Commercial Driving

Student in driving simulator

The Commercial Driving courses we offer are open to individuals 18 years and over with a valid Class 5 Yukon Drivers License. We are now offering short courses pertaining to all drivers in the Yukon! Read below for more information.

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. Students must obtain their ABE before registering for Class 3 and Class 1. 

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. 

Commercial Driving Course Descriptions

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 a program advising appointment with the instructor of this course 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.  This course is 4 half-days of course work.
  • 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 a program advising appointment with the instructor of this course before registering for In-Cab Training.**

Short Course Descriptions

Air Brakes Endorsement Course

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.

Cargo Securement Training Course 

This short course is designed to ensure that Yukon drivers understand their responsibility regarding the safe transportation of goods while they are in transit. During this course, students will learn the basics of securing various loads on a trailer and/or truck bed. This course will provide knowledge to students when working in the industry of transportation, but it is also a great skill for everyday needs!

Chaining Up Training Course

In this practical hands-on course, students will learn how to chain up a vehicle safely under the supervision of an experienced commercial driving instructor. Students will learn about safety issues, and chain specifications, in addition to the maintenance, and storage of chains. As a group, students will review the relevant Federal regulations regarding the use of tire chains.

Pre-trip Inspections Training Course
 
In this practical hands-on course, students will learn how to conduct pre-trip inspections of commercial vehicles. The Pre-Trip Inspection is a thorough inspection of a commercial vehicle and its major systems before driving each day. Canada’s National Safety Code (NSC) requires most commercial drivers to complete trip inspections. If you are applying for a Class 1, 2, or 3 license, a heavy trailer endorsement, or an air brake endorsement, you will need to conduct a pre-trip inspection. The pre-trip inspection part of your road test is your opportunity to show that you know how, when, and why you must complete a trip inspection. This course is ideal for students needing additional instructional guidance leading up to their road tests.
 
Heavy Trailer Endorsement Training Course
 

In this practical hands-on course, students will learn how to safely tow a trailer with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of over 4,600 kilograms in preparation for Yukon Government’s Department of Motor Vehicle’s Heavy Trailer Endorsement testing. A heavy trailer endorsement allows drivers to tow trailers of any weight appropriate for the tow vehicle, provided that neither the trailer nor tow vehicle are equipped with air brakes. This course prepares students for the specific handling and braking techniques required to tow such a heavy cargo load, associated with horse trailers, boat trailers, and heavy-duty utility trailers.


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!

Requirements for Commercial Drivers
  • Yukon resident who is 18 years of age or older

  • Full-privilege (unrestricted) Yukon Class 5 licence.

  • Driving abstract and demonstrate a clean driving record. 

  • Driver’s medical for the class of licence to which you are training. 

  • Commercial driver vision test.

  • Students must obtain an Air Brakes Endorsement prior to registering for In-cab training. 

Career Opportunities

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)

Money matters

Working UP Program

The Government of Yukon Working UP Program provides financial support to find work or learn a new skill.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between commercial vehicle driving and truck driving? 

A commercial vehicle is any vehicle that transports goods or passengers “for hire”.  This 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 license classes, along with a special designation for hauling heavy trailers.  Each license class is allowed to drive vehicles in the class before it (except Class 6 – motorcycles).  For instance, Class 3 license permits operation of Class 3 & 4 vehicles, while a Class 1 license permits operation of vehicles in all classes.    

License 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 license 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. 

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.  The DMV staff will check your visual acuity and peripheral vision.

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. Student's that have previous experience driving Class 3 will need to book an advising appointment with the instructor when applying for Class 1. Please have your drivers abstract ready for this appointment.

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 or coordinator for details. 

Courses

Title Campus Scheduled
AB 001 - Air Brakes Whitehorse (Ayamdigut)
CS
DRIV CE08 - Class 1 Theory Whitehorse (Ayamdigut)
CS
DRIV CE09 - Class 1 In-Cab Training
DRIV CE10 - Class 3 Theory Whitehorse (Ayamdigut)
CS
DRIV CE11 - Class 3 In-Cab Training Whitehorse (Ayamdigut)
CS
DRIV CE12 - Class 3 Simulator Training Whitehorse (Ayamdigut)
CS
DRIV CE17 - Class 1 Simulator Training Whitehorse (Ayamdigut)
CS
DRIV CE20 - Cargo Securement Training
DRIV CE21 - Chaining Up Training Whitehorse (Ayamdigut)
CS