After Your Quebec Class 5 Permit: Mandatory Steps, Restrictions, and 12-Month Road Test Clock (2026)

Your Quebec Class 5 learner's licence starts a mandatory 12-month process.

Your Quebec Class 5 learner's licence starts a mandatory 12-month process. You must follow specific rules, complete training, and pass two SAAQ tests to get your probationary licence.

What Are the Mandatory Steps After Getting Your Quebec Class 5 Learner's Licence?

Mandatory Waiting Period and Practice Requirements

You must hold your learner's permit for 12 months before taking the road test. The 10-month mark is when you become eligible for the SAAQ knowledge test.

• Start the clock: Your 12-month holding period begins the day your learner's licence is issued.
• ✓ Practice driving: You must always be accompanied by a supervising driver who has held a valid Class 5 licence for at least two years.
• Log practice hours: Mix the mandatory 15 hours of in-car instruction from a driving school with extensive private practice. Practice on surface streets, highways, and in winter conditions.

For example, a learner in Laval was rejected from their road test because their 12-month holding period ended on a Tuesday, but they scheduled the test for the prior Friday. The SAAQ computer system flagged the date, and they had to reschedule for two months later.

Which Quebec Learner's Permit Violations Can Reset Your 12-Month Probation Clock?

Accumulating 4 demerit points suspends your learner's licence immediately. A single cell phone violation (5 points) exceeds the limit. Driving unaccompanied adds 4 points and triggers instant suspension.

The Quebec learner's permit guide has full eligibility details.

For Quebec permit process details, see the Quebec permit guide.

A common mistake is letting a supervisor with a licence for only 20 months accompany you. The SAAQ requires a full 24 months. If stopped, this can lead to a fine and 4 demerit points, risking suspension of your learner's permit.

How and When Do You Book the SAAQ Knowledge and Road Tests in Quebec?

Book the road test via SAAQclic after completing 12 months of holding your learner's licence. Urban centres book 60 to 90 days ahead. Confirm your PESR driving school attestation is on file.

• Complete the course phases: Finish all theory and in-car instruction phases. You need the completion attestation for your road test.
• Prepare for the knowledge test: Study the Highway Safety Code. Use practice tests that mimic the SAAQ's format.
• Schedule tests online: Book your knowledge test (after 10 months) and road test (after 12 months) via SAAQ Online Services. Slots fill fast.

For instance, a driver in Quebec City failed their road test for not checking blind spots during a lane change on Rene-Levesque Boulevard. The examiner noted they relied too much on mirrors. Practice this specific action during highway merging to avoid an automatic failure.