The National Safety Code

The first thing to understand is that there’s a firm set of rules here in Canada that determine if you qualify for a commercial license or not. This is called the National Safety Code. Depending on what province you are in, you can expect some other requirements as well. We’ll address the requirements here in Ontario, where our Academy is located.

M.E.L.T. Training

In Ontario, anyone who would like to take the test for a commercial driving license needs Mandatory Entry Level Training, more commonly referred to as M.E.L.T. This training makes sure Ontario Commercial Drivers can operate their vehicles in a safe and responsible way. Before M.E.L.T. requirements were established, the industry had some serious issues with commercial drivers who were endangering themselves and others. M.E.L.T. solved this problem.

Meet the Minimum Requirements

Before you can take the M.E.L.T. training or the commercial driving test, you will need a standard driver’s license, a driving background without any major infractions, and be able to pass a criminal background check. Here in Ontario, you need to be at least 18 years old. You will also need to pass a written test for your learner’s permit, so that you can go on the road with a licensed driver to train.

Be Healthy

Many serious health issues will prevent you from getting a commercial driving license. Understanding what your health is like is a must before you start the process. The last thing you want to happen is meet all of the other requirements and then be denied because of a health problem. What health problems will prevent you from getting your license? Some of the most common ones are: mental health conditions, epilepsy, heart problems, and neurological conditions but there are many others as well. You also have to take a physical on a regular basis, depending on your age, which could be every few years or every year. Canada, thankfully, only wants healthy commercial truck drivers on the road for their safety and the safety of others as well.

Practice Driving a Commercial Truck

Once you pass your written test you can start practicing with a licensed commercial driver. Everyone in the industry would likely agree the best place to do this is through a well-reviewed, professional commercial truck driving school. Our school, A1 Transportation Academy, is your best choice in Ontario.

By working with a professional teacher, you will be able to learn vital skills that you would otherwise miss. Once you complete your training, you are ready to take your road test. The road test is with an official examiner who will have you prove you are able to safely drive, park, and  confidently control a commercial truck safely. Your performance will be graded and if you pass the Class A Commercial Truck Driving license,  you can expect your career to start soon after.

Take Your M.E.L.T. Course at A1 Transportation Academy

We are Ontario’s #1 commercial truck driving school. All of the courses we offer, including M.E.L.T., are approved by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. Our academy is also universally well-respected by Canada’s transport companies, who know we deliver quality education, and produce safe, responsible and skilled drivers.

If you have any questions about becoming a Class AZ Commercial Truck Driver – or if you’d like to learn more about any of our other training programs – contact us today. We’d love to help you get started on an amazing, successful new career.

At  A1 Transportation Academy, we provide total training package to our students. Contact us today to learn more and to get started. You can reach us for a free consultation at +1 905-754-0578 or +1 905-754-0579.  We are open Monday to Saturday to help you.