How to open an auto repair shop in Quebec

1. Choose a business structure and register it

Sole proprietorship or corporation: the choice affects your liability and taxes and is worth discussing with an accountant. Registering with the Registraire des entreprises du Québec gives you your Quebec enterprise number (NEQ), which suppliers, insurers and the platforms where you list your shop will ask for.

2. Register for the taxes

GST and QST registration becomes mandatory when your taxable revenue exceeds $30,000 over four consecutive quarters or in a single quarter. Most shops pass that threshold quickly: many register from day one to recover the taxes paid on equipment.

3. Check zoning and city permits

Before signing a lease, ask the municipality whether a repair shop is allowed at that address and which permits or occupancy certificates you need. Rules on outdoor storage, customer vehicle parking and signage vary from city to city.

4. Know your obligations to customers

Quebec's Consumer Protection Act regulates car repairs (sections 167 to 181). According to the Office de la protection du consommateur:

• A written estimate is required before any repair over $100, unless the customer waives it in a document they write and sign themselves.
• The shop can't charge more than the estimate total, except for authorized additional work.
• A repair over $50 is guaranteed for 3 months or 5,000 km, whichever comes first.
• The shop must post its hourly rate and the main consumer rights for repairs.

5. Handle used oil, filters, antifreeze and tires

Used oil, oil containers, filters and antifreeze are collected in Quebec through a program run by SOGHU, an organization recognized by RECYC-QUÉBEC. Repair shops make up most of its network of drop-off points, and collection is free.

For scrap tires, RECYC-QUÉBEC runs a recovery program: a shop with the equipment to change and dismount tires can register as a collection point to get free pickup. Contact SOGHU and RECYC-QUÉBEC before opening.

6. Air conditioning: a mandatory qualification

According to the Government of Quebec, anyone who handles halocarbons, including servicing a vehicle air conditioner, must hold the environmental qualification certificate for halocarbons. Only holders of this qualification can buy these refrigerants. Training is offered through the Commission de la construction du Québec.

7. Check whether a joint committee applies

In several regions, including Montreal, a collective agreement decree governs the automotive services industry. It is administered by a joint committee (comité paritaire) that sets working conditions and employer obligations (register, monthly report, levy). Contact the joint committee for your region before hiring.

According to Job Bank, automotive service technician certification is voluntary in Quebec, unlike in some other provinces. Still, check the requirements of your region's decree.

8. Hire and get insured

• As an employer, register with the CNESST and for source deductions with Revenu Québec and the Canada Revenue Agency.
• With a broker, plan for liability insurance and coverage for customer vehicles left in your care.
• Prepare your documents: compliant written estimate, work order and invoice.

• Invoice, written estimate and work order template (Excel)Free, with GST and QST calculated.

9. Register your shop on Garago

A new shop has no word of mouth yet: it has to be easy to find and book from day one. Sign up on Garago with your NEQ: our team verifies the business, then your page goes live.

• Your public page: services, makes, hours, address and reviews from real customers.
• Drivers find you by service, vehicle make and city.
• Online booking 24/7, based on your services, their length and your number of bays.
• Phone bookings in the same calendar, with confirmation requests by text or email.
• 30-day free trial, then $109.99 per month with no commitment.

10. Find your first customers

• Create your Google Business Profile as soon as the address is confirmed, with photos and hours, and add your Garago booking link.
• Ask every satisfied early customer for a review.
• Share your Garago page link on social media, your invoices and your voicemail greeting.

Frequently asked questions