New Rules to Restrict Access to Driver’s Licenses for Immigrants in Québec

On December 5, 2024, the Quebec government announced new measures aimed at improving road safety by tightening access to driver’s licenses for certain immigrants. These measures are part of an ongoing effort to adapt Quebec’s driving rules in response to the increasing number of newcomers to the province.

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Changes to Driver’s License Regulations

Starting soon, foreign nationals holding a driver’s license who fail their practical driving test will no longer be able to drive independently. Instead, they will be issued a learner’s permit, which will allow them to continue developing their driving skills and knowledge. This new policy is designed to ensure that drivers who have not yet demonstrated proficiency do not pose a risk on the road.

However, the regulation will not apply to newcomers from other Canadian provinces, the United States, or the 14 countries with reciprocal agreements with Quebec, where skill tests are generally not required, except for certain license categories.

Addressing High Failure Rates

The announcement was made by Geneviève Guilbault, Quebec's Deputy Premier and Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility. In her statement, she highlighted that the province has seen high failure rates among immigrant applicants for driver’s licenses. According to Guilbault, tightening access to driving was necessary to protect all road users, especially vulnerable populations such as children and seniors.

"The sharp increase in immigration to Quebec has had significant impacts on our services and roads," said Ms. Guilbault. "It was essential to act to tighten the rules for access to driving. This change ensures that individuals who have proven unable to drive can’t continue driving alone until they demonstrate their ability to respect the rules and drive safely."

Rising Applications for Driver’s Licenses

In recent years, the number of applications for driver’s licenses from abroad has surged. In 2022, there were 49,919 applications, which grew to 85,329 in 2023. Projections suggest that by 2024, this number could reach up to 120,000 applications.

To address this demand, the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) is working in collaboration with the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation, and Integration, the Ministry of Employment and Social Solidarity, and the Ministry of International Relations and the Francophonie. Together, they are providing helpful information to immigrants, guiding them in preparing for driving tests, and ensuring they understand Quebec's specific driving requirements.

Public Feedback and Next Steps

The proposed changes to the driving regulations were published in the Gazette officielle du Québec on November 20, 2024. Over the next 45 days, the public is encouraged to submit questions and comments to the SAAQ to evaluate the impact of these new rules.

This change reflects Quebec's commitment to ensuring road safety while managing the challenges posed by the increasing number of new residents in the province. By addressing these issues proactively, the government aims to provide a safer environment for all road users.

Source: SAAQ

Adapted by Immigria Editorial Team

Photo: Michaël Monnier Le Devoir