Using a mobile phone while driving in Quebec (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Quebec bans using a phone or other portable device while driving unless it is hands-free. The fine is CAD 300 to 600 with 5 demerit points, and repeat offenders within two years have their licence suspended on the spot for 3, 7 or 30 days.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Holding a phone while driving bannedUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Yes [1] |
| Hands-free useUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Allowed [1] |
| Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies)Using a mobile phone while driving a car | 300.00 CAD per offence [1] |
| Penalty points on the licenceUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | 5 points [2] |
Notes
- A driver holding a portable device in hand or in any other manner is presumed to be using it. Section 443.2 allows a driver to wear only one earphone.
- Section 509.2.2 sets a fine of CAD 300 to CAD 600 and doubles the minimum for a second or subsequent offence.
Sources
- Gouvernement du Québec (LégisQuébec): Highway Safety Code, CQLR c C-24.2 (Internet Archive snapshot of 2026) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Gouvernement du Québec (LégisQuébec): Regulation respecting demerit points, CQLR c C-24.2, r 37 (Internet Archive snapshot of 2026) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Quebec and neighbouring provinces and territories
| Province or territory | Holding a phone while driving banned | Hands-free use | Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies) | Penalty points on the licence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quebec | Banned | Hands-free allowed | From CAD 300 | 5 points |
| Ontario | Banned | Hands-free, touch limited | CAD 615 | 3 points |
| New Brunswick | Banned | Voice or one touch only | CAD 340.50 | 5 points |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | Banned | Hands-free allowed | From CAD 300 | 4 |
More rules in Quebec
- CannabisPossession for personal use: Legal within limits (21+) · Growing at home: No
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 50 km/h · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 90 km/h
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceEarliest age to drive a car supervised: 16, with an accompanying driver (2+ years)
- E-bikes and speed pedelecsLegal class: Bicycle rules · Minimum age: 18 (14-17 with moped licence)
- Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: Yes · Current adult minimum wage (gross): $16.60 per hour
- Seat belts and child seatsSeat belt compulsory in front seats: Yes · Seat belt compulsory in rear seats: Yes
- Tobacco and nicotine age limits
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.