What is the CFTR formation?
CFTR (Centre de formation du transport routier) is the official Quebec training provider for taxi and paid ride-transport (VTC) drivers. Since Loi 17 (2020), every Uber, Lyft and taxi driver in Quebec must complete it before receiving a permis de chauffeur autorisé from the SAAQ.
The training used to be in-classroom only. Since 2022 it is offered fully online, self-paced, in French and English.
How long does the CFTR formation actually take?
- Official length: 14 hours of content
- Realistic pace for most drivers: 2 to 4 evenings
- Fast-track (nights and weekend): possible in 2 days
- Exam: 60 questions, 75% passing grade, retake allowed
How much does it cost in 2026?
The online CFTR formation is around $150 CAD depending on promo periods. Add roughly $50–$70 for the SAAQ permis de chauffeur autorisé application (background check included), and $110 for the annual vehicle vérification mécanique.
All-in to get on the road legally in Montreal: about $310–$370 before insurance.
What trips up new drivers on the CFTR exam?
- French vocabulary section — even the English exam has bilingual signage questions
- Tarification questions (base fare, per-km, per-minute) — memorize the current Quebec grid
- Refus de course rules — when you can and cannot refuse a ride
- Zones réglementées around YUL and the Old Port
Written by drivers, for drivers
This guide was created by the Pro À Quart team, including Claudel Métellus, an experienced Uber and Lyft driver and founder of SoluCité. Every recommendation comes from real shifts on Montreal streets — not a generic playbook.
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