Mandatory entry-level training — MELT

Scope

The parameters of the mandatory training programs primarily align with the National Safety Code 16, the minimum training standard that all provinces and territories developed in 2021. This standard consists of 103.5 hours of training (divided into 36.5 hours in-class, 17 hours in-yard, and 50 hours in-cab) before a road test.

While the NSC standards imply a minimum, there is no constraint on jurisdictions going beyond this specification. Currently, the following Provincial jurisdictions have implemented various versions of MELT:

• Alberta
• British Columbia
• Manitoba
• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Ontario
• Prince Edward Island
• Quebec
• Saskatchewan

Regulatory citations

• National Safety Code Standard 16, Commercial Truck Driver Entry level training (January 2021)

Summary of requirements

MELT in Alberta: Alberta originally implemented MELT in 2019. During 2025, the province replaced the MELT program with the Learning Pathway, Effective April 1, 2025, the Class 1 Learning Pathway replaces the Class 1 MELT program.

Depending on the candidate’s background and skill level, the Alberta program can require up to 133 hours of instruction.

MELT in British Columbia: The Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure and Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) requires MELT for drivers who wish to obtain a Class 1 commercial BC driver's licence. Drivers need to complete a MELT course before taking their Class 1 road test.

The 140-hour course is designed to align with the national Class 1 entry-level training standard introduced as part of the National Safety Code.

MELT in Manitoba: Manitoba implemented a MELT program on September 1st, 2019. They require 121.5 hours of training, consisting of 40.5 hours in-class, 40 hours in-yard, and 41 hours in-cab before booking a road test.

MELT in New Brunswick: As of April 1, 2024, the MELT program in New Brunswick includes at least 112 hours of standardized instruction that covers the essential knowledge and skills needed to safely operate a large truck.

MELT in Newfoundland and Labrador: Effective January 3, 2024, new commercial motor vehicle drivers must complete an approved educational training program before being issued their Class 1 driver’s licence. The mandated training is 112.5 hours in length, including air brakes training.

MELT in Ontario. Ontario was the first to implement mandatory training in July 2017. The training to obtain a Class A driver's licence includes at least 103.5 hours of instruction and covers the entry-level knowledge and skills needed to safely operate a large truck on Ontario’s roads.

MELT on Prince Edward Island: Effective August 5, 2024, Prince Edward Island requires new applicants for a commercial Class 1 driver's license to complete a MELT program. The PEI MELT program aligns with the National Safety Code 16 standard and must be completed before a driver can take the Class 1 road test.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure has set PEI's standard at 140 hours of training plus 100 hours of observation in order to provide an expanded program to improve safety and competencies for Class 1 driver licensing.

MELT in Quebec: Quebec does not have a MELT program for Class 1 commercial truck drivers. Instead, the province uses a different training model to ensure new drivers are qualified. In January 2024, Quebec began piloting its own 135-hour MELT program in a handful of schools. The province has plans to implement the program more widely, but its status and details are subject to change.

MELT in Saskatchewan: The province of Saskatchewan introduced MELT in March 2019. Drivers seeking a Class 1 commercial licence must first complete Saskatchewan’s MELT, consisting of 121.5 hours training (47 classroom hours, 17.5 in-yard hours, and 57 in-cab hours).