre que le Québec, aux États-Unis ou dans un pays ayant signé une entente avec le Québec d'obtenir un permis équivalent du Québec sans avoir à suivre un cours de conduite. Dans certains cas, le titulaire doit réussir des examens de compétence avant de pouvoir échanger son permis. for a Québec licence corresponding to the appropriate class and undergo a medical examination. You may begin the application process as soon as you arrive in Québec.
You do not have to pass any proficiency testsLes examens de compétence permettent à la SAAQ de vérifier les connaissances et les habiletés des conducteurs. Ils peuvent être théoriques ou pratiques et diffèrent selon la classe de permis de conduire. Ils sont presque toujours obligatoires dès qu'une personne veut obtenir un permis pour la première fois. to obtain a driver's licence.
You must pass the proficiency testsLes examens de compétence permettent à la SAAQ de vérifier les connaissances et les habiletés des conducteurs. Ils peuvent être théoriques ou pratiques et diffèrent selon la classe de permis de conduire. Ils sont presque toujours obligatoires dès qu'une personne veut obtenir un permis pour la première fois. to obtain a new licence of the desired class.
Step 1 – Meet the following conditions:
Step 2 – Make an appointment online
Request an appointment to have your driving experience acquired outside Québec recognized by completing the form on our website.
If you need help completing the form, please call 1 833 306-3041.
We will contact you within 20 business days after receiving your completed form.
Step 3 – Go to your service centre appointment with the following original documents:
In certain situations, other documents may be required. When one of our representatives contacts you to schedule an appointment, be sure to ask which documents you must bring with you.
Step 4 – Pass the proficiency tests, if required
Depending on your situation, you may be abble to take the knowledge tests at the service centre on the same day as your appointment, or you may have to make another appointment. The fees for the tests are $12.40.
If you pass the knowledge tests, you may make an appointment for the road test, if it is required, by calling one of the following numbers:
On the day of the road test, you must pay the applicable fees. The amount varies depending on the class of licence sought. If you pass the road test, you will be allowed to exchange your licence.
Step 5 – Pay the licence exchange fees
The licence exchange fees vary depending on the licence class, and are higher if you apply for an additional licence class.
At our service outlets, we accept payment:
Payment by credit card is not accepted.
If the SAAQ recognizes that you have fewer than 24 months of experience driving a car, you will obtain a probationary licenceLicence issued to a person driving an automobile or a motorcycle alone for the first time. This licence allows the holder to acquire the driving experience necessary to obtain a driver's licence (24 months). The holder is subject to the zero-alcohol rule and the 4-demerit point bracket. . You will hold this licence until you have accumulated 24 months of driving experience. We determine your experience on the basis of your driver’s licence and driving record.
Class 6 (motorcycle)
Licence Fees for the Current Year
The fees to renew, replace and exchange a driver's licence vary depending on the class(es) sought and the validity period of the licence.
Licence exchange – Documents required at the time of your first appointment to check your eligibility
Your foreign driver’s licence is valid during the first 6 months of your stay in Québec if you drive:
However, make sure that your foreign licence:
Here is the procedure to obtain a Québec licence, according to the road vehicle that you drive. You can begin the application process as soon as you arrive in Québec.
You must exchange your foreign licenceLicence exchange allows holders of a licence issued in a Canadian province or territory other than Québec, in the United States or in a country that has entered into an agreement with Québec to obtain an equivalent Québec licence without having to follow a driving course. In some cases, holders may have to pass proficiency examinations before being eligible to exchange their licence. for a Québec licence corresponding to the equivalent class – either Class 5 for a passenger vehicle or Class 6D for a moped or motorized scooter.
You must exchange your foreign licenceLicence exchange allows holders of a licence issued in a Canadian province or territory other than Québec, in the United States or in a country that has entered into an agreement with Québec to obtain an equivalent Québec licence without having to follow a driving course. In some cases, holders may have to pass proficiency examinations before being eligible to exchange their licence. to operate a motorcycle for a Québec licence after first passing the Class 6 (motorcycle) proficiency testsProficiency examinations allow the SAAQ to check the knowledge and skills of drivers. They include both knowledge and road tests and differ based on the class of driver's licence. They are almost always mandatory when an individual wants to obtain a licence for the first time. .
You do not have to pass a proficiency examinationProficiency examinations allow the SAAQ to check the knowledge and skills of drivers. They include both knowledge and road tests and differ based on the class of driver's licence. They are almost always mandatory when an individual wants to obtain a licence for the first time. to obtain a licence to drive a passenger vehicle or operate a moped or motorized scooter.
You must pass proficiency testsProficiency examinations allow the SAAQ to check the knowledge and skills of drivers. They include both knowledge and road tests and differ based on the class of driver's licence. They are almost always mandatory when an individual wants to obtain a licence for the first time. before exchanging your foreign licence for a Québec licence to drive a passenger vehicle or operate a moped or motorized scooter.
Even if your foreign licence authorizes you to, you may not drive:
You must exchange your foreign licenceLicence exchange allows holders of a licence issued in a Canadian province or territory other than Québec, in the United States or in a country that has entered into an agreement with Québec to obtain an equivalent Québec licence without having to follow a driving course. In some cases, holders may have to pass proficiency examinations before being eligible to exchange their licence. for a Québec licence corresponding to the equivalent class. To do so, you must:
You may begin the application process as soon as you arrive in Québec.
Step 1 – Meet the following conditions:
Step 2 – Request an appointment online
Request an appointment to have your driving experience acquired outside Québec recognized by completing the form on our website.
If you need help completing the form, please call 1 833 306-3041.
We will contact you within 20 business days after receiving your completed form.
Step 3 – Go to your service centre where you have your appointment with the following original documents, namely:
In certain situations, other documents may be required. When one of our representatives contacts you to schedule an appointment, be sure to ask which documents you must bring with you.
Step 4 – Pass the proficiency tests for Class 6 (motorcycle) (if applicable)
To help you prepare for the tests, we recommend you study the following publications:
Paper versions can also be purchased at bookstores in Québec.
You can also read:
Depending on your situation, you may be able to take the knowledge test at the service centre on the same day as your appointment, or you may have to make another appointment. The fees for the test are $12.40.
If you pass the knowledge test, you may make an appointment for the road test by calling one of the following numbers:
On the day of the road test, you must pay the applicable fees. If you pass the test, you will be allowed to exchange your licence.
Step 5 – Pay the licence exchange fees
The licence exchange fees vary depending on the licence class, and are higher if you apply for an additional licence class.
At our service outlets, we accept payment:
Payment by credit card is not accepted.
If the SAAQ considers that you have fewer than 24 months of experience driving a passenger vehicle, you will obtain a probationary licenceLicence issued to a person driving an automobile or a motorcycle alone for the first time. This licence allows the holder to acquire the driving experience necessary to obtain a driver's licence (24 months). The holder is subject to the zero-alcohol rule and the 4-demerit point bracket. . You will hold this licence until you have accumulated 24 months of driving experience. We determine your experience on the basis of your driver’s licence and driving record.
Class 6 (motorcycle)
Licence Fees for the Current Year
The fees to renew, replace and exchange a driver's licence vary depending on the licence class(es) and the validity period of the licence.
Licence exchange – Documents required to check your eligibility
Your foreign driver’s licence is valid during the first 6 months of your stay in Québec if you drive:
However, make sure that your foreign licence:
Here is the procedure to obtain a Québec licence, according to the road vehicle that you drive. You can begin the application process as soon as you arrive in Québec.
You must exchange your foreign licenceLicence exchange allows holders of a licence issued in a Canadian province or territory other than Québec, in the United States or in a country that has entered into an agreement with Québec to obtain an equivalent Québec licence without having to follow a driving course. In some cases, holders may have to pass proficiency examinations before being eligible to exchange their licence. for a Québec licence.
You must exchange your foreign licenceLicence exchange allows holders of a licence issued in a Canadian province or territory other than Québec, in the United States or in a country that has entered into an agreement with Québec to obtain an equivalent Québec licence without having to follow a driving course. In some cases, holders may have to pass proficiency examinations before being eligible to exchange their licence. to operate a motorcycle for a Québec licence after first passing the Class 6 (motorcycle) proficiency testsProficiency examinations allow the SAAQ to check the knowledge and skills of drivers. They include both knowledge and road tests and differ based on the class of driver's licence. They are almost always mandatory when an individual wants to obtain a licence for the first time. . You may begin the application process as soon as you arrive in Québec.
In most cases, you must pass proficiency testsProficiency examinations allow the SAAQ to check the knowledge and skills of drivers. They include both knowledge and road tests and differ based on the class of driver's licence. They are almost always mandatory when an individual wants to obtain a licence for the first time. to obtain a licence to drive a passenger vehicle or operate a moped or motorized scooter.
Even if your foreign licence authorizes you to, you may not drive:
You must first obtain a Québec driver's licence. After that, you can apply for the class of licence required to drive the type of vehicle in question. To do so, you must meet the requirements specific to that licence class and follow the graduated licensing process. You must also already hold a Québec Class 5 driver's licence.
Step 1 – Meet the following conditions:
Step 2 – Request an appointment online
Request an appointment to have your driving experience acquired outside Québec recognized by completing the form on our website.
If you need help completing the form, please call 1 833 306-3041.
We will contact you within 20 business days after receiving your completed form.
Step 3 – Go to your service centre appointment with the following original documents:
In certain situations, other documents may be required. When one of our representatives contacts you to schedule an appointment, be sure to ask which documents you must bring with you.
You must have your licence translated by a translator who is a member of:
If you hold a driver’s licence from Japan, you must obtain a certificate from the Consulate of Japan. This certificate serves as a translation.
Step 4 – Pass the proficiency tests for Class 6 (motorcycle) (if applicable)
To help you prepare for the tests, we recommend you study the following publications:
Paper versions can also be purchased at bookstores in Québec.
You can also read:
Depending on your situation, you may be able to take the knowledge test at the service centre on the same day as your appointment, or you may have to make another appointment. The fees for the test are $12.40.
Once you have passed the knowledge test, you can schedule an appointment for the road test by calling one of the following numbers:
Online
You can make an appointment on SAAQclic.
By phone
On the day of the road test, you must pay the applicable fees. If you pass the test, you will be allowed to exchange your licence.
Step 5 – Pay the licence exchange fees.
The licence exchange fees vary depending on the licence class, and are higher if you apply for an additional licence class.
At our service outlets, we accept payment:
Payment by credit card is not accepted.
If the SAAQ considers that you have fewer than 24 months of experience driving a passenger vehicle, you will obtain a probationary licenceLicence issued to a person driving an automobile or a motorcycle alone for the first time. This licence allows the holder to acquire the driving experience necessary to obtain a driver's licence (24 months). The holder is subject to the zero-alcohol rule and the 4-demerit point bracket. . You will hold this licence until you have accumulated 24 months of driving experience. We determine your experience on the basis of your driver’s licence and driving record.
Knowledge tests
$12.40
Road test
Class 5 (car): $31.00
Licence Fees for the Current Year
The fees to renew, replace and exchange a driver's licence vary depending on the class(es) sought and the validity period of the licence.
The original documents that were requested when you made your appointment
Your foreign driver’s licence is valid during the first 6 months of your stay in Québec if you drive:
However, make sure that your foreign licence:
Here is the procedure to obtain a Québec licence, according to the road vehicle that you drive. You can begin the application process as soon as you arrive in Québec.
You must have held a driver’s licence authorizing you to drive a passenger vehicle for at least one year before settling in Québec and pass the Class 5 (passenger vehicle) proficiency testsProficiency examinations allow the SAAQ to check the knowledge and skills of drivers. They include both knowledge and road tests and differ based on the class of driver's licence. They are almost always mandatory when an individual wants to obtain a licence for the first time. before being eligible to obtain a Québec driver’s licence.
You must take a driving course and follow the graduated licensing process to obtain a learner’s licence.
You must take a driving course and follow the graduated licensing process.
Even if your foreign licence authorizes you to, you may not drive:
You must obtain a Québec driver’s licence corresponding to the appropriate class. To do so, you must first:
Step 1 – Meet the following conditions:
Step 2 – Request an appointment online
Request an appointment to have your driving experience acquired outside Québec recognized by completing the form on our website.
If you need help completing the form, please call 1 833 306-3041.
We will contact you within 20 business days after receiving your completed form.
Step 3 – Go to your service centre appointment with the following original documents:
In certain situations, other documents may be required. When one of our representatives contacts you to schedule an appointment, be sure to ask which documents you must bring with you.
You must have your licence translated by a translator who is a member of:
Step 4 – Pass the proficiency tests
To help you prepare for the tests, we recommend you study the following publications:
Paper versions can also be purchased at bookstores in Québec.
You can also read:
Depending on your situation, you may be able to take the knowledge tests at the service centre on the same day as your appointment, or you may have to make another appointment. The fees for the tests are $12.40.
Once you have passed the knowledge tests, you can schedule an appointment for the road test by calling one of the following numbers:
Online
You can make an appointment on SAAQclic.
By phone
On the day of the road test, you must pay the appliable fees. If you pass the road test, you can obtain a licence.
Step 5 – Pay the applicable fees to obtain your licence
The licence fees vary depending on the licence class.
At our service outlets, we accept payment:
Payment by credit card is not accepted.
If the SAAQ considers that you have fewer than 24 months of experience driving a passenger vehicle, you will obtain a probationary licenceLicence issued to a person driving an automobile or a motorcycle alone for the first time. This licence allows the holder to acquire the driving experience necessary to obtain a driver's licence (24 months). The holder is subject to the zero-alcohol rule and the 4-demerit point bracket. . You will hold this licence until you have accumulated 24 months of driving experience. We determine your experience on the basis of your driver’s licence and driving record.
Last update: July 13, 2023
