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. You are therefore not required to hold a Québec driver's licence if you meet the following conditions:

• hold a valid driver's licence issued by your country of origin;
• comply with the conditions specified on your licence;
• drive only the type of vehicle authorized by your licence;
• hold a valid and unexpired International Driving Permit if you stay in Québec for more than six months.

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:

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

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.
• It is not mandatory during the first six months in Québec, but is highly recommended, particularly if the driver's licence issued by your country of origin is in a language other than French or English.
• After the first six months, it must always be kept with the driver's licence issued by your country of origin, except for students, cooperants and trainees.

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