Licence Suspension by the SAAQ

In briefIn Quebec, the SAAQ can suspend or revoke your licence for several reasons: accumulation of demerit points, criminal offence (alcohol, dangerous driving), unpaid fines or medical reasons. Depending on the cause, a review or appeal may be available.

Accumulation of demerit points

Your licence is revoked when you reach the applicable threshold: 4 points (learner or probationary), 8 (under 23), 12 (23-24) or 15 (25 and over). Revocation lasts from 3 to 12 months depending on points accumulated and recent history.

Impaired driving

A blood alcohol level of 0.08 or more, or refusing a sample, triggers an immediate 90-day suspension. A criminal impaired-driving conviction means revocation of 1 year (1st), 3 years (2nd) then 5 years, with an ignition interlock on reinstatement.

Unpaid fines and medical reasons

Unpaid fines lead to suspension of the licence and registration until full payment. The SAAQ can also suspend for medical unfitness, with reinstatement then requiring new medical evidence.

Getting your licence back and contesting

Reinstatement after a points revocation may require a reintegration exam and fees; after 3 years, retaking the exams. An alcohol-related suspension can be the subject of a review request to the SAAQ, then an appeal to the Administrative Tribunal of Quebec.

Frequently asked questions

Information verified Juin 2026. Sources: SAAQ, LégisQuébec (Highway Safety Code). For information only — no guarantee of outcome.