Leaders in Driver Safety & Trade Skill Development
MY LOCATION
Hamilton Campus
Don’t settle for the minimum standard – We never have!
TTCC can help you access government-funded programs such as Better Jobs Ontario and financing through your bank. Our specialists will guide you step-by-step to make your career training affordable and accessible.
Our Admissions Specialists and Government Grant Experts are standing by.
Better training = better jobs
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MTO Approved Air Brake ‘Z’ Endorsement Training:
A valid “Z” endorsement is required to operate any vehicle equipped with air brakes in the province of Ontario. This includes (but not limited to) large motor homes, some RV’s, buses, medium‐duty and all heavy‐duty vehicles.
The objective of the course is to familiarize all air brake equipped vehicle operators with the workings of air brake systems, to increase safety awareness on Ontario’s highways and to reduce the number of accidents resulting from improper brake usage and maintenance.
This 2‐Day (approximately 12 hours) Air Brake or ‘Z’ Endorsement Course teaches participants how the air brake system works, its many components, how to operate the air brake system and to identify defects in the system. Day 1 begins at 8:00 a.m. SHARP and goes to about 4:30 p.m. We use our in-class air brake board and learning tools as well as practical training at our truck. Day 2 begins at 8:00 a.m.; written and practical testing will be done on day 2. Most practical training and testing is in the classroom but there is also some time spent outdoors around a commercial air brake equipped vehicle so dress appropriately.
Written and practical Air Brake testing will be completed throughout the curriculum of this 2‐Day course. Successful participants will be able to have the ‘Z’ Endorsement added to their license 5 business days after completion of this course. Please visit a DriveTest Centre near you to add the Z endorsement to your license after you complete your course.
Upon successful completion of the written and practical exams you simply go to a Drive Test Centre (after 48 hours but within 6 months) to have the Z-endorsement added to your license. You MUST get your Z-endorsement applied to your driver’s licence within 6 months of taking this course. If you are doing a road test in a vehicle equipped with air brakes you must have the Z-endorsement on your licence at the time of testing.
Nationally Recognized Skid Control and Recovery Training Facility for Class 1, AZ
We operate the only commercial “hands-on” Skid Control and Recovery training centre in Canada. As the irrefutable leaders in accident-avoidance training, we know how to keep the shiny side up.
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Learn Decision Truck Driving Techniques both in the classroom and in actual hands-on activities using our exclusive skid pad training facility for truck drivers (Class 1, AZ).
Our hands-on skid control and recovery truck driver training program is dramatic training that will show you how to anticipate and recover from skids.
Studies show that even the best of drivers have a tendency to overestimate their driving abilities. This could have serious consequences in a dangerous situation that requires highly developed decision-making skills and quick reactions for truck drivers specific for Class 1, AZ.
Costs
Takes place in Shannonville, ON
Master the Art of Shifting and Backing
Enhance your skills with state-of-the-art simulators, providing a realistic, hands-on training experience. Perfect your skills before driving on the road with stress-free, self-paced learning.
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Learn how to drive a truck (Class 1, 3, AZ, DZ) before getting behind the wheel. The old way to teach someone how to drive would be to let the truck student loose on the road and hope for the best. A rookie pilot learning to fly a plane would never learn this way. Most quality truck driving schools in North America now use simulators to supplement shifting and backing training (these are the two most difficult skills to master) for their Class 1, 3, AZ, DZ students. Truck driver training school courses are of a set duration. This means you spend your truck training hours on certain exercises. If you didn’t learn in the allotted time you will either fail or get stuck paying for more training time just to learn the bare minimum for your Class 1, 3, AZ or DZ. Use of our simulator gives you the time you need to learn and master the skills you need for the career in as a truck driver that you deserve.
LEARN TO SHIFT THE RIGHT WAY
Learning to shift a truck (Class 1, 3, AZ, DZ) with a non-synchronized manual transmission is a skill that takes time and patience. This is not like shifting a car with a standard transmission. The first thing you have to learn at a truck driver training school is how to shift gears. You can’t learn anything else until the basics of shifting is learned. Like anything else, once you know how, shifting is easy and fun. When you fail to master the art of shifting you will be stuck with an “automatic” restriction on your Class AZ/ Class 1 license. This means you will only be licensed to drive a truck with an automatic transmission which makes up about half of the trucks on the road today.
By using the simulator, students learn how to shift at their own pace before they even get behind the wheel of the actual truck (Class 1, 3, AZ, DZ). You can use your driving time to work on much more advanced skills. Practice makes perfect and that’s why our truck driving school students are the best of the best.
MASTER THE ART OF BACKING
Without a simulator the only way to learn how to back up a tractor trailer at a truck driver training school is by trial and error. Modern simulator truck training allows you to learn all the concepts of backing while practicing in a real simulated environment. It allows for a self paced, stress and pressure free way to learn the concepts of backing a tractor trailer (Class 1, AZ). You can replay maneuvers and watch what you’ve done from different vantage points, you can learn from your own mistakes by yourself without an audience. Once you start your “hands on” truck driver training you will already know how to back up a tractor trailer allowing you the opportunity to put what you learned on the simulator to work in real life.
This is how you master the Art of Backing!
Get your AR licence with TTCC to unlock a rewarding career in the Canadian trucking industry. This course includes road test prep and knowledge training, with a clear explanation of towing licence restrictions and upgrade paths.
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The restricted Class A (condition R) licence is meant for drivers operating smaller truck-trailer combinations, such as a recreational, horse or utility trailer. As of July 19, 2021, the type of transmission in the vehicle you use for your road test will determine what types of Class AR vehicles you can drive in Ontario.
You can also drive:
What you can’t drive
With a restricted Class A licence, you can’t:
Requirements
To obtain a restricted Class A licence (condition R), you must:
To remove the “R” condition and upgrade your licence to a full Class A, you must successfully complete a road test using a vehicle with a full Class A vehicle configuration. This includes:
Using an automatic truck for your AZ training and road test 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.
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Driving a manual transmission truck is easier than many expect—especially with the right training and support. While it may be tempting to choose automatic-only training, doing so limits you to a restricted AZ license. With manual training, you earn a full AZ license, opening up far more job opportunities across Canada.
At Transport Training Centres of Canada (TTCC), we specialize in manual transmission training. Each year, thousands of students build confidence and skill under the guidance of our experienced instructors. Using proven teaching methods and advanced simulators, we ensure every student—regardless of background—can learn to shift gears smoothly.
Many students are surprised by how quickly they become comfortable shifting. In just a few weeks, you’re likely to be shifting like a pro. We’re so confident in our ability to teach manual transmission that we offer a road test guarantee to back your success.
Our programs are designed to meet both the industry’s expectations and your individual goals. While we provide the option for automatic transmission training, we encourage students to pursue manual to ensure maximum job flexibility and career growth.
Jobs that require manual transmission trucks often offer better pay and more mobility. According to the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development, the demand for qualified heavy equipment operators continues to grow, especially in construction, transportation, and logistics.
Additionally, manual transmission handling is a key competency in heavy equipment and transport truck training programs. Gaining this unrestricted license increases your long-term employability and puts you in high demand across multiple industries.
We’ve helped thousands of students get comfortable with manual transmission—even those who had never driven standard before. Just because you haven’t shifted gears yet doesn’t mean you can’t learn. Whether you’re training for the first time or upgrading your license, TTCC will give you the tools and support you need to succeed.
Ready to start? We’ll help you every shift of the way.
Obtain the skills, knowledge and certification required for employment as a Heavy Equipment Operator.
Transport Training Centres of Canada will provide you with the very best training so you can arrive prepared. Combine AZ + HEO to maximize your skills and career potential.
Employers love TTCC graduates.
TTCC offers dedicated job placement assistance to connect graduates with truck driving jobs and heavy equipment operator roles throughout Canada. Your career is our priority.
Serving Hamilton and the surrounding area, our industry-leading truck driver training programs go beyond Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) standards—giving you the real-world skills employers are looking for.
Conveniently located to serve Hamilton and nearby residents of Burlington, Grimsby, and Oakville, our campus connects you with top trucking companies across Southwestern Ontario and throughout Canada that are actively hiring new drivers. From day one, you’ll have access to lifetime job placement assistance, plus guidance on government grants and tuition reimbursement programs that can significantly reduce your training costs.
As Canada’s largest provider of truck driver and heavy equipment operator training, Transport Training Centres of Canada gives you a competitive edge:
Employers across Hamilton, Ontario, and beyond recognize TTCC graduates as some of the best-trained, job-ready drivers on the road—and our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Start your truck driving career off right with TTCC.
400 Grays Rd.
Hamilton, ON L8E 3J6
Monday – Friday
8:00 am–5:00 pm ET
I went to hamilton for truck training. Jackie was so helpful and accommodating. Thank you so much jackie. While attending i had a few different instructors. Sam from sudbury, excellent instructor and very funny. Rob from st. Catherines who is amazing at helping you retain all the information you need. Chris from Cambridge, super funny and made learning lots for fun.... see more Brent from hamilton is very knowledgeable. I also did my heavy equipment training, half in Cambridge with alex who was great to train with, and the other half in st cathrines with George. George was great to train with. He has over 40 years in the field and is so helpful and knowledgeable. All and all great experience from TTCC
jon g.A couple months ago I had never driven a manual transmission or anything bigger than a pickup truck. Now thanks to Jacquie and my trainer Brent I have an A-Z license. I encourage anyone looking to get their A-Z license to consider TTCC Hamilton.
Craig J.Great school! They taught me everything I needed to know to get my ACZ license, the simulator helped alot. Really enjoyed my experience 🙂. Professional environment, everyone is friendly and helpful. Special thanks to my campus coordinator Jacquie, and my instructor Brent.
Nickolas S.Jacquie was awesome! She was very helpful and a joy to be around! Alex at the Heavy Equipment training location in Cambridge was very informative and a great trainer! He's down to earth and very patient
Howard L.I had the most amazing experience with ttcc Hamilton during my time with them. First of all, I would not have been able to successfully complete my course without the help of Jacquie! Due to the pandemic, there was a lot of uncertainty regarding where to go or even sign up, given that certain stages have moved to virtual learning.... see more Jacquie was there every step along the way to make sure I had everything that I needed. Someone that is starting their career may have a lot of angst, and getting their career started during this time only adds to the pressure. Jacquie has an exceptional interpersonal skillset that made the journey as easy as possible, where all I had to focus on was learning and the rest was taken care of. She was easy to reach, quick with replies and always went the extra mile to sort things out in case of an issue. A huge part of my success was the support that was offered to me and the family atmosphere of ttcc Hamilton. The instructors were also fantastic and know how to work with the individual and can accommodate to that person's style of learning. As someone who is not mechanically inclined, the instructors had a way of bringing the information down to a level that I could more easily digest which was crucial to my success. After my time with ttcc Hamilton it is my opinion that if you show up and bring your best effort you will find success. Definitely start your career here!
Daniel F.Kevin did 19 out of the 20 classes I did and he is an incredible instructor very on point with every instruction and helping you understand! Very easy to get on with and is willing to go the extra mile to help you in your classes!
Tony S.Good school. Jacquie is the best super accommodating and a lovely lady easy to deal with. Brent’s great guy too super cool trainer
Tyson A.I did my AZ training here and was able to get my license thanks to the awesome instructors and most importantly the best campus coordinator Jacquie. I would highly recommend anyone interested in obtaining your AZ to enrol in this course.
William M.The Hamilton campus was an excellent experience. I learned so much with TTCC at the Hamilton campus. The learning environment and knowledge that was taught here was above and beyond what a student could ask for. So welcoming and rewarding, the staff (JACQUIE) and teachers (BRENT + others) made this all possible. Worth it so much to attend this school. Thanks to TTCC Hamilton... see more campus, I now have my ACZ license.
Emanuel A.I managed to get my DZ on my first try thanks to the excellent instructers and fellow students at TTCC in Hamilton. The campus administator, Jacquie, has managed to cultivate a great atmosphere where students will help out in any way they can. She is also incredibly supportive, and tries her best to accomodate your schedule as best she can. She... see more expends a lot of her energy making sure everything runs smoothly, and it shows. The primary trainer at this location, Brent, is a great instructor. His more relaxed training style worked well for me, allowing me to have time to think through my mistakes and correct them myself. He is still attentive and will help you should you not be able to find said mistake. As I mentioned, other students are often eager to help out as well, whether that be by giving shifting tips while on the simulator, or going over and drilling the air endorsement tests and Schedule 1 inspections needed for your practical exam. All in all I found this location to be an excellent place to learn for both the road test itself, as well as for your career in trucking, whether that be as an AZ or DZ driver. I would recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their license.
Matt A.Had a great experience at TTCC in hamilton. The in vehicle trainer was very knowledgable and provided excellent instruction. The office staff were also very responsive and helpful. Glad i went there.
Mike F.I highly recommend this school for anyone who wants to get their A-Z license. Very professional team, they taught me from scratch and i was able to pass my road test from the first attempt! A special thanks to coordinator Jacquie , and both instructors Brent and Brendan.
Marwan A.Trained at the Hamilton campus for my license! Jacquie, the campus manager is awesome, knowledgeable, and super helpful. Brent and Brendon were friendly, patient, and taught me everything I needed to successfully pass all my tests. Big thanks to the TTCC Hamilton family!!! You guys are great!!!
Rafael B.Best place to learn to drive a tracktor trailer. Everyone here is professional, extremely knowledgeable and friendly. Couldn't recommend them more.
David T.Had a great experience training at this school. Will and Rob are the best! Would highly recommend!
Jeremey C.Shawn N and Jacquie in Hamilton were amazing. I'm so glad I chose this school over others. I took the Bronze Construction course. Way more knowledge taught than just the bare minimum to pass the MTO tests.
Ben O.Hamilton TTCC was one of the best choices in terms of school. Not only was I able to learn manual from scratch, they took their time and made sure I understood everything properly. They weren’t teaching me just to pass the test but for me to have a good understanding of what the job requires and how I can drive... see more responsibly and professionally. Jacquie the Hamilton program coordinator helped me whenever she could. Always responded ASAP and even helped me book a test during covid times. Shawn White my instructor was diligent. Made me go from not knowing anything about mechanics and how to drive manual to acing my inspections and getting compliments from the examiners at the Drive test Centre in Hamilton. Brent came in towards the end of my time with the school but he was also very helpful as an instructor. Kept me composed and calm before my test and gave me some advice on how to pass. Overall I recommend this school. Make sure you are respectful when attending.
Brinder D.Fantastic place to learn manual transmission for your AZ or DZ I did the course and passed my first try on AZ. Branden was a fantastic instructor! Patient and clear with his instructions.
Eleanor L.Or call us toll-free at 1-800-805-0662
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