Leaders in Driver Safety & Trade Skill Development
MY LOCATION
St. Catharines 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.
We’re not just a truck training school; we’re Canada’s largest, dedicated to making successful careers in the trucking industry.
Situated in Niagara on the Lake and proudly serving the Niagara Region, including St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Welland, and surrounding areas, our expert truck training is designed to prepare you for a rewarding career in the trucking industry. Be in demand with a commercial AZ or DZ license. Let our grant specialist show you to take training without any upfront costs!
360 York Rd.
Niagara On the Lake, ON L0S 1J0
Monday – Friday
8:00 am–5:00 pm ET
Just passed my AZ test and couldn't be happier. Rob and Brenden are amazing trainers and they WILL prepare you for your driving career. They will be firm and push you as you train but I found they were fair and they taught you everything you will need for this career. Shout out to Laura in the office too, she did a great... see more
Philip B.I had a great time training here for AZ and learned so much. Rob and Brendan were great trainers and very helpful and friendly. Laura did a great job with accommodating my availability on the schedule and was always quick to respond to emails or phone calls.
Ali Y.The staff are amazing friendly Laura,Brendon and Rob are caring they want to see you succeed in your journey of getting your license. They are very accommodating to your needs and schedule. I couldn't have done it without them.
Willie T.I recently completed my Az training at TTC, and I can honestly say it was an incredible experience. From the moment I walked in, I was impressed by the professionalism and dedication of the staff. The instructors were knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely invested in my success ( shout out to: Trevor, Will and Leah). They took the time to explain... see more
Fintin M.Great team at TTCC. When I started my training, I was not sure that I would succeed, but thanks to excellent trainers who explained what to do, as well as good study guides and materials, I was able to study and pass the exam the first time. I also had the opportunity to regulate my study schedule, which is also... see more
SergiyAwesome experience!, enjoyed Mr. William, Mr.Trevor and Mrs. Leah's services. Very helpful and encouraging. Got my DZ license first try!🙏
Fortune A.The school was everything I needed to succeed. Laura ,Rob and Brenden we’re all great. They took the time I needed and explained the whole process and training. I found them very helpful with finding me extra time I wanted to go over things I was learning for the first time. The eight hour online class also prepares you well... see more
blair w.I recently completed the M.E.L.T program at TTCC Niagara to aquire my AZ drivers licence. The trainers I had were fantastic! Will had me day 1 teaching me the basics of shifting and then I had Trevor for the remaining practical lessons. Trevor was great with simplifying all the different tests and helping me with my downshifting... see more
Alex B.Took the course. I had great instructors in Will and Trevor. Answered all my questions an then some, Leah is fabulous with all the behind the scene work. Would recommend to anyone wanting to get into driving to take the course. Great value, great friendly instructors with an awesome receptionist. Thanks everyone for the memories and friendships made.
Tim B.I just got my D-Z licence through TTCC, it was a great experience! I want to thank my instructors for helping me achieve my goal, and for being the best teachers I’ve ever had. Will and Trevor want you to succeed, and want the best for you. Thank you Leah for helping me out with everything as well, and for... see more
Carson K.Transport Training Centre was the school I decided to attend to acquire my AZ license. From day 1 I had Trevor he taught me very well on everything I needed to know to pass my test. Trevor takes time with you to thoroughly explain anything you might be struggling with and wants nothing but success for you. Thank you for... see more
JakeBylsmaoffice staff was amazing with my very crazy life were able to accommodate very well!!!! trainers know there stuff very easy to learn from
ashley m.TTC was amazing! Leah, the coordinator and Will, my in truck instructor were both awesome. They were knowledgeable and communication was quick and easy. Would recommend! Also, it was the cheapest DZ license school I could find! Would recommend
derek k.I just completed my AZ training with both Rob and Brendon. Two amazing trainers who both know the ins and outs of the job. Always patient and willing to help you in the areas you need to work the most on. As for Laura there isn’t anyone else who could help you out figuring out your schedule and your test.
Gregoire B.Great driving school. I had Rob and Brendan as instructors. Great guys very knowledgeable and good teachers.
Devon T.Passed my AZ in July, Rob, Brandon, Trevor and Will are top notch trainers, thank you for the experience.
Eduard M.Great experience at this school instructors *will* and *trevor* were awsome guys to work with thought me everything i need to pass my az they did everything right Leah one of the best servis woman I have ever met she's a... see more
Mike L.Kevin Lepage, Will Hopman are great trainers!
D W.Or call us toll-free at 1-800-805-0662
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