Learner's Permit
We receive many questions about the learner's permit. We have therefore decided to dedicate this page to answer them.
What is a learner's permit?
The 'Learner's Permit' in Quebec represents the first step in the process of obtaining a driver's license for automobiles. After this permit, the driver obtains a probationary permit, followed by the definitive driver's license.
How to obtain it?
Minimum Age
You must be at least 16 years old. Candidates under 18 must obtain the consent of their parents or guardians.
School
Be registered with a driving school recognized by the SAAQ.
Courses
Follow the theoretical courses of phase 1, delivered by teleconference at Allopermis. Each course, lasting two hours, focuses on a specific theme. Consult the attached photo for more details. Once these courses are completed, you must pass the evaluation of module 5.
Then present yourself at the SAAQ branch:
- Fill out the Society's medical declaration
- Pass the visual test
- Pay the necessary amounts
How long does it take to obtain this permit?
The minimum time to obtain the permit is at the end of phase 1, which is 28 days.
28 days after the first module of phase 1
Calculate when you can obtain your permit
You will be able to obtain your learner's permit on:
What are the associated fees?
The price is 81,06 $ as of March 30, 2024.
* Rates may be subject to change. Please check current rates on the SAAQ website.
What are the restrictions of the learner's permit?
The learner's permit has specific restrictions, such as:
Mandatory accompaniment
The learner driver must be accompanied by a person holding a valid Class 5 (or higher) driver's license for at least 2 years. This person must be seated in the front passenger seat and be able to take control of the vehicle if necessary.
Prohibition from driving alone
The learner cannot drive alone; they must always be accompanied.
Restricted driving hours
It is forbidden to drive between midnight and 5 AM.
Zero alcohol
The blood alcohol level must be 0%. Any alcohol level is severely penalized, with potentially serious consequences such as license suspension.
Limited number of passengers
The number of passengers is limited to the number of available seats, with each passenger required to wear a seatbelt.
The 4 points
In Quebec, holders of a learner's permit or probationary permit must strictly respect the Highway Safety Code, as they can only accumulate 4 demerit points before their license is suspended. For example, a simple infraction for using a cell phone while driving can result in the suspension of the probationary license for a period of three months.
What is the difference between a learner's permit and a probationary permit?
The learner's permit authorizes you to drive a car on all public roads, provided you are accompanied by a person holding a valid driver's license for at least two years. Once you have passed the SAAQ practical exam, you will obtain a probationary permit. The latter will allow you to drive alone, until you obtain a regular license after two years of driving under probationary status.
Ready to Get Your Learner's Permit?
Register today and start your journey to obtaining your driver's license