Imagine going to work without any traffic jams. Or being able to enjoy walks in nature just a few minutes from home, every day. In Saguenay, this reality could be yours. Living in Saguenay means having the opportunity to realize your full potential in an environment where everyday simplicity exists in perfect harmony with safety and well-being. Doesn’t that sound like the dream? Read our blog post to discover all the good reasons to choose Saguenay as your new home!
Driver’s licence and vehicle registration
To be able to drive a motorized vehicle in Quebec, you must have a valid driver’s licence, vehicle registration and car insurance.
The Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) is the organization responsible for issuing Quebec driver’s licences, registering motor vehicles and promoting road safety in general. It’s a great resource to turn to if you have any questions!
Driver’s licence and driving test
If you are coming from outside Quebec and already have a valid driver’s licence, you’ll be able to use it for six months after your arrival, as long as it is in English or French. After six months, you’ll have to pass the theory and practical tests to obtain a Quebec licence.
If you’ve never held a driver’s licence before, you’ll need to take driving courses and pass the required tests.
Registration
It’s mandatory to register your car, motorcycle, recreational vehicle (RV), tractor, trailer or Ski-Doo (snowmobile) with the SAAQ, and to renew your registration every year. Fees will apply.
Insurance
You must have private insurance for your vehicle. It should cover you against material damage and third-party liability in the event of an accident. Many insurance companies and financial institutions offer different types of coverage. Get informed and don’t hesitate to compare prices!
The Highway Safety Code: some Quebec nuances
Just like everywhere else, it’s essential to respect the Highway Safety Code when you’re on the road. But did you know that there are some very special Quebec differences?
For example, at an intersection, the traffic lights are in front, not to the side. This means that the stop line isn’t at the foot of the light, but before the intersection (of course). It can be confusing the first few times!
Another feature: it’s sometimes possible to turn right even when the light is red. This does not apply everywhere, however. So you need to be vigilant and pay close attention to the signs!
And pay attention to signs that concern wildlife! For example, signs depicting a drawing of a moose or a deer (yes, yes!) warn you about the possibility of the presence of these large mammals on the roadway; vigilance is key!
Another important difference is the behaviour to adopt in the presence of a school bus. For safety reasons, when a bus activates its flashing lights to pick up or drop off a child, all vehicles must stop 5 metres away. This applies whether you’re following the bus or passing it in the opposite direction!
It’s also forbidden to park within a certain distance of a fire hydrant, to prevent hindering the work of firefighters in an emergency. The bylaw in Saguenay sets this distance at less than 5 metres.
What about children in cars? Children under 12 years of age must be in the back seat. Additionally, a car seat is mandatory for children under 9. Car seats are subject to regulations and have expiry dates that must be respected. And finally, no matter how old your child is, they must always wear a seat belt!
In short, there are many subtle differences in the Quebec Highway Code. To find out more, visit the section on Traffic Rules and Tips for All Vhicules on the Transports Québec website.
Adjusting to winter driving
Here in Saguenay, we love winter! Winter weather does, however, call for some special attention to driving and a few minor adjustments.
First, it’s a good idea to check the weather reports to plan your trips, especially if there’s a storm on the way. Ideally, you should avoid driving in bad weather!
You’ll also have to put certified winter tires on your vehicle, which are mandatory from December 1 to March 15. Another good idea is to fill your windshield washer fluid tank with fluid for up to -45 °C and keep your gas tank at least a quarter full in cold weather.
Then clear the snow from your car with an ice scraper and brush to so you have a clear vision and remove all the snow. A mobile igloo is dangerous for you and other road users! If your car isn’t properly cleared of snow and you drive, you could be fined. It is also suggested that you never leave a child alone inside a running vehicle covered in snow, especially while you’re removing snow from your car, as this increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
The cold and the ice make the road slippery. You must adapt your driving by reducing your speed and allowing a greater braking distance.
It is also forbidden to ride a motorcycle in winter.
Quick tip: pack a winter kit in your car to be ready for any eventuality. You can include a snow brush, a scraper, traction aid plates, a shovel, a blanket and a flashlight. This kit will come in handy if your vehicle (or someone else’s) gets stuck in the snow!
Note that the Ville de Saguenay imposes certain parking regulations during the winter. To facilitate snow removal, it is forbidden to park your vehicle on the streets or in a public parking lot between midnight and 7 a.m., from November 15 to April 1 (under penalty of a fine).
Is the prospect of experiencing your first winter in Quebec making you break out in a cold sweat? Lucky for you, we’ve put together the best guide to surviving
Other means of transport
Public transportation
There are other ways to get around in Saguenay.
With this in mind, the Société de transport du Saguenay (STS) offers a bus service with different rates for families, young people under 17 and seniors (65 and over). Children under 5 are admitted free of charge!
If you’re a student, you’ll also benefit from a discount. What’s more, Saguenay is a great place to study. Discover all the good reasons to choose Saguenay for your studies by reading this article
Carpooling is also popular with Saguenay residents. You can use the Amigo Expressapp or join one of the carpooling groups on Facebook to offer or find a ride. You might be able get a ride with a neighbour who has a similar commute to yours on a daily basis!
Active transport
Walking, cycling, scootering and skateboarding are all great ways to get around in a more environmentally friendly way while staying active!
Saguenay boasts a network of bicycle paths linking the main areas of the city. You can also make your own “transportation cocktail” with the STS vélobus by taking advantage of the bike racks at the front of the bus you’ll be boarding.
And from mid-May to October, the STS makes electric bicycles available to the public. To find out more about Accès Vélo, click here!
Accessible transportation
STS offers a paratransit service for people with disabilities and reduced mobility. Don’t hesitate to ask!
Hit the road in Saguenay!
Do you dream of discovering Saguenay, whether by car, bike or on foot? The Ville de Saguenay has many activities to offer. Plus, it’s a great place to live and close to nature. Setting off for Saguenay means choosing the path to an exceptional quality of life!
We can’t wait to see you!
À cause are you still hesitating? Fais pas simple, don’t be silly, choose Sagyenay!