🚦 Step by Step: How to Get Your First Driver’s License in Montreal

Getting your first driver’s license in Montreal is a big deal 🎉 — it means freedom, independence, and no more waiting on buses in the snow! But before you can cruise down Saint-Laurent or head out for a weekend road trip, you’ve got to go through the official process with the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ).

Don’t worry — it might look complicated, but we’ve broken it down into simple steps for you 👇

1️⃣ Meet the Basics

Before anything else, check that you’re good to go:

✅ You’re at least 16 years old (for a Class 5 car license)
✅ You live in Québec
✅ You have the right ID: proof of identity, proof of residence, and (if needed) proof of legal status in Canada

2️⃣ Hit the Books — Theory First

Driving starts in the classroom (yep, no skipping this part 📚).

You’ll complete Phase 1 theory modules at a certified driving school in Montreal
At the end, you’ll pass a knowledge test at your school

This stage makes sure you know the rules of the road before you ever touch the wheel.

3️⃣ Get Your Learner’s License

Now the fun begins 🚗💨

Once you pass the theory test, head to the SAAQ to apply for your learner’s license
Bring your documents, pay the fee, and you’re in!
Just remember: you’ll have restrictions (like always driving with a qualified passenger)

4️⃣ Practice, Practice, Practice

Time to actually drive! 🙌

Take in-car lessons with your school’s instructors
Québec’s program has a set number of hours — and yes, you’ll practice in real-life situations (city traffic, highways, winter roads ❄️)

5️⃣ Book & Pass Your Road Test

When you’re confident and ready:

Book your exam online via SAAQclic
Show off your skills at the SAAQ road test
Pass it? Congrats — you get your probationary license 🎉

6️⃣ The Probationary Stage

This stage lasts about 2 years. Think of it as your “rookie driver” period:

⚠️ Zero alcohol tolerance
⚠️ Limited demerit points
⚠️ Drive safe and steady — no shortcuts here

7️⃣ Level Up to Your Full License

After two clean years, you’ll graduate to a regular Québec driver’s license. By then, you’ll be a confident Montreal driver ready for anything (even navigating Décarie traffic at rush hour 😉).

📝 Documents You’ll Need

When visiting the SAAQ, bring:

2 valid IDs (one with a photo)
Proof of residence in Québec
Proof of legal status in Canada (if needed)
Extra docs if exchanging a foreign license

💰 Fees to Expect

Knowledge test
Road test
License issuance

Both exams are mandatory. Plan your budget accordingly.

📍 Where to Apply in Montreal

SAAQclic online portal
Or visit the Henri-Bourassa Service Center:
855 Henri-Bourassa Ouest, Montreal, H3L 1P3
☎️ 514-873-7620

Other contacts:

SAAQ General Info: 1-800-361-7620
SAAQ Montreal: 514-954-7771

🚘 Need Extra Help?

Driving schools like Ligue Automobile de Montréal (LADM) make the process easier:

📞 514-844-7303
📧 info@ladm.ca

We’ll help you with:

Signing up for lessons
Preparing for exams
Collecting documents

🎯 Final Takeaway

Getting your license in Montreal isn’t just about passing tests — it’s about building confidence and becoming a safe, skilled driver.

Follow the steps, stay patient, and before you know it, you’ll be holding that hard-earned driver’s license in your hand. 🚗✨