Class 1 Pathway Training – Edmonton
Become a Class 1 Professional driver with True North Truck Training

Class 1 Pathway

Overview

The Class 1 Learning Pathway, established by the Government of Alberta, is the structured training pathway for individuals seeking a Class 1 licence to operate tractor-trailers in Alberta.

The program is divided into three stages:

  1. Entry Program – 40 hours
    Introduces students to the fundamentals of commercial vehicle operation and prepares them for the Class 1 knowledge test. Home | Class 1

  2. Core Learning Program – 60 hours
    Provides hands-on training in the yard and in-cab, including vehicle inspections, backing maneuvers, air brake operation, and safe driving techniques in real traffic conditions. After this stage, students can take the road test and obtain a provincially restricted Class 1 licence.

  3. Competence Building Program – 17 to 25 hours
    Offers additional one-on-one instruction to strengthen practical driving skills. Completing this stage allows the provincial restriction to be removed, enabling drivers to operate as interprovincial Class 1 drivers.

Training includes a balanced mix of classroom instruction, in-yard practice, and in-cab driving, ensuring students develop the essential knowledge, hands-on skills, and safe driving habits required to operate a tractor-trailer professionally.

 

Our program is designed not only to meet regulatory requirements but to prepare drivers for real-world conditions across Alberta and beyond—focusing on safety, confidence, and industry readiness.

Eligibility
To get a Class 1 driver’s license in Alberta, you must:

Have a Class 5 non gdl license

You must have a full Class 5 driver’s licence prior to starting the Class 1 Learning Pathway.

Be at least 18 years old

You need to be at least 18 years old to apply for the Entry Program or the Core Learning Program.

Have medical fitness approval

Commercial drivers require a higher level of fitness and more frequent checks because of increased risk and larger potential consequences of a collision. Determine whether you or someone else is medically fit to drive.

Drive safely, drive confidently: Master Class 1 with True North

At True North Truck Training in Edmonton, our goal is to develop skilled and responsible commercial drivers who are ready for the demands of the transportation industry. Our training follows the standards of the Class 1 Learning Pathway, introduced by the Government of Alberta to ensure new drivers receive structured and high-quality instruction.

What sets our program apart is our focus on professional driver development. Our instructors emphasize practical techniques, real-world driving scenarios, and strong safety habits that go far beyond simply preparing students for a licensing exam. Trainees gain valuable experience operating tractor-trailers, improving maneuvering skills, and developing the confidence required to handle commercial vehicles safely in everyday traffic and job-site conditions.

With experienced instructors and a hands-on training approach, True North Truck Training prepares students for the responsibilities that come with operating large commercial vehicles. Our goal is to ensure every graduate leaves with the skills, knowledge, and professionalism expected in today’s trucking industry.

Train to become a professional driver — not just to obtain a licence.

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Class 1 Pathway Training FAQ

Q: How long is the Class 1 Pathway program?
A: Core Learning is 60 hours, and Competency Building is 17–25 hours. The program usually takes 6–8 weeks, depending on your availability and progress.

Q: What are the training hours?
A: Training is Monday to Friday, 2–4 hours per day, scheduled anytime between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.

Q: Are trucks manual or automatic?
A: We train on both manual and automatic trucks. Please note that automatic training and road tests add an R-code restriction, so you can only drive automatic trucks.

Q: Are there additional fees?

A: Yes, the following additional fees apply:

  • Road Test Permit: $217

  • Medical Assessment: $50–$150

  • Class 1 Knowledge Test: $17

  • Air Brake Knowledge Test: $17

  • Online Theory Training: $250