Newcomers

To Drive in Québec, the Law Says…

Driving in Québec is governed by the Highway Safety Code. A driver's licence is mandatory and drivers must obey the rules concerning traffic signs, signals, vehicles and equipment.

Driver's licence

To be allowed to drive in Québec, you must:

• hold a valid driver's licence with the appropriate class of licence for the type of vehicle you are driving and abide by the conditions that appear on the licence.

For example, a Class 5 licence is required to drive a passenger vehicle, such as a car.

If your driver's licence was issued outside Québec

You are allowed to drive on Québec roads for 6 consecutive months, but only an automobile, a motorcycle, a moped or a scooter, provided your licence authorizes you to drive such vehicles.

If you decide to settle in Québec

You are required to exchange your foreign driver's licence for a Québec licence. You may apply for a licence exchange as soon as you arrive in Québec.

Go to the section entitled Foreign Driver's Licence for the procedure and conditions that apply to your situation.

 

Vehicle registration

To be authorized for road use in Québec, the vehicle – whether it is owned by you or borrowed from a friend or relative – must be registered and the fees to be authorized for road use must be paid.

There are several categories of licence plates based on vehicle type and use.

Insurance

Other than the rare exception, the owners of any vehicle travelling in Québec must be covered by a third-party civil liability insurance policy of at least $50,000 contracted from a private insurance company.

Obligation to obey the Highway Safety Code

Road safety is a priority in Québec. We invite you to consult the section entitled Road Safety to find out more about the provisions of the Highway Safety Code and to adopt safe behaviour on our roads.

To get to know our Highway Safety Code

We recommend that you test your knowledge and consult the Directory of Québec Traffic Control Devices.

Last update: September  9, 2016