Content updated on June 20, 2024.
In Québec, the minimum age for obtaining a driver’s licence is 16. There is one exception: people as young as 14 can drive a scooter. Here's what you need to know.
A scooter must have an electric motor or a cylinder capacity of 50 cm3 or less. It must not be capable of travelling at more than 70 km/h, nor must it have been modified.
Unlike an electric scooter, an electric bike is not considered a vehicle. The motor of an electric bike must not exceed 500 watts of power and must cease to generate power once the bicycle reaches a speed of no more than 32 km/h. Note that electric bike users aged 14 to 17 must have a moped or scooter licence (Class 6D).
If the vehicle doesn’t match the above description, it’s because it’s a motorcycle. The requirements for obtaining a motorcycle licence are not the same.
Getting your driver’s licence
To drive a scooter, you need at least a class 6D driver’s licence issued by the Société de l'assurance-automobile du Québec (SAAQ).
Driver’s licences for cars and motorcycles also allow you to drive a scooter. These licences (classes 5, 6A, 6B and 6C) are only issued to those aged 16 and over.
To obtain a Class 6D licence, you must:
- Reside in Québec;
- Be a Canadian citizen or have the right to reside in Canada for more than 6 months;
- Be at least 14 years old - and, if you are under 18, obtain the written consent of a parent or guardian;
- Be in a state of health compatible with driving;
- Take and pass the driving course (Programme d’éducation à la sécurité routière – Conduite d’un cyclomoteur) given by a recognized school;
- Pass the SAAQ knowledge test and visual test;
- Pay the required fees for the test ($12.80 in 2024) and the driver's licence ($44.35).
To prepare for the test, you can consult the Driver’s Handbook and the Operating a Moped or Scooter guide.
Meeting your obligations as a driver
Scooters must be registered before they can be used on the road. When driving, you must wear a helmet at all times and comply with the Highway Safety Code.
The zero alcohol rule applies up to the age of 22. It also applies to drivers with fewer than 5 years´experience or who have a probationary licence.
Are you under 16? You are not allowed to carry a passenger on your scooter.
Any questions or problems?
To find out more about the rules governing driving or obtaining a licence, visit the SAAQ website. You can also:
- Email your question or phone 1-800-361-7620;
- Make an appointment before going to the SAAQ offices, for example, for a knowledge test.
Dissatisfied with SAAQ services? Contact the Protecteur du citoyen. Our services are free and there is no red tape.
