Quebec Learner's Licence Fee Help: Waivers and Financial Assistance (2026)

The Societe de l'assurance automobile du Quebec (SAAQ) does not offer a general fee waiver for a Class 5 learner's licence based solely on low-income status. The standard fee of $88.35 applies to most applicants. However, specific financial assistance programs exist for eligible individuals, including foster youth.

Does Quebec Offer SAAQ Learner's Permit Fee Waivers for Low-Income Applicants?

There is no general automatic SAAQ low-income waiver for a Class 5 learner's licence. Any external financial assistance depends on the specific program, the applicant's eligibility or employment plan, and prior approval.

Social Assistance and SAAQ Learner's Licence Fees

No. SAAQ does not provide a general automatic learner's licence fee waiver simply because an applicant receives social assistance. Any outside financial help depends on the specific program, eligibility rules and approval before payment.

What Financial Assistance May Be Available Outside the SAAQ?

These are the primary pathways for help with learner's permit fees.

Asking About Financial Assistance Before Paying

You cannot get a waiver at the SAAQ counter. Funding is managed by partner agencies.

For Quebec permit process details, see the Quebec permit guide.

1. Contact the relevant agency. Foster youth must speak with their PQJ caseworker (intervenant). Others must visit a Services Quebec office (Centre local d'emploi).
2. Secure approval before payment. Get written confirmation that costs will be covered or reimbursed. Do not pay driving school fees upfront without this.
3. Gather required documents.
   • For minors: Completed Consent of a Person Having Parental Authority form, signed by the DPJ director or foster parent.
   • Proof of eligibility: PQJ support letter or approved manpower training contract from Services Quebec.
   • Two original IDs: Birth certificate and RAMQ health insurance card.
4. Submit receipts for reimbursement. Keep all SAAQ and driving school payment receipts. Submit them immediately to your caseworker using their specific claim form.

Financial Help for Foster Youth

Foster youth in Quebec may be able to receive licensing or driving-course support through PQJ or other youth-support programs. The exact costs covered depend on the individual program and approval. Confirm coverage with the caseworker before registering or paying.

How Can You Reduce Out-of-Pocket Licensing Costs?

Because this assistance comes from external programs rather than a general SAAQ waiver, confirm what the program will pay before registering or paying.

• Get written approval first: confirm which costs are covered and whether reimbursement requires pre-authorization.
• Keep receipts: retain SAAQ and driving-school payment records for the program or caseworker.
• Budget uncovered costs separately: test, retake, and road-test costs should be checked on the dedicated fee and retake pages rather than assumed to be covered.

Other Ways to Manage Quebec Licensing Costs

• Good Driver 2026 Reduction: This is not a fee waiver. In 2026, a Class 5 driver with no demerit points pays $50.23 to renew because of the temporary insurance-contribution rebate.
• ? RAMQ Health Card: Serves as a free primary photo ID for all residents, though it does not replace a driver's licence for driving purposes.