Driving license Exchange process

As the name suggests, it is an exchange of your existing foreign driver’s license for a Quebec license. You will require one if you intend to drive frequently throughout the province, not just for a short time (less than six months).

After you arrive in Quebec, you won’t need to exchange your foreign license because the province of Quebec allows you to drive the same type of vehicle for six months. After these six months, you will need an international driver’s license, take a driving test, or change your license if you move to Québec.

Call the Societe Assurance Automobile Quebec (SAAQ) to schedule an appointment if you want to get a driver’s license in Quebec or exchange your current one.

Who can exchange their driver’s license?

To get a license exchange, you must first meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 16 (or 14 years old for a Class 6D scooter with a cylinder capacity of 50 ccs or less).
• Possess a license to operate a motorcycle, scooter, or car.
• Be a Québec citizen.
• Have permission to remain in Canada.

If your current driver’s license was issued in one of the following nations, you could take advantage of a test-free driver’s license exchange for a passenger car or moped:

You will be required to take a test if you drive a vehicle other than a passenger car or moped, such as a motorcycle or truck.

You can still get a license exchange if you are from a country that isn’t on the list above, but you must pass a driving test first.

Exchanging cost

A driver’s license fee will vary widely based on your permit type and driving record. A license costs $88.75 if no demerit points (infractions) are assessed. Multiple licenses qualify for a discount; for instance, two charges—for a car and a motorcycle—will cost $157.75 each. Since licenses expire on your birthday, fees are due on your birthday each year.