Foreign driver’s licence: the translation the SAAQ requires
Is your licence in a language other than French or English? The SAAQ requires a translation by a translator who belongs to a recognized body. Time limits, steps and the Japanese exception.
Moving to Quebec with a foreign driver’s licence? Here is what the SAAQ asks for the translation and how the exchange works.
Six months of driving with your foreign licence
Once you are a Quebec resident, you can drive a passenger vehicle, a motorcycle or a moped with your foreign licence for six consecutive months. During that period you may not drive heavy vehicles. After that, you need a Quebec licence or an international driving permit.
When is a translation required?
If your licence or documents are in a language other than French or English, the SAAQ requires a translation. It must be done by a translator who is a member of one of these bodies:
- the Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec (OTTIAQ);
- the Association of Legal Court Interpreters and Translators (ALCIT);
- an association that is a member of the Canadian Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters Council (CTTIC).
Exception: for a valid Japanese licence, the SAAQ does not require a translation, but a certificate from the Consulate of Japan.
Exchange steps
- Request an appointment online with the SAAQ exchange form.
- The SAAQ contacts you within 20 business days after receiving your completed form.
- Attend the appointment with your documents and their translation.
- Take the tests if required, then pay the exchange fees.
Order the translation
In the order form, choose “Driver’s licence (SAAQ)”. The front and back of one card count as one document. From $59, before taxes.