Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec
Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec

Reminder - Class 1 Driving Course Now Mandatory

Mandatory training for anyone wishing to obtain a Class 1 driver’s licence came into effect on December 15, 2025. This measure aims to improve road safety by making sure all heavy vehicle drivers in Québec acquire the same basic skill set through training that aligns with that offered in other Canadian jurisdictions.

To obtain a Class 1 heavy vehicle driver’s licence, you must first complete one of the following training programs: 

  • the new 125-hour Class 1 Road Safety Education Program given by service providers recognized by the SAAQ;
  • the 615-hour Trucking vocational training program leading to a Diploma of Vocational Studies (DVS) issued by the Ministère de l'Éducation.

If you already hold a valid Class 1 driver's licence, the mandatory training requirement does not apply to you.  However, if you wish to add the F endorsement (air brakes) or M endorsement (manual transmission) to your licence, you will have to take a short training course with a recognized service provider.

Financial assistance is available, provided certain conditions are met: 

  • The Ministère de l’Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale can assess your needs and may offer financial support if you plan to take the course full time.
  • You can also take advantage of a tax credit representing 8% of the cost of the training course.

Where can you follow the Class 1 Road Safety Education Program?

If you choose to follow the Class 1 Road Safety Education Program in order to add Class 1 to your driver’s licence, you must take the training course with a recognized service provider. The SAAQ provides an interactive map⁠ ⁠ (in French only) on its website to help you find recognized service providers near you.

Please note that for Class 1 training provided by your employer to be valid, your employer must be a recognized service provider.

Becoming a recognized service provider 

Transportation companies or other bodies that wish to train their employees to become Class 1 drivers can become recognized service providers. The SAAQ provides free training for Class 1 Road Safety Education Program instructors. In addition, new service providers may be eligible for up to $3,610 in financial support per instructor.