Here’s a clear breakdown of the different licence classes to help clarify what each one allows you to drive and what training is required. Each licence class is designed for specific vehicle types and responsibilities, from standard passenger vehicles to heavy commercial trucks. As the vehicle size and weight increase, so do the training requirements and level of skill needed. This ensures drivers are properly prepared to operate equipment safely and confidently on the road.
There are 2 different ‘sectors’, the industrial, freight carrying sector, which is dependant on the weight of your vehicle, and then a passenger sector i.e school buses, coach buses, etc. based on the purpose of the vehicle and number of passengers you are allowed to drive.
Class A
The A license is when the truck is towing a full-size trailer in excess of 4,600 kilograms.
The AZ license is when the truck is towing a full-size trailer in excess of 4,600 kilograms and both the truck and trailer are equipped with air brakes.
The AR license is when the trailer is not air brake equipped and is equipped with electric brakes. You can have a class AR license like a heavy duty pickup truck, which can haul more than 4,600 kilograms but the truck is hydraulic brake and the trailer is electric brake. Similar to the full class A but on a smaller scale.
A “Z” air brake endorsement is required to operate vehicles equipped with air brakes.
An ARZ is common to a hydro truck hauling a pole trailer. The truck normally needs a class D, but it is connected to an electric brake pole trailer. You need the A to haul more than 4,600 kilograms, but the trailer is electric brake so you dont need the full class A.
Simple Summary:
AZ- air brake equipped truck and trailer towing more than 4,600 kilograms, both air brake equipped.
ARZ- truck that is air brake equipped, towing a trailer that is capable of hauling more than 4,600 kilograms but is electric brake equipped.
AR- heavy duty pick up towing more than 4,600 kilograms but neither is air brake equipped.
Note: if you do your road test using an automatic truck, you will have a restriction on your license.
Class B
Allowed to drive any school-purposes bus, over 24 passengers.
Class C
Allowed to drive any regular bus like coach bus or Ontario Northland, not used for school. Over 24 passengers.
Class D
Allowed to drive a vehicle exceeding 11,000 kilograms gross weight or combination provided the towed vehicle is not over 4,600 kilograms.
Types of D vehicles: dump truck, straight truck.
DZ is the same but truck is air brake equipped.
Class E
School-purposes bus – 10- 24-passenger capacity.
Class F
Allowed to drive any passenger carrying vehicle, not for school – 10-24-passenger capacity.
Class G
Allowed to drive any car, van or small truck or combination of vehicle and towed vehicle up to 11,000 kilograms provided the towed vehicle is not over 4,600 kilograms.
G1, and G2 have restrictions, you can find out more at Ontario.ca
Class M
Allowed to drive any motorcycles. For different motorcycle restrictions and details, visit Ontario.ca.
Understanding the differences can make it easier to choose the right path for your career goals. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade, knowing the requirements, vehicle types, and endorsements (like air brakes) is key.
If you’re still not sure which license is best for you, contact Northern Academy! When you contact us, make sure you know what vehicle you need to be driving, the weight of the vehicle, and if possible have a photo available to send us for clarification.
]]>I’d like to welcome Adam from Northern Academy.
If you’ve ever wondered what the difference is between a DZ and an AZ license… if you’re not quite sure what air brakes actually mean for your career… or if you’re trying to figure out which license is the right fit for your goals — this conversation is for you.
Adam works directly with individuals who are entering the transportation industry for the first time, as well as experienced workers who are ready to upgrade their credentials. He sees firsthand the questions, the confusion, and sometimes the hesitation people have when they’re deciding to invest in training. And today, he’s here to break it all down in a clear and practical way.
We’re talking about the different classes of driver’s licenses — what they allow you to drive, what kinds of jobs they open up, and what kind of commitment each one requires. Whether you’re looking at local driving opportunities, long-haul careers, construction, forestry, or industrial work, understanding the license structure is the first step.
One of the things I appreciate about Adam’s approach is that he focuses on helping people make informed decisions. Not everyone needs the same path. Some people want to stay local and be home every night. Others are looking for higher earning potential and are open to long-haul routes. The key is knowing your options before you commit.
Transportation continues to be one of the most in-demand industries across Northern Ontario and beyond. Employers are looking for qualified, safety-focused drivers — and proper training makes all the difference. Having the right license doesn’t just qualify you for a job; it builds confidence, professionalism, and long-term opportunity.
So if you’ve been considering a career change, upgrading your license, or simply want clarity on what each class actually means — you’re going to get real value from this conversation.
Adam, welcome to the podcast — we’re excited to have you here and to dig into the different classes of licenses and what people need to know before they get started.
]]>Jolene, Kat, Matt, Conner and Forrest. Kat and Matt pictured here.
Thank you to Adam for the photo!
]]>Topics discussed:
- Brian’s career in truck driving, to becoming the General Manager of Northern Academy
- The MELT program and how that started
- Questions to ask if you’re considering a career as a truck driver
Links mentioned in this episode:
- www.northernacademy.ca
- Ideas for an episode? Email [email protected]
This week, Adam Delamorandiere from Northern Academy of Transportation Training joins the S.T.A.R. Podcast, with his unique perspective of being a truck driver, driver trainer, and motorcyclist himself, as well as shares tips for being safe on the road and driving around motorcycles.
Topics discussed:
- Motorcycle safety tips
- Driving safely around commercial vehicles.
- How truck drivers can help keep motorcyclists safe.
Links mentioned in this episode:
- Adam on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@munch.at.natt?_t=ZS-8zSIcE1rsTE&_r=1
- Adam’s group on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/g/16kLxKaJAN/?mibextid=wwXIfr
The AZ Program at Northern Academy is 250 Hours over 6 Weeks and includes 1 week of Theory, and 5 weeks of Practical, in truck training.
This program includes all mandatory objectives set forth in the Ministry of Transportation’s Commercial Truck Driver Training Standard (Class A), released July 2016, plus additional objectives that exceeds the minimum standard.
Some of the topics covered in the AZ Program at Northern Academy include:
- Employment in the Commercial Vehicle Industry
- Vehicle Components & Systems
- Basic Driving Techniques
- Professional Driving Habits
- Tractor-Trailer Off-Road Tasks and Manoeuvres
- Documents, Paperwork and Regulatory Requirements
- Vehicle Inspection Activities
- Hours of Service Compliance
- Cargo Securement
- view more
Why Choose Northern Academy for Your AZ Training?
- Experienced instructors with industry knowledge.
- Emphasis on practical, in truck training
- Supportive learning environment.
- Strong connections with employers.
Not sure if AZ Truck Training is for you? Schedule a free ride along!
Northern Academy provides the skills, confidence, and support to succeed in the trucking industry.
Start your journey today—get your AZ license with Northern Academy and drive your future forward. Contact Shannon via call or text for details 705-561-1464 or [email protected].
]]>The rebrand includes a refreshed logo, updated website and marketing material, and a renewed commitment to delivering exceptional safety, transportation and recruiting services to clients and partners.
The decision to rebrand was driven by the company’s growth, and expansion into new markets. The new identity reflects fluidity and growth.
“Because we have many facets of the business, there was some confusion, both externally and internally,” shared Kevin Pattison, President and CEO of Natt Group. “We hope this new rebrand with consistent logos and look, helps to tie the companies together, while still allowing each division to stand out through their respective service”, added Pattison.
“Our new brand represents who we are today and where we’re headed,” said Brian Pattison, General Manager of Natt Northern Academy. “This change reflects our commitment to staying ahead and being open to more growth,” Pattison added.
As part of the rebranding, Natt Group will also be focused on increasing brand awareness in their locations in Sault Ste. Marie, Timmins, Brockville, and Vaughan.
“While our look has changed, our dedication to serving our customers remains as strong as ever. We’re excited to continue building lasting partnerships and delivering excellence to our clients,” added Mark Arnold, Vice President of Natt Safety Services.
For more information, visit nattgroup.ca and read about the various divisions under Natt including Natt Safety Services, Natt Northern Academy and Natt Personnel Solutions.
About Natt Group
Natt Group has been a trusted name in confined space rescue, safety training, truck training, and recruitment since 2001.
]]>Not sure which school you should go to?
We can help you answer these questions!
First, you will observe and speak to current students, and then we will get you behind the wheel!
Make an informed decision about your program and school.
See the world from a new angle! Ride along for an experience you won’t forget.
Call / text Shannon 705-561-1464 and arrange your Ride Along!
]]>Truck Training in Sault Ste. Marie
September 30-October 1, and October 2-3, we have training available!
– DZ Dump Truck
– DZ Fast Track
– DZ Powerline Special
– DZ Firefighter Special
– TTSAO-Approved Air Brake Course
View details here https://natt.ca/calendar/action~month/exact_date~1727668800/request_format~json/ or reach out to Shannon 705-561-1464
Truck Training Near Me
Truck Training offered by Northern Academy of Transportation Training in Lively, and Sault Ste Marie.
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If you’re still interested in AZ, DZ, Air Brakes training, contact Shannon for details 705-561-1464. You may also want to look into The Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) Program.
Contact Shannon today to find out more about Indigenous Funding that is available for the upcoming Driving Your Future Program! (AZ and Heavy Equipment training included).
Call or text today 705-561-1464.
The deadline for this funding is July 26, 2024 so apply today!
Find out more about our truck training programs:
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