Get the answers you need to launch your truck or heavy equipment career the right way.
Starting a career in truck driving or heavy equipment operation comes with big decisions—and just as many questions. At Transport Training Centres of Canada (TTCC), we’ve built this comprehensive FAQ to give future students clear, accurate information about AZ/Class 1 and DZ/Class 2 training, HEO certification, MELT requirements, funding options, program prerequisites, and what to expect from our government-approved training programs.
Truck Driver Training FAQs
Get clear, straightforward answers about starting your trucking career. This section covers the most common questions future drivers ask—licence types, MELT requirements, training timelines, prerequisites, and what you can expect from TTCC’s government-approved programs.
What types of truck driver licences can I train for at TTCC?
We offer training for Class AZ, DZ, F, and AR (Ontario), Clas 1 and Class 3 (NB & NS), and the Air Brake “Z” endorsement. These cover all types of tractor-trailers, straight trucks, small buses, and air brake systems. We also provide manual and automatic transmission training options.
What is the MELT program?
MELT stands for Mandatory Entry-Level Training. It’s a Ministry of Transportation (MTO)-approved course required before you can take your AZ road test. MELT ensures all new AZ drivers meet a consistent national standard for safety and skill.
At TTCC, our Class AZ MELT program is taught by experienced instructors and includes in-class learning, practical yard work, and on-road driving.
What is the difference between AZ/Class 1 and DZ/Class 2 training?
The Class 1/AZ licence is Canada’s highest level of truck driver licence, allowing you to operate tractor-trailers of any weight, including vehicles with air brakes and trailers over 4,600 kg. It’s ideal for those pursuing long-haul, cross-border trucking, and freight careers. You can also drive all vehicles covered by a Class 3/DZ licence.
The Class DZ license allows you to drive straight trucks up to 11,000 kg GVWR, such as box trucks and tow trucks, typically used in local or regional construction, delivery, waste management, and snow plowing jobs.
If you want to drive tractor-trailers, pursue long-haul work, or maximize earning potential, AZ gives you the best flexibility.
How long does truck driver training take?
Training time depends on the license and package you choose:
- AZ MELT Program: 5–8 weeks (average)
- DZ Training: 2–3 weeks
- Air Brake Z Endorsement: 2 days
We offer both full-time and flexible schedules across Ontario, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.
Do I need Standard or Automatic?
For the AZ training and road test, using an automatic truck will result in a restricted licence. Driving a truck with a manual transmission is easy once you know how. The trick is to be taught and to have the opportunity to learn—TTCC can give you that skill.
For DZ training, you can train with either transmission type and you have no restriction to drive that type in the future. However, employers will expect you to have training in the type of transmission that you will be driving.
Choosing a standard or automatic transmission course depends on the vehicle you plan to drive:
- Automatic: Generally includes Firetrucks, Municipal Vehicles, Snow Plows, 5 Ton trucks, utility vehicles, and most newer commercial fleets (which are now primarily automatic).
- Standard: Required if you plan to drive vehicles equipped with a manual transmission—such as certain dump trucks, roll-off trucks, older vocational trucks, gravel trucks, tow trucks, and some specialized commercial vehicles where manual gear control is still common.
What is included in the Air Brake “Z” endorsement course?
The Z endorsement certifies you to operate vehicles with air brakes and is mandatory for trucks, buses, and RVs equipped with air brake systems. The course is a 2-day, 12-hour program combining classroom theory with practical training and testing.
What are the prerequisites for truck driver training?
For AZ training, you generally need a valid Ontario G licence, be at least 18 years old, and pass a medical exam. DZ prerequisites are similar but may vary slightly by province. Specific requirements will be provided during your consultation.
Are your programs government-approved?
Absolutely. TTCC is an MTO-approved truck driving school and meets all provincial regulations, including certifications from and recognition by relevant government bodies.
Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) Training FAQs
Whether you’re new to the industry or upgrading your skills, this section explains everything you need to know about becoming a certified Heavy Equipment Operator. Learn about equipment types, training length, job outcomes, locations, and what to expect from TTCC’s hands-on programs.
What types of heavy equipment can I train to operate at TTCC?
We offer training for a variety of equipment, including bulldozers, loaders, excavators, backhoes, and graders. You can choose single or multiple equipment training packages.
How long is the heavy equipment operator training?
HEO training involves one week of classroom theory followed by 1 to 8 weeks of hands-on practical training depending on the equipment and package you select.
Do I need any experience to enroll?
No experience required! Our training is designed for absolute beginners. We’ll teach you everything from safety procedures to machine controls to real-world worksite operation.
Is heavy equipment training funded or eligible for grants?
Yes, many of our HEO courses qualify for government funding programs, such as Better Jobs and grants for unemployed individuals and second career students. We can help you identify and apply for funding.
Will I receive certification upon completion?
Yes, successful completion earns you a Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate of Competency recognized by employers across Ontario, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia, which can open doors to various job opportunities.
TTCC is a recognized, WSIB-approved training provider in Ontario. Our programs align with industry and safety standards, and many employers actively recruit from our graduate pool.
Where does the training take place?
Training is offered at multiple TTCC campuses across Ontario, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia, equipped with modern classrooms and up-to-date heavy machinery for practical sessions.
Practical training is delivered on actual job-site terrain using real heavy equipment. Locations vary slightly, but all hands-on training for is coordinated locally or regionally.
What jobs can I get with HEO certification?
Graduates go on to work in:
- Construction and road building
- Municipal maintenance
- Landscaping and excavation
- Mining and forestry
- Utility installation
Operators are in high demand across Ontario, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia — and employers prefer certified candidates with multiple equipment competencies.
Are your programs government-approved?
Absolutely. TTCC is an MTO-approved trade school and meets all provincial regulations, including certifications from and recognition by relevant government bodies.
Funding & General FAQs
Training for a new career is a big decision, and we want to make it easier. This section answers your top questions about costs, financing, funding programs, registration, safety, and how to choose the right path for your future.
How do I know which program is right for me?
Our Admissions Specialists are available to discuss your career goals, licensing requirements, and training options to help you choose the best path—whether it’s trucking, heavy equipment, or a combination program.
What are the costs of training programs?
Costs vary by program and location. We provide detailed pricing on our course pages and offer financing options, payment plans, and access to government grants to make training affordable.
Is financing available for truck and HEO training?
Yes, TTCC can work with you and your banking institution to offer financing options. We also guide students through government-funded programs such as Better Jobs Ontario and other grants.
Can I start training if I’m a new immigrant?
Absolutely. TTCC welcomes new immigrants and provides tailored support, including licensing guidance and government-funded training programs designed to help newcomers succeed in trucking and equipment operation careers.
What safety measures are in place during training?
Safety is our top priority. All training follows Ministry-approved safety protocols, including up-to-date COVID-19 precautions, hands-on safety instruction, and supervised practical experience.
How do I register or get more information?
You can contact us by phone at 1-800-805-0662, fill out the online contact form, or visit your local TTCC campus. Our Admissions Specialists and Government Grant Experts are ready to assist.