What to do if you receive a traffic ticket outside Quebec?

Traffic ticket in a rental car: who has to pay?

When you rent a vehicle, you are responsible for any traffic tickets received during the rental period. The terms regarding fines are usually outlined in the rental contract—read it carefully. Two situations may arise:

1. Traffic ticket issued by a police officer

It’s best to pay the fine before leaving the country or province, to avoid administrative or late fees.

2. Violation notice received by mail after your return

This is often the case when you are caught by a photo radar. You will need to pay the fine within 30 days to 60 days with the municipality where the offence occurred.

The rental agency may also send you a copy of the ticket and add administrative fees. If you don’t pay the fine, the amount will be charged to your credit card, sometimes months after the rental period ends.

Traffic ticket in a buyback vehicle: How does it work?

If you opted for a temporary vehicle buyback program, you are legally responsible for any traffic violations. Depending on the company that arranged the transit registration, three scenarios are possible:

• They forward the violation notice directly to you.
• They return the fine to local authorities.
• They pay the fine and charge your credit card.

Make sure to carefully review the terms outlined in your contract.

Traffic ticket in your own vehicle: Which reciprocal agreements apply?

Quebec has signed reciprocity agreements with certain regions in North America, including:

• Maine
• New York State
• The province of Ontario

As a result, any traffic violation and fine received in these jurisdictions will:

• appear on your Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) driving record;
• add demerit points to your record, if applicable; and
• lead to your driver’s licence suspension, if necessary.

Can you contest a traffic ticket received outside Quebec?

Yes, but it is often complicated. To contest a traffic ticket, you will generally need to:

• appear in person or hire a local lawyer; and
• provide solid evidence (witnesses, photos, documents) proving you did not commit the offence.

This process can be costly and logistically challenging internationally, particularly due to language barriers. You will need to base your not-guilty plea on the local highway safety code and road safety regulations.

Can you ignore a traffic ticket received outside Quebec?

It is possible to ignore a traffic ticket received outside Quebec, but CAA-Quebec strongly advises against it. On the contrary, you should pay any fine received outside Quebec because:

• If you return to the area and are stopped for another offence, you could be required to pay on the spot.
• Penalty fees may be added.
• Some authorities may deny entry to their territory if you have an unpaid traffic ticket.

How to pay a traffic ticket received in Ontario, Maine or New York State?

Quebec does not collect foreign fines. You must settle the fine directly with the local authority. In some cases, the SAAQ may send you a notice to resolve the situation.

Good to know: Some states in the United States require immediate payment of fines—you will need to pay on the spot.

What are the risks of not paying?

In the event of an unpaid traffic violation outside the province:

• Your driver’s licence may be suspended under reciprocal agreements with certain jurisdictions.
• You risk a higher fine the next time you pass through.
• Legal proceedings may be initiated in certain cases.

Traffic ticket outside Quebec: how to handle it and avoid problems

Regardless of the type of vehicle you are using abroad—personal, rental or buyback—pay your traffic tickets promptly. This will help you avoid fees, penalties or complications. One moment of inattention can be costly. Do your research before leaving so you can travel with peace of mind.