FAQ on Commercial Driver Training and Driver Licensing in Canada

Whether you operate exclusively in Canada or you are a US company with operations in Canada, understanding the requirements for commercial driver training or driver licensing in Canada can be complex.  We've compiled the most frequently asked questions about commercial driving programs, licensing requirements and everything in between.

 

Q: Does Canada have training requirements for Class 1 drivers?

A: Yes, most provinces require new drivers to complete Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) before obtaining a Class 1/Class A license. This is similar to the U.S. entry-level driver training, except each province handles MELT individually (no federal oversight like in the U.S.).  

 

Q: What does Commercial Driver – Class 1/Class A training entail?

A: This training combines practical driving with classroom instruction. It covers urban and rural driving, defensive driving, coupling/uncoupling, maintenance, and safe backing techniques. Additional training includes Air Brake Endorsement, Pre-Trip Inspections, Transportation of Dangerous Goods, and more.

 

Q: Where can I find more information about commercial driving regulations?

A: Transport Canada’s website offers FAQs and details about commercial driving regulations in Canada. The provinces and territories also have websites for driver licensing and MELT standards, if applicable.

 

Q: How long does it take to complete MELT?

A: Training duration can vary. For example, the Class 1 training program typically lasts around 13 weeks.

 

Q: Is there financial aid available for MELT?

A: Financial aid options depend on the training institute and provincial programs. Some schools offer payment plans, and scholarships, or may accept government-funded training vouchers.

 

Q: What tests are required for a commercial license?

A: Applicants must pass written and practical tests covering vehicle inspections, defensive driving, traffic laws, and safety. The practical test includes vehicle operation and maneuvers like reversing and parallel parking.

 

Q: Is ongoing education required after obtaining a commercial license?

A: While not always mandatory, ongoing education is recommended to stay updated on regulations and improve driving skills. Some employers may require periodic training.

 

Q: Can drivers transfer their licenses if they move to another province?

A: Commercial licenses are generally transferable between provinces, but drivers may need to meet additional requirements or retake tests depending on provincial laws. For example, if a driver holds a license from a non-MELT province and moves to a MELT province.

 

Q. How is J. J. Keller’s Canada Driver Training different from MELT?

A: J. J. Keller’s Canada Driver Training focuses on fundamental driving skills and finishing training for commercial drivers operating in Canada. It offers a curriculum that includes courses on visual search, communication, speed and space, weights and dimensions, cargo securement, vehicle Inspections, extreme driving conditions, hazard perception, driving emergencies, and distracted driving. This training is comprehensive and aims to help drivers anticipate and avoid potential dangers on the road.

 

Q: What is a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) called in Canada?

A: A commercial class of license is required to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in Canada. It’s essential for those pursuing a career in transportation, to ensure drivers are qualified to handle the demands of commercial driving.

 

Q: What are the commercial classes of licenses in Canada?

A: Commercial driver’s licenses are categorized into different classes based on the type of vehicle you intend to drive. Here are the main commercial license classes:

• Class 1: Professional license to drive any vehicle, including truck-tractor combinations.
• Class 2: Professional license for buses.
• Class 3: Vehicles with 3 axles or more, such as trucks.
• Class 4: Professional license for taxis, ambulances, and small buses.

In Ontario, the commercial driver’s license classes include:

• Class A: Any tractor-trailer combination and vehicles in class D and G.
• Class B: Any school purposes bus and vehicles in classes C, D, E, F, and G.
• Class C: Any regular bus and vehicles in class D, F, and G.
• Class D: Motor vehicles exceeding 11,000 kilograms gross weight and vehicles in class G.
• Class E: School purposes bus with a maximum of 24-passenger capacity and vehicles in class F and G3
• Class F: Regular bus with a maximum of 24-passenger capacity, ambulances, and vehicles in class G.

 

Q: Who is eligible for a commercial license?

A: Eligibility varies by province, but generally, applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a regular class 5 license for a minimum of two years without restrictions, and provide proof of identity and residency.

 

Q: Can drivers transfer their licenses if they move to another province?

A: Commercial licenses are generally transferable between provinces, but drivers may need to meet additional requirements or retake tests depending on provincial laws. For example, if a driver holds a license from a non-MELT province and moves to a MELT province.

 

If you need safety training that helps reduce the risk of accidents while also meeting the Canadian-specific provincial/territorial and federal National Safety Code (NSC) standards. We’ve got you covered!