Permis PrêtSAAQ heavy-vehicle practical exam: walk-around and driving
After the knowledge test and the learning period, there are two practical exams.
Short answer: There are two exams: the safety walk-around and driving. The pass mark is 75% for each, and the driving exam also requires a successful reverse manoeuvre. After a fail you must wait at least 7 days and only the failed exam is retaken.
The two exams
- Safety walk-around: 19 or 20 components; 20 minutes for class 1, 15 minutes for classes 2 and 3; 75%.
- Driving: 75% and a successful reverse manoeuvre; about 1 hour for class 1 (class 1 page).
- The knowledge tests must be passed before booking the practical exams.
Sources: brochure, pp. 14 to 16, and the class 1 page.
The vehicle
- Class and mentions matching the exam (for example, an air-brake vehicle for mention F).
- No defects and a valid mechanical inspection certificate.
- Class 3: flatbed, dump body or cargo-box truck.
- No passengers on board (brochure, p. 14).
Retake and fees
Retake after at least 7 days, only the failed exam. For class 1 the SAAQ page lists $13.50 for the walk-around, $66.50 for the driving exam and $18.50 to issue the class; class 2 and 3 fees were not read. Confirm the amounts on the SAAQ website.
To remember for the test
- Two exams: safety walk-around and driving, 75% each.
- A successful reverse manoeuvre is required at the driving exam.
- Vehicle without defects and with a valid mechanical inspection certificate.
- Retake after at least 7 days, only the failed exam.
Original heavy-vehicle questions with an explanation and a source: 10 free.
Practise for free
Official sources
- SAAQ, brochure “Bientôt conducteur d’un véhicule lourd” (2021, French)
- SAAQ, class 1 combination of road vehicles (official page, French)
- SAAQ, heavy-vehicle licences (official page, 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.