The foundation of the new driving course is the Road Safety Education Program, which was prepared by the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec according to a competency-based approach, and focuses on the following four competencies:
To establish the profile of a safe, cooperative and responsible driver
To handle a passenger vehicle
To share the road
To use the road network independently and responsibly
With its guiding principles, the program also aims to:
Alternate between theoretical and practical training to provide for better integrated learning.
Progressively bring new drivers toward a greater degree of independence in their decision-making with regard to various driving situations to lessen the risk of having an accident when they get their probationary licence.
Improve new drivers’ visual exploration skills, their ability to detect danger and anticipate risks by applying the OEA (Observe – Evaluate – Act) driving strategy.
Introduce ecodriving so that new drivers can make more eco-friendly choices when planning their travels and carry out energy-saving manoeuvres when they drive their vehicles.
Promote awareness of at-risk behaviours of new drivers, particularly those age 16-24: speeding, alcohol, drugs, failure to wear seat belts, fatigue and distractions