Driving in Quebec can be a unique and exciting experience for foreigners. However, to enjoy the freedom to explore the roads of this beautiful province, it’s necessary to obtain a valid driving permit. In this article, we’ll explain how foreigners can obtain a driving permit in Quebec, following the guidelines provided by the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ).
Students in Quebec
If you are a student or intern, whether originally from Canada or another country, and you come from a different Canadian province, a Canadian territory, or abroad, you can drive for the duration of your studies or internships if you possess a valid driving license issued in another province, a Canadian territory, or abroad. This license must authorize you to drive the type of vehicle you use.
You won’t be able to get a Quebec permit unless you decide to reside in the province. If your driving license is not written in French or English, it is advisable to obtain an international driving permit before coming to Quebec. This permit can only be issued in the country where you acquired your driving license and is valid for one year.
Non-residents of Quebec
If you are visiting Quebec, you can drive for up to 6 consecutive months with your driving license issued in another province, Canadian territory, or abroad, as long as it’s valid and authorizes you to drive the type of vehicle you are using. You can drive any type of vehicle, as long as your original license allows it and you comply with its conditions.
If your stay in Quebec lasts more than 6 months, it is necessary for you to obtain a valid international driving permit to travel on the province’s roads. You should always carry both your licenses: the one issued in another province, Canadian territory, or another country, and the international permit. You can drive in Quebec as long as your international permit remains valid.
New residents of Quebec.
If you have recently settled in Quebec, you can drive for up to 6 consecutive months with your driving license issued in another province, Canadian territory, or abroad, as long as it’s valid and allows you to drive the type of vehicle you are using. After 6 months, it is mandatory to obtain a Quebec driving permit.
Prerequisites to obtaining a driving license in Quebec
Before applying for a driving permit in Quebec, foreigners must meet certain prerequisites. These include:
1. Being at least 16 years old.
2. Being authorized to drive in your home country.
3. Not having any medical or legal restrictions that prevent obtaining a driving permit.
Process to obtain a driving permit
Once the prerequisites are met, foreigners can follow these steps to obtain a driving permit in Quebec:
1. Exchange of foreign license (if applicable): If the applicant comes from a country with an exchange agreement with Quebec, they may be able to exchange their foreign license for one from Quebec without needing to take additional tests. It’s important to check if your country has an exchange agreement with Quebec on the SAAQ website. Also keep in mind that: The driver with a driving license with an exchange agreement with Quebec must have at least one year of driving experience in their place of origin;
If your license is from another Canadian province or the United States and it has expired less than three years ago, no competence examination will be required, after three years this will be required.
2. Study and preparation: Applicants should familiarize themselves with Quebec’s traffic laws and road safety rules. They can do this by studying the Quebec Driver’s Manual, available on the SAAQ website.
3. Enrollment in a Road Safety Education Course: Applicants who cannot exchange their foreign license must enroll in a Road Safety Education course recognized by the SAAQ. This course includes theoretical and practical modules that teach the necessary skills and knowledge to drive safely and efficiently in Quebec.
4. Theoretical and Practical Exams: After completing the road safety education course, applicants must pass a theoretical and a practical exam administered by the SAAQ. These exams assess knowledge of traffic laws, road signs, and practical driving skills.
5. Obtaining a Learner’s Permit: Once the theoretical exams are passed, applicants will receive a learner’s permit valid for 18 months. During this period, new drivers must adhere to certain restrictions and conditions.
6. Obtaining the Driver’s License: After fulfilling all conditions of the learner’s permit and demonstrating safe and responsible driving skills, applicants can apply for a Quebec driver’s license.
Conclusion
Obtaining a driver’s license in Quebec for foreigners involves a process that ensures drivers have the necessary knowledge and skills to drive safely and responsibly on the roads of this province. By following the guidelines set by the SAAQ and meeting all the requirements, foreigners will be able to fully enjoy the experience of driving in Quebec and explore its landscapes and cities independently and safely.
