The 4 Phases of a Driving Course in Quebec

October 1, 2025

Getting a driver’s licence in Quebec requires a structured program divided into several phases. Designed to guide learning progressively and safely, this process is mandatory for all new drivers. Since June 2025, certain rules have been updated by the SAAQ, making it even more important to fully understand each step before getting started.

Introduction to the phases of the driving course

Quebec’s Road Safety Education Program (RSEP) includes four distinct phases. Each one has a specific goal: acquiring theoretical knowledge, developing practical skills, consolidating real-life driving experience, and preparing for the final exam. These steps are designed to ensure gradual progress and reduce risks for new drivers.

Choosing a recognized driving school like Somerled ensures you go through these phases with personalized guidance while meeting SAAQ requirements. For a clear overview of the costs associated with each phase, visit our pricing page. You can also consult the official SAAQ page on the passenger vehicle driving course to see the complete mandatory structure.

Phase 1: Basic theoretical learning

This first step is dedicated to theory. It includes 5 classroom modules, spread over about one month. The subjects covered include:

  • the rules of the Highway Safety Code,
  • road signs,
  • safe driving behaviours,
  • sharing the road with pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers.

At the end of this phase, students take an internal theoretical exam, which is required to obtain the learner’s licence. This official document allows them to begin on-road practice but always accompanied by an experienced driver.

Phase 2: Initial practical lessons and consolidation

Once the learner’s licence is obtained, students enter the second phase. This combines on-road driving lessons with complementary theory modules. The goal is to become familiar with real driving conditions:

  • starting, braking, and basic manoeuvres,
  • navigating intersections,
  • initial practice in urban and residential traffic.

This phase is essential to build confidence and integrate safe driving reflexes. Instructors play a key role in correcting mistakes early on.

Phase 3: Real-life situations and supervised driving

The third phase expands skills by introducing multiple driving contexts: highways, heavy traffic, night driving, and varied weather conditions. It’s also the time to practise more complex manoeuvres like parallel parking or handling roundabouts.

Throughout the driving hours, students learn to anticipate other road users’ behaviours and adopt a proactive attitude to prevent risks. This phase highlights the importance of progressive and safe exposure to real-life situations.

Phase 4: Advanced practice and final exam preparation

The final step directly prepares students for the SAAQ road test. It includes:

  • advanced driving techniques,
  • mock road tests,
  • personalized coaching to improve weak points.

At the end of this phase, students are deemed ready to take the official road test. If successful, they obtain their probationary licence, the first step toward the full driver’s licence.

Recent changes (2025) to the licensing regulation

On June 5, 2025, important changes to the licensing regulation came into effect. They aim to better supervise learning and simplify some administrative processes.

New timelines and procedures

Notable changes include:

  • adjusted minimum delays between phases to avoid administrative bottlenecks,
  • clearer conditions for renewing a learner’s licence,
  • simplified procedures for newcomers holding a foreign licence.

For more details, consult the official SAAQ page on driving courses.

Impacts for learner drivers

These changes make it easier for students to progress by offering more flexibility. However, they also require better organization to respect delays between lessons and exams. An experienced driving school like Somerled helps students navigate these new rules smoothly.

Tips for succeeding in each phase

Here are some recommendations to get the most out of your training:

  • Phase 1: review theory regularly and use available online practice quizzes.
  • Phase 2: increase your supervised driving hours outside of lessons to strengthen learning.
  • Phase 3: practise in different contexts (night, rain, highway) to broaden your skills.
  • Phase 4: simulate the road test with an instructor to reduce stress on the big day.

Personalized guidance is key: a dedicated instructor corrects your mistakes and helps you adopt safe driving habits.

Conclusion

The phases of a driving course in Quebec represent a structured and progressive program designed to ensure the safety of new drivers. With the June 2025 regulatory changes, it’s more important than ever to be well supported. By choosing a local school like Somerled, you benefit from personalized training adapted to each step and maximize your chances of success. To take action today, visit our driving course registration page.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does a full driving course take in Quebec?

On average, the full program takes 10 to 12 months. Each phase must be completed in a specific order.

Do the new 2025 rules make the program longer?

No, they mainly aim to simplify some timelines and provide better supervision, without extending the overall duration of the program.

Do I need to redo the theory if I fail the road test?

No. If you fail the road test, you must wait a minimum delay before retaking it, but your theoretical learning remains valid.

Can the phases of the driving course be accelerated?

No. The SAAQ requires mandatory delays between phases to ensure safe progression. However, a driving school like Somerled can optimize your schedule to avoid unnecessary delays.