Everything you need to pass your Quebec CDL exam: key topics, the rules examiners test, and exam-style practice questions.
Québec Class 1 (CDL) · 80 topics · Updated 2026-10-24
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In Québec, drivers of heavy vehicles must wear the seat belts installed by the vehicle manufacturer. Seat belts greatly reduce deaths and injury severity in accidents by preventing drivers from hitting the steering wheel or windshield and from being thrown from the vehicle.
Drivers are prohibited from driving a heavy vehicle when impaired by alcohol or drugs. A blood alcohol level of 80 mg per 100 ml of blood (0.08) or more while impaired results in penalties under the Criminal Code and Highway Safety Code.
If you have any alcohol or drugs in your blood, you may not drive or have care/control of a bus, minibus or taxi. Violating this zero-tolerance rule leads to a 24-hour driving prohibition for such vehicles.
A blood alcohol concentration of 0.05 or more prohibits driving or having care/control of a heavy vehicle, tow truck, or vehicle requiring safety mark placards under the Regulation respecting hazardous materials. This does not apply to a passenger vehicle pulling a house/tent trailer or to a motor home.
Holding any portable electronic device while driving is illegal, regardless of use. This applies to cell phones, MP3/multimedia players, satellite radios, electronic tablets, and screens/devices displaying non-driving information, emails, or internet. It does not apply to on-duty emergency vehicle drivers.
Inattention is the cause of most injury accidents involving trucks. Fatigue is the main cause; distraction, anger, frustration, stress, alcohol, medication and drugs also contribute. Monotonous driving can cause 'highway hypnosis' — pull over to rest and take breaks every two hours if possible.
Anticipating means planning ahead based on current conditions. SCAN and OBSERVE the environment (do not fixate on one point; look ahead, sides, and mirrors). IDENTIFY dangers by reading the road and keeping space. DECIDE the best course of action. ACT by performing the right manoeuvre at the right moment.
GPS is useful but a distraction source and must be used with discernment. Program the system or enter information before leaving. Electronic log books must only be used when the vehicle is parked in a safe location.
A driver stopped to comply with signage or due to traffic (red light, traffic jam) is still considered to be driving and cannot use a hand-held electronic device. A driver who makes a safe and legal stop by the side of a road to use a device is no longer considered driving, even with the engine running.
Headrests, like seat belts, prevent injuries. Most heavy vehicles have stationary headrests, but adjustable ones should be properly adjusted before driving to avoid whiplash or neck injury in a collision.
Drivers must share the road and cooperate. A cooperative, courteous attitude makes driving easier for others and avoids reckless actions. Examples include adjusting speed to let others merge and using the right lane, reserving the left lane for passing.
A flagperson directs traffic where construction or maintenance work is being carried out. They use an eight-sided sign with 'Arrêt' (Stop) on one side and 'Lentement' (Slow) on the other. You must obey the flagperson's signals just as you would obey traffic signals.
A flagperson directs traffic on roads where construction or maintenance work is being carried out. The flagperson uses an eight-sided sign displaying 'Arrêt' (Stop) on one side and 'Lentement' (Slow) on the other. Drivers must respond appropriately to each side.
Look far ahead to check whether there are any changes in traffic or if part of the road is blocked. Due to road work, a portion of highway may accommodate two-way traffic over several kilometres.
Upshifting into 2nd gear on a non-synchromesh transmission requires a specific double-clutching sequence involving neutral and precise RPM control.
For efficient shifting, each gear has a target RPM based on the example vehicle parameters. This helps determine the ideal moment to change gears using the tachometer.
To shift into a higher gear, you must reach an engine speed about 300 RPM higher than idling speed. Shifting is difficult if the difference between actual RPM and the RPM needed for the manoeuvre is lower than the RPM at idling speed.
Starting the vehicle from a stop requires proper clutch pedal control through defined positions to prevent grinding and allow smooth engagement.
To shift into higher gears, engine speed must be increased to maintain optimum torque after subtracting the RPM required for the manoeuvre.
Driver distraction plays a role in the majority of accidents. To drive safely you must constantly be on the lookout, aware of everything happening in front of and on either side of your vehicle, with special attention to blind spots and the rearview mirror.
Heavy vehicle manoeuvres such as stopping or changing lanes take longer and require greater distance than in a car, so you must look far ahead to ensure enough space to execute each manoeuvre safely and maintain control. Looking far ahead prevents being caught off guard.
Even with convex mirrors, certain road areas cannot be seen, especially blind spots. Look back at the areas behind you on right and left not covered by mirrors. Since your vehicle is bigger than others, checking blind spots for smaller vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians is critical.
Know what is happening around your vehicle at all times. Use rearview mirrors to check traffic beside and behind you at regular intervals — every 10 or 12 seconds in normal conditions and more often in problem situations. Take quick glances rather than staring, since the road ahead is constantly changing.
Other drivers do not know your plans unless you signal. Signal clearly once you are sure you can make your move safely to prevent problems and avoid accidents.
Heavy vehicle manoeuvres like stopping or changing lanes take longer and require more distance than in a car. Looking far ahead protects you from being caught off guard and helps maintain control at all times. You should scan the distance you will cover in the next 12 to 15 seconds without staring off into the distance.
Even with convex rearview mirrors, certain areas of the road cannot be seen, especially blind spots. To check blind spots, look back at the areas behind you on your right and left not covered by mirrors. Because your vehicle is larger, it is even more important to check for smaller vehicles, cyclists or pedestrians.
You should know what is happening around your vehicle at all times. Use rearview mirrors to check traffic beside and behind you at regular intervals. Take quick glances shifting eyes from the road ahead to the mirror and back, and avoid staring in the mirror too long because the situation ahead constantly changes.
Other drivers do not know your plans unless you tell them. Signal intentions clearly once you are sure you can make the move safely. When turning, signal as soon as other drivers will not mistake your intentions, leave signals on until the manoeuvre is complete, and start signalling before slowing down (unless slowing so far in advance would confuse others).
Looking far ahead does not mean ignoring what is happening closer. Keep an eye on traffic flow and vehicles about to merge, change lanes or turn. Anticipating events in advance lets you adjust speed and avoid abrupt braking.
Rearview mirrors let you quickly see an overheating or burning tire, and on some vehicles allow you to check the semi-trailer and cargo to make sure it is well secured. Convex mirrors distort distance and size, so keep this in mind when changing directions.
Signal a turn as soon as possible so other drivers can make allowance and avoid getting in your way. Turn signals on as soon as you can be sure others won't mistake your intentions, leave them on until the manoeuvre is complete. Start signalling before slowing down unless doing so far in advance could confuse others.
Signal your intention to change lanes well in advance, make the usual checks, then move gradually into the adjacent lane. Brake lights warn others when slowing or stopping — pay close attention to other vehicles and avoid abrupt or frequent stops.
If you confirm you have a flat tire, you are legally required to stop operating your vehicle until the tire is repaired or replaced. Do not continue driving on a flat.
A flat in a front tire, or in a rear tire on a single-wheeled (wide-tread) vehicle, can cause loss of control. When a front tire goes flat, the vehicle veers toward the damaged side. A flat rear tire usually makes the vehicle unstable. You must compensate for the imbalance to bring the vehicle to a safe stop.
A flat tire on a dual-wheeled semi-trailer may have very little impact on driving because the vehicle still maintains its stability. However, the extra weight transferred to the other wheel may damage it. A blowout on one of the tractor's rear tires may cause the rear end of the tractor to vibrate.
A flat in a front tire or in a rear tire on a single-wheeled (wide-tread) vehicle can cause loss of control. A flat front tire makes the vehicle veer toward the damaged side. A flat rear tire makes the vehicle unstable. You must adjust your driving to compensate for the imbalance and reach a safe stop.
A flat tire on a dual-wheeled semi-trailer usually has little impact on driving because the vehicle maintains stability. However, extra weight transferred to the remaining wheel may damage it. A blowout on one of the tractor's rear tires may cause the rear end of the tractor to vibrate.
The Cargo Securement Standards Regulation establishes general standards applying to all types of cargo for road vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 4,500 kg or more. Certain vehicles and cargo types are exempt if they meet specific conditions.
Cargo must be firmly secured or immobilized inside the transporting vehicle. The tiedown system must meet performance criteria to counteract forces applied to the cargo during transport.
Cargo may be secured by various means, and their use must be appropriate to the cargo's dimensions, shape and resistance. All components must be in proper working order.
Drivers must check the cargo and tiedown system and make appropriate adjustments before setting out and at various moments during the trip, with certain exemptions.
When an article is blocked or immobilized by a front end structure, bulkhead, another immobilized article or another device preventing forward shifting, the number of tiedowns depends on length regardless of mass.
When an article is NOT blocked or immobilized by a front end structure, blocking system or another properly secured article, tiedown requirements are based on mass and length.
All tiedowns used under the Regulation must bear the manufacturer's certification of their Working Load Limit. The WLL is the maximum load the manufacturer assigns for normal use.
The sum of all tiedown WLLs used to secure cargo is the total WLL, which must meet a minimum percentage of the cargo's mass.
Cargo in closed vehicles must be distributed to fill available space and be immobilized; flatbed cargo must be secured with tiedowns.
Cargo must be firmly secured or immobilized inside the transporting vehicle. The tiedown system must meet performance criteria to counteract front, rear, lateral and vertical forces resulting from driver manoeuvres, road geometry, road surface conditions and wind.
A heavy vehicle driver must master the correct technique for hitching a semi-trailer. Any error during the hitching process or using the wrong method can cause an accident or equipment failure. You must follow the same steps and proceed in the same manner each time you hitch to save time and ensure safe driving.
Before hitching, inspect the fifth wheel to ensure it is well lubricated, undamaged, firmly anchored, and correctly positioned for hitching. In winter, remove accumulated snow so the fifth wheel locks correctly.
Check the surroundings to ensure a safe hitching location. Line the tractor up in a straight line with the semi-trailer, roll down the window to hear, and check both sides in the mirrors. Do not hitch until the tractor is lined up, then back up slowly ensuring the axle fits under the semi-trailer.
The upper coupler plate of the semi-trailer should be slightly lower than the fifth wheel plate at its pivot point. If lower, the semi-trailer is slightly raised when hitched, making it easier for the locking mechanism to engage. Adjust height using the landing gear or tractor suspension.
Whenever stopping during hitching, put on the tractor's parking brake, shift into neutral, switch on hazard lights and parking lights, and climb down from the cab using three support points.
Back the tractor up slowly under the semi-trailer, checking mirrors, until the kingpin is positioned inside the fifth wheel. This must be done correctly so the locking mechanism engages and to prevent the kingpin striking hard against the fifth wheel. Test the lock by trying to move forward and stop as soon as you feel resistance.
Look under the semi-trailer to check the kingpin is fully inserted into the jaws (use a flashlight) and that the fifth wheel locking mechanism is in the lock position. If it does not lock, ask a mechanic. Connect indicator lights and brake hoses safely, raise the landing gear, and turn on air suspension if needed.
Put on both tractor and semi-trailer parking brakes, shift into neutral, and climb down using three support points. Check the semi-trailer condition, lower the landing gear until firmly braced against the ground, unhook brake hoses and indicator lights connecting them to dummy couplers, then pull the fifth wheel release lever(s) to the open position.
Move the tractor forward approximately 15 cm to release the kingpin and stop. Lower the tractor's air suspension and move forward slowly, stopping while the last axle is still under the semi-trailer so it will be supported if the landing gear fails or sinks. Check the semi-trailer is immobilized before moving away, then turn the suspension back on.
Before hitching a semi-trailer, the tractor's fifth wheel must be inspected to ensure it is safe and ready to receive the kingpin. Any error at this stage can cause an accident or equipment failure.
The tractor must be correctly lined up with the semi-trailer before backing under it, using mirrors and hearing to confirm alignment on both sides.
Backing under the semi-trailer must be done correctly to prevent the kingpin from striking the fifth wheel and to ensure the locking mechanism engages.
After hitching, a physical inspection under the trailer confirms the kingpin is fully engaged and the lock is set, followed by connecting services and raising the landing gear.
Choose a firm, level location before unhitching so the ground can support the semi-trailer weight, then prepare the trailer and release the fifth wheel.
The tractor is moved forward slightly to release the kingpin, its suspension lowered, then driven out while keeping the last axle under the trailer for safety.
Before unhitching, ensure you are in a good spot. Choose an area where the ground is firm enough and flat enough to support the weight of the semi-trailer, preventing the landing gear from sinking.
To maintain stability, the heavier loaded semi-trailer must be positioned closest to the tractor, except when weights are nearly equal.
For all types of double trains, the length of the second semi-trailer is strictly regulated between a minimum and maximum measurement to ensure stability and legal compliance.
An LCV must be equipped with a device that tracks the driver's behaviour and records driving data. This is used by enforcement officers to verify safe operation.
A warning sign with the word 'LONG' must be placed on the rear of the second semi-trailer to alert other road users to the vehicle's length. Specific size and condition standards apply.
Covers all coupling devices other than a fifth wheel. Inspect the components of the coupling device such as the drawbar ring and pintle hook. A converter dolly uses two types of coupling devices: a fifth wheel device and a pintle hook/drawbar ring device — both must be checked. Inspect on both sides of the combination, facing the coupling device, checking the tractor vehicle (pintle hook, locking mechanism) and the vehicle being pulled (ring, drawbar).
Check for the presence and condition of safety fasteners or coupling components (steel cables, chains, hooks, rings to which chains attach). Inspect between the tractor vehicle and the trailer. Safety fasteners are mandatory when the trailer is not equipped with emergency brakes that enable the trailer to stop if separation occurs.
The master cylinder reservoir must be checked to verify the service brake fluid level. Check the fluid level using the indicator on the reservoir. If there is no indicator, open the reservoir to check the fluid level. Some reservoirs require a tool to be opened. If a reservoir has two caps, both compartments must be checked. In a combination of vehicles where each vehicle has hydraulic brakes, the reservoir of each vehicle must be checked. When opening the reservoir, clean around the opening to avoid contaminants, properly replace the seal, and tighten the cap.
Check the working order of the power brake. The power brake cannot be checked using these methods if it is hydraulically assisted. For a vacuum brake booster: run engine a few seconds, stop it, pump the brake pedal several times, apply average pressure, restart engine while maintaining pressure, and check the movement of the brake pedal. For a hydraulic brake booster (electric pump): turn off engine, apply average pressure to the pedal, and listen for the electric pump working. Many school buses and some straight-body trucks use electric pump boosters.
Check pressure and for leaks in the braking equipment. With the engine running, press down hard (harder than a normal braking manoeuvre) on the brake pedal for at least 10 seconds and check the movement of the pedal. For some vehicles with a hydraulic brake booster, this check cannot be performed if the engine is not running.
Check the effectiveness of the service brake from the driver's compartment. Start the vehicle and drive forward slightly, press on the brake pedal, and check whether the vehicle stops quickly.
Check the effectiveness of the parking brake from the driver's compartment with the engine running. Apply the parking brake and try to drive forward (automatic: 'DRIVE' position; manual: right gear to move forward) and check whether it holds the vehicle stationary. Then release it and slowly drive a few metres forward watching wheel rotation in the mirrors. The parking brake cannot be checked on certain heavy vehicles with automatic transmission that cannot shift into gear while the parking brake is engaged.
Check the working order of the power brake. The power brake cannot be checked using these methods if it is hydraulically assisted. For a vacuum brake booster: let engine run a few seconds, stop engine, pump brake pedal several times, apply average pressure, restart engine while maintaining pressure, and check pedal movement. For a hydraulic brake booster (electric pump): turn off engine, apply average pressure to pedal, and listen for the electric pump working. Some straight-body trucks and most school buses have a hydraulic brake booster (electric pump).
Check the effectiveness of the parking brake with the engine running. Apply the parking brake and try to drive forward (automatic: shift to DRIVE; manual: select right forward gear) to confirm the brake keeps the vehicle stationary. Then release the brake and slowly drive a few metres, watching wheel rotation in the mirrors. The parking brake cannot be checked on certain vehicles with automatic transmission because the transmission cannot be shifted into gear while the parking brake is engaged.
When performing a circle check on a school bus, use the straight-body truck method plus the additional city bus points, and inspect components specific to school buses. These include power steering belts, driver-area windows, retractable stop signs, flashing lights, and hydraulic brake systems where equipped.
For efficient gear shifting, the engine must reach specific RPM ranges before changing gears. The example vehicle uses defined RPM targets for the first four gears based on an idling speed of about 650 RPM and a manoeuvre requirement of 300 RPM above idle.
A warning sign bearing the word 'LONG' must be displayed on the rear of the second semi-trailer, meeting size and cleanliness requirements per the Special Road Train Operating Permits Regulation.
The heavier semi-trailer must be positioned directly behind the tractor for stability, unless the weight difference is minimal.
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