Probationary License in Quebec: Everything You Need to Know Before Taking It

February 12, 2023

What is the provisional license in Quebec?

The provisional license in Quebec is an intermediate step in the process of obtaining a driver’s license. It allows beginner drivers to gain driving experience safely and under certain conditions. The provisional license is valid for a certain number of years and can be obtained from the age of 16.

 

How to obtain the provisional license in Quebec?

To obtain the provisional license in Quebec, you must first pass the theoretical driving exam and the practical driving exam. You must also meet certain conditions, such as having a minimum age and being in possession of a medical certificate of good health. Once you have passed these steps, you can obtain your provisional license by paying the license issuance fees and presenting yourself at the counter of the SAAQ.

 

Conditions for obtaining and maintaining the provisional license in Quebec

There are several conditions to be respected in order to obtain and maintain the provisional license in Quebec. Here are a few examples:

  • Do not have any serious or repeated offenses during the probationary period.
  • Do not commit any offense of driving under the influence or impaired driving during the probationary period.
  • Do not commit any offense of driving with a suspended or canceled license during the probationary period.
  • Do not lose more than three points of ineligibility during the probationary period.

The limitations of the provisional license in Quebec

The provisional license in Quebec has certain restrictions to protect beginner drivers and reduce the risk of road accidents. Some of these limitations include:

  • Prohibition of driving between midnight and 5am, unless there is an urgent need (work, studies, etc.).
  • Prohibition of transporting more than one passenger under 25 years of age, unless they are a member of the immediate family or a legal guardian.

 

Sanctions for non-compliance with the conditions of the provisional license in Quebec

Non-compliance with the conditions of the provisional license in Quebec can result in serious sanctions, ranging from the cancellation of the provisional license to the suspension or cancellation of the driver’s license. It is important to respect the limitations and conditions imposed to avoid losing your right to drive.

 

Tips and tricks for success with the provisional license in Quebec

Here are some tips and tricks for success with the provisional license in Quebec:

  • Take the time to properly prepare for the theoretical and practical driving exams.
  • Respect the limitations and conditions imposed by the provisional license.
  • Gain driving experience safely, by following traffic rules and practicing regularly.
  • Seek advice from experienced drivers and your driving school instructor.

Comparison with the provisional license system in other Canadian provinces

The provisional license system varies from province to province in Canada. Here are some examples of differences between the provisional license system in Quebec and that of some other provinces:

  • In Ontario, the provisional license is divided into two stages: the Ontario G1 driver’s license and the Ontario G2 driver’s license. The G1 license imposes restrictions similar to those of the provisional license in Quebec, while the G2 license is less restrictive.
  • In British Columbia, the provisional license is also divided into two stages: the British Columbia N driver’s license and the British Columbia L driver’s license. The N license imposes restrictions similar to those of the provisional license in Quebec, while the L license is less restrictive.
  • In Alberta, the provisional license is divided into three stages: the Alberta Class 7 driver’s license, the Alberta Class 5-GDL driver’s license, and the Alberta Class 5 driver’s license. The Class 7 license imposes restrictions similar to those of the provisional license in Quebec, while the Class 5-GDL and Class 5 licenses are less restrictive.