Decode the signs. Drive with confidence. Pass your SAAQ exam like a pro!
👋 Welcome to Québec’s Road Language
If you’re preparing for your SAAQ driving test or just starting to learn how to drive, understanding Québec road signs is your first step toward becoming a confident driver.
Think of it as learning a new language — once you understand what each sign “says,” you’ll drive safer, calmer, and with total confidence.
Let’s explore the most important Québec road signs every beginner driver should know — in a simple, visual, and modern way 👇
🛑 1️⃣ Regulatory Signs – “The Authority Signs”
These are the law signs — ignoring them can be costly!
They tell you what you must or must not do on the road.
Examples:
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STOP / ARRÊT: Come to a full stop. Count “1-2-3” before moving again.
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YIELD (CÉDEZ): Give way to other vehicles and pedestrians.
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No Parking / One-Way: Respect them — SAAQ examiners watch these closely.
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Speed Limit: Stay within ±5 km/h of the posted limit — not too slow, not too fast.
💡 Pro Tip: During your driving lessons, take photos of signs you see to make your own flashcards — a fun and effective way to memorize them!
⚠️ 2️⃣ Warning Signs – “The Alert Signs”
These signs don’t stop you — they warn you.
Shape & Color: Usually yellow and diamond-shaped.
Examples:
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Sharp turns
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School zones
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Pedestrian crossings
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Railway crossings
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Deer or wildlife crossings 🦌
Golden Rule: Yellow means caution and anticipation.
🚗 3️⃣ Direction & Information Signs – “The Guide Signs”
These are your road companions. They show directions, exits, distances, and available services.
Examples:
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Highway numbers
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Exit directions
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Distance or rest-area signs
🌍 Modern Tip: Read signs aloud while driving — it sharpens your visual reflexes and improves focus (a big plus during your SAAQ test!).
🚸 4️⃣ School & Pedestrian Zone Signs – “The Protectors”
Pedestrian safety is a top priority in Québec.
Whenever you see signs showing children or pedestrians — slow down and prepare to stop, even if they seem far.
Examples:
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School Zone: Max 30 km/h during school hours
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Pedestrian Crossing: Always yield
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Playground Zone: Expect sudden stops
👀 Exam Tip: Not yielding to a pedestrian = automatic failure. Always check both sidewalks before moving.
🔁 5️⃣ Construction & Temporary Signs – “The Disruptors”
Orange signs change everything — they’re temporary but carry legal force.
Examples:
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Detours or lane closures 🚧
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Flagperson ahead
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Reduced speed in work zones
🧡 Pro Tip: Slow down early — fines are doubled in construction areas.
🅿️ 6️⃣ Service & Destination Signs – “The Travel Companions”
Blue or brown signs indicate essential services like hospitals, gas stations ⛽, rest stops, or tourist attractions.
📍 Unity Tip: Knowing these helps you plan safe, stress-free road trips across Québec! 😎
🎯 Quick Reference: Colors & Meanings
| Type of Sign | Color | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory | Red / White / Black | Laws and restrictions |
| Warning | Yellow | Caution and danger |
| Construction | Orange | Temporary work zones |
| Direction / Information | Green / Blue | Guidance and services |
| School / Pedestrian | Yellow-Green | Pedestrian and safety zones |
💬 Why It Matters for Your SAAQ Exam
Your knowledge of Québec road signs is tested during both the theoretical and practical SAAQ exams.
The examiner silently observes your reactions — when you slow down, stop, or adjust your driving behavior.
👉 Understanding road signs = understanding road safety.
📘 Train with the Experts
At Unity Driving School Montréal, our certified bilingual instructors help you learn, recognize, and react to Québec road signs with:
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🧠 Realistic theory tests
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🚗 On-road practical lessons
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✅ Full SAAQ exam preparation
📍 Unity Driving School Montréal
✅ Certified by SAAQ
🚗 Experienced bilingual instructors
📞 514-349-8055
🌐 ecoleunity.ca
📍 Dollard-des-Ormeaux (DDO), Montréal