The Commercial Driving courses we offer are open to individuals 18 years and over with a valid Class 5 Yukon Drivers License. It is recommended that students take the courses in order, to complete the program with confidence. Please read below for details!
Air Brakes Endorsement:
Air Brakes Endorsement allows individuals to operate equipment fitted with air brakes systems and to be able to maintain that system in a safe operating condition. This course will teach students the various components of an air brake, how the system works, dual air systems, trailer systems as well as pre-trip inspection.
Commercial Driver Licenses:
Class 3 License focuses on heavy vehicles that weigh over 11,000 kilograms: As a Class 3 Driver, you will be able to drive dump trucks, fuel delivery trucks, buses without passengers, large tow trucks and motorhomes. You will also be licensed to tow trailers under 4,550 kilograms.
Class 1 License allows individuals to drive semi-trailer trucks, and permits driving all vehicles with the exception of Class 6.
The Class 3 and Class 1 courses will give students an opportunity to learn commercial driving theory, practice driving on a simulator in a safe environment, prepare students for written and in-cab drivers testing and practical, hands on experience.
Commercial Driving Training:
*Theory: Refers to a classroom setting, includes digital learning and other blended learning methods, with an introduction to the simulator. This course is a preparation course to pass the written Class 3/Class 1 tests at the DMV.
*Simulation: Students will get an introduction to the simulator and instructional assistance through 9 modules.
*In-cab: Behind the wheel.
- Off-road backing and coupling maneuvers - these activities may occur in a yard or parking lot, or in a safe and legal location at the roadside.
- On-road driving - the student is driving the vehicle on public roadways; this includes short instructor driving demonstrations, where needed.
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Yukon resident who is 18 years of age or older
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Full-privilege (unrestricted) Yukon Class 5 licence.
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Driving abstract and demonstrate a clean driving record.
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Driver’s medical for the class of licence to which you are training.
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Commercial driver vision test.
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Students must obtain an Air Brakes Endorsement prior to registering for In-cab training.
A truck driver is a professional responsible for the safe transportation and delivery of goods. Truck drivers are employed by transportation, manufacturing and moving companies, and trucking employment service agencies, or they can be self-employed. They often work independently and are on the road for long periods of time by themselves. Trucking companies often use regional routes, truck drivers will often be driving across many different areas of Canada. Transport of goods by truck is an essential service for the Yukon,
Over the next 10 years (2022-2031) it's expected that there will be a shortage of truck driver's at the national level. Furthermore, the employment outlook in the Yukon for Transport truck drivers (NOC 7511) is good. (Government of Canada, 2023)
Community Training Trust Society
The Community Training Trust Society assists Yukon communities and First Nations fund training of employees.
Working UP Program
The Government of Yukon Working UP Program provides financial support to find work or learn a new skill.
What is the difference between commercial vehicle driving and truck driving?
A commercial vehicle is any vehicle that transports goods or passengers “for hire”. As an umbrella term, it includes taxis or small buses, all the way up to large transport trucks. Commercial drivers are held to a higher standard and must always act in accordance with the laws and regulations of the Yukon. This is done to ensure safety for all users of the roadways.
What are the different commercial vehicle licence classes in the Yukon?
In the Yukon, there are four different commercial licence classes, along with a special designation for hauling heavy trailers. Each licence class is allowed to drive vehicles in the class before it (except Class 6 – motorcycles). For instance, Class 3 licence permits operation of Class 3 & 4 vehicles, while a Class 1 licence permits operation of vehicles in all classes.
Licence Classes: (for full details please visit Commercial vehicles | Government of Yukon)
- Class 4 for ambulances, taxis, and buses up to 24 passengers
- Class 3 for heavy vehicles with two or more axles such as dump trucks or fuel delivery trucks, as long as the trailer being towed is less than 4550 kgs.
- Class 2 for transit buses, school buses, and coaches with seating over 24 passengers
- Class 1 for semi-trailer trucks.
- Heavy Trailer Endorsement for towed trailers without air brakes that are over 4550 kgs. This can be added to all licence categories except Class 1
What is an Air Brakes Endorsement (Code 15)?
To operate a vehicle equipped with air brakes, you need a Code 15 endorsement on your license. Typically, these are heavy trucks and trailers in Class 3 and Class 1 such as semi-trucks, or dump trucks. Yukon University includes an air brakes course as part of the Commercial Driver’s Pathway.
What are the requirements for a Yukon Commercial Driver Medical?
Commercial drivers need to be good physical condition. You’ll need a medical fitness done at your local nursing station or through your family doctor. These typically cost less than $200 and are required before you can train on-the-road. Certain medical conditions such as psychiatric or neurological disorders, epilepsy, or heart conditions might prevent you from obtaining your commercial license.
What are the requirements for the Yukon Commercial Driver Vision Test?
Commercial drivers are required to meet a higher standard than Class 5 drivers. Your vision will be screened at a Motor Vehicle office when you apply for your license. You will be checked for visual acuity (reading from a distance) and your peripheral vision (seeing objects on each side of you).
What are the steps to entering Yukon University’s Commercial Driving Pathways
The Commercial Driving Pathways is designed to accommodate students and support them through the process of obtaining either a Class 3 or Class 1 license.
Can I obtain my Class 1 License without obtaining my Class 3?
It is strongly recommended that individuals start with Class 3 Training before Class 1. Students must take into consideration their written tests at the local DMV. When testing for Class 1, the testing will also comprise of Class 3 questions as well.
Road Testing
Successful graduates of Class 1 or Class 3 In-Cab training courses may register for a road test with the local DMV, and confirm this date with their instructor. Please note there will be an additional fee to book and secure the YukonU vehicle for exam day. Please contact the instructor for details.
Air Brakes Endorsement Course (CE)
This 20-hour course is designed to give students the knowledge & skills to operate equipment fitted with air brake systems and to maintain that system in a safe operating condition. Students will learn the principles of the various components, correct maintenance and trouble-shooting procedures and the correct adjustment procedures for these components. Participants of this course will be able to write the government examination during the course. Successfully completing the course, exam and having a Yukon Drivers License will earn a Yukon Government Air Brake Endorsement. The course follows the format and subject matter that is approved by the Government Motor Vehicle Branch.
Class 3 Commercial Driver Training
This program provides the theory and skills necessary for those wishing to challenge the Yukon Government’s Motor Vehicles’ Class 3 Road Test. Below are the three courses apart of this program:
- Class 3 Theory: This 12-hour course provides the knowledge necessary for those wishing to challenge the Yukon Government’s Motor Vehicles’ Class 3 Written Test. Format includes classroom, introduction to truck simulator, and in-yard skills. Students will learn the introductory knowledge and skills for a commercial driving vocational path. Skills include vehicle inspection and chain up skills. This course is 3 half days of course work.
- Class 3 Simulator Training: This 9-hour course provides basic skill competency in driving a simulated Class 3 manual transmission vehicle. Format utilizes a Virage Commercial Truck Driving Simulator in a classroom environment. Students will have the opportunity to book their simulator time on the first day via calendar time slots.
- Class 3 In-Cab Training: This 14-hour course provides the skill and knowledge necessary for those wishing to challenge the Yukon Government’s Motor Vehicles’ Class 3 Road Test. Format includes introduction to truck simulator if required, in-yard skills and in cab driving under supervision. Students learn the introductory skills and knowledge for a commercial driving vocational path. Students will book in cab hours with the instructor on the first day of class. Please note there is an additional fee to book the YukonU vehicle for the road test; please contact the instructor if you have additional questions.
**Please book an appointment with the instructor of this course for Program Advising before registering for In-Cab Training.**
Class 1 Commercial Driver Training
This program provides the theory and skills necessary for those wishing to challenge the Yukon Government’s Motor Vehicles’ Class 1 Road Test and Class 2 Written Test. Below are the three courses apart of this program:
- Class 1 Theory: This 16 hour course provides the knowledge necessary for those wishing to challenge the Yukon Government’s Motor Vehicles’ Class 1 Written Test. Format includes classroom, introduction to truck simulator, and in-yard skills.
- Class 1 Simulator Training: This 14-hour course provides basic skill competency in driving a simulated Class 3 manual transmission vehicle. Format utilizes a Virage Commercial Truck Driving Simulator in a classroom environment. Students will have the opportunity to book their simulator time on the first day via calendar time slots.
- Class 1 In-Cab Training: This 20-hour course provides the skill and knowledge necessary for those wishing to challenge the Yukon Government’s Motor Vehicles’ Class 3 Road Test. Format includes introduction to truck simulator if required, in-yard skills and in cab driving under supervision. Students learn the introductory skills and knowledge for a commercial driving vocational path. Students will book in cab hours with the instructor on the first day of class. Please note there is an additional fee to book the YukonU vehicle for the road test; please contact the instructor of you have additional questions.
**Please book an appointment with the instructor of this course for Program Advising before registering for In-Cab Training.**
Commercial Driving Simulator Practice
Are you in need of extra practice behind the wheel but do not want to sign up for a full commercial driving course? Simulator training provides hands on learning with immediate feedback to build your commercial driving skills in a controlled environment. The simulator will expose you to situations and conditions that you may not normally encounter in the real world, allowing you to practice critical responses. Get in touch if you would like to purchase a 5-hour or 10-hour punch card!
You can practice:
- Shifting an Eaton-Fuller 10, 13 or 18 speed manual transmission
- Skid control
- Wheel drop-offs
- Ditch entry (rollover prevention)
- Head-on collision avoidance
Pathways
Air Brakes | 20hrs $525 + GST
- Class 3 Driver Training Program | 35hrs overall* $4135 total + GST - consisting of:
- Class 3 Driving Theory | 12hrs $550 + GST
- Class 3 Simulator Training | 9hrs $585 + GST
- Class 3 In-Cab Training | 14hrs $3000 + GST
- Class 1 Driver Training | 50hrs overall* $9825 total + GST - consisting of:
- Class 1 Driving Theory | 16hrs $915 + GST
- Class 1 Simulator Training | 14hrs $910 + GST
- Class 1 In-Cab Training | 20hrs $8000 + GST
Also available - Simulator Punch Pass | 5hrs $350 or 10hrs $650