How To Get A Professional Driver’s Licence in Manitoba

So, you’re thinking about becoming a professional driver in Manitoba? The demand for skilled drivers is high. This guide provides a roadmap for getting a professional driver’s licence in Manitoba.

Getting your professional driver’s licence opens many opportunities. Whether you’re interested in transportation or specialized vehicles, the right licence is essential.

Types of Professional Driver’s Licences in Manitoba

Manitoba differentiates between professional and regular drivers. This post focuses on obtaining a professional driver’s license in Manitoba and offers guidance on the process involved.

Class 1

This licence allows you to drive semi-trailer trucks. Think big rigs.

Class 2

This licence is for driving school, city transit, and tour buses.

Class 3

This licence covers larger trucks that aren’t semi-trailers. These still require special driving skills.

Class 4

This class is for emergency vehicles. This includes ambulances, fire trucks, and other specialized vehicles.

Getting Your Professional Driver’s Licence: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how to get a professional driver’s licence in Manitoba. This guide simplifies the process.

1. Existing Driver’s Licence and Age

You’ll need a valid driver’s licence. For classes 2, 3, or 4, you need a Class 5 Intermediate (5I) or 5A. A Class 1 licence requires a Class 5 Full. You must also be 18 years old.

2. Medical and Vision Standards

Manitoba requires all professional drivers to be fit to drive. You must meet medical and vision standards for all professional driving licence classes. You will need to file a Medical Examination Report, which Driver Fitness must approve before your authorized instruction begins.

3. Knowledge Test

You’ll take a knowledge test based on the Professional Driver’s Handbook and the Manitoba Driver’s Handbook on the class you want. Each knowledge test costs $10 as of the last check.

4. Authorized Instruction

After passing your knowledge test, you can apply for Authorized Instruction. This lets you practice driving the specific vehicle class. The supervising driver must meet certain requirements for driver training, including holding a valid driver’s license.

The instructor’s license must have been held for at least three years and be a full Class 5, with at least two years driving the same vehicle class the applicant is seeking. The instructor must always sit beside the trainee in the passenger seat. Learn more about Authorized Instruction.

5. Road Test

To take the road test, you need at least a Class 5 Full driver’s licence for all Class 1-4 road tests. Review the Professional Driver’s Manual before your road test appointments.

Training Schools:

• Accent Driving School Ltd.
• Ben’s International Driving School
• Buffalo Driver Training
• First Class Training Centre Inc.
• Front Runner Driving School
• Perfect One Driving School Ltd.
• Professional Transport Driver Training School
• United Transportation Driver Training

FAQs 

How long does getting a full driver’s license in Manitoba take?

The time varies. You can take your road test after holding a learner’s permit for nine months. You then enter the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program, adding about three years.

For details about the GDL and non-professional driver’s licenses, consult Manitoba Public Insurance. Timelines and requirements can change.

How much will it cost to get a pro license?

Costs vary by licence class. The written test currently costs about $10. Road test fees range from \$30 for Class 4 or Air Brakes to \$50 for Class 1. Additional charges may apply.

How do I get my driver’s license in Manitoba?

Start with a Class 5 Driver’s Licence from Manitoba Public Insurance. First, you take a knowledge test, after which you will receive a Learner’s Permit.

Hold the learner’s permit for at least nine months, then book a driving test. If you pass, you enter the three-year GDL program. Contact your local Autopac agent for the current fee refund policy.

Visit your nearest Autopac agent or the Manitoba Public Insurance website for details.

What is the passing grade for the MPI knowledge test?

Manitoba Public Insurance sets the exact passing grade. Check with MPI or a driving school directly for current information. It’s important to have the most up-to-date passing grade.

Conclusion

This guide overviews getting a professional driver’s licence in Manitoba. Consult MPI and training providers for the latest guidelines, as standards can change.

Getting a professional licence (Class 1-4) in Manitoba depends on having a Class 5 licence and completing the GDL program. Requirements can change, so contact Manitoba Public Insurance for up-to-date details. Additional details may be found in the driver’s manual.