SAAQ Knowledge Test: Complete Class 5 Study Guide (2026)
If you’re working toward your Class 5 driver’s licence in Quebec, the SAAQ knowledge test is your first major milestone. It can feel intimidating, especially if you’re new to Quebec or to Canada. Knowing exactly what to expect makes a real difference.
This guide covers the format, the three sections, the passing score, and the most effective ways to prepare.
Our Introduction
What Is the SAAQ Knowledge Test?
The SAAQ knowledge test is a computer-based, multiple-choice exam given at SAAQ service centres across Quebec. It tests your understanding of Quebec’s traffic laws, road signs and signals, and safe driving behaviour.
You must pass it to receive your learner’s licence (permis d’apprenti conducteur) and begin supervised driving practice. For first-time Class 5 applicants, it comes after completing an SAAQ-recognized driving course.
SAAQ Knowledge Test Format
The test has three sections:
Section | What It Covers |
Rules and regulations | Traffic laws, rules of the road, penalties |
Road signs and signals | Signs, traffic lights, pavement markings |
Behaviours | Driver attitudes, hazard awareness, safe decision-making |
- Number of questions: about 64 in total. The exact number can vary slightly, so check with the SAAQ for the current format.
- Passing score: you need 75% in each of the three sections. A strong result in one section cannot make up for a weak one.
- Format: multiple choice, taken on a computer with a headset. Instructions, questions and answers are read aloud, and you can replay any of them.
- Time limit: Most people finish in about 30 minutes.
- Languages: French and English are standard. Arabic, Spanish and Mandarin are also available. Ask for your language at the service-centre counter on test day.
What Happens If You Fail?
If you fail one or more sections, you only retake the sections you failed. You must wait at least 28 days before your next attempt, book a new appointment and pay the fee again. Preparing well the first time saves you both time and money.
How to Prepare for the SAAQ Knowledge Test
- Study the official SAAQ materials. The Guide de la route (Driver’s Handbook) is the main reference. The SAAQ also provides the Driving a Passenger Vehicle manual, the Road Access Binder, the Guide to Knowledge Test Illustrations, and the Road Safety Quiz. Questions are based on this material and on the driving course content.
- Learn road signs early. Signs are visual and specific, and many students underestimate them. Learn the shape and colour conventions (octagon = stop, inverted triangle = yield) and the regulatory, warning and informational categories.
- Practise with sample questions. Reading the guide is not enough. Practice tests in the same multiple-choice format help you get used to how questions are worded.
- Don’t rush the booking. Wait until you’re consistently scoring at least 75% on every section of your practice tests. A failed attempt means a 28-day wait and another fee.
- Complete your SAAQ-recognized driving course. For first-time Class 5 applicants, the course is a required step. It also covers the same material in a structured way, connecting the rules to real driving situations. At École Unity, our theory sessions are designed to prepare you for all three sections of the test.
Tips for Test Day
- Bring valid identification. Check the SAAQ website for the current list of accepted documents before your appointment.
- Ask for your language at the counter. French and English are standard. Arabic, Spanish and Mandarin are available on request.
- Use the audio. Questions and answers are read aloud, and you can replay any of them. This is especially helpful if you’re more comfortable listening than reading.
- Read each question carefully. Many questions are scenario-based, and a single word (“must” vs. “may”) can change the answer.
- Trust your sign knowledge. The signs section tests recognition. If you’ve studied, trust your memory.
- Stay calm. There’s no time pressure, so a steady, methodical approach beats rushing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
The SAAQ lists the fee at $13.20 at the time of writing. Fees change, so confirm the current amount at saaq.gouv.qc.ca before booking. Fees apply again each time you retake the test.
Yes. French and English are both standard. You can also request Arabic, Spanish or Mandarin at the service-centre counter on test day.
About 30 minutes on average. There is no time limit, so take as long as you need.
No. The test is closed-book.
It depends on where your licence was issued. Some foreign licences can be exchanged for a Quebec licence without tests, while others require the knowledge test and a road test. Check the SAAQ’s exchange rules for your country. École Unity specializes in supporting newcomers through this process.
At least 28 days after your failed attempt. You retake only the sections you failed.
Ready to Start? We Can Help.
Knowing the rules is step one. Applying them confidently on the road is step two, and that’s where a good driving course makes the difference.
Our complete program includes 24 hours of theory (covering everything tested on the knowledge test) and 15 hours of in-car practice. We serve students across the West Island of Montreal, including Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Kirkland, Dorval, Pierrefonds and Pointe-Claire.
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