The probationary license in Quebec is an essential step for new drivers, marking the transition from learner's permit to regular driver's license. This probationary period is designed to inculcate good driving practices and reinforce safety on the road. It imposes strict rules and specific restrictions to empower novice drivers and limit risky behavior.
As Quebec's leading driving school, Tecnic tells you more about the conditions and particularities of the probationary license in Quebec, the rules and restrictions to be respected, as well as the duration and possible consequences in the event of an infraction.
What is the Probationary License and Who is Concerned?
The probationary license is issued to drivers who have completed their learner's permit period and passed the road driving test. This probationary license is compulsory for new drivers, whether young or adult.
Probationary license holders are subject to strict driving rules, as they are considered more vulnerable and less experienced on the road. This system encourages caution and aims to reduce accidents involving novice drivers.
What's the Difference Between a Learner's Permit and a Probationary License?
The learner's permit and probationary permit are two distinct stages in the journey of automobile driver licensing and new drivers in Quebec.
- The learner's permit allows new drivers to practice driving, but they must be accompanied by an experienced driver. This stage focuses on practical learning and generally lasts between 8 and 12 months.
- The probationary license, obtained after passing the SAAQ road test, allows solo driving, but imposes strict rules. The probationary license lasts 24 months.
Each license is designed to encourage a gradual transition to safe, independent driving.
How Long is the Probationary License in Quebec?
The probationary license lasts for 2 years (or 24 months). During this period, the driver must respect road safety rules without accumulating demerit points beyond the authorized threshold. Once the 24 months have elapsed and the conditions have been met, the driver can obtain a regular class 5 license.
For drivers who break the rules and accumulate too many demerit points, this probationary period could be extended, or even lead to license suspension.
Quebec Probationary License Rules and Regulations
The probationary license in Quebec has several important restrictions:
- Zero tolerance for alcohol: Probationary drivers must respect a zero tolerance for alcohol behind the wheel. This means that it is strictly forbidden to drive with any alcohol in the blood. Violation of this rule will result in immediate suspension of the license and fines.
- Reduced demerit point threshold: Unlike regular drivers, who have a demerit point threshold of 15, probationary drivers are limited to 4 points. If this threshold is reached, the driver's license is automatically suspended, and the driver must take a road safety awareness course to get his or her license back.
- Restrictions on the number of passengers: Drivers under the age of 19 with a probationary license may not carry more than one passenger aged 19 or under between midnight and 5 a.m. This rule is designed to reduce distracted driving and the risk of nighttime accidents.
- Driving alone: Holders of a probationary license are allowed to drive alone, unlike learner drivers who must be accompanied by an experienced driver.
What Are the Consequences of a Breach of the Probationary License?
Violations during the probationary period are punished more severely. Here are the main consequences:
- Reaching the 4 demerit point threshold: If the probationary driver accumulates 4 demerit points, his or her license is suspended for a period of 3 months. After suspension, the driver is required to take a road safety awareness course.
- Suspension for drinking and driving: Any alcohol-related offence results in immediate suspension of the probationary license for 90 days. In the event of a repeat offence, the suspension period may be extended, and higher fines may be imposed.
- Serious offences: In the case of serious offences, such as speeding over 50 km/h or dangerous driving, the SAAQ may decide to suspend the probationary license for a longer period, or even impose additional conditions to get it back.
How Do I Get a Regular Driver's License After the Probationary Period?
At the end of the 24-month probationary license, drivers can obtain their regular Class 5 license provided they have accumulated no demerit points or have met the 4-point threshold. Here are the steps involved in switching to a regular license:
- Wait until the end of the probationary period: The probationary period must be completed in full compliance with all the rules. The SAAQ usually sends a notification that the driver can switch to a regular license.
- No suspensions or serious offenses: To obtain a regular license, it is imperative that the driver's record be free of suspensions for demerit point accumulation or major offenses.
- Renewal fees: There is a fee to obtain a regular Class 5 license. This amount varies according to the administrative fees in effect at the SAAQ. The driver must also comply with the established renewal terms, which include an annual payment to maintain the validity of the license.
Once the regular license is in your pocket, the rules become somewhat more flexible, with a threshold of 15 demerit points for adult drivers. However, young or newly licensed drivers are encouraged to maintain safe driving habits to avoid infractions and suspensions.
Probationary License Cost and Renewal
The cost of a probationary license is generally similar to the cost of a regular driver's license, with annual fees averaging $60 to $100. This fee covers both SAAQ services and the contribution to road safety. Probationary drivers must also pay these fees on an annual basis.
If the probationary license is suspended, additional fees may apply for its recovery, in addition to the cost of the awareness course imposed in the event of suspension for demerit points.
Tips for a Successful Probationary Period
The probationary period is an opportunity to adopt safe driving practices and develop good reflexes. Here are a few tips for a successful probationary period:
- Always respect zero tolerance for alcohol: Even a small amount of alcohol behind the wheel can result in immediate penalties. Opt for a designated driver or alternative means of transport if you drink.
- Avoid speeding: demerit points accumulate quickly with speeding offences, especially for excesses of more than 30 km/h over the limit.
- Limit distractions at the wheel: Using a cell phone without a hands-free device results in 5 demerit points. Use hands-free technology or switch off your phone to stay focused.
- Respect passenger restrictions: If you're under 19, follow curfew rules for the number of young passengers in your vehicle, especially between midnight and 5am.
The Motorcycle Probationary License
The probationary motorcycle license in Quebec, obtained after the motorcycle learner's permit (class 6A), is subject to rules similar to those of the probationary license for cars, but adapted to the requirements of motorcycle driving.
Here are the points to remember about the motorcycle license:
- 24-month duration: The probationary period lasts 2 years, during which the driver must comply with strict rules without accumulating demerit points exceeding the authorized threshold.
- Zero tolerance for alcohol: Probationary motorcycle drivers must respect a zero tolerance for alcohol at all times, on pain of immediate suspension.
- 4 demerit point threshold: The probationary motorcycle license imposes a maximum demerit point threshold of 4 points. Any offence exceeding this threshold will result in suspension and a mandatory awareness course.
- Safety obligations: In addition to wearing an approved helmet, motorcyclists are strongly encouraged to wear protective equipment such as reinforced jackets, gloves and boots to ensure their safety.
After completing the 24-month probationary period without accumulating excessive points, motorcyclists can obtain a Class 6 motorcycle license.
Get Your Probationary License with Tecnic!
The probationary license is an essential step in the driver's license and in the journey of new drivers in Quebec. It aims to encourage safe driving and prepare novices to fully assume their responsibilities on the road. By respecting the strict rules imposed by this period, probationary drivers can serenely access their class 5 license.
At Tecnic, our mission is to guide and train you so that this period goes off without a hitch. Our driving instructors are there to answer your questions and help you adopt good driving practices right from the start. For more information or to sign up for our driving lessons, contact Tecnic today and drive with confidence.
Find the Tecnic school nearest you and enjoy comprehensive training, customized to your needs, whether you're a learner or an experienced driver. Contact us to find out more about our services!
