Québec SAAQ Knowledge Test Practice

Quebec's knowledge test is administered by the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) and is structured differently from most other provinces. The test has 64 questions split into two sections: 32 on road signs and signals, and 32 on road safety and traffic rules. You must score at least 28 correct (≈85%) on each section independently — failing one section means you fail the whole test.

There's a 60-minute time limit on the SAAQ knowledge test. The test is computer-based and is given primarily in French, though English is available. Quebec is the only province where French is the primary language of instruction, examination, and signage; the famous octagonal stop sign reads ARRÊT in Quebec rather than STOP.

To take the knowledge test you must be at least 16 years old (or 14 with parental consent for moped class), have completed the theory portion of a driver-education course at an accredited school (mandatory in Quebec since 2010), and present an SAAQ-issued probationary file number. After passing, you receive a Class 5 learner's permit (permis d'apprenti conducteur) and can begin supervised driving.

Quebec's GDL system has three stages: learner's permit (apprenti) → probationary (probatoire, 24 months) → full Class 5. Probationary drivers face a zero blood-alcohol limit, a points-of-demerit ceiling of 4 (versus 15 for full licences), and cannot drive between midnight and 5 AM if they're under 19. The road test can be attempted 10 months after getting the learner's permit (or 8 months with mandatory course completion).

Quebec has several rules that differ from the rest of Canada. Right-on-red is permitted across most of the province but is prohibited on the Island of Montreal — this is signed but easy to miss. Winter tires are mandatory on all passenger vehicles from December 1 to March 15. Quebec also strictly enforces the 0.00 BAC limit for any driver under 22, regardless of licence stage.

Brushing up on Canadian road signs? Our sign-specific practice covers every regulatory, warning, and information sign you'll see on the test.