Obtaining a Motorcycle Driver's Licence (Classes 6A, 6B and 6C)

To obtain a Class 6A, 6B or 6C motorcycle driver's licence you must:

• have your principal residence in Québec
• have Canadian citizenship or the right to stay in Canada for more than 6 months
• be at least 16 years old
• have the written consent of your father, mother or legal guardian, if you under 18
• have fewer than 4 demerit points entered on your driving record
• not have had your driver’s licence revoked in the last 2 years as a penalty further to an accumulation of demerit points or a conviction for a driving-related criminal offence

If you do not hold a probationary licence or a Class 1, 2, 3, 4A, 4B or 5 licence (first licence): 

• you must have no demerit points entered on your driving record
• you must not have had your right to obtain a driver’s licence suspended in the last 2 years as a penalty further to an accumulation of demerit points or a conviction for a driving-related criminal offence
• you are invited to consult the Illness or Functional Impairment Checklist (PDF, 99.0 KB)⁠ before registering for a driving course

If you hold a driver's licence issued outside Québec

Visit the Canadian or Foreign Driver’s Licence page to find out how to proceed.

To pass the knowledge test for driving a motorcycle, you need to master the basic theoretical concepts. If you pass the test, you will obtain a Class 6R learner's licence.

With the Class 6R learner's licence, you can operate a motorcycle on a closed track and on the road as part of the driving course, provided you are accompanied by your instructor. The driving school must be recognized by the SAAQ.

To prepare for the test

We recommend that you study the following guides:

• Driver's Handbook (PDF, 22.9 MB)⁠
• Operating a Motorcycle (PDF, 7.3 MB)⁠

They are required reading to pass the knowledge test.

If you do not hold a Class 5 driver's licence

Carefully study the Driver's Handbook (PDF, 22.9 MB)⁠, since the test will include questions about traffic rules, as well as road signs and traffic signals.

Passing the knowledge test allows you to obtain a Class 6R learner’s licence.

With the Class 6R learner’s licence, you may operate a motorcycle on a closed track and on the road with an instructor during the practical training given by a driving school recognized by the SAAQ.

Contents of the test

If you hold a Class 5 (passenger vehicle) driver’s licence or probationary licence

The test will cover driving a motorcycle (specialization).

Otherwise, the test will cover:

• the Highway Safety Code
• road signs and traffic signals
• motorcycle driving behaviours and techniques (specialization)

On the day of the test

You must follow the steps below:

Step 1 – Go to the service outlet where you have scheduled your test

Step 2 – Prove your identity:

• If you hold a probationary licence, a driver's licence or an ID card issued by the SAAQ for the test, show one of these documents, as your file will have already been created.
• If you do not hold a Québec licence with photo, you must present two official documents, including one with a photo.

Documents you must present in order to obtain a driver's licence for the first time

If you were born in Canada

At least one of the two documents must be:

• the original copy of the birth certificate issued by the Directeur de l’état civil du Québec after January 1, 1994, or by the government body responsible for vital statistics in another Canadian jurisdiction (note that in the case of Ontario, the accepted documents are the short form birth certificate or the original certified copy of birth registration⁠ ⁠, which includes an official number and is issued by the Office of the Registrar General of Ontario)
• a Canadian Citizenship Certificate with photo
• a Canadian passport
• an official Canadian Armed Forces identity card
• a Certificate of Indian Status

The other document may be:

• a health insurance card
• a driver’s licence issued outside Québec

If you were not born in Canada

At least one of the two documents must be:

• a Canadian Citizenship Certificate with photo
• a Canadian passport
• an official Canadian Armed Forces identity card
• other proof of known legal presence in Canada
• a Permanent Resident Card

The other document may be:

• a health insurance card
• a driver's licence issued outside Québec

Step 3 – If you are under 18, present the Consent of a Person Having Parental Authority (PDF, 128.7 KB)⁠ form, duly completed and signed by your father, mother or legal guardian

Step 4 – Fill out the Declaration of Illness or Functional Impairment form

Step 5 – Pass the vision test

Step 6 – Pass the knowledge test

Step 7 – Pay the applicable fees for:

• the knowledge test
• the Class 6R learner's licence

Payment options

At our service outlets, we accept payment:

• in cash
• by debit card (not available at some service outlets)
• by one or more pre-authorized debits (a cheque specimen must be provided)
• by cheque or money order

Payment by credit card is not accepted.

Passing marks

• 85% for the section on operating a motorcycle
• 75% for the section on the Highway Safety Code and road signs and traffic signals 

If you fail the test

You must wait at least 28 days before you will be allowed to retake the test. You will have to reschedule another appointment.

The next step in obtaining a Class 6A, 6B or 6C licence is to register for a course at a driving school recognized by the SAAQ.

Driving course at a driving school

Here you will practise the proper techniques and manoeuvres to operate a motorcycle. You must take at least 30 days to pass this course, which consists of two blocks:

Block 1 

Driving on a closed track

• Theoretical training to prepare you to operate a motorcycle on a closed track
  • 1 block of 3 hours
• Practical training
  • 4 blocks of 4 hours each = 16 hours

Block 2 

Driving on the road

• Theoretical training to prepare you to operate a motorcycle on the road
  • 1 block of 3 hours
• Practical training
  • 5 blocks of 2 hours each = 10 hours

If the instructor concludes that you have passed the training, the driving school will give you an attestation.

For more information, visit the Driving Course: Motorcycle webpage. 

Once you have completed your driving course, you may take the closed track test to obtain a Class 6A learner’s licence.

A Class 6A learner’s licence authorizes you to operate a motorcycle on the road. You must hold this licence for at least 11 months, during which time you must respect the curfew prohibiting you from operating a motorcycle between midnight and 5 a.m.

Before taking the closed track test

You must:

• have held a Class 6R licence for at least one month
• have successfully completed the driving course at a driving school recognized by the SAAQ

Motorcycle used during the test

We do not provide you with a motorcycle for the test. You must report to the test with a registered two-wheeled motorcycle that is equipped with a manual transmission and is in good mechanical condition.

If you rent a motorcycle, please note that we only accept motorcycles with an engine displacement of more than 400 cc.

If you are the owner of the motorcycle, a lower engine displacement will be accepted.

We do not accept:

• off-road motorcycles, such as trail bikes
• motorcycles with a side-car
• three- or four-wheeled motorcycles
• motorcycles equipped with an automatic transmission
• motorcycles classified as high-risk

If you are using an electric motorcycle, it must be equipped with a manual transmission. You may not use an electric motorcycle with an automatic transmission to take your closed track test.

Motorcycles designed for road use or dual sport motorcycles that are registered for off-road use are accepted.

You must report to your closed track test with a motorcycle that:

• is in good mechanical condition. We will be inspecting the presence, state, and functionality of the following components:
  • at least one white headlight at the front and on the vertical centreline
  • red brake lights at the rear
  • tail lights and turn signal lights that are visible from a distance of at least 150 metres
  • securely attached rearview mirrors on each side
  • securely attached footrests
  • muffler
  • securely attached fenders
  • securely attached chain guard
  • front and rear brakes
  • tires designed to be used on the road network and free from bulges and cuts and rips that expose the cord
    • Note: The tire treads must not be slick. The tires must be inflated sufficiently and not be so worn that the wear indicator touches the road.
• is equipped with a gas tank with an airtight filler cap that contains enough fuel to allow you to complete the closed track test (the low fuel warning light must not be on).
• has a seat that is not at risk of moving or becoming detached when travelling; the same applies to any accessories.
• does not have any sharp edges that could injure someone or any leakages (oil, gas, coolant).
• bears a lit licence plate that is free of any object.

If your motorcycle is not in good mechanical condition, you will not be able to the closed track test.

No components of the motorcycle may be held in place with bonding material, such as adhesive tape, a rope or cable ties.

Protective gear is mandatory

A helmet that meets safety standards must be worn.

In addition, the following protective gear is now mandatory:

• a long-sleeved jacket or top
• long pants
• gloves
• boots or closed-toe shoes

If you are not wearing all the mandatory protective gear, you will not be able to take the closed track test.

For even greater safety, you should wear a full-face helmet and protective clothing made of leather or abrasion-resistant material that is industry approved and brightly coloured.

For practical advice and more information on the applicable standards, visit our Motorcycle Helmets and Protective Gear page.

Test procedure

During the test, the examiner will give you instructions on the specific manoeuvres to carry out. For example, you will be asked to:

• put the motorcycle in motion and stop
• ride at low speed
• ride in a curve
• make a right turn
• carry out a slalom manoeuvre
• carry out an emergency braking manoeuvre
• avoid an obstacle

To prepare for the test properly, visit the page that provides Additional Information for the Closed Track Test.

Please note that using a portable electronic device (phone, watch, etc.) to record images during the closed track test is prohibited. If you fail to respect this rule, you will immediately fail the test.

Weather conditions

In case of poor weather, check to make sure your appointment has not been cancelled.

The closed track test may take place under light rain. In addition to the mandatory protective gear, you must ensure that you have the appropriate equipment for the weather conditions and wear adequate clothing to avoid postponing your test.

Safety first:

• You are responsible for rescheduling your test if you are uncomfortable with the weather conditions.
• The SAAQ reserves the right to postpone the test if it deems weather conditions too poor to ensure everyone’s safety.

Cancelling the test

If you cannot make it to your test, we ask that you cancel the appointment at least 48 hours in advance. Otherwise you will be charged a cancellation fee.

If your test is cancelled due to weather conditions, you will not be charged a fee.

On the day of the test

You must:

Step 1 – Go to the service outlet where you scheduled your test.

Step 2 – Bring:

• your Class 6R learner's licence
  OR
• one of the official documents required on the day of the knowledge test: birth certificate, Health Insurance Card, etc.
  AND
• your attestation of successful completion of a driving course
• the valid and signed registration certificate
• proof of civil liability insurance for the motorcycle you will be using during the test

Step 3 – Take the closed track test.

Step 4 – Pay the applicable fees for:

• the test
• a Class 6A learner's licence (if you pass the test).

Payment options

At our service outlets, we accept payment:

• in cash
• by debit card (not available at some service outlets)
• by one or more pre-authorized debits (a cheque specimen must be provided)
• by cheque or money order

Payment by credit card is not accepted.

Passing mark

The passing mark is 75%.

If you fail the test

You must wait at least 14 days before you will be allowed to retake the test. You will have to schedule another appointment.

Your Class 6A learner's licence authorizes you to get out on the road and perfect your skills for at least 11 months, during which time you must respect certain obligations.

Obligations of learner's licence holders

• Respect the curfew between midnight and 5 a.m.
• Never carry any passengers
• Respect the zero-alcohol rule
• Do not operate high-risk motorcycles

If you do not hold a Class 5 driver's licence

You are subject to:

• the four demerit point bracket

The road test is the final step before obtaining a Class 6A, 6B or 6C driver’s licence or probationary licence.

Before taking the test

Licence

You must have held a Class 6A learner’s licence for at least 11 months.

Motorcycle used during the test

We do not provide you with a motorcycle for the test. You must report to your test with a registered two-wheeled motorcycle equipped with a manual transmission, and in good mechanical condition. The motorcycle must not appear on the list of high-risk motorcycles.

You can choose the engine displacement you want to use. However, make sure the motorcycle matches the class of licence you want to obtain:

• engine displacement  of more than 400 cc to obtain Class 6A (all motorcycles)
• engine displacement  of 126 cc to 400 cc to obtain Class 6B
• engine displacement  of 125 cc or less to obtain Class 6C

You must report to your test with a motorcycle that:

• is in good mechanical condition. We will be inspecting the presence, state, and functionality of the following components:
  • at least one white headlight at the front and on the vertical centreline
  • red brake lights at the rear
  • tail lights and turn signal lights that are visible from a distance of at least 150 metres
  • securely attached rearview mirrors on each side
  • securely attached footrests
  • muffler
  • securely attached fenders
  • securely attached chain guard
  • front and rear brakes
  • tires designed to be used on the road network and free from bulges and cuts and rips that expose the cord
    • Note: The tire treads must not be slick. The tires must be inflated sufficiently and not be so worn that the wear indicator touches the road.
• is equipped with a gas tank with an airtight filler cap that contains enough fuel to allow you to complete the closed track test (the low fuel warning light must not be on)
• has a seat that is not at risk of moving or becoming detached when travelling; the same applies to any accessories
• does not have any sharp edges that could injure someone or any leakages (oil, gas, coolant)
• bears a lit licence plate that is free of any object

If your motorcycle is not in good mechanical condition, you will not be able to the track test.

No components of the motorcycle may be held in place with bonding material, such as adhesive tape, a rope or cable ties.

If you have a vintage motorcycle, it may not be acceptable for use during the road test due to the restrictions related to this type of motorcycle.

Protective gear is mandatory

A full set of protective gear must be worn during the road test.

The following protective gear is mandatory:

• a helmet that meets safety standards
• a visor or protective goggles

In addition, the following protective gear is now mandatory:

• a long-sleeved jacket or top
• long pants
• gloves
• boots or closed-toe shoes

If you are not wearing all the mandatory protective gear, you will not be able to take the closed track test.

You should wear a full-face helmet for increased protection and to make it easier to hear the examiner’s instructions during the test. For even greater safety, you should wear clothing made of leather or abrasion-resistant material that is industry approved and brightly coloured.

For practical advice and more information on the applicable standards, visit our Motorcycle Helmets and Protective Gear page.

What does the test consist of?

The road test is designed to assess your ability to operate a motorcycle in common situations, such as:

• merging with traffic
• stopping at an intersection
• making turns
• changing lanes

You will be evaluated on the following points:

• your driving skills as you execute the manoeuvres
• whether you obey traffic rules and your ability to drive safely
• your ability to control the motorcycle and your riding behaviour

To prepare for the test properly, visit the Additional Information for the Motorcycle Road Test.

On the day of the test

You must:

Step 1 – Go to the service outlet where you scheduled your test

Step 2 – Bring:

• the valid and signed registration certificate
• the paper copy of the proof of civil liability insurance for the motorcycle used during the test

Step 3 – Pay the test fee and, if you passed the test:

• the 24-month probationary licence fee: 
  OR
• your driver's licence fee, the amount of which is based on how many months remain before your annual renewal date

Payment options

At our service outlets, we accept payment:

• in cash
• by debit card (not available at some service outlets)
• by one or more pre-authorized debits (a cheque specimen must be provided)
• by cheque or money order

Payment by credit card is not accepted.

Test procedure

The examiner will take the time to explain the test procedure. You will then be asked to wear a vest displaying the words “Examen moto SAAQ.”

The examiner will follow you in an automobile driven by an assistant. The vehicle will be equipped with a sign displaying the words “Examen moto SAAQ.” You will be provided with a hearing device to hear the examiner's instructions. We recommend that you wear a full-face helmet for increased protection and to better hear the examiner's instructions during the test.

Whether you pass or fail the test, the examiner will take the time to indicate your strong points as well as the areas that need improvement.

Please note that using a portable electronic device (phone, watch, etc.) to record images during the road test is prohibited. If you fail to respect this rule, you will immediately fail the test.

Passing mark

The passing mark is 75%.

If you fail the test

You must wait at least 56 days before you will be allowed to retake the test. You will have to make another appointment.

Obtaining a probationary licence

If you pass the test and you do not hold a Class 5 driver's licence, you will be issued a Class 6A, 6B or 6C probationary licence.

After two years, you may obtain a Class 6A, 6B or 6C driver's licence.

Holders of a probationary licence or those who have held a motorcycle licence for 24 months or less must:

• have fewer than four demerit points on their driving record (probationary licence only)
• abide by the zero-alcohol rule
• not operate a motorcycle that appears on the list of high-risk motorcycles