Alberta Launches New Class 1 Learning Pathway for Truck Drivers

Starting today, the Government of Alberta is officially rolling out the Class 1 Learning Pathway, a comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing road safety and combating the province's growing shortage of commercial truck drivers.

The Made-In-Alberta initiative, which replaces the former Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) program will allow drivers to develop their skills gradually and build expertise at each phase of their training.

Key Highlights of the Class 1 Learning Pathway:

• Expanded Training Duration: The revamped program will increase training time from 113 hours to 133 hours, ensuring drivers gain deeper expertise in key areas such as air brake training, safety education, and undergo more in-vehicle training than previously required.
• Apprenticeship-Style Learning: The program will follow an apprenticeship-style model, allowing trainees to receive on-the-job training, further preparing them for real-world driving conditions and challenges.
• Ongoing Driver Competency: The pathway includes ongoing skill development and safety training throughout a driver’s career, ensuring continued competency and long-term road safety.

To support the program, the Alberta government has allocated $50 million in grant funding over the next three years. These funds will be used to implement the learning pathway and provide support for both drivers and carrier companies to improve their training capabilities.

Transportation Minister Devin Dreeshen emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “This investment ensures that Albertans receive the right training to become skilled drivers, improving safety on our roads.”

Employers are also being encouraged to invest in their workforce, with the province offering grants of up to $10,000 to help cover the cost of training and onboarding new drivers.

New drivers will be required to follow the Class 1 Learning Pathway, while those currently in the MELT program have until October 2025 to complete their training.

For more information on the Class 1 Learning Pathway and how to get involved, please visit Changes to the driver licensing system | Alberta.ca.