Class 1 Learning Pathway

• The Entry Program includes 40 hours of training and introduces prospective Class 1 drivers to a career in commercial driving, with a focus on developing foundational knowledge and skills essential for success. 
• This training can be accessed online or supported by a driver training school and includes training on concepts critical to the role of a professional driver. 
• At the end of this training, drivers can take the Class 1 knowledge test.

• The Core Learning program includes 60 hours of training focused on building a driver’s level of competence in-yard and in-cab. 
• An additional 8-hour air brake training course is required to if a learner does not already have a Q endorsement on their licence.
• At the end of this training, the driver can take the road test to obtain a provincially restricted Class 1 driver’s licence.
• This driver’s licence allows them to gain valuable on-the-job experience driving only in Alberta while they continue build their skills, similar to an apprenticeship-style training model.

• The Competence Building Program includes 17 to 25 hours of one-on-one driving instruction customized to meet the specific needs of the driver. 
• These needs are identified through an on-road driver assessment. 
• When the driver has successfully demonstrated improvement in the identified competencies, the restriction will be removed from the driver’s Class 1 driver’s licence, giving them the mobility to operate as an interprovincial driver.

• After obtaining their Class 1 driver’s licence, drivers can go on to take advanced training programs to further improve their skills. 
• This may include training programs specific to the industry they are in or want to work in.

• A student can take the self-led online learning through the Learning Management System (LMS) administrated by Transportation and Economic Corridors or complete the same online curriculum at a driving school with in-person support.
• The Class 1 Entry program takes 40 hours to complete.
• A student can take the driver’s knowledge test at a registry agent office after completing this phase or wait until they complete the Core Learning Program.

• Upon successful completion of the Entry Program, a student will be eligible to proceed to the Core Learning Program at a licensed Class 1 driver training school in Alberta.
• The Core Learning Program focuses primarily on in-cab and in-yard instruction, with drivers gaining valuable practice behind the wheel.
• The program takes 60 hours to complete.
• An additional 8-hour air brake training course is required if a driver does not already have a Q endorsement on their licence.

• If the driver did not take the knowledge test at a registry agent office after completing the Entry Program, they must complete it now.
• The student can also schedule the road test through the Alberta Road Test Scheduler online, or in person at a registry agent office.

• After passing the Class 1 road test, a driver can go to any Alberta registry agent to get a provincially restricted Class 1 driver’s licence.
• This licence allows a driver to operate Class 1 vehicles within Alberta only.

• When a driver is ready, they can take the Competence Building Program at a driver training school at any time to operate Class 1 vehicles between provinces.
• Transportation and Economic Corridors recommends a driver complete the Competence Building phase within one year of the Core Learning Program to enhance skill development.
• A driver training school will develop a learning plan specifically tailored to that individual, to build on competencies as required.
• The Competence Building Program takes 17 to 25 hours to complete.
• Completion of the program will result in a full Class 1 driver’s licence without a provincial restriction, allowing the driver to operate as an interprovincial driver.

• Drivers with a Class 2 or Class 3 driver’s licence and at least 2 years of experience driving a vehicle with 3 or more axles are eligible to participate in the Experience and Equivalency Program.
• To take the Experience and Equivalency Class 1 Learning Pathway Program, drivers must apply to the program by submitting an application form to: [email protected]

• Upon successful completion of the Experience and Equivalency Program, a driver must take the Class 1 knowledge test and road test to receive a provincially restricted licence to operate within Alberta only. 

If a driver has at least 12 months of experience with a farm-restricted Class 1 P licence, this restriction can be removed through completion of the Competence Building Program.

• A driver training school will develop a learning plan specifically tailored to that individual, to build on competencies as required.
• The Competence Building Program takes 17 to 25 hours to complete.

• If you have held a Class 1 P licence for fewer than 12 months, you will be required to complete the full Class 1 Learning Pathway. 

Learn more about obtaining a farm-restricted licence.

Drivers with a Class 2 driver’s licence or a Class 3 driver’s licence and at least 2 years of experience driving a vehicle with 3 or more axles are eligible to participate in the Experience and Equivalency Program.

Drivers who move to Alberta with a Class 1-equivalent driver’s licence from an eligible Canadian jurisdiction can obtain a Class 1 driver’s licence from an Alberta registry agent and are not required to complete the Class 1 Learning Pathway. 

• Drivers with 24 or more months of experience driving Class 1 vehicles can get an Alberta Class 1 driver’s licence without training or testing required.
• Drivers with 12 to 24 months of experience can take the Class 1 knowledge and road test. If unsuccessful, the driver must complete the Experience and Equivalency Program.
• Drivers with fewer than 12 months of experience must complete the Class 1 Learning Pathway Program from the beginning.