Driving in Quebec as a New Resident of Québec

If you are a newcomer to Quebec and want to get your driver's licence, you have come to the right place.

To be allowed to drive in Quebec, you must have a valid driver's licence that indicates the class of vehicle you are driving and the restrictions that apply to it. Depending on the type of vehicle you wish to drive, you will need to obtain an appropriate driver's licence that demonstrates your ability to drive safely and respect the laws and rules of the road in the province. It is therefore essential to ensure that your driver's licence is in order before you get behind the wheel, to avoid serious consequences in the event of a traffic infraction or accident.

As a new resident of Quebec, you may drive a car, motorbike or moped for the first six months after your arrival, provided you have a valid driver's licence obtained outside Quebec that authorizes the driving of this type of vehicle.

After that time, you must obtain a Quebec driver's licence to continue driving. You can apply for this licence as soon as you arrive in the province.

If your licence was issued in Canada, you can exchange it for an equivalent Quebec driver's licence without having to pass the proficiency tests. However, if you have a professional driver's licence, you may be required to provide a medical report.

If your licence was issued in a country other than Canada, you must apply for a Quebec driver's licence within 12 months of your arrival in Canada. Depending on where you got your licence, you may be able to exchange it for an equivalent licence to drive a car without a skills test or you may have to take the tests to get a licence to drive a motorbike or heavy vehicle.

If you have less than 24 months of driving experience with a car or motorbike, you will receive a probationary licence. You can get a regular licence once you have 24 months of driving experience.

For more information please visit the government website: https://saaq.gouv.qc.ca/en/tourists-newcomers/driving-in-quebec/obtaining-drivers-licence