AMP authorization to contract: when do you need it?

Published October 12, 2026 · Updated October 12, 2026

Québec's Autorité des marchés publics (AMP) issues the authorization to contract, an integrity requirement for businesses pursuing large public contracts or subcontracts in Québec.

General information, not legal advice. Check the requirements in each tender document and with the official bodies.

When is authorization required?

For contracts and subcontracts with departments and agencies, Crown corporations and municipalities, at these thresholds (renewal options included):

Contract or subcontract type	Threshold
Construction work or public-private partnership	$5M or more
Services (tendered or direct award)	$1M or more

Since April 2024, City of Montréal contracts follow the same provincial thresholds.

When must you hold it?

Public tender: on the bid submission date.
Direct award: on the date the contract is concluded.
Consortium: each member must be individually authorized on the submission date (municipal contracts).
Authorization must be maintained throughout the contract or subcontract.

Validity: what changed in 2026

Since April 2, 2026, authorization is valid indefinitely: the five-year renewal is abolished (except for some businesses already notified of a renewal expiring on or before August 29, 2026). The annual update remains mandatory; without it, authorization can be automatically suspended and an administrative monetary penalty imposed.

Checking an authorization

The Register of enterprises authorized to contract or subcontract (REA) is the official reference. Public bodies must check it.

Prerequisite: Revenu Québec certificate

A Revenu Québec certificate (attestation) is required to apply for AMP authorization.

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Frequently asked questions

When do I need AMP authorization to contract?

For Québec public construction or PPP contracts and subcontracts of $5M or more, and services of $1M or more, options included.

Does AMP authorization expire?

Since April 2, 2026, it's valid indefinitely, provided you file the annual update and it isn't suspended or revoked.

Do I need it when I bid?

Yes, for a tender: on the submission date. For a direct award: on the date the contract is concluded.

Do subcontractors need authorization?

Yes, when the subcontract meets the applicable threshold ($5M construction, $1M services).

How do I check if a business is authorized?

In the AMP's Register of enterprises authorized to contract or subcontract (REA).