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Schools/Programs

There are many truck driver training schools to choose from, which makes making the right choice so important, because it can have a direct impact on your ability to find employment as a driver. Before making your choice, we recommend that you do your homework.

It's so important to gain the right combination of skills and knowledge to build a successful career. Whether you choose an accredited school or go in a different direction, it's important to learn about the education option you will take.

At the national level, the Canadian Trucking Human Resources Council (CTHRC) and the Professional Truck Driver Institute (PTDI) work with driver training facilities to ensure the highest standard of training possible. To see a list of CTHRC accredited schools, please click here. For a list of institutions offering the PTDI curriculum, please visit www.ptdi.org.

In addition to these national programs, there are provincial-specific programs that meet carrier and insurance requirements. These include:

To help you select a driving school that is suited for you, we have prepared some questions you may use to help you in your selection.

  • Does the school provide a written curriculum, complete with the topics that will be covered, how much time is spent on each, as well as time spent in practical training?

  • How much time is spent in a classroom?

  • What is the student to instructor ratio?

  • How much time is spent in a vehicle? How much of that is with you behind the wheel (as opposed to observing others learn)?

  • How many students in a vehicle at one time?

  • Is all the practical training done using tandem-axle tractors and full-size trailers?

  • Does the school have a written and oral interview acceptance program?

  • Does the school have any agreements or arrangements with local carriers for employment
    opportunities for graduates?

  • What is the school's placement success rate? Is it able to provide verifiable placement statistics?

  • Can the school help you secure government training funds?

  • Is the school willing to be inspected by funding agencies?

  • Will the school make the arrangements for your road test to get your licence?

  • What kind of remedial assistance will you be offered if you are unable to obtain your licence on your first attempt? Is the cost included in the up-front price?

  • How long has the school been in business? Ask for references — both previous students and employers that have used the school.

  • What are the qualifications of the instructors? What credentials do they hold? Do they have formal training in adult education/training?

If you are still unsure about whether the school or program you are considering is recognized and reputable, contact your provincial trucking association or some of the carriers in your area and ask them which driver training schools they recommend.

With the cost of training so wide-ranging, it becomes even more important to ask the right questions if you're intent on choosing the right program. If you don't, your expectations may not match the realities of the program you decide to go with.