Quebec Learner's Permit Total Cost: $88.35 Permit + $13.50 Test + Hidden Fees (2026)

The SAAQ counter fees only: $13.50 for the knowledge test plus $88.35 for the permit issuance. Total minimum SAAQ payment: $101.85. There are no hidden SAAQ fees, but applicants often overlook several mandatory and potential costs.

What Is the Official SAAQ Fee for a Quebec Class 5 Learner's Permit in 2026?

The SAAQ charges a single payment for the learner's permit process. The fee is split between the test administration and the physical licence card.

Payment Methods: SAAQ outlets do not accept credit cards. You must pay with cash, debit (Interac), cheque, or money order. In Trois-Rivieres, a student was turned away at the 3450 Blvd. des Forges office because they only brought a Visa card, forcing a reschedule.

How Much Does the Quebec Learner's Permit Cost If You Fail the Knowledge Test Once?

If you fail the knowledge test, you must wait 28 days and pay the $13.50 test fee again for each retry. The realistic total cost for your learner's permit if you fail 1-2 times is higher.

• ✓ Pass on first try: $101.85.
• ✗ Fail once: $101.85 + $13.50 (retest) = $115.35.
• ✗ Fail twice: $101.85 + ($13.50 x 2) = $128.85.

There is no payment plan for these SAAQ fees; you pay everything upfront for each attempt. The licence issue fee of $88.35 is only paid once when you pass the test.

See the Quebec learner's permit guide for complete requirements.

Complete Quebec permit details are on the Quebec permit guide.

What Hidden Costs Beyond the SAAQ Counter Should Quebec Learner Applicants Budget For?

Budget for driving school ($1,273), document translation if needed ($30-$80), and retake fees ($13.50 per knowledge test attempt). Total realistic cost before the road test is $1,450 or more.

• ✓ Mandatory Driving Course (PESR): ~$1,050 plus taxes. This is required before you can take the SAAQ knowledge test and is the largest expense.
• Course Materials: Some driving schools in Montreal or Longueuil charge an extra $30'-$50 for textbooks or online access codes not included in tuition.
• ✓ Passport Photos: The SAAQ takes your photo at the centre; there is no separate fee for this.
• Notary for Documents: Typically not required. Standard ID like a birth certificate and health card is sufficient. New immigrants may need certified translations, which incur fees.
• Medical Reports: If you declare a medical condition, your doctor may charge for the examination report required by the SAAQ.
• Study Tools: Investing in practice tests can save the $13.50 retest fee and 28-day wait.
• ✗ Road Test Car Rental: A future cost of $50'-$100, as the SAAQ does not provide a vehicle for the road test.

In Quebec City, an applicant at the 2700 Blvd. Laurier office forgot their Phase 1 attestation from driving school. Without it, they couldn't take the knowledge test, losing their paid appointment slot.

Practical Tips to Avoid Delays and Extra Fees

• Bring your driving school attestation and two original IDs to your SAAQ appointment to avoid immediate rejection.
• Confirm your SAAQ appointment 48 hours in advance to cancel without a $26.75 penalty fee for a no-show.
• Use Quebec-specific practice tests that mimic the SAAQ exam format to avoid the $13.50 retest fee and mandatory 28-day wait.

There are no fee waivers or discounts for the standard learner's permit cost. Replacement permit fees apply if your licence is lost or stolen, but are not part of the initial application.