A Class 1 licence allows you to drive transport trucks with large trailers and other commercial vehicles, including those that require air brakes. A Class 3 licence is typically for single vehicles with three or more axles, such as dump trucks or bobtail trucks, with limited towing options.
Driver Training
Start your career in commercial driving with Keyano College’s Driver Training Program. Whether you're looking to upgrade your licence or begin your journey in the transportation industry, we offer comprehensive training for Class 1, Class 3, and Air Brakes "Q" Endorsement. Our programs are aligned with Alberta’s current licensing requirements and delivered by experienced instructors committed to your success.
Air Brakes "Q" Endorsement
This endorsement is mandatory for drivers operating vehicles equipped with air brakes. It is also a prerequisite for obtaining a Class 1 license.
Duration: 12 hours
Tuition: $395 + GST
Intake dates:
- Sep 13 - 14, 2025
- Oct 18 - 19, 2025
Training Breakdown
- Classroom Training (6.5 hours): Covers air brake system components, safety protocols, and manual-based instruction.
- Practical Training: Includes instructor-led demonstrations and student practice of the air brake pre-trip inspection.
- Practical Assessment: One-on-one evaluation with one opportunity for re-assessment on a different day.
- Knowledge Test: Administered at an Alberta Registry. Once passed, the "Q" endorsement is added to your licence.
Admission Requirements
- Valid Class 5 Canadian Driver’s Licence
- English proficiency (minimums: CLB 6, IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 59, Duolingo 85, etc.)
PPE Required: Steel-toe boots (Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approved), hard hat, reflective vest, safety glasses.
Please call +1-780-791-4801 for registration.
Class 3 Driver Training
Duration: 18 hours
Tuition: $3,199 + GST
Application Fee: $54 (non-refundable)
Important - new application fee starting July 4, 2025
A non-refundable application fee of $54 will be required for all applicants to the Class 3 Driver Training program. Please review admission requirements before submitting your application. Fees will not be refunded even if applicants do not meet eligibility requirements.
A Class 3 license allows operation of single motor commercial vehicles (via Alberta.ca) with 3 or more axles and certain towing configurations.
Training begins on September 2, 2025.
What You Can Drive
- Tandem axle trucks (e.g., dump trucks, delivery trucks)
- Vehicles allowed under a Class 5 license
Admission Requirements
- Valid Class 5 Alberta Driver’s License
- Air Brake "Q" Endorsement
- Completed Class 3 Knowledge Test (Alberta Registry)
- Driver’s Abstract (less than 3 months old, with no more than four demerit points and no convictions)
English Language Proficiency Requirement
- CLB - minimum score of 6
- TOEFL - iBT with a minimum score of 59
- IELTS - minimum score of 6.5, with no individual test score less than 5.5
- CAEL - minimum score of 50
- Duolingo - minimum score of 85
- PTE (academic) - minimum score of 36
PPE Required: Steel-toe boots (Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approved), hard hat, reflective vest, safety glasses.
Note: Class 3 vehicles are available with both manual and automatic transmissions. Permit fees apply.
Class 1 Driver Training
(Class 1 Learning Pathway)
Alberta's Class 1 Learning Pathway (via Alberta.ca) provides flexible, phased training for aspiring commercial truck drivers. As of April 1, 2025, it replaces the MELT program.
Program Tiers:
Tier 2: Core Learning Program
- 60 hours of yard and in-cab training
- 8-hour air brake course required (if not already endorsed)
- Qualifies students to write road test for Alberta-restricted Class 1 licence
Tier 3: Competence Building Program
- 17–25 hours of personalized driving instruction
- Focused on building competency based on in-road assessments
- Graduates become eligible for interprovincial Class 1 licence
Course Fees
- Entry Program: $250
- In-cab/Yard Training (15 x 4-hr blocks): $6,799
- Competence Building: $2,499
- Experience & Equivalency Pathway: $4,000
Admission Requirements
- Minimum age: 18
- Valid Class 5 Alberta Driver’s Licence
- Medical fitness approval recommended
- Air Brake "Q" Endorsement
- English proficiency (minimums as listed above)
Training Flexibility
- In-cab instruction available in 4-hour blocks
- Accommodations made for shift workers and personal schedules
PPE Required: Steel-toe boots (Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approved), hard hat, reflective vest, safety glasses
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between Class 1 and Class 3 licences?
Do I need experience before enrolling?
No experience is required, though some programs have prerequisites like a valid Class 5 licence or a Q endorsement.
Is financial assistance available?
Yes. Programs such as the Industry Advancement Grant and Employment Pathway Grant may be available for qualified applicants or their employers.
The Industry Advancement Grant provides funding to organizations for initiatives that enhance Class 1 and 3 driver recruitment, training and retention in Alberta’s commercial transportation industry. It supports project-based efforts to attract new talent, increase industry awareness, and create sustainable partnerships.
The Employment Pathway Grant provides funding to employers in the commercial transportation industry to invest in their workforce and secure training for new drivers.
This program aims to enhance workforce participation, improve retention, and support professional development for Class 1 drivers. Eligible employers can apply for funding to be reimbursed for costs associated with hiring and training Class 1 drivers.