Quebec announced on Thursday that any new truck driver from Ontario will be required to pass a written examination before being allowed to operate a commercial vehicle within the province. The measure, introduced by the Quebec government, applies specifically to drivers who are newly entering the province’s road network.
The decision follows a series of recent heavy‑vehicle collisions in which drivers from Ontario, identified as lacking experience, were involved. Provincial officials said the new exam is intended to ensure that drivers possess a basic understanding of Quebec’s traffic regulations and safety standards before they take the wheel on Quebec highways.
Under the new rule, Ontario drivers seeking to haul freight into Quebec must complete the written test, which covers topics such as road signs, weight restrictions, and provincial driving laws. Successful completion will be a prerequisite for obtaining the necessary operating permits for commercial trucks.
The policy forms part of a broader effort by Quebec to tighten safety regulations for out‑of‑province commercial vehicles. Over the past months, the province has observed an uptick in accidents involving trucks that originated outside its borders, prompting officials to review existing oversight mechanisms. By requiring a written exam, Quebec aims to reduce the risk of future incidents linked to driver inexperience.
The announcement did not specify a timeline for implementation, nor did it detail any exemptions for drivers with existing certifications. Quebec authorities indicated that the requirement will be enforced as part of the province’s standard licensing process for commercial operators.
Industry groups have been informed of the change and are expected to advise their Ontario‑based drivers accordingly. The new exam requirement represents a notable shift in how Quebec addresses cross‑border transportation safety, aligning its regulatory approach with the goal of preventing further collisions involving out‑of‑province trucks.