Amendments to the Regulation respecting licences under Québec’s Highway Safety Code primarily addresses licensing rules for new residents from countries not covered under licence exchange agreements, along with various updates to terminology, testing requirements, and licence classifications. According to section 91.3 of the Highway Safety Code, a person who has held a valid driver’s licence for at least one year in a non-exchangeable foreign country and who settles in Québec may operate a passenger vehicle without a learner’s permit—excluding motorcycles.

Vision testing requirements have also been updated significantly. The regulation eliminates references to “optometrical” exams and now requires applicants to successfully pass a vision test administered by the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ). This change appears in multiple sections (e.g., 24, 25, 42, and 43), suggesting a standardized approach to vision testing for both new and renewing applicants. These changes reinforce medical fitness as a critical aspect of driver licensing.

The regulation clarifies licence class distinctions, notably for class 3, which now specifically authorizes the operation of trucks with either two axles and a net mass of 4,500 kg or more, or any truck with three axles or more, as well as similar specifications for truck tractors. For class 5 licence holders, a new provision allows them to operate a motorcycle under a class 6E licence, but only during the practical segment of the required training course. This facilitates integrated training for those seeking to expand their driving privileges while maintaining appropriate safety protocols.

Another crucial amendment is found in section 32.2, which modifies the rules around the exemption from holding a learner’s permit for certain new residents. If such a person fails the practical driving test on their first attempt, they lose the exemption and must obtain a class 5 learner’s licence. However, they are not required to complete the theoretical and practical driving course typically mandated for that class. If they pass the test during the learner’s licence period, they may then be issued a full or probationary licence, depending on how long they previously held a valid foreign licence.

Throughout the amended regulation, terms like “total” are replaced by “minimum” to more precisely define standards, especially regarding visual acuity and other eligibility thresholds. These adjustments aim to eliminate ambiguity in the evaluation and qualification processes.

The Regulation also repeals some outdated clauses and clarifies conditions around probationary licences, particularly concerning the 24-month holding period for class 5 licences. The goal appears to be both improving administration processes and the reinforcement of safety and competency standards for Québec drivers, particularly those entering the system from outside Canada or countries with no reciprocal licensing agreements.

Quebec (624/2025) May 21, 2025
Disclaimer: Insights are for informational purposes only and do not reflect RRI’s official position or constitute legal opinion.