Photo: Gabriel Picard, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Yes, you can take the SAAQ tests in English. The Quebec knowledge test is offered in French or English, with audio in both languages, and new Quebec residents can ask for Modern Standard Arabic, Spanish or Mandarin. On the road test, an examiner will use hand signals if you lack French or English. This page sets out what is confirmed and what to ask the SAAQ before you book. For the full licence path, see learning to drive in Quebec.
SAAQ test languages at a glance
| Test | Language options | How to get them |
|---|---|---|
| SAAQ knowledge test | French or English | Standard |
| Knowledge test audio | French or English audio tracks | On the test computer |
| Knowledge test, new residents | Modern Standard Arabic, Spanish or Mandarin | Ask at the service centre counter on the day of your test |
| Road test | Instructions in French or English; hand signals if you lack French or English skills | The examiner uses hand signals as needed |
Taking the knowledge test in English
Ask for English when you book or at the counter. You can also use the English audio track, which reads the questions aloud through the test computer. This helps if you read slowly or English is your second language. The test still uses Quebec road signs, many of which carry French words such as “Arrêt” and “Préparez-vous à arrêter”. Learn them from the Quebec road signs in French guide.
Arabic, Spanish or Mandarin for newcomers
If you are a new resident of Quebec, you can ask for the knowledge test in Modern Standard Arabic, Spanish or Mandarin. Make the request at the service centre counter on the day of your test. If you are exchanging a licence from abroad, see exchanging a foreign licence in Quebec first, because you may not need the full learner process.
The road test if you speak neither French nor English
The SAAQ says that if you lack French or English skills, the examiner will use hand signals to give you instructions. Practise with your instructor or accompanying rider using hand signals for “turn left”, “turn right”, “go straight” and “pull over” so they feel natural. Scoring is the same as for any candidate: see the SAAQ road test guide.
What to confirm with the SAAQ before booking
Ask the SAAQ about these points when you book:
- whether an interpreter may sit in on either test
- whether a specific vehicle (such as a dual-control car) is required if you test in a language other than French or English
- whether your eligibility for services in English has changed under the SAAQ’s language policy, which follows the Charter of the French Language
Common questions
Is the SAAQ knowledge test available in English?
Yes, in French or English, with audio in both.
Can I take the test in Punjabi, Hindi or another language?
The SAAQ lists only French and English, plus Modern Standard Arabic, Spanish or Mandarin for new residents. Ask the SAAQ about any other language.
Is the road test given in English?
The examiner can give instructions in English, and uses hand signals if you lack French or English skills.
Are Quebec road signs in English?
No. Signs use pictograms and French wording, so learn the French terms whatever language you test in.
Is the driving course available in English?
That depends on the school. See Quebec’s mandatory driving course for what to ask.
Sources
- SAAQ, “Newcomers: Preparing for the tests” (saaq.gouv.qc.ca)
- SAAQ, “Quick Reference Guide: Obtaining a passenger vehicle driver’s licence (Class 5)” (saaq.gouv.qc.ca)
- SAAQ, “The SAAQ’s Language Policy” (saaq.gouv.qc.ca)
- Government of Quebec, “Warning signs” (quebec.ca)
- Government of Quebec, “Regulatory signs” (quebec.ca)