Quebec Appointments & SAAQ
Quebec SAAQ Learner's Licence Photo: Rules, Glasses, Head Coverings, and Retakes (2026)
Yes, you take a photo for your Quebec Class 5 Learner's Licence. The SAAQ takes your digital photograph during the application, and it appears on your official plastic licence card.
Does the SAAQ Take Your Photo at the Learner's Permit Appointment - When Exactly?
The SAAQ requires a photo for your learner's permit. This happens at the service outlet after you present your Module 5 attestation from driving school. You receive a temporary paper licence immediately, but your photo licence arrives by mail within 10-20 days.
What Are the SAAQ's Photo Rules for the Quebec Class 5 Learner's Licence Card?
The SAAQ takes your photo at the service centre using their equipment. No hats, tinted glasses, or face coverings. Neutral expression required. You cannot use an existing photo.
- Expression: Maintain a neutral face. Keep your mouth closed and eyes open. Smiling can cause rejection by facial recognition software.
- Eyewear: Prescription glasses are allowed if there's no glare, but agents often suggest removing them. Sunglasses or tinted lenses are prohibited.
- Headwear: Remove all hats and caps. Religious or medical head coverings are permitted if they don't obscure your face.
Religious Head Coverings in SAAQ Licence Photos
Yes, when the head covering is worn daily for religious or medical reasons. Your entire face must remain visible, and the covering must not cast shadows over your face.
Can you wear prescription glasses in your Quebec learner's licence photo? Yes. SAAQ says to keep your glasses on unless asked to remove them, as long as your eyes are clearly visible and there is no glare. Sunglasses are not accepted.
Makeup, Earrings, and Accessories in SAAQ Photos
SAAQ's rule is that accessories must not prevent identification, hide facial features, or create shadows or reflections. Makeup is not separately listed as prohibited, but your appearance must still allow clear identification. Remove or adjust any accessory that interferes with the photo.
Can You Retake the Photo?
You cannot retake your photo simply because you dislike it. The SAAQ only allows retakes for technical failures.
- Allowed: Eyes closed, flash failure, or a blurry image.
- Not Allowed: Disliking your hair, expression, or wanting a 'better' shot.
Example: A student in Laval blinked during the flash. The agent saw the blur and immediately retook the photo. Another applicant in Quebec City asked for a retake because her hair was messy; the agent refused, citing policy.
Quebec Learner's Licence Documents That Include Your Photo
| Document | Format | Photo |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary Licence | Paper | No |
| Learner's Licence | Plastic Card | Yes |
Your learners permit picture is a digital photo used for your learner's licence and often for your subsequent Probationary Licence.
At the Drummondville office, new prescription was ready at the optometrist but had not been collected before the appointment. Failed vision screening; collected glasses and returned same afternoon, passed.
See the Quebec learner's permit guide for complete requirements.
Is the photo on a Quebec driver's licence colour or black and white? The current Quebec licence uses a high-resolution black-and-white photograph engraved on the polycarbonate card.
Common SAAQ Learner's Licence Photo Problems
At the Montreal (Henri-Bourassa) service centre, an applicant wore a white shirt against a white background. The automated system flagged it, causing a 20-minute delay while an agent manually overrode the rejection.
Wear a dark, solid-colored top to avoid blending with the light backdrop and prevent system rejection delays.
A visitor to the Gatineau office arrived for a 3:30 p.m. appointment but hadn't removed large hoop earrings. The agent asked her to remove them, but she had no case. She fumbled, delaying the line and feeling rushed for the photo.
Remove statement jewelry before your appointment to avoid last-minute hassle and a rushed, unflattering photo.
An applicant in Longueuil had high-gloss makeup, causing significant flash glare on his forehead. The agent used a blotting paper from the counter to reduce the shine before taking the shot.
Use matte makeup or face powder to reduce skin shine and prevent glare that could invalidate your photo.
Steps Completed Before SAAQ Takes Your Photo
You must pass the Module 5 knowledge test at your driving school and get the attestation before visiting the SAAQ. Without it, you cannot proceed to the photo stage.
Fees and Documents for 2026
The fee is $88.35 for 18 months. It includes the cost of photos. Required documents include:
- Module 5 Attestation
- Two pieces of ID (e.g., birth certificate, RAMQ card)
- Parental consent form (if under 18)
- Declaration of Illness or Impairment form
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