How To Get A Commercial Driver’s Licence in New Brunswick

So, you’re in New Brunswick and considering getting a commercial driver’s licence. This guide will help you understand how to get a commercial driver’s licence in New Brunswick. It covers the process, requirements, and what to expect.

Whether you dream of long hauls on the Trans-Canada Highway or navigating local routes, a path exists. Getting your commercial licence opens up these possibilities in New Brunswick’s transportation industry. Earning a commercial driver’s licence can offer several advantages.

Understanding the CDL Classes

First, determine what type of commercial driver’s licence you need. Your options depend on the vehicle type. Several CDL classes exist, each with unique requirements and endorsements: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3/4.

Class 1 Licence

A Class 1 licence lets you drive tractor-trailer combinations exceeding 4,600 kg. This is often a requirement for truck drivers.

Class 2 Licence

This licence is for buses and heavy straight trucks. It opens doors for various driver jobs and government job postings.

Class 3 and 4 Licence

These licences are usually combined into Class 3/4/F/I, which caters to smaller trucks, emergency vehicles, and regular vehicles. The flexibility offered within Class 3/4 depends on which specific license is added (F for fire trucks, I for ambulances). Your selection depends on your targeted work, interests, and career plans. Carefully consider what vehicles you’re interested in driving when choosing.

Service New Brunswick (SNB) offers clear guidelines and driver’s licence information. Review these resources for in-depth details on class descriptions and requirements. These resources also outline the necessary tests and processes.

Meeting the Requirements

Starting your commercial driver’s licence journey involves a few steps. These include confirming your age requirement and submitting a medical fitness report. Here’s what’s involved in getting a commercial driver’s licence in New Brunswick:

Age

First, check the age requirement. In New Brunswick, it’s 18 for most commercial vehicles. The age requirement jumps to 21 for those involving hazardous materials (Trubicars Article on Commercial Vehicles).

Driving Record

Your driving record matters. A clean record demonstrates your commitment to road safety, a key element in commercial vehicle operation. New Brunswick reviews your record. Serious past offences could lead to application denial, and violations like parking tickets may come under scrutiny.

While minor infractions or speeding tickets may not disqualify, they still influence eligibility. Contact the New Brunswick Department of Justice and Public Safety for specifics regarding driving history.

Medical Exam

Next is the certified medical evaluation. Driving a commercial vehicle has physical and mental health standards (SNB – Trucking & Transport). This assessment checks your readiness for the demands of commercial driving. Arrange a Medical Fitness Report exam through your doctor.

Tackling the Tests

Getting a commercial driver’s licence in New Brunswick involves a written knowledge test and a road test. Both written tests and driving tests are critical.

Knowledge Test

The written knowledge test covers trucking rules, safety regulations, and driving practices. It typically lasts several hours. It is recommended that you practice CDL tests (written knowledge).

Road Test

Next is the road test (Commercial Road Test). The skills test features several stages and varied conditions. It might even include driving in the rain and extend across multiple days.

The skills test also assesses pre-trip inspection skills. This involves mandatory training in New Brunswick. The Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) became mandatory after April 1, 2024, for those seeking to get their commercial driver’s licence and operate larger commercial vehicles (MELT Training in New Brunswick).

The required training includes at least 122 hours of commercial trucking on New Brunswick’s roads. This program focuses on air brake function and driving challenges.

Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT)

As of April 1, 2024, New Brunswick requires Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) for Class 1 licence applicants. This training covers air brakes and other essential aspects of commercial driving. This government requirement is a public safety measure aimed at reducing accidents.

MELT Curriculum

The MELT program mandates at least 122 hours, covering:

• Classroom instruction.
• In-yard practice.
• Standardized, hands-on driving experience.
• Specific air brake systems training.

Several institutions offer MELT programs and training, including Atlantic Transport Training Academy Co. Ltd, Trans-Canada College, Versatile Training Solutions, and CCNB.

Endorsements

Certain endorsements may be needed depending on what you will be driving. Consider any additional certifications required to haul special cargo.

Hazardous Materials

A hazardous materials endorsement is required to transport certain materials. This specialized endorsement involves additional training and testing.

Exploring Trucking in New Brunswick

New Brunswick offers various trucking career paths. You could become an independent owner-operator (new brunswick) or work for a larger transport company. Your personality and aspirations will influence which route best suits you. Both options provide various opportunities within the transportation sector.

FAQs 

How do you get a truck license in New Brunswick, Canada?

Getting a truck licence involves specific age and medical requirements. You also need to pass knowledge and road skills tests. Completing Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) is necessary for certain classes. Endorsements are needed for specialized cargo, like hazardous materials.

What is considered a commercial vehicle in New Brunswick?

A commercial vehicle is typically used to transport goods or passengers for commercial purposes. This category includes trucks, buses, and vehicles needing special permits or endorsements.

What are the rules for trucking in New Brunswick?

Trucking rules in New Brunswick cover various aspects (trucking). Weight and load limits vary by truck class. Permits are required for oversized or overweight cargo.

How do I become a commercial driver in Canada?

Becoming a commercial driver in Canada requires meeting national and provincial requirements. This includes having a clean driving record and a valid licence. You must also pass written, driving, and physical evaluations. Additional provincial-specific regulations also apply (commercial driver).

Conclusion

Getting a commercial license in New Brunswick involves understanding classes, tests, training (like MELT), endorsements, and New Brunswick’s trucking rules. Beyond a clean driving record, mandatory training is essential for handling large vehicles in all road conditions. A New Brunswick commercial driver’s licence offers numerous career opportunities. Use this guide as a starting point and further research opportunities within the trucking industry. Getting a CDL opens many opportunities within New Brunswick’s government jobs and driver jobs.