In Ontario, people often search for a “CDL”, but the province uses license classes instead. To drive a commercial truck you need a Class A or Class D license, and a Z endorsement if the truck has air brakes. This guide explains each license, the requirements and the steps to get started.
What Is A Commercial Driver’s License?
Ontario does not have a single “CDL”. Commercial vehicles are covered by different license classes issued by the Ministry of Transportation (MTO). Which one you need depends on the vehicle you want to drive: a tractor-trailer (Class A), a straight truck over 11,000 kg (Class D), or a bus (Classes B, C, E and F).
Type Of Truck License
Class A: Covers a tractor-trailer combination where the towed vehicle is over 4,600 kg. It also covers Class D and G vehicles. A full Class A needs air brakes on both the truck and the trailer. If you are tested on a trailer without air brakes, you receive a restricted license (AR) and cannot drive a full Class A vehicle.
Class D: Covers a truck over 11,000 kg, or a combination where the towed vehicle is 4,600 kg or less. It also covers Class G vehicles.
Z endorsement: Required to drive any vehicle with air brakes. You can get it through an air brake course or by testing at a DriveTest centre.
Bus licenses: Class B (school bus), Class C (regular bus), Class E (school bus up to 24 passengers) and Class F (regular bus up to 24 passengers, and ambulances) are separate license’s. They are not covered in this guide.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a Class A or Class D license you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a valid Ontario Class G or higher license
- Meet the vision standards
- Provide a satisfactory medical certificate
- Pass the knowledge test on operating large trucks and tractor-trailers
- Pass a road test in the right type of vehicle
For Class A you must also complete Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) before the road test. From January 1, 2027, you will also need to have held a Class G or higher license for at least six months before your Class A road test.
Applicants must also show proof that Ontario is their primary residence, that they are legally present in Canada, and that they are eligible to work in Canada. Check the official Ontario page for the latest rules.
CDL Applies To?
What does each license let you drive?
- Class A: tractor-trailers and any Class D or G vehicle
- Class D: heavy straight trucks and Class G vehicles
- Z endorsement: any vehicle with an air brake system
Class A and D licences do not allow you to drive a bus or a motorcycle.
Is truck driving a good career?
Demand for truck drivers in Ontario is steady, and pay depends on your licence class, the type of work and your experience. Check current wage information on the government’s Job Bank before you decide.
Benefits of a Truck Licence
- Access to local, regional and long-haul driving jobs
- A Class A licence opens up the widest range of trucking work
- Many employers offer training and career progression for new drivers
- You can add endorsements and licence classes as your career grows
Conclusion
Becoming a commercial driver in Ontario starts with the right licence class, the right training and a clean driving record. Read our guide to the AZ licence in Ontario for a step-by-step look at the Class A process, and contact G-Class Drivers if you need help preparing.
FAQs
Does Ontario have a CDL?
No. Ontario uses licence classes. Commercial truck drivers need a Class A or Class D licence, and a Z endorsement for air brakes.
Which licence do I need?
Class A for tractor-trailers, Class D for heavy straight trucks over 11,000 kg. Add the Z endorsement if the truck has air brakes.
What is the minimum age?
18 years old.
Do I need training?
Class A applicants must complete Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) before the road test.
Can I upgrade my licence later?
Yes. You can upgrade by passing the required tests in an approved vehicle.
How can G-Class Drivers help?
We can help you prepare for your G and G2 tests and build the driving foundation you need before applying for a truck licence. See our lesson packages.
