March 6, 2025 · 6 minute read
Key takeaway
Go directly to the power of attorney form
The SAAQ power of attorney form is a practical document for selling a used vehicle.
Choosing a trustworthy representative is key to a successful transaction.
The power of attorney form must be filled out accurately to avoid errors.
Understanding the SAAQ Power of Attorney Form for Vehicle Sales
The power of attorney is an official document that's practical when selling a vehicle in Quebec. In this article, we'll explore in detail the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) power of attorney form, a practical element for conducting a vehicle transaction safely and in compliance. Whether you're a seller or buyer, understanding this process is essential to ensure a smooth ownership transfer. Discover why mastering this form is important and how it can simplify selling your vehicle.
Download and Fill Out the Free Form
The power of attorney form is available here in PDF format and on the SAAQ website, making it easily accessible.
Download the free SAAQ power of attorney form:
Form Submission
The completed form must be submitted directly to an SAAQ service point. You can do this in person to allow immediate verification of information and assistance if needed.
Benefits of PDF Format
The PDF format allows for easy distribution and clear printing, which is required for an official document.
Table of Contents:
- What is the SAAQ Power of Attorney
- How to fill out the form
- Why choose a representative?
- The importance of insurance in the power of attorney
- Vehicle ownership transfer: key steps
- Selling a vehicle: what you need to know
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SAAQ Power of Attorney?
Definition and Importance
The SAAQ power of attorney is a document that authorizes someone to act on your behalf when selling or transferring vehicle ownership. This process is fundamental to ensure the legitimacy and security of the transaction.
When to use a power of attorney?
Using a power of attorney is particularly relevant when an owner cannot be personally present to complete the procedures at the SAAQ. It's also useful in private transactions between individuals.
Exceptions
It cannot be used for transactions involving businesses or legal entities, nor for sales between co-owners if all co-owners are not present or do not provide a power of attorney. Finally, in the case of transactions between related individuals, a specific form must be completed in addition and a declaration of the relationship between the parties is required.
How to fill out the power of attorney form?
Required Elements
To correctly complete the SAAQ power of attorney form, make sure you have the following:
- 1. Full name of the person granting power of attorney.
- 2. Complete address of the person granting power of attorney.
- 3. Full name of the person receiving power of attorney, as shown on their driver's license.
- 4. Complete address of the person receiving power of attorney.
- 5. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) covered by the power of attorney.
- 6. Signature of the person granting power of attorney.
- 7. Signature of the person receiving power of attorney.
Tips to avoid mistakes
Common errors can occur when filling out the form, such as incorrect or incomplete information. Make sure to verify all details, including the vehicle's mileage and serial number, to avoid complications.
Why choose a representative?
Role of the representative
The representative is the trusted person you choose to complete procedures on your behalf. This could be a trusted family member or a professional.
Benefits of having a representative
Having a representative simplifies procedures, especially if you're unable to personally visit an SAAQ office.
Common example
Imagine you need to renew your vehicle registration but you're currently abroad for an extended period. You designate your sister, whom you fully trust, as your representative to handle this procedure on your behalf. You provide her with an official power of attorney that allows her to sign the necessary documents at the SAAQ and make the required payment for registration renewal. In this example, your sister acts as the representative, facilitating administrative procedures in your absence while ensuring your vehicle remains compliant with current laws.
This role is therefore essential to guarantee the continuity of rights and obligations, while offering a practical solution to manage routine or exceptional matters when you can't do it yourself.
The importance of insurance in the power of attorney
Bodily injury insurance
In Quebec, bodily injury insurance is managed by the Société de l'Assurance Automobile du Québec (SAAQ) as part of the public automobile insurance plan. This insurance is funded through vehicle registration fees, meaning it's included in the registration price. Therefore, all vehicle owners registered in Quebec are covered for injuries sustained in a road accident, whether they're at fault or not.
Property damage insurance
The seller is responsible for insurance until the vehicle transfer is complete, after which the buyer takes over. The buyer must obtain insurance before taking possession of the vehicle to avoid fines. While the seller can request proof of insurance, it's not mandatory. The SAAQ doesn't require proof of insurance for registration, highlighting the importance of communication and responsibility between buyer and seller.
Vehicle ownership transfer: key steps
SAAQ process
The ownership transfer process requires completing specific administrative procedures at an SAAQ service point, including updating registration and declaring the transaction, with required registration fees.
2025 Registration Fees:
In 2025, registration fees in Quebec underwent significant changes:
- Quebec City: Approximately $300 for a passenger vehicle (public transit tax increased from $30 to $90)
- Greater Montreal: Approximately $400 (public transit tax increased from $59 to $150 + $30 for CMM)
Note: Fees for motorcycles and trucks may vary. Consult the SAAQ website for complete details.
* Remember that registration fees may be higher if you have demerit points on your driving record.
Responsibilities of previous and new owner
When transferring vehicle ownership in Quebec, the responsibilities of the previous and new owner are clearly defined. The previous owner must remove license plates, update their address with the SAAQ, inform them of the sale, provide the registration certificate and sales contract to the buyer, and pay transfer fees. The new owner must obtain new registration, get insurance, pay registration and transaction fees, inform the SAAQ of the acquisition, and keep sales documents. Together, they must ensure the transfer is completed within 30 days of sale, that the vehicle is safe, and report any incidents to the SAAQ. Failure to comply may result in penalties. For more information, consult the SAAQ website and the Office de la protection du consommateur.
Selling a vehicle: what you need to know
Preparing the sale
Before selling your vehicle, make sure all required documents, including the power of attorney, are in order.
Post-sale formalities
After the sale, procedures like notifying the SAAQ and updating insurance are required.
The private vehicle sales contract is not mandatory but highly recommended.
Latest SAAQ updates
https://saaq.gouv.qc.ca/salle-presse/actualites
By mastering these elements, you'll ensure a smooth and compliant transaction when selling your vehicle.
Conclusion
The SAAQ power of attorney simplifies vehicle sales in Quebec, ensuring a secure and regulated transaction. Understanding this document is the first step for sellers and buyers to facilitate a smooth ownership transfer.
