Permis PrêtCan you take the SAAQ knowledge test in Arabic, Spanish or Mandarin?
The languages of the knowledge test, how to ask for one, interpreters, and what it changes for the road test (Class 5).
Short answer: yes. According to the SAAQ, the knowledge test is available in French and English, and you may also take it in Modern Standard Arabic, Spanish or Mandarin. Ask the service centre employee on the day of your test. Note: if you take the knowledge test in one of these three languages, you will have to rent a vehicle with two sets of pedals for the road test.
The 5 languages of the knowledge test
| Language | How |
|---|---|
| French | Offered; audio version available |
| English | Offered; audio version available |
| Modern Standard Arabic | On request, on the day of the knowledge test |
| Spanish | On request, on the day of the knowledge test |
| Mandarin | On request, on the day of the knowledge test |
The SAAQ lists no other language. For any other language, the option is an interpreter (below).
Source: SAAQ, “Preparing for the knowledge and road tests” (tourists and newcomers section, last update October 13, 2026).
With an interpreter
- Foreign-language interpreter: you may take the test with an interpreter, on request. The SAAQ does not publish the conditions or the fee: ask the service centre employee at your eligibility appointment.
- Sign language: at no extra cost at the service centres in Gatineau, Rimouski, Rouyn-Noranda and Saguenay, the Hamel service centre in Québec City and the Henri-Bourassa service centre in Montréal (the French version of the page also lists Sherbrooke); by videoconference at any other service centre that gives knowledge tests, through the call centre.
What the language changes for the road test
- If you took the knowledge test in a language other than English or French, you will be required to rent a vehicle with two sets of pedals for the road test.
- If you lack French- or English-language skills, the examiner guides you with hand signals.
- The SAAQ offers no foreign-language interpreter for the road test (only a sign-language interpreter).
The test itself is the same
- Three parts: the Highway Safety Code, road signs and traffic signals, and behaviours and techniques for driving a passenger vehicle.
- 75% in each of the three parts to pass; if you fail, wait at least 28 days before retaking it.
- Length: 30 to 60 minutes. Fee: $13.50, credit cards not accepted.
See also: the Class 5 knowledge test and fees and pass marks.
Studying when French is not your language
- The SAAQ’s official guides (the Driver’s Handbook and “Driving a Passenger Vehicle”) are in French and English.
- The SAAQ’s “Basics of Driving” videos exist in French with Arabic, Spanish or Mandarin subtitles.
- Permis Prêt is in French and English only. Its questions are original (not the questions of the real test).
New resident? Read the guide on exchanging a foreign licence first: depending on your country, you may not need any test.
Key points
- 5 languages: French, English, Modern Standard Arabic, Spanish, Mandarin.
- Arabic, Spanish or Mandarin: ask on the day of the knowledge test.
- Knowledge test in one of these languages: a dual-pedal car is required for the road test.
15 questions with explanations and sources, no sign-up (English or French).
Practise for free
Official sources
- SAAQ, “Preparing for the knowledge and road tests” (last update October 13, 2026; consulted 2026-11-04): languages, interpreters, road test, fees, length, pass mark
- SAAQ, « Préparation aux examens » (French version, same date)
See also
- Can you take the SAAQ knowledge test online?
- Driving in Quebec as a newcomer: your first 6 months and after
- Motorcycle learner’s licence in Québec: steps 6R, 6A, 6B, 6C
General information page, current as of 2026-11-04. If in doubt, the official text prevails. Rules can change: check saaq.gouv.qc.ca before your appointment.