To work as a truck driver in Ontario you need one of two commercial licence classes:

  • Class A for tractor-trailer combinations (where the towed vehicle exceeds 4,600 kg).
  • Class D for straight trucks with a registered gross weight or actual weight over 11,000 kg and not towing a heavy trailer.

Note: Class B and Class C are bus licences, not truck licences.

Class A Licence (Tractor-Trailers)

Eligibility

  • 18 years of age or older
  • Full Class G licence

Steps

  1. Pass vision and knowledge tests.
  2. Complete Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) at an approved school.
  3. Pass the Class A road test in a tractor-trailer.
  4. Obtain the Z (air brake) endorsement if operating vehicles with air brakes (most Class A units).
  5. Meet commercial medical requirements as set by the MTO and keep them current.

Class D Licence (Straight Trucks)

Eligibility

  • 18+ with a full Class G licence

Steps

  1. Pass vision and knowledge tests.
  2. Pass the Class D road test in a straight truck.
  3. Add Z endorsement if the vehicle has air brakes.
  4. Meet commercial medical requirements.

Dangerous Goods, Company Requirements, and Paperwork

  • Carrying dangerous goods requires TDG (Transportation of Dangerous Goods) training and certification, issued by the employer. It is not a separate licence class.
  • Drivers do not hold an “operator’s licence.” The carrier (employer) must hold a valid CVOR (Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration) and ensure the vehicle has a permit, plate, and insurance.
  • Some employers may require additional experience or set 21+ age for U.S. cross-border work. That is company policy, not provincial law.

Quick Start Checklist

  • 18+, full G licence
  • Write knowledge test (A or D) and vision test
  • Complete MELT for Class A
  • Pass your road test
  • Add Z endorsement if needed
  • Keep medical up to date
  • Ensure employer has CVOR; complete TDG if carrying dangerous goods

Common Misconceptions (Fixed)

  • “Class A is required for any vehicle over 11,000 kg.”
    False. Over 11,000 kg applies to Class D straight trucks. Class A is about tractor-trailer combinations.
  • “You need Class A, B or C to be a truck driver.”
    False. Truck drivers use Class A (tractor-trailer) or Class D (straight truck). B/C are for buses.
  • “You must be 21 years old.”
    False. The legal minimum is 18 (some employers prefer 21+ for cross-border work).

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