With the embarrassingly bad rollout of the new SAAQclic online transaction system behind it, the Quebec automobile insurance board is beginning to unveil some of the exciting new programs it has developed.

The first is SAAQ Bleu, an “opt-in, paid subscription that gives drivers special privileges” while ensuring highway safety.

Among those privileges:

• A cool blue-background licence plate denoting the privileged status, and corresponding members-only driver’s licence
• The ability to go 10 per cent above the posted speed limit
• Access to reserved lanes
• Higher demerit point limit
• Free use of street parking reserved for permit holders
• The ability to use those U-turn things on highways
• Express lines with shorter waits at SAAQ outlets
• Discounts on SAAQ fees and driver’s licence renewals
• Deals with SAAQ partners like Desjardins auto insurance

SAAQ Bleu will cost $100/month, a bit more than a transit pass would, and requires a background check.

The SAAQ stresses that this extra cost does not create a two-tier system and those who choose to get the basic service can still drive everywhere.

If successful, the SAAQ says it may expand SAAQ Bleu, creating new tiers with even more enhanced privileges.