Driver's Licence

For Holders of a Foreign Driver's Licence

Non-residents (visitors or others)

You are allowed to drive the type of vehicle authorized by your driver's licence for a six-month period. If you also hold an International Driving Permit, you are allowed to drive for the validity period of this permit. In either case, you are not required to hold a Québec driver's licence if you meet the following conditions:

• You hold a valid driver's licence issued by your country of origin;
• You comply with the conditions specified on your licence;
• You drive only the type of vehicle authorized by your licence.

We strongly recommend, however, that you obtain an International Driving Permit if your driver's licence is neither in French nor English.

Foreign students, cooperants and trainees

You are allowed to drive a passenger vehicle for the duration of your studies or traineeship without holding a Québec driver's licence if you meet the following conditions:

• You hold a valid driver's licence issued by your country of origin;
• You comply with the conditions specified on your licence;
• You drive only a passenger vehicle.

We strongly recommend, however, that you obtain an International Driving Permit if your driver's licence is neither in French nor English.

What is an International Driving Permit?

• It is a translation of the driver's licence issued by your country of origin. It also indicates the type of vehicle you are allowed to drive, according to recognized international classification.
• To obtain this permit, you must file an application in the country that issued your driver's licence before leaving that country. You cannot apply for this permit in another country.
• It cannot be renewed in Québec.
• To be recognized, it must always be accompanied by the driver's licence issued by your country of origin.

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