Permis PrêtSAAQ class 1 knowledge test: what to expect
The knowledge test leads to the class 1 learner’s licence, then to two practical exams.
Short answer: The test takes about 1 hour and the pass mark is 75%. The 2021 brochure mentions 32 multiple-choice questions (to confirm: the current SAAQ pages do not give a question count). After a fail you must wait at least 7 days.
What is tested
According to the SAAQ brochure, the test covers traffic rules, the skills needed to handle a heavy vehicle and the behaviour to adopt in different driving situations. The split by section is not published. The vision test is done at the knowledge test.
The SAAQ names the Guide de la route and the guide “Conduire un véhicule lourd” as study material (brochure, p. 7).
Before the test
- Driving record: fewer than 4 demerit points and no suspension or revocation in the last 2 years for demerit points or a Criminal Code offence at the wheel.
- Health: vision test, medical declaration and a medical report filled in by a physician or nurse practitioner.
- Since December 15, 2025: a Class 5 (or probationary) licence with 24 months of experience and the class 1 PESR training (125 h minimum: 75 h theory, 50 h practical) from an SAAQ-recognized provider, or the DEP in truck transport. Transitional measures exist: they are not detailed here (to confirm).
- The 2021 brochure required 36 months of experience for class 1: that rule has been replaced; to confirm if the transitional measures apply to you.
Retake, fees and next step
After a fail you must wait at least 7 days, book a new appointment and pay again. The SAAQ page lists $13.50 for the knowledge test and $88.35 for the learner’s licence (valid 18 months): confirm the amounts on the SAAQ website. The knowledge test must be passed before booking the practical exams.
To remember for the test
- About 1 hour; 75% pass mark.
- 32 questions: figure from the 2021 brochure, to confirm.
- Retake after at least 7 days.
- Class 1 since December 15, 2025: 125-hour PESR training or the DEP.
Original heavy-vehicle questions with an explanation and a source: 10 free.
Practise for free
Official sources
- SAAQ, class 1 combination of road vehicles (official page, French)
- SAAQ, brochure “Bientôt conducteur d’un véhicule lourd” (2021, French)
- SAAQ, class 1 licence checklist (French)
- SAAQ, guide “Conduire un véhicule lourd” (French)
General information, current as of 2026-11-01. When in doubt, the official text prevails. Rules and fees can change: check saaq.gouv.qc.ca.