Authorize a Representative for Vehicle Matters with Form 5498A (English / French)

Understanding the Power of Attorney Form (Code: 5498A) for the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec

The Power of Attorney (Natural Person Only) form, identified by the code 5498A, is an essential document provided by the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) that allows individuals to authorize another person to act on their behalf regarding vehicle-related transactions. This form is particularly useful when the mandator (the person giving authority) cannot visit an SAAQ service outlet in person and needs to delegate this responsibility to a mandatary (the representative).

Purpose and Common Use Cases

This form is primarily used for:

• Transferring vehicle ownership when the owner cannot be present in person.
• Giving authority to handle vehicle registration, transfer, or related administrative procedures.
• Managing vehicle transactions on behalf of an individual who is unavailable or unable to visit an SAAQ location.

It is important to note that the form is strictly for natural persons and must be completed with care to ensure legal validity and confidentiality. The form does not apply to corporate entities or other organizations.

Conditions for Eligibility and Validity

To properly use this power of attorney, both the mandator and the mandatary must meet specific criteria:

• The mandatary must be at least 18 years old.
• The mandatary must provide a valid original piece of identification accepted by the SAAQ, such as a driver’s license, passport, or health insurance card.
• The form must be filled out completely, with no alterations, erasures, or crossings-out in the text.
• Signatures must be handwritten; electronic or scanned signatures are not accepted.

Additionally, if the mandator indicates only their date of birth on the form, they must present an original identification document to the mandatary for verification purposes.

Step-by-Step Procedure to Fill Out the Form

Section 1: Mandator and Mandatary Details

• Enter the last and first names of both the mandator and the mandatary.
• Provide the mandator’s driver’s license reference number or, if not available, their date of birth.
• Indicate the vehicle's license plate number, the province, and the vehicle’s make and model.
• Include contact information such as a telephone number.

Section 2: Vehicle or Ownership Details

• For vehicle transfer operations, specify the odometer reading and details of the transferor (seller) or transferee (buyer).
• Ensure the odometer reading is accurate; discrepancies may lead to transfer denial.

Section 3: Authorization Details

• In the case of selling or giving away a vehicle, complete sections 3A.
• If acquiring a vehicle, complete sections 3B.
• Both sections require signatures from the mandator and the mandatary in handwritten form.

Important Considerations and Deadlines

Before submitting the form, verify whether the vehicle transfer or registration can be completed online via the SAAQ’s digital platform, which offers a secure, real-time, and convenient alternative. If the operation involves co-ownership or co-lessee arrangements, all parties or their authorized representatives must be present or provide valid powers of attorney.

Failure to transfer vehicle ownership promptly after a sale or gift can leave the mandator responsible for any traffic violations or liabilities associated with the vehicle. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure the transfer is completed correctly and within the legal timeframe.

Post-Submission Advice

Once the form is completed, signed, and submitted to the SAAQ—either in person or via authorized means—the mandatary can carry out the designated transaction. It is recommended to keep a copy of the signed power of attorney for your records, especially because it contains confidential information that could be misused if lost or stolen.

Remember, the validity of this power of attorney depends on proper completion, signature authenticity, and the presentation of valid identification. Always verify the specific requirements for the transaction you intend to undertake with the SAAQ to avoid delays or refusals.