• Most of a driver’s day is spent behind the wheel of a truck. Most trucks are equipped with air-ride seats for added comfort.
• Before, during and after their daily runs, drivers are on their feet securing their cargo, inspecting their trucks, and meeting with customers.
• The Canadian Hours of Service Regulations limit drivers to 13-hours of consecutive driving time in a 16-hour work shift and then a minimum of 8 consecutive hours of off duty status.
• Long-haul drivers often sleep in the sleeping berth of their trucks although alternative accommodations may be possible depending on the employer.
• Drivers, particularly on long-hauls, often spend their off-duty hours at company terminals or truck stops. These establishments often have various amenities specifically for drivers, including showers, television rooms, computer rooms, prayer and meditation rooms and more.

To be considered for Transport Truck Driver positions, there are licensing requirements. To acquire a license, you must successfully complete training and meet physical requirements. Requirements vary by province.

1. Licensing Requirements

• A Class 3 or D license is required to drive some straight-body trucks.
• A Class 1 or A license is required to drive tractor-tractors and long combination vehicles.
• Air brake endorsement (Z) is required for drivers who operate vehicles equipped with air brakes.

Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT)

Mandatory Entry Level Training is required for attaining a Commercial Driver’s License in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. Some companies provide subsidies and assistance to cover the costs of training. Learn more about MELT in the following provinces:

• British Columbia
• Alberta
• Saskatchewan
• Manitoba
• Ontario

2. Physical Requirements

There are specific vision, hearing and physical fitness requirements to get and maintain a Commercial Driver’s License; these requirements vary by province.

3. Additional Training

• On-the-job-training is often provided (often known as Driver Finishing Programs) to enhance the skills of newly licensed drivers.
• Many companies offer coaching and mentoring to new drivers as part of the onboarding process.
• Transportation of dangerous goods (TDG) certification is required for drivers who transport hazardous products or dangerous goods.
• Additional licensing endorsement or certification may be required to drive articulated trucks.

Compensation of Transport Truck Drivers depends on many factors including: the company, location, type of load/cargo, level of experience, type of equipment, and more. Companies vary in how they pay their drivers and can include hourly, salary, per the km/mile or a combination of methods. Benefits vary, but often include (at minimum) basic medical, vision and dental coverage. Other benefits, such as vacation, pension, and profit-sharing, are all dependent on the company’s compensation model.

Salary range coming soon.

As you gain driving experience and maintain a safe driving record, you can look for more challenging assignments.

• Operating a range of equipment – with a Commercial Driver’s License, drivers can operate tractor-trailers. Drivers may operate shunt trucks, boom trucks, flatbed/ float trailers, refrigerated trailers/reefers, car carriers, livestock trailers, long combination vehicles (LCVs) and more. In some jurisdictions, additional license endorsements beyond a Commercial Driver’s License are required to operate this additional equipment.
• Hauling diverse cargo – drivers are responsible for ensuring that everything from cars and cows, to lumber and bulk fuel get to their destinations safely. Hauling different cargo requires unique skill-sets and as drivers gain experience, they will be called upon to haul even the most delicate of loads – like livestock. Depending upon the cargo being hauled, drivers may require additional certification (e.g., Transportation of Dangerous Goods) or training.
• Driving various routes and terrains – Canada is geographically diverse and with the required experience, drivers can drive through mountain passes, over ice-roads, on freeways, across ferries and more. Safe driving provides a way to see this country and North America.

Or perhaps you may want to consider another type of role entirely. It is not uncommon for Transport Truck Drivers to move into a Dispatcher role when they want a break from being on the road. Drivers bring a unique perspective to this role having been behind the wheel and having experience with scheduling, customer service and problem solving on the road.