🚗 Driving in Quebec as a New Immigrant: How to Get Your Driver’s Licence

Relocating to a new country comes with many challenges — and learning how to drive in Quebec is one of the most important. If you’re a newcomer, immigrant, or international student in Montreal, understanding how the Quebec driver’s licence system works, what documents are required, and how to prepare for the SAAQ road tests can make your transition much smoother.

At the Ligue de l’Automobile de Montréal, we specialize in helping new arrivals become confident, safe, and legal drivers on Quebec roads.

✅ 1. Can You Drive in Quebec with a Foreign Licence?

Yes — but only for a limited time.

If you’re a new immigrant or temporary resident, you can use your foreign driver’s licence for up to 6 months after arriving in Quebec. After that, you must exchange it for a Quebec driver’s licence through the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ).

🔍 Tip: Some countries (like France, Belgium, and others) have licence exchange agreements with Quebec. If you’re from one of these countries, you may not need to take a road test.

📄 2. Steps to Get a Quebec Driver’s Licence as a Newcomer

Here’s a simplified process:

Check Licence Exchange Eligibility
Visit the SAAQ website to confirm if your country has an agreement.
Book an Appointment at the SAAQ
Bring your foreign driver’s licence, immigration documents, and a certified translation if needed.
Pass the Knowledge Test (if required)
If your licence isn’t directly exchangeable, you’ll need to take the SAAQ theory exam.
Take the Road Test
If your driving experience is recognized but not your licence, you may need to pass a practical exam.

🧑‍🏫 3. Why Take Driving Lessons as a New Immigrant?

Even if you’ve driven for years, Quebec driving conditions can be very different:

Road signs are in French
Winter driving with snow and ice
Unique speed limits and traffic rules
Zero alcohol tolerance for new drivers

At the Ligue de l’Automobile de Montréal, we provide personalized driving lessons for newcomers. Our programs focus on adapting to Quebec’s:
✔️ Road conditions
✔️ Traffic patterns
✔️ Local driving laws

💬 Our multilingual instructors are experienced in training new immigrants at all skill levels, and we offer theory and road test preparation.

📍 4. Why Choose Ligue de l’Automobile de Montréal?

We’ve helped thousands of newcomers:

Pass the SAAQ driving test
Exchange their foreign licence successfully
Gain the confidence to drive safely in Quebec

Our Services:

Individual or package driving lessons
Theory test prep in English & French
SAAQ road test simulations
Patient, understanding instructors who know the challenges immigrants face

📞 Contact Us Today

Ready to start driving in Quebec? 🚦

Ligue de l’Automobile de Montréal
📍 Montreal, QC
📞 514-844-7303
📧 info@ladm.ca

Take the wheel with confidence — we’ll help you succeed on Quebec roads!