Renewing your driver's license in Quebec is an essential step in ensuring the validity of your driving privileges, whether you're an experienced driver or a learner. Nevertheless, it's not always easy to know how to go about it, especially as certain conditions affect this renewal.
As Quebec's leading driving school, Tecnic invites you to discover what you need to know about renewing your driver's license in Quebec!
What is Driver's License Renewal in Quebec?
Driver's license renewal is mandatory for all drivers, regardless of age or license class.
In Quebec, the license must be renewed every 4 to 6 years, depending on the driver's license class. The Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) sends out a renewal notice about 3 months before the license expires, giving you plenty of time to prepare.
However, even if the full validity of the license is renewed over several years, the renewal fee is paid on an annual basis, on your birth date. Here too, the SAAQ sends you a renewal notice approximately 3 months before the license expires.
How To Renew My Driver's License in Quebec?
Renewal is mainly done online, via the SAAQ portal. It's a quick and easy way to avoid having to travel. For those who prefer direct contact, renewal can also be carried out in person at an SAAQ service point.
Here are the steps involved in renewing a driver's license:
- Receive your SAAQ renewal notice.
- Access the SAAQ online portal.
- Pay renewal fees.
- Verify personal information and correct it if necessary.
- Wait for your new driver's license to arrive by mail.
If the license is not renewed on time, you risk additional fees, and the license could be suspended.
Cost of Renewing a Driver's License
On average, for a Class 5 (car) license, the fee is $90 to $100 every 4 to 6 years, $25 per year. These fees include contributions to road safety and administrative costs.
Also, it's important to note that the cost of renewing your driver's license can vary greatly depending on your demerit points, increasing significantly the more demerit points you accumulate. Finally, the cost of a license also varies according to license class and driver age.
The best thing to do is to consult the SAAQ website for the exact rates according to your license class and demerit points.
Demerit Points and License Renewal
As mentioned above, accumulating demerit points can influence driver's license renewal.
Even from one demerit point, your license will cost you 3 times more than without any accumulated points. This increase in cost increases drastically with the number of points accumulated, up to 20 times the price of a driving license without demerit points. A further incentive to drive responsibly and safely.
Finally, if a driver accumulates 15 demerit points (or 4 for probationary and learner drivers), his or her license could be suspended. In this case, the driver will not be able to renew his or her license until he or she has taken a road safety awareness course or, in some cases, until the points have been reduced after a period of good driving.
Tecnic's advice: Are you accumulating demerit points? Perhaps refresher courses could help you drive more safely and securely!
Special Cases Affecting Driver's License Renewal
There are a few cases in which driver's license renewals find themselves different than usual.
Driver's License Renewal for Drivers Aged 80 and Over
In Quebec, drivers aged 80 and over are subject to special conditions when it comes to renewing their driver's license.
Drivers must undergo a medical examination and provide a health report to the SAAQ to ensure that they are still fit to drive safely. In case of doubt, a driving test may also be required.
This ensures that drivers are still able to react quickly to driving situations.
The Case of the Learner's Permit
Learner's permits must be renewed every two years.
These learner drivers, often young, are subject to strict rules, such as zero tolerance for drinking and driving. Finally, their license can be suspended as soon as they accumulate 4 demerit points, as opposed to the 15 points required for a standard license.
Frequently Asked Questions About Driver's License Renewal in Quebec
Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about driver's license renewal in Quebec.
1. Can I Renew My Driver's License if I'm Abroad?
Yes, it is possible to renew your driver's license from abroad by contacting the SAAQ directly.
You may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of foreign residency, and follow specific instructions to receive your new license abroad.
2. My Address has Changed, How do I Update it for Renewal?
You must inform the SAAQ of any change of address. You can update your information online on the SAAQ portal or in person at a service center. It's important to do this before you renew your license to avoid delays in sending the new license.
3. What Do I Do if I Lose My Renewal Notice?
If you've lost your renewal notice, you can still renew your license online via the SAAQ portal. Simply log in to your account and follow the instructions. If you prefer to renew in person, you can also go to a point of service without the notice.
4. My License Has Been Suspended, Can I Still Renew It?
No, you cannot renew a suspended license until the suspension has been lifted. You will have to follow the appropriate procedures to get your license back, which may include fines, road safety awareness courses, or extended suspension periods.
5. Is It Possible to Extend the Validity of My License Before the Renewal Date?
No, renewal only takes place when you receive the notice from the SAAQ. You cannot renew your license before the specified renewal period.
However, if you have special circumstances (for example, a trip abroad), you can contact SAAQ for specific instructions.
6. What Are the Consequences of a License Suspension Related to Demerit Points?
If you exceed the 15 demerit point threshold (or 4 points for a probationary license), your license is suspended for a defined period, generally between 3 and 12 months depending on the severity of the situation.
During this period, you won't be able to drive or renew your license. You'll also have to take a compulsory awareness course before getting your license back.
Learn More about Driver's Licensing in Quebec with Tecnic!
Renewing your Quebec driver's license may seem like a complex process, but with clear information, you can easily navigate through each step. Whether you're renewing, or even obtaining your Quebec driver's license, Tecnic is here to help you every step of the way!
Find the Tecnic school nearest you and benefit from comprehensive training tailored to your needs, whether you're a learner or an experienced driver. And don't hesitate to contact us for more information about our services!
Trust Tecnic for a simple, worry-free experience, and drive safely in Quebec!
