The Quebec driver's license process has three stages: written knowledge test, road test, and a waiting period between them

To get a Quebec driver's license, you must pass a written test on traffic rules, then pass a practical driving test with an examiner. You cannot take the road test until at least 12 months after passing the written test (or 6 months if you complete an approved driving course). The whole process typically takes one to two years from start to finish, depending on how quickly you book your tests and how many attempts you need.

You must be at least 16 years old to begin. If you are under 18, you will have additional restrictions on when and where you can drive during the first two years after getting your license. The process is the same whether you are a new driver or transferring a license from another province or country.

Key Takeaways

  • You must pass the written knowledge test first, then wait at least 12 months (or 6 months with a driving course) before you can take the road test.
  • The written test covers Quebec traffic laws and road signs and costs around $30; you can take it at any Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) office.
  • The road test costs around $90 and must be booked through the SAAQ; examiners test your ability to handle real traffic situations.
  • Drivers under 18 face a two-year probationary period with restrictions on passengers, night driving, and phone use after they receive their license.
  • If you already hold a valid license from another province or country, you may be able to skip the written test and go straight to the road test.

Getting your SAAQ user account and booking the written test

Start by creating an account on the SAAQ website (saaq.gouv.qc.ca). You will need your Social Insurance Number, a valid email address, and a phone number. Once your account is set up, you can book the written knowledge test directly through the website or by calling the SAAQ at 1-800-361-7272.

The written test is offered at SAAQ offices across the province. You choose the date, time, and location that works for you. The test costs approximately $30 and takes about 45 minutes. You will answer 40 multiple-choice questions about Quebec traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to score at least 80 percent to pass.

Bring a valid piece of identification to the test — a passport, birth certificate, or Quebec health insurance card all work. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you must wait at least two weeks before booking again. Most people pass on their first or second attempt.

Understanding the mandatory waiting period before the road test

After you pass the written test, you cannot take the road test for at least 12 months. This waiting period exists whether you pass on your first try or your tenth. The clock starts the day you pass, not the day you take the test.

You can shorten this waiting period to 6 months if you complete an approved driving course. These courses are offered by private driving schools across Quebec and typically cost between $300 and $600. The course includes classroom instruction on traffic laws and at least 30 hours of practical driving with an instructor. Once you finish, the driving school sends proof to the SAAQ, and your waiting period drops to 6 months when ready.

During the waiting period, you cannot drive on public roads without a licensed driver in the car with you (unless you already held a valid license from another jurisdiction). This is true even if you have passed the written test.

Booking and preparing for the road test

Once your waiting period is over, you can book the road test through your SAAQ account or by phone. The test costs approximately $90. You choose your date and location, though availability varies by region — rural areas may have longer wait times than Montreal or Quebec City.

The road test lasts about 45 minutes. The examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers (parking, three-point turns, lane changes) and drive through different traffic conditions — residential streets, busier roads, and possibly highways depending on the test route. The examiner is looking for safe decision-making, proper use of mirrors and signals, smooth control of the vehicle, and your ability to follow traffic laws.

Bring your valid identification, your written test pass confirmation, and proof of insurance for the vehicle you are using. The vehicle itself must be in safe working condition — the examiner will check the brakes, lights, wipers, and horn before you start. If anything is broken, the test will not proceed.

What happens if you fail the road test

If you do not pass, the examiner will tell you which areas need work — for example, lane changes, parking, or decision-making in traffic. You can retake the test, but you must wait at least two weeks. There is no limit to how many times you can take it, though each attempt costs another $90.

Most people pass within two or three attempts. If you are struggling, a few hours with a professional driving instructor can pinpoint what the examiner is looking for. Many driving schools offer test-prep sessions specifically designed to address common failure points.

Receiving your license and understanding probationary restrictions

Once you pass the road test, you will receive your license in the mail within two weeks. Your license is valid for five years. If you are under 18 when you receive it, you enter a two-year probationary period with specific restrictions.

During probation, you cannot carry more than one passenger under 20 years old (family members are exempt). You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free. You must display an "N" decal on your vehicle so other drivers know you are a new driver. These restrictions lift automatically after two years or when you turn 20, whichever comes first.

If you are 18 or older when you pass the road test, you receive an unrestricted license when ready with no probationary period.

Transferring a license from another province or country

If you already hold a valid driver's license from another Canadian province, you may not need to take the written test. Contact the SAAQ to confirm your license is recognized. You will still need to take the road test, and the same 12-month waiting period applies if your license is from outside Canada.

If your license is from the United States or another country, you can drive in Quebec for up to six months on that license. After six months, you must have a Quebec license. You will need to take both the written and road tests, though some countries have reciprocal agreements that waive the written test — the SAAQ can tell you whether yours does.

Bring your current license, proof of residency in Quebec (a utility bill or lease), and your Social Insurance Number when you contact the SAAQ about a transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the road test before 12 months if I complete a driving course?

Yes. If you finish an SAAQ-approved driving course, your waiting period drops from 12 months to 6 months. The driving school sends your completion certificate to the SAAQ, and you can book the road test when ready after the 6-month mark passes.

What vehicle should I use for the road test?

Use a vehicle you have access to regularly and feel comfortable driving. It must be insured and in safe working condition. The examiner checks the brakes, lights, wipers, horn, and steering before the test starts. You can use a driving school's vehicle if you are taking lessons with them.

Do I need to retake the written test if I fail the road test?

No. The written test pass is valid for five years. You only need to retake the road test. Each road test attempt costs about $90.

What happens to my probationary restrictions if I turn 20 before two years?

Your restrictions lift when you turn 20, even if you have not been driving for two years yet. You do not need to do anything — the SAAQ updates your status automatically.

Can I drive alone with my written test pass but before the road test?

No. Even after passing the written test, you cannot drive alone on public roads. You must have a licensed driver with you until you pass the road test and receive your license.