Moving to Québec for your studies or internship? Along with finding housing, adjusting to classes, and meeting new friends, one of the most common questions international students ask is:
👉 “Can I drive in Québec with my foreign licence?”
The good news is—yes, you can! But there are important rules and conditions to be aware of. At Unity Driving School Montréal, we’ve created this updated 2025 guide to help you navigate Québec’s driving regulations with ease. 🚗✨
✅ 1. Driving in Québec with a Foreign Licence
As an international student, you may drive in Québec legally with your valid foreign driver’s licence for the duration of your studies or authorized internship.
Conditions to remember:
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Your licence must be valid and must cover the class of vehicle you intend to drive.
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If your licence is not in English or French, you should carry either:
✔️ An International Driving Permit (IDP), or
✔️ A certified translation of your licence.
💡 Tip: As long as your student status remains valid, you don’t need to exchange your licence or take driving tests in Québec.
🛑 2. When Do You Need a Québec Driver’s Licence?
While international students can usually drive with their foreign licence, there are situations where you must obtain a Québec licence:
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If you become a permanent resident of Québec.
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If your foreign licence expires or becomes invalid.
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If your student status ends but you continue living in Québec.
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If you plan to stay long-term or work after your studies.
🌐 3. Licence Exchange Agreements
Québec has reciprocal agreements with several countries. This means drivers from these countries can directly exchange their licence for a Québec licence—no written or road test required!
Some of the countries include:
🇫🇷 France | 🇩🇪 Germany | 🇧🇪 Belgium | 🇰🇷 South Korea | 🇯🇵 Japan | 🇦🇹 Austria | 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
👉 If your country is not on the reciprocal list, you’ll need to pass both a knowledge test and a road test through the SAAQ.
📋 4. How to Get a Québec Driver’s Licence (Step-by-Step)
If you need—or decide—to get a Québec licence, here’s the process:
Step 1: Book an Appointment with the SAAQ
Visit the official SAAQ website and schedule a licensing appointment.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Bring:
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Your valid foreign driver’s licence
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Passport and study permit
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Proof of Québec residency (lease, utility bill, etc.)
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Official translation or IDP (if not in English/French)
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Proof of prior driving experience (if applicable)
Step 3: Choose the Licence Class
Most students apply for Class 5 (cars and light trucks).
Step 4: Take the Tests (if required)
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Knowledge Test: Road rules and traffic signs
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Road Test: On-road practical exam
Step 5: Pay the Fees
Costs vary based on application type and testing requirements.
Step 6: Receive Your Licence
Depending on your profile, you may receive either:
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A probationary licence, or
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A full Québec licence
ℹ️ 5. Important Notes for International Students
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You are not required to obtain a Québec licence if your stay is temporary for study.
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Expired licenses are not valid—make sure yours stays up to date.
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If you fail an exchange test, you may be issued a learner’s permit, which limits independent driving.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Driving in Québec as an international student is possible—and often convenient. Whether you keep your foreign licence or decide to obtain a Québec licence, being prepared helps you avoid surprises on the road.
At Unity Driving School Montréal, we specialize in helping newcomers and international students understand Québec’s driving rules, prepare for tests, and gain confidence behind the wheel.
📞 Call us today at 514-349-8055 or email ecoleunity@gmail.com to learn more about our driving packages and road test rentals.