Who needs it
Since Loi 17 (October 2020), the permis de chauffeur autorisé replaces the old pocket number (numéro de poche). Every driver of a paid ride — Uber, Lyft, Eva, taxi, adapted transport, limousine — needs it.
The application in 5 steps
- 1. Complete the CFTR formation en ligne first (attestation required to apply)
- 2. Log into your SAAQ account and open the “Chauffeur autorisé” request
- 3. Consent to a criminal background check (RCMP + Sûreté du Québec)
- 4. Pay the fee (~$60, subject to indexation)
- 5. Wait 4–8 weeks — you'll receive an approval letter and updated licence
What can disqualify you
- Impaired driving conviction within the last 5 years
- Violent criminal record within the last 5 years
- Sexual offence conviction — permanent disqualification
- More than 7 demerit points in the last 24 months
How long is it valid?
The permit itself doesn't have a separate expiry — it stays tied to your regular Class 5 driver's licence. When you renew your licence at the SAAQ, the chauffeur autorisé endorsement renews with it (subject to a fresh background check every 2 years).
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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