SAAQ Exam 2026: New Rules Against Cheating

Updated: September 1, 2026

The SAAQ has strengthened its measures to combat cheating during driver's license competency exams. These new rules came into effect on June 18, 2026 and relate in particular to theoretical and practical examinations.

For candidates preparing for their driving test in Longueuil, It is important to be aware of these new rules before going to the SAAQ. A mistake or the presence of a prohibited device can lead to failure and significantly delay the next attempt.

What changes with the new SAAQ rules?

The main change concerns the time limit imposed when a candidate is found to have cheated.

Since the June 18, 2026 :

First instance of cheating: 90 days before being allowed to retake the exam

Recurrence: 180 days before being able to repeat the examination

The SAAQ indicates that this penalty applies when an act of cheating is found during a skills test.

Why are these deadlines important?

A person who is disqualified for cheating cannot simply retake their exam a few days later.

A first situation can lead to three months of waiting, while a relapse may delay the next attempt to six months.

For a candidate who wants to obtain their license quickly, the consequences can therefore be significant.

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What devices are prohibited during an SAAQ exam?

The SAAQ indicates that electronic devices are prohibited during exams.

This includes, in particular:

• cell phone;
• smart watch;
• smart glasses;
• camera;
• other electronic devices;
• devices used for communication or obtaining help.

The SAAQ also prohibits filming, recording or photographing anything during the exam.

Even checking the time can be a problem.

One particularly important point: a smart watch is among the prohibited devices.

Therefore, a smartwatch should not be considered a mere accessory.

To avoid any problems, it is best to leave electronic devices aside for the entire duration of the exam.

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What is allowed during the theory test?

For the theoretical exam, the SAAQ specifies that only: the equipment provided by the SAAQ And a dictionary in printed form, without illustrations or handwritten annotations are permitted.

Personal notes, reminders and other documents are therefore not allowed.

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What situations can be considered cheating?

Cheating is not limited to checking a phone.

According to the SAAQ, the following may be considered acts of cheating:

• possession or use of a prohibited document or device;
• communication with another candidate;
• communication with a person outside;
• an attempt to obtain help;
• an attempt to bribe or intimidate the supervisor.

The SAAQ specifies that these situations can automatically lead to failing the exam.

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What happens if someone cheats on the exam?

The immediate consequence is the’failure in the exam. But that's not all.

The candidate will have to wait: 90 days, before being able to retake an exam after a first instance of cheating. 180 days in case of recurrence.

These time limits apply to situations covered by the SAAQ's cheating policy.

Thorough preparation is better than a shortcut

For a candidate who is not sufficiently prepared, attempting to use prohibited aids can ultimately delay obtaining a license by several months.

The best strategy therefore remains to prepare properly before the exam.

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Do the new rules only apply to the theory test?

No.

The SAAQ also indicates strict rules for the’practical driving test.

During this exam, it is forbidden to have any electronic devices such as a phone, smartwatch, smart glasses, or camera. Filming, recording, or photographing anything is also prohibited.

Any act of cheating can lead to failure and a delay in resuming the competition. 90 days, or of 180 days in case of recurrence.