Driver's Licence

Restricted Licences

There are 2 types of restricted licence: the first relates to the accumulation of demerit points and the second, to driving while impaired by alcohol. A learner's licence holder is not eligible for a restricted licence.

Restricted licence related to an accumulation of demerit points

An individual whose probationary licence or driver's licence has been revoked as a result of a first-time accumulation of demerit points over a period of two years may apply for a restricted licence for a period based on the maximum length of the imposed penalty.

Holders of a restricted licence are authorized to drive a motor vehicle only where driving is an essential aspect of the work, that is, their livelihood.

To be eligible for a restricted licence, drivers must:

• File an application with a Court of Québec judge, in the judicial district in which they reside. The court clerk and court office personnel are available to assist drivers in completing an application. Related legal fees apply, however.
• Advise the SAAQ that an application has been filed at least 10 days before the petition goes before a hearing.
• Demonstrate to the judge that operation of a motor vehicle is an essential aspect of their work.
• Request that the judge issue an order authorizing them to hold a restricted licence.
• Go to an SAAQ service centre with the court order and pay the restricted licence fees.

The SAAQ can file an application for review of a court decision if it considers that the driver did not comply with one or more of the specified conditions. Furthermore, if the driver commits another offence during the validity period of the restricted licence or fails to comply with the conditions related to such a licence, it will be suspended.

Restricted licence related to a drunk driving conviction

A restricted licence allows an offender to use a vehicle on condition that it is equipped with an alcohol ignition interlock device.

To be eligible for a restricted licence, an offender must meet the following conditions:

• unless otherwise ordered by a court, register with the SAAQ's alcohol ignition interlock program after three, six or twelve months, depending on the driving record;
• make sure no other active penalty appears on his or her driving record;
• sign a lease for an alcohol ignition interlock device at a participating Lebeau Vitres d'autos, DURO Vitres d'autos or Guardian Interlock Service (GIS) outlet;
• go to an SAAQ service centre with a signed copy of the lease to get a restricted licence and pay the required fees;
• pay the costs of installation, the lease and special periodic inspections required for the device.

The class of the restricted licence is the same as that on the driver's licence and the restricted licence is valid until the end of the penalty period.

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