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Truck Driver Training Hamilton

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Transport Training

Better training = better jobs

Our Admissions Specialists and Government Grant Experts are standing by. 

 

2 Day – 12 Hour Course – Only $295

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.

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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.

REGISTER BY PHONE

Prerequisite

  • Minimum full “G” licence. Payment in full is required by cash, debit or credit. A clear copy of your driver’s licence is also required to register.

Refund Policy

  • Cancellation prior to one full day or more before the course: we will refund the course cost less $40.00 administration charge.
  • Cancellation day before or day of course: forfeit the course cost.
  • As per MTO regulations late arrivals will not be permitted into the course. We recommend you show up at least 15 minutes early.

Skid School Training

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

  • TTCC graduates – $995 + HST
  • Non graduates -$1595 + HST (must have experience with standard transmission and an unrestricted AZ/Class 1 license).
  • Corporate/ groups discounts are available. Private bookings for your organization are also available by request.

Takes place in Shannonville, ON

Simulator Training

Master the Art of Shifting and Backing

Enhance your skills with state-of-the-art simulators, providing a realistic, hands-on training experience. 

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Master the Art of Shifting and Backing with the use of our State of the Art Simulators 

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!

COST:

  • 10 hour package: $500
  • Unlimited use: $1,000
  • Included at no extra cost in some truck training packages

AR Training

Drive vehicles requiring Class G and Class D licences

Get your AR licence with TTCC to drive specialized trucks, unlock higher-paying jobs, and launch a rewarding career in Ontario’s trucking industry.

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COURSE HIGHLIGHTS:
  • Pickup & Trailer pre-trip inspection
  • Safe Trailer hookup and unhook procedures
  • Pickup interior cab checks
  • Defensive driving practices
  • Trailer cornering practice
  • Safe backing protocols
  • MTO Road test preparation
  • Use of truck for road test

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:

  • a car or light truck covered by a Class G licence
  • heavy trucks covered by the Class D truck licence

What you can’t drive

With a restricted Class A licence, you can’t:

  • pull a trailer equipped with air brakes
  • drive a full-size tractor-trailer
  • drive a vehicle pulling a double trailer
  • train another driver on a vehicle that requires full Class A privileges to drive

Requirements

To obtain a restricted Class A licence (condition R), you must:

  • be at least 18 years old
  • hold a valid Ontario licence other than G1, G2, M, M1 or M2
  • pass a vision test
  • submit a valid medical report
  • pass a knowledge test about operating large trucks and tractor-trailers
  • pass a road test using a vehicle that meets the requirements for Class A (R)

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:

  • A trailer with a Manufacturer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (MGVWR) of at least 4,600 kg.
  • A full air brake system on both the truck/ tractor and trailer.

Standard vs Automatic

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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Expand Your Career Horizons with Manual Transmission Training

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.

Why Manual Transmission Matters for Your Career

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.

Choose Confidence. Choose Opportunity.

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.

Heavy Equipment Operator Training

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 mazimize your skills and career potential.

Hamilton’s Favourite Truck Driving School

Canada’s Largest Truck Driving School has set its roots in Hamilton, Ontario!

Discover our presence in the heart of the city, offering top-notch AZ/DZ and Heavy Equipment courses that exceed industry standards. Embark on your path to a rewarding career with guidance from the best instructors in the field.

400 Grays Rd.
Hamilton, ON L8E 3J6

Monday – Friday
8:00 am–5:00 pm ET

  • The st catharines campus has two excellent trainers , first Will was very patient and had great experience that he shared well with me as a student, his calm and easy going personality helped me learn and his ability to teach me the techniques i need to be successful was awesome , i would recommend too anyone who... see more

    Allan thorp Avatar Allan t.

    I would recommend the hamilton training center to anyone looking to get a commercial license.... jacquie was more than amazing working with my schedule and helping me through every step of the process involved including observation of other students doing yard work which was invaluable experience. Brent my instructor helped me every step of the process even with some questions... see more

    Justin Pennell Avatar Justin P.

    Edit/ Update 4/8/22: I was accepted this week into the NABET 700-M UNIFOR Transport department as a permit. I took the course at TTCC to further my career in the television and fIlm industry. WIth Jacquie and Brent's attentive help with course. I now have the position I wanted and achieved one of my life goals. Thank you so... see more

    Aaron Campbell Avatar Aaron C.

    TTCC is a great way for new drivers that wanna learn and get good hand on experience for their license of any sort i had contacted Kendra, who was a great help in helping me find a campus near me. Jacquie and Brendan were great help on getting the air brakes and D experience I needed to pass my test... see more

    Sabar Avatar Sabar

    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 Johnson Avatar Craig J.

    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

    Daniel Fascione Avatar 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 Sample Avatar Tony S.

    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

    Emanuel Alves Avatar Emanuel 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 Maczuszenko Avatar William M.

    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 Arbour Avatar Tyson A.

    Had a great experience at this school. They made it very easy and fun to learn. The trainers were very personal and nice! Coordinator was great, super helpful. Highly recommend this school.

    levi allemang Avatar levi a.

    Kevin is an outstanding instructor who truly cares about his students’ success. He’s patient, supportive, and takes the time to explain everything in a way that’s easy to understand. Kevin’s passion for teaching and his calm approach made learning both enjoyable and stress-free. I’m so grateful for his guidance and would recommend him to anyone looking to start a career... see more

    Arash Danafar Avatar Arash D.
  • Both pit instructor and in-class instructor where awesome and learned a lot from them, 10/10 on my experience with TTCC, Highly recommended 100% , thank you

    Daniel Neganiwina Avatar Daniel N.

    I had the best experience with this school, starting with their head office. They worked around my schedule as I had a full time job and it worked out perfectly. Jackie who was in charge of the Hamilton campus was so professional and helpful and gives the warmest welcome with a huge smile as soon as you step foot... see more

    Abrahim Elmabrouk Avatar Abrahim E.

    I want to start off by thanking the ttcc staff Jackie is great she makes sure ur days are planned and always have time for the students.. Brent great trainer I was unsure if I even wanted to get my Az but wit motivation n great support he helped me understand n learn everything I needed and more so I... see more

    josh pavlovich Avatar josh p.

    Best place to learn to drive a tracktor trailer. Everyone here is professional, extremely knowledgeable and friendly. Couldn't recommend them more.

    David Thomas Avatar David T.

    After my first week of attending TTCC Hamilton (zoom class), I felt that this career was not for me until I had spoken to Jacquie (campus coordinator) and Melissa (admissions specialist) and they both convinced me that I should not give up on the course. After going back and forth, I had come to a conclusion that I would leave the... see more

    Jason Levy Avatar Jason L.

    Took my Schooling here and passed on my First go! TTCC is a great school and has great staff, one of the best experiences in my life and ready to start my new Career! Thank you Brent, Jacquie and Kyle!

    David Kuik Avatar David K.