Car Rental in Quebec: Everything You Need to Know

To explore the vast expanses of Quebec and fully enjoy your stay, renting a car proves essential. Between selecting the vehicle, insurance, rental conditions, and the different options available, I have gathered all the essential information to rent a car in Quebec with peace of mind.

We assist thousands of travelers in their car rental in Canada projects, and we notice that many questions arise frequently: What is the best place to rent? What are the requirements? How to get the best price?

This comprehensive guide answers all your questions for a worry-free rental in Quebec.

Why rent a car in Quebec?

Discover varied landscapes

Quebec is full of breathtaking landscapes that would be a shame to miss on your next road trip. From the Laurentians to the vast expanses of the Gaspésie National Park, through shimmering lakes and lush forests, each region offers its share of natural wonders.

Renting a car allows you to explore at your own pace, stop spontaneously to capture a sunset, or observe local wildlife. Not to mention dynamic cities like Montreal and Quebec, each deserving of being thoroughly explored.

Flexibility and independence

Unlike public transport with fixed schedules and limited routes, a rental car offers you total freedom. No more long waits at bus stops or complex connections: you decide on your itinerary and schedule.

Want to leave early to enjoy the first light of day on the Saint Lawrence River? Or to make an unplanned detour to that little typical restaurant you've been told about? With your own vehicle, you are the master of your journey.

Economic approach

Car rental in Quebec can be particularly advantageous, especially when traveling with family or friends. By sharing the rental and fuel costs, the cost per person often becomes more attractive than purchasing multiple public transport tickets.

Moreover, Authentik Canada guarantees you the best rates thanks to its partnerships with the main rental companies in the province.

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Where to rent your car in Quebec?

Montreal

Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport (YUL) offers a wide choice of vehicles with all major rental brands present (Avis, Thrifty, Dollar, Alamo, Budget). Counters are easily accessible from the terminal.

In downtown, several agencies are available and often offer better rates as they are exempt from airport surcharges. This is the ideal option if you plan to visit Montreal before embarking on a road trip in Quebec. Indeed, the car will not be necessary during your visit to Montreal as everything can be visited on foot or by public transit.

Quebec City

At Jean Lesage Airport (YQB), rental agencies are grouped on the ground floor of the administrative building, just a few minutes’ walk from the arrivals gate.

In downtown, you'll find rental points especially in Old Quebec and near the Palais train station, ideally located to start your exploration of the region.

Other regions of Quebec

Cities like Sherbrooke, Trois-Rivières, Gatineau, Saguenay, and Rimouski have local agencies offering quality services. Most offer the "one-way" option allowing you to return the vehicle in another city, convenient for road trips across the province. This flexibility is particularly appreciated for exploring different regions of Quebec without having to return to the starting point.

Calculate your car rental price in Quebec

Is it cheaper to hire a car at the airport or in the city?

Car rental at the airport

Opting for car rental at the airport has several advantages:

• Wide choice of vehicles available immediately.
• Extended opening hours, aligned with flight arrivals and departures.
• Convenience: you pick up your car upon landing, without additional transport.

However, if you rent your car at the airport while planning to visit Montreal for a few days, it can quickly become inconvenient (parking cost, heavy traffic, etc.).

Car rental downtown

Opting for a car rental downtown offers several practical advantages:

• You can pick up your vehicle the same day you leave for the road trip, thus avoiding paying for unnecessary days.
• No parking worries during your stay in Montreal: finding an available spot (and decoding the signage!) can quickly become a real headache.

On the downside, you will need to plan a transfer from the airport to downtown (taxi, bus, or shuttle), and deal with traffic and parking challenges on the day of departure.

If you plan to spend a few days in Montreal before hitting the road, picking up your car downtown is often the simplest and most economical option.

The various types of vehicles available in Quebec

Compact cars

Compact cars are the ideal choice for a first driving experience in Quebec. Their small size makes them valuable allies for snaking through the narrow streets of Montreal or Old Quebec. These vehicles offer numerous advantages:

• An excellent maneuverability in the city and easy parking
• An Certainly, here's the translated HTML content with the original structure preserved: ```html consumption of reduced fuel, perfect for long trips
• More advantageous rental rates than larger engine vehicles

Particularly suitable for couples or small families, these cars allow you to fully enjoy your stay while managing your budget.

SUV

The SUVs are particularly suited to Quebec road conditions. You will find a wide choice of models. These vehicles offer many advantages:

• A spacious trunk making it easy to carry luggage and outdoor equipment
• An elevated driving position offering better visibility
• Optimal comfort even on less maintained roads

These vehicles are particularly recommended if you plan to explore national parks or travel during the cold season.

Minivans

The minivans are spacious vehicles perfectly suited for group travel and can accommodate up to 7 people. These vehicles offer many advantages:

• A generous seating capacity ideal for large families or groups of friends
• A significant loading space to carry outdoor equipment, luggage, and camping gear
• A comfortable ride even over long distances thanks to an elevated position
• Excellent road stability, particularly important in mountainous regions
• Modular seats allowing you to adapt the space according to your needs

These vehicles are particularly recommended if you travel with more than 5 people or if you plan to carry a lot of equipment during your road trip in Quebec.

RVs

The RVs are an ideal option for those wishing to combine transport and accommodation during their road trip in Quebec. These vehicles offer many advantages:

• Total freedom in your movements and accommodation
• Optimal comfort with equipped kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping areas
• The ability to stop in unique places while keeping your belongings at hand

Specific advice for Quebec:

• Overnight parking is strictly regulated: it is not permitted to overnight in rest areas (maximum 4 hours parking) or shopping center parking lots
• Walmart stores may allow overnight parking (ask for permission at the reception)
• Use apps like Park4night to easily locate service areas and campgrounds

Important: book your camping spot in advance during peak season (July-August) because the most popular sites often fill up quickly.

Formalities and conditions for car rental in Quebec

Driver's license and age requirement

To rent a car in Quebec, you must hold a valid driver's license. If you are a tourist and your stay is less than 6 months, your foreign license is accepted provided it is in Latin characters (French or English).

Otherwise, an international driving permit is recommended. Regarding age, the minimum required is 21 years with most rental companies, although some agencies like Hertz accept drivers from 18 in Quebec.

Note that a "young driver" supplement (about $25 per day) is generally applied for drivers aged between 21 and 24 years. This amount covers the additional insurance required for that age group.

Insurance and protection

When renting a car in Quebec, several insurance options are available:

• Liability insurance: mandatory, it covers damage caused to others in the event of an accident. It is generally included in the base price of the rental.
• Collision and damage insurance (CDW/LDW): it protects your vehicle in case of accident, theft, or vandalism. Check if your credit card already offers this protection before subscribing to it from the rental company.
• Personal accident insurance (PAI): it covers the medical expenses of the driver and passengers in case of injury during an accident.

Credit cards and security deposit

When picking up your vehicle, a security deposit will be blocked on your credit card. This amount usually ranges between $500 and $1,000, depending on the type of vehicle and the rental agency.

Depending on the rental company, this amount may be temporarily frozen or actually debited, but in all cases, it must be available on your card at the time of rental.

Tip: remember to check your credit card limit in advance and, if necessary, ask your bank to increase it temporarily to avoid any refusal at the counter.

Different payment options are available:

Credit card (recommended): 

• It must be in the name of the main driver.
• The card must have a sufficient limit to cover the security deposit.
• Accepted cards: Visa, Mastercard. Attention: some agencies refuse American Express—check directly with the rental company if you have one.

Online payment: 

• Secure booking via our platform
• Prepayment possible to benefit from better rates
• A credit card in the name of the main driver is still required at the time of vehicle pick-up for the security deposit.

Important: the security deposit is automatically returned within 3 to 5 days after returning the vehicle, provided that no damage or additional fees are observed.

3 tips for renting a car at the best price

#1- Book in advance

Early booking is the key to getting the best rates. Thanks to our online comparator, you have instant access to the best offers from our partners and benefit from advantageous prices. The earlier you book, the more choice you will have in the available vehicle models, particularly important in high season.

#2- Take advantage of seasonal promotions

Fall and spring are ideal periods to rent a car in Quebec at a lower cost. Rates can be up to 25% cheaper than in summer.

#3 - Choose the right rental duration

Opt for a weekly rental rather than a daily one: weekly rates are generally more advantageous, with discounts up to 15%. Compare pickup and return locations.

The "one-way" rental allows you to return your vehicle in a different city from the one of departure, ideal for optimizing your itinerary.

The Best Roads and Destinations to Explore by Car in Quebec

The Route of Navigators

Follow the majestic St. Lawrence River for over 470 km to discover:

• Picturesque villages with authentic charm like Kamouraska and Rivière-du-Loup
• The Bic National Park, a paradise for seals and seabirds
• Historic lighthouses offering spectacular views
• Various maritime activities: whale watching, sea kayaking, cruises

Gaspésie

Travel one of the most beautiful scenic roads in North America and admire:

• The famous Rocher Percé, symbol of the region
• The Gaspésie National Park with its caribou and majestic peaks
• Breath-taking coastal landscapes along Route 132
• Authentic fishing villages like Bonaventure and Carleton-sur-Mer

The Eastern Townships

Explore a region with pronounced British charm:

• The Wine Route dotted with renowned vineyards
• Historic villages like Knowlton and North Hatley
• A rolling countryside perfect for photo breaks
• Artisanal microbreweries to discover local beers

The Charlevoix Region

Take spectacular routes between sea and mountains:

• The River Route (Route 362), ranked among the most beautiful in Quebec
• Whale cruises departing from Baie-Sainte-Catherine
• A local gastronomy recognized worldwide
• The Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park and the Grands-Jardins National Park.

Lake Saint-Jean and the Saguenay Fjord

A perfect region for families:

• Whale watching and belugas
• The Blueberry Route, a 256 km bike circuit around the lake
• The Saguenay Fjord National Park, one of the most beautiful parks in Quebec
• Historic villages like Val-Jalbert

Why Plan Your Road Trip with Authentik Canada?

Our expertise guarantees:

• Personalized itineraries according to your desires and pace
• Reservations for the best accommodations in strategic locations
• Exclusive access to the most popular activities
• 24/7 assistance during your trip
• The best price guarantee for your car rental

Driving Tips in Quebec

Speed Limits and Signage

Speed limits in Quebec are clearly marked and strictly enforced:

• In cities: 50 km/h by default unless otherwise indicated
• In school zones: 30 km/h during classroom hours
• On rural roads: 90 km/h
• On highways: 100 km/h
• In national parks: often limited to 70 km/h

:warning: Important: fines for speeding are doubled in construction zones.

Wildlife poses a particular challenge on Quebec’s roads:

• Be extra vigilant at dawn and dusk, when animals are most active
• Pay close attention to yellow triangular signs indicating the possible presence of moose or deer
• Always slow down in wooded areas, especially on secondary roads
• Always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you

Important: collisions with large wildlife are more frequent between May and October. Be particularly vigilant during this period.

Driving in Winter

In Quebec, winter tires are mandatory from December 1st to March 15th for all vehicles. This rule is not just a formality: it is essential for your safety. 

Winter conditions require you to adjust your driving:

• Anticipate your braking: stopping distances can be up to 10 times longer on snow-covered or icy roads
• Keep a greater distance from the vehicle in front of you (at least 6 seconds)
• Avoid sudden movements: acceleration, braking, and steering changes should be gradual

In case of a skid:

• Do not brake suddenly
• Look in the direction you want to go
• Turn the wheel gently in that direction

Driving an Automatic Transmission Car

In Quebec, the majority of rental cars are equipped with automatic transmissions. If you are used to manual transmissions, here are the essential principles to know;

The gear lever offers 4 main positions:

• P (Park): parking position that locks the transmission
• R (Reverse): for reverse
• N (Neutral): neutral, used for towing
• D (Drive): driving position, the gearbox automatically manages the gears

Practical Tips for First-Time Driving

• Let the gearbox automatically handle gear changes
• Do not look for the clutch pedal, there isn't one!

Driving an automatic is particularly comfortable in urban areas where gear changes are frequent. After a few minutes of adaptation, you will appreciate the ease of use that allows you to focus entirely on exploring Quebec’s landscapes.

Gas Stations and Toll Booths

While traveling on Quebec’s roads, you will notice that gas stations are numerous and well distributed. The price of gasoline varies by region but is generally cheaper than in Europe.

In Quebec stations, you must pay before refueling. Go to the cashier, indicate the desired amount, and the number of your pump.

Good news for your budget: Quebec highways are free and toll-free, except for the bridges connecting Montreal to the South Shore.

Why Rent Your Car in Quebec with Authentik Canada?

Personalized Support

At Authentik Canada, we know that every trip is unique. Our team of local experts will assist you in choosing the ideal vehicle based on your itineraryet des régions traversées

• The size of your group and your luggage
• Your budget and preferences
• The road conditions according to the season

We can also take care of complete planning for your stay if you wish: booking accommodations, suggesting must-do activities and personalized advice for a successful road trip.

24/7 Assistance

Travel with peace of mind thanks to our assistance service available around the clock:

• Phone support in French for any questions or emergencies
• Quick response in case of breakdown or accident
• Extensive network of partners (Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz) throughout Quebec
• Immediate help for understanding contracts and insurance

Our partnerships with the leading rental agencies in the province ensure a professional and reliable service wherever you are in Quebec.

Customized offers for a personalized road trip

Simplify your life with our all-inclusive packages specially designed for road trips:

• Car rental with unlimited mileage and insurance
• Accommodations selected and tested by our team
• Activities booked at the best times of your itinerary
• Detailed roadbook with suggested stops and points of interest

Take advantage of our cross-border expertise to combine your trip with an getaway to the United States. We handle all formalities for a smooth transition between the two countries.

Peer-to-peer rental: why is it not the best option?

Car rental between individuals in Quebec may seem attractive, but it involves significant risks that are essential to consider.

In terms of insurance, the coverage is often limited and can lead to complications in case of a claim. Moreover, unlike professional agencies, you have no guarantee on the actual condition of the vehicle or its regular maintenance.

The lack of 24-hour assistance is also a major disadvantage: in case of breakdown or accident, you find yourself alone facing the difficulties, without the possibility of quickly obtaining a replacement vehicle. That's why we strongly recommend going through professional rental agencies like Authentik Canada partners. They guarantee you not only comprehensive assistance but also optimal reliability throughout your stay, with regularly maintained vehicles and insurance tailored to your needs.

FAQ – Car rental in Quebec

1. What is the minimum age to rent a car in Quebec?

The minimum age required to rent a car in Quebec is 21 years. This rule applies to all drivers, whether they are primary or additional.

Drivers aged between 21 and 24 will have to pay a young driver surcharge of about $25 per day. This surcharge varies depending on rental companies and the type of car chosen.

 

2. Can you rent a car with a foreign license?

Your driver's license from your country of origin allows you to rent a car in Quebec without additional formalities. European, American, and international licenses are accepted by all rental agencies partnered with Authentik Canada.

Translation of the license is not mandatory if it is written in French or English. For other languages, provide an official translation or an international license.

A minimum of one year of driving experience is required by most rental agencies, regardless of the origin of your license.

 

3. Is it mandatory to have collision insurance?

For European travelers, a basic protection (civil liability + collision insurance with deductible) is included by default in the rental contract.

This is not the case for Canadian or American travelers, who must verify their own coverage before departure.

For maximum peace of mind, it is possible to purchase collision coverage with no deductible. This option, while more costly, avoids any financial surprises in case of an accident or damage to the vehicle.

Tip: some premium credit cards already include full coverage for car rental. A simple call to your bank will confirm the guarantees offered, which can save you additional insurance fees.

 

4. Is it possible to rent a car in Quebec and return it in the United States?

Yes. We have a partnership with Avis that allows our clients to rent a vehicle from Montreal, Quebec, or Toronto and return it to New York. In our car comparison tool, simply check the option "Return in another city" and select New York. The "one-way" fees are already included in the price: no additional charge will be requested upon return.

Don't forget to apply for your ESTA to enter the United States.

 

5. What budget should be planned for a week-long road trip in Quebec?

For a week-long road trip in Quebec, here is a detailed budget estimate for 2 people:

Car rental:

• Between €350 and €450 for a compact car
• Including basic insurance and unlimited mileage
• Possible supplement of €25/day for drivers aged 21-24

Fuel:

• About €170 for 1500 km (based on an average consumption of 8L/100km)
• Average price per liter: €1.50

Tips to optimize your budget:

• Book your car at least 3 months in advance
• Favor rentals in the city center rather than at the airport (to save airport taxes)

Car rental in Quebec: the essentials to remember

The car rental in Quebec is much more than just a means of transportation: it's the key to total freedom to explore this beautiful province at your own pace. From the scenic roads of Gaspésie to the picturesque villages of the Eastern Townships, and the majestic coasts of the St. Lawrence, every kilometer promises its share of discoveries. 

To fully enjoy this adventure, it is essential to anticipate the formalities: valid driver's license, minimum age, appropriate insurance, and a credit card for the security deposit. 

The choice of your rental partner is just as critical: at Authentik Canada, we guarantee not only the best rates but also personalized support and 24/7 assistance for a worry-free trip. 

Ready to discover Quebec differently? Contact our local experts to plan your next unforgettable road trip together, from selecting the ideal vehicle to designing a customized itinerary.