Getting your driver’s license in Québec is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with its challenges. The SAAQ road test in Montréal (and across Québec) is designed to make sure you’re truly ready to drive safely and independently. Many students fail the test not because they can’t drive, but because of avoidable mistakes.
At Unity Driving School, we’ve trained hundreds of students in Montréal and have seen the most common errors firsthand. Here are the top mistakes students make on the SAAQ road test — and how you can avoid them.
1️⃣ Forgetting Shoulder Checks
One of the biggest reasons students lose points (or fail) is not checking blind spots. Whether you’re changing lanes, merging, or turning, examiners expect you to check over your shoulder.
✅ How to avoid it:
Make it a habit during every lesson — mirror, signal, shoulder check. Even if the road looks empty, always do it to prove to the examiner that you’re aware of your surroundings.
2️⃣ Rolling Stops at Stop Signs
A “rolling stop” (slowing down but not fully stopping) is an automatic red flag. Examiners want to see a complete stop, with your wheels fully stopped behind the line.
✅ How to avoid it:
Count “one-two” after stopping before you move forward. This small pause shows control and patience.
3️⃣ Speeding (Or Driving Too Slowly)
Students often get nervous and either drive too fast or too cautiously slow. Both are mistakes. Driving too slow can disrupt traffic just as much as speeding.
✅ How to avoid it:
Stay within the posted speed limit and adjust smoothly to conditions. Practice maintaining a steady speed during lessons.
4️⃣ Poor Parking Skills
Whether it’s parallel parking or angle parking, many students panic. Nervousness can lead to hitting the curb, parking too far, or not being centered.
✅ How to avoid it:
Practice parking in different spots — empty lots, city streets, tight spaces. Repetition builds confidence.
5️⃣ Ignoring Pedestrians and Cyclists 🚶♂️🚴
Examiners watch closely to see if you yield properly to pedestrians and respect cyclists. Failing to stop for someone crossing can mean an automatic fail.
✅ How to avoid it:
Always scan crosswalks and bike lanes. If in doubt, wait and let them pass — safety comes first.
6️⃣ Forgetting to Signal
It sounds simple, but many students forget to use turn signals or don’t use them early enough.
✅ How to avoid it:
Signal at least 30 meters before turning or changing lanes. Think of it as “communicating” with other drivers.
7️⃣ Nerves Taking Over
Even skilled drivers sometimes fail because nerves make them second-guess or rush. Examiners notice hesitation or overcorrection.
✅ How to avoid it:
Take deep breaths, get plenty of practice, and remind yourself: the examiner wants you to pass. Treat it like just another driving lesson.
🎯 Final Tips for Success
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Practice in the exact area where your test will take place in Montréal.
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Book a mock road test with your instructor to simulate real conditions.
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Get plenty of rest before your exam day.
Remember — the SAAQ road test isn’t about perfection, it’s about safe and confident driving. With preparation and the right mindset, you’ll be ready to pass on your first try.
📞 Ready to ace your SAAQ road test?
At Unity Driving School Montréal, our certified instructors specialize in road test preparation. We’ll make sure you know what to expect — and help you avoid these common mistakes.
👉 Call us today at 514-349-8055 or email ecoleunity@gmail.com to book your lesson!