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Alberta.ca Account
Part of Commercial driver training

Air Brake Program

Get a Q endorsement on your driver’s licence to drive a vehicle with air brakes.

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Commercial driver training

Overview

If you drive a vehicle with air brakes, you must complete an approved air brake course to get a Q endorsement on your driver’s licence.

Drivers with Class 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 licences need this endorsement before operating a vehicle with air brakes.

To get a Class 1 driver’s licence, you must complete the air brake endorsement first.

How air brakes work

Air brakes use compressed air to help slow or stop a vehicle. An engine‑powered compressor builds air pressure. The air moves through hoses and valves to apply the brakes.

Farm vehicles

If you drive a single‑motor farm vehicle, you do not need a Q endorsement.

However, if you drive a farm vehicle combination that requires a Class 1 licence, you must have a Q endorsement. When applying for a Class 1 licence, you must show proof that you completed air brake training, even if your vehicle is registered as a farm vehicle.

Technicians and mechanics

Some mechanics and technicians may be able to take the air brake tests without attending classroom or practical training. This may apply to:

  • heavy equipment technicians
  • heavy‑duty equipment mechanics
  • truck and transport mechanics
  • commercial vehicle inspection technicians

To confirm your eligibility, contact Examinations and Licensing.

How it works

  • Step 1. Complete classroom training

    You must participate in a classroom training session delivered by a licensed driver training school.

    The classroom session is a minimum of 6.5 hours.

    Each student is provided with a copy of the Air Brake Manual: A Guide for Students.

  • Step 2. Complete practical training

    Once you complete the classroom training, you must participate in the practical training session.

    The session includes a 15-minute instructor demonstration followed by each student practising the air brake pre-trip inspection twice.

  • Step 3. Pass practical assessment

    The practical assessment is conducted in a one-on-one setting using the Air Brake Practical Test form and must be completed within the 15-minute time limit.

    • Only one practical re-assessment is allowed before additional training is required.
    • The re-assessment must be conducted on a different day.
    • The licensed driver training school and the student will determine additional training requirements.
    • Once you pass the practical assessment, you will be issued a Notice of Air Brake Program Completion form.

  • Step 4. Pass knowledge test

    Bring the Notice of Air Brake Program Completion forms to any Alberta registry agent to take the driver knowledge test. A government fee and a service charge will apply.

    The driver's knowledge test is conducted electronically and is available in English only.

    Paper and translated tests are not available.

    The knowledge test consists of 30 multiple choice questions. 25 questions must be answered correctly to pass the test. The test will automatically end if 6 questions are answered incorrectly.

    • There is no time limit on the knowledge test or the number of times it can be taken.
    • Retests must be conducted on a different day.

    If you pass the knowledge test, the registry agent will add the Q endorsement to your driver’s licence. The Q endorsement will appear on your driver’s licence card.

    • There is no renewal requirement for the Q endorsement.
    • A practical road test is not required to get the Q endorsement.

    You must have a valid Alberta driver’s licence to take the air brake knowledge test. You are not eligible if you have a suspended licence.

Publications

Contact

Connect with Examinations and Licensing:

  • Edmonton office

    Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
    Phone: 780-427-8230
    Toll free: 310-0000 before the phone number (in Alberta)
    Email: [email protected]

    Address:
    Examinations, Licensing and Support
    1st Floor, Twin Atria Building
    4999 98 Avenue
    Edmonton, Alberta  T6B 2X3

  • Calgary office

    Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
    Phone: 780-427-8230
    Toll free: 310-0000 before the phone number (in Alberta)
    Email: [email protected]

    Address:
    Examinations, Licensing and Support
    1st Floor, Willowglen Business Park
    803 Manning Road NE
    Calgary, Alberta  T2E 7M8

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