Guide
Getting a Quebec Class 5 driving licence: a guide for newcomers
Arriving in Quebec with driving experience does not guarantee passing the road test. The examiner's expectations are specific and sometimes different from what you learned elsewhere.
Updated 2026-02-24
Steps for a newcomer
- Check with the SAAQ whether your licence can be exchanged.
- Book the road test if one is required.
- Review the rules specific to Quebec.
- Practise in the area around your test centre.
- Arrange an eligible vehicle for test day.
First, check the status of your foreign licence
Some countries and states have an exchange agreement with Quebec, which simplifies everything. Others do not, in which case you go through the full process including the road test.
The SAAQ remains the official source for your personal situation. Check this before planning anything else.
The Quebec rules that surprise people most
These are the points that come up most often with drivers trained abroad.
- No right turn on red on the island of Montreal.
- Complete stops at stop signs, even with no traffic.
- Strict priority for pedestrians at crossings and intersections.
- Blind-spot checks that must be visible to the examiner.
- School zones with reduced limits at certain hours.
Winter changes the driving
From December to March, winter tires are mandatory and road conditions force longer braking distances, gentler acceleration and reduced visibility.
If your test falls in that window, practise in real winter conditions rather than on dry pavement.
Want to fix these points before the test?
A short request is enough to check availability and choose the right preparation.
City driving in Montreal
Permanent construction, bike lanes, reserved bus lanes and narrow streets lined with parked cars: Montreal driving demands constant reading of the environment.
A vehicle for the test
Many newcomers do not have a car yet. A rental with an hour of practice before the test avoids scrambling for a borrowed, possibly ineligible vehicle at the last minute.
Preparation in French or English
Being able to ask questions in your strongest language speeds up learning. Sessions are offered in both, evenings and weekends.