Quebec's graduated licensing system, administered by the SAAQ (Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec), begins with obtaining a Learner's licence. To apply you must be at least 16 years old, visit a SAAQ service centre, pass a vision test, and pass the written knowledge exam. The fee is approximately $22 for the knowledge test. As a Learner you must be accompanied by a fully licenced driver seated in the right front seat, maintain zero blood alcohol, and cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. After 12 months you may take the practical road test for a Probationary licence.
The SAAQ knowledge test consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 32 correctly — 80% — to pass. The test is available in French and English at SAAQ service centres. Questions are drawn from the official Guide de la route (Highway Safety Code) and address road signs, traffic rules, right-of-way, safe following distances, and the specific restrictions of Quebec's probationary licence period. If you fail, you must wait 28 days before retaking the test.
Quebec road signs largely follow the national standard but some are unique or bilingual. The rules section emphasizes the Highway Safety Code, which differs from other provinces in several ways: the default urban speed limit is 50 km/h; the school zone speed limit is 30 km/h on school days between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.; and BAC limits are stricter — zero for all drivers under 22, holders of a Learner's or Probationary licence, and professional drivers. The province also prohibits handheld device use while stopped at a red light, not only while moving.
LicenceReady's Quebec SAAQ practice tests cover all four categories — road signs, traffic rules, right-of-way, and GLP rules — with explanations tied to the Highway Safety Code so you understand the legal basis for each rule. Aim for 90%+ on our practice questions before visiting a SAAQ service centre. The official Guide de la route is available free on the SAAQ website in both French and English.
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How many questions are on the Quebec SAAQ knowledge test?+
The Quebec SAAQ knowledge test has 40 multiple-choice questions. You must correctly answer at least 32 (80%) to pass.
What is the passing score for the Quebec SAAQ test?+
You need at least 32 out of 40 correct answers (80%) to pass the SAAQ knowledge test.
How long is the probationary driving period in Quebec?+
The probationary period is 24 months, reduced to 12 months if you complete an approved driving course recognized by the SAAQ.
What is the BAC limit for new drivers in Quebec?+
Drivers under 22 and those within their first 2 years of probationary driving must maintain zero blood alcohol. The standard limit for full licence holders is 0.08.
What is the default speed limit in Quebec?+
The default speed limit is 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on undivided rural roads, and 100 km/h on divided highways.
