Quebec · Ride-Share · July 2026 · 8 min read
Uber & Lyft Driver Requirements in Quebec 2026
Quebec has its own ride-share licensing framework that is different from every other province in Canada. You need a Class 4C licence — not a standard Class 4 — and the process involves the Commission des transports du Québec (CTQ). Here is how it works in Montreal and across Quebec.
Quebec at a Glance
Uber Quebec
Class 4C + Age 18+
Quebec's ride-share specific commercial class. Knowledge test, background check, training.
Lyft Quebec
Class 4C + Age 25+
Same licence class. Lyft enforces a higher minimum age than Uber in Quebec.
Quebec is the only province that created a separate licence class specifically for ride-share drivers. The Class 4C was introduced when the province legalized and regulated ride-sharing in 2019. It is cheaper and faster to obtain than a standard Class 4, but it is only valid for transportation network companies (TNCs) — you cannot use a 4C to drive a taxi.
What Is the Class 4C Licence?
The Class 4C is a restricted commercial driving licence created by the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) specifically for ride-share drivers. It authorizes you to transport passengers for compensation through a licensed transportation network company (TNC) such as Uber or Lyft. Key facts:
You need a valid Class 5 first
You must already hold a valid Quebec Class 5 (or equivalent from another province, exchanged for a Quebec licence) before you can apply for the 4C.
Knowledge test required
A knowledge test covering passenger transport rules, customer service, accessibility requirements, and Quebec traffic laws. The test is available in French and English.
No medical exam required
Unlike the standard Class 4 in Alberta and BC, the Quebec 4C does not require a formal medical examination. This is one of the ways Quebec made ride-share entry easier.
No road test required
The 4C upgrade does not include a separate road test. The assumption is that your existing Class 5 experience is sufficient.
Background check required
SAAQ and the ride-share platform both run criminal background checks. Certain convictions disqualify you.
TNC-only restriction
The Class 4C only authorizes driving for licensed TNCs. You cannot use it to drive taxis, limos, or other commercial vehicles.
Age Requirements in Quebec
Uber Quebec
18+
Uber's minimum age in Quebec is 18 — the lowest age requirement of any province. If you are 18 with a full Class 5 and a clean record, you can apply.
Lyft Quebec
25+
Lyft requires drivers to be at least 25 years old in Quebec. This is a platform policy, not a provincial law.
Montreal-Specific Rules
Montreal is the largest ride-share market in Quebec. There are no additional city-level licences required in Montreal beyond the provincial Class 4C — unlike Calgary, which layered the TNDL on top of the provincial Class 4. However, Montreal has specific considerations:
French language
The Class 4C knowledge test is available in English, but SAAQ operates primarily in French. If you do not speak French, ensure you request the English version when booking your test appointment.
Vehicle age limits
Uber and Lyft in Montreal typically require vehicles no older than 10 years. For premium service tiers (Uber Comfort, Uber Black), newer vehicles are required.
Insurance through Intact or equivalent
Quebec has a unique insurance system (SAAQ covers injury, private insurers cover property damage). You need a ride-share endorsement on your property damage insurance policy from a private insurer.
Accessibility requirements
A portion of the Class 4C knowledge test covers accessibility for passengers with disabilities. This is a larger component in Quebec than in other provinces.
Can You Drive for Both Uber and Lyft in Quebec?
Yes. Your Class 4C licence authorizes you to drive for any licensed TNC operating in Quebec. There is no exclusivity requirement. Both Uber and Lyft operate in Montreal and Quebec City, and many Quebec drivers keep both apps active simultaneously to maximize their income.
The practical note for Montreal: Uber has a significantly larger market share in Montreal than Lyft. Many full-time drivers report that Uber generates the majority of their trips. Running both apps is still worthwhile, but do not expect Lyft to match Uber's volume in Montreal.
Montreal
Both platforms operate
Uber has larger market share. Both require Class 4C. Running both apps is standard practice.
Quebec City
Uber primarily
Lyft operates in Quebec City but with limited coverage. Uber is the dominant platform outside Montreal.
How Quebec Compares to Other Provinces
Quebec
Class 4C
Medical: No
Road test: No
Startup: ~$150–300
Ontario
Full G only
Medical: No
Road test: No
Startup: ~$100–250
BC
Class 4
Medical: Yes
Road test: Yes
Startup: ~$250–400
Alberta
Class 4 + TNDL
Medical: Yes
Road test: Yes
Startup: ~$450–600+
Quebec sits between Ontario (easiest) and BC/Alberta (most demanding). The Class 4C requires a knowledge test and background check but skips the medical exam and road test that BC and Alberta require — making it faster and cheaper to get started.
How to Get Started in Quebec
Confirm you have a valid Quebec Class 5
If you have a licence from another province, visit an SAAQ service centre to exchange it for a Quebec licence before applying for the 4C.
Study for the Class 4C knowledge test
The SAAQ has study materials in French and English. The test covers passenger transport rules, accessibility, emergency procedures, and Quebec road laws.
Book and pass the knowledge test at an SAAQ centre
Tests are available at SAAQ service centres across Quebec. The fee is approximately $30–50.
Apply to Uber or Lyft
Submit your Class 4C licence, vehicle documents, and proof of insurance. Both platforms will initiate a background check automatically.
Get your vehicle inspected
Both platforms require a vehicle safety inspection. This can be done at a licensed Quebec mechanic.
Update your insurance
Contact your private property damage insurer and add a ride-share endorsement. Quebec's SAAQ no-fault system covers bodily injury, but property damage coverage is your responsibility.
Driving in BC or Alberta too?
If you are moving provinces or want to understand how Class 4 works in BC and Alberta, our practice tests cover the commercial driving knowledge you need.