Better-trained drivers keep roads safe
The province is asking for input as it moves forward with a plan to improve the training, testing and oversight of all drivers, particularly those in the commercial trucking industry.
The Government of Alberta is launching consultations with Albertans and key stakeholder groups on three proposed initiatives:
• Mandatory entry-level training for commercial drivers.
• Pre-entry requirements for new commercial carriers.
• Modifying the road test model for all driver’s licence classes.
“Safety on Alberta roads is a top priority and a commitment of our government. We have laid the groundwork for changes that will enhance safety and improve services for Albertans. Now we need to hear from Albertans and stakeholders about the best approach.”
Brian Mason, Minister of Transportation
“We need to ensure that Alberta’s driver examination model is safe, transparent and secure. And registry agents play a vital role in this system. They provide frontline services and jobs throughout the province. That’s why we need to consult and work with them on these proposed changes to ensure that Albertans can continue to access these services.”
Brian Malkinson, Minister of Service Alberta
“The Alberta Motor Transport Association puts safety above all when it comes to the transportation industry. We believe minimum standard training is required for both new and existing commercial drivers and carriers to operate on Alberta’s roadways. We look forward to working with government to develop standard training in the transportation industry.”
Chris Nash, president, Alberta Motor Transport Association
“The Association of Alberta Registry Agents supports the Government of Alberta in making improvements to the current model through improved training and testing, combined with enhanced monitoring, evaluation and enforcement, so drivers are well-qualified and all Albertans are safe on our roads.”
Craig Couillard, president, Association of Alberta Registry Agents
“The Alberta Motor Association is proud to support the consultation on these important traffic safety issues. Our association is focused on building lifelong safe drivers and, whether you’re taking your first road test or seeking a career in transport, today’s announcement will help ensure improved safety on Alberta roads.”
Jeff Kasbrick, vice-president, Government and Stakeholder Relations, Alberta Motor Association
Specifics of the initiatives being considered:
Mandatory entry-level training for commercial drivers
Alberta plans to introduce mandatory training and enhanced road and knowledge tests for drivers seeking to obtain:
o a Class 1 driver’s licence (tractor trailer) o a Class 2 driver’s licence (bus) o an “S” endorsement (school bus) Pre-entry requirements for new commercial carriers
Alberta will also consider introducing requirements for new commercial carriers starting business in Alberta to prove their compliance with national standards before receiving safety certification. Right now, the province gives new companies a 60-day period to prove their compliance with federal transportation safety regulations. The province intends to eliminate the 60-day period.
Modifications to the Driver Examiner Road Test Model
Alberta is planning modifications to the road test model for all classes of drivers, including the possibility of restoring driver examiners as government employees. These changes come in the wake of a 2016 independent report which identified issues in the industry, such as inconsistent road test fees, poor service and improprieties, including criminal activity in some cases.
Alberta road test fees are the highest in Canada and government will be seeking feedback on this as well.
The province will conduct consultations throughout July 2018 to consider these three initiatives.
Quick facts
• Alberta driver’s licences are classed 1 through 7:
o Classes 1 to 4 are professional licences for commercial vehicles, including tractor-trailers, buses, taxis and ambulances.
o Class 5 - Graduated Driver’s Licence (GDL) and Advanced - is the licence most Albertans hold to drive passenger vehicles. o Class 6 - Motorcycle o Class 7 - Learner’s license
• A commercial carrier is the owner of one or more commercial vehicles used for the purpose of transporting goods or passengers, and holds the appropriate safety and operating authority certificates to do so.
• In 1993, the Government of Alberta privatized driver’s licence services and the road test model. Prior to that, road test services were provided by government; driver examiners were government employees.