Right-Hand Drive Vehicles: Prohibited, With Exceptions
In Québec, right-hand drive vehicles built less than 25 years ago can no longer be operated on public roadways, with some exceptions.
Why are right-hand drive vehicles prohibited from operation in Québec?
Since Québec traffic flows on the right, drivers of right-hand drive vehicles cannot see oncoming traffic as well, increasing the risk of accident.
Right-hand drive: 32% more accidents
A study conducted by the SAAQ that examined accidents that occurred in 2007 and 2008 concluded that right-hand drive vehicles were involved in 32% more accidents than comparable left-hand drive vehicles.
Right-hand drive vehicles authorized for operation in Québec
Vehicles built 25 years or more before the date of application for access to the road network. The vehicle’s age is calculated using the month and year it was built. For example, in November 2018, a vehicle must have been built before November 1993.
Vehicles purchased before April 29, 2009 and registered before March 31, 2011
Heavy vehiclesVehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 4,500 kg or more, as indicated on the compliance label., tool vehiclesA road vehicle, other than a vehicle mounted on a truck chassis, designed to perform a task and having a workstation integrated into the cab. A truck chassis is a frame fitted with the mechanical components found on a vehicle made for the transportation of passengers, freight or equipment. or vehicles making frequent stops along a route for purposes of public service
Vehicles belonging to a driving school
Before importing a right-hand drive vehicle, you should consult the technical bulletin relative to the Road Vehicle Mechanical Inspection Guidethat discusses the mechanical inspection of imported vehicles:
Light vehicles, also known as kei cars or keijidosha
If you are using this type of vehicle, avoid driving on public roadways where the posted speed limit is over 70 km/h.
Canada Post mail delivery
If your route requires a right-hand drive vehicle, you must obtain our authorization to be allowed to operate the vehicle.
Procedure
Step 1 – Apply for an authorization before purchasing the vehicle
You must submit proof that you work for Canada Post and that your route requires a right-hand drive vehicle.
By mail
Direction générale de l'expertise légale et de la sécurité des véhicules Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec Case postale 19600, succursale Terminus Québec (Québec) G1K 8J6
After reviewing your application, we will inform you of our decision in writing.
Step 3 – If you obtain our authorization
Register the vehicle and inform us when this has been done. We will send you a numbered authorization letter naming the vehicle's owner.
Make an appointment with a road vehicle inspection agent to obtain a mechanical inspection certificate confirming that the vehicle meets the applicable standards. Bring the authorization letter with you to the appointment.
Go to one of our service outlets to apply for authorization to operate the vehicle. Bring the following documents with you:
