Class 1 Learning Pathway for professional drivers
Effective April 1, 2025, the Class 1 Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT) program changes to a new Class 1 Learning Pathway for commercial drivers.
- The new, made-in-Alberta Class 1 Learning Pathway will increase driver skills, improve safety and enhance training for current and prospective Class 1 drivers in Alberta.
- The apprenticeship-style model will offer a learning pathway for Albertans to develop the skills to succeed and advance in their career as a professional driver.
- Drivers will proceed through phases while training to become a Class 1 driver.
- Phases are currently under development in partnership with industry members. More information about these changes will be announced closer to the implementation date of April 1, 2025.
- To learn more about the learning pathway, review this document: New Made-in Alberta Learning Pathway for Professional Drivers.
|
PROGRAMS |
Tot. Hours |
In Class |
In-Cab |
In- Yard |
Airbrakes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MELT Class 1 |
121.5 |
40.5 |
57 |
15.5 |
8.5 |
|
Entry |
40 |
39.5 |
0 |
0 |
0.5 |
|
Core Learning |
68 |
4 |
43 |
13 |
8 |
|
Competencey Building |
17-25 |
0 |
14-22 |
3 |
0 |
|
Experience & Equivalency |
40 |
11 |
22.5 |
6.5 |
0 |
Class 1 MELT Truck Driver Training and Air Brakes Q Endorsement
Portage College offers Class 1 Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT) as well as Air Brakes Q Endorsement in Lac La Biche. Both are tailored and updated to perfectly fit the industry's requirements.
Class 1 MELT course includes 113 hours of training with in-class theory, in-yard practical teaching and experience behind the wheel.
The Air Brakes Q Endorsement course includes a classroom session and then practical training. Class 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 drivers must complete an approved air brake course to get a Q Endorsement on their driver’s licence to operate a vehicle equipped with air brakes.
The Class 1 MELT course provides practical training in the operation of modern tractor-type trucks and a variety of trailers. Students advance through a series of practical exercises involving rural and urban traffic circuits under actual driving conditions.
Funding is available - you might be eligible! Ask us 1-888-745-0719 or email Continuing Education.
Class 1 MELT curriculum includes:
- Safety practices
- Vehicle and Load Documentation
- Acts, Rules and Regulations
- Driver Training - Practical Application
Admission Requirements:
- 18 years of age
- Current Class 5 driver's license, no GDL restrictions
- Physically fit - driver's medical completed by a physician
Cost:
Class 1 Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT) - $9,475.00
Air Brakes Q Endorsement - $280.00
Total Tuition: $9,755.00
Check out the Upcoming Courses link below for details on the next offering for this course.
Online Booking for Air Brakes Available Here: Course Calendar
For more information about these courses and to register contact Continuing Education in Lac La Biche toll free at 1-888-745-0719, or email Continuing Education
We acknowledge that Portage College’s service region is on the traditional lands of First Nation Peoples, the owners of Treaty 6, 8 and 10, which are also homelands to the Métis people. We honour the history and culture of all people who first lived and gathered in these lands.