Photo: CTV News
The provincial government will begin looking at mandatory entry-level training for Class 1 commercial driver’s licences this summer.
“Safety on our highways is our top priority, and advancing the skill development of new commercial drivers would make roads even safer for everyone,” Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Claire Trevena said in a press release. “That’s why we’re exploring what a practical and consistent mandatory training program for new commercial truck drivers could look like in B.C.”
The province will begin gathering input from the trucking and driver training industries and other stakeholders to examine how training program in B.C. could align with recently introduced entry-level Class 1 driver training standards in other Canadian jurisdictions.
“The BC Trucking Association has recommended that B.C. consider minimum standards for entry-level training for Class 1 drivers, and this focused consultation is designed to help us define and set effective standards,” Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth said. “Everyone has a stake in ensuring that new commercial drivers have a minimum body of skills and knowledge before they begin operating some of the largest and heaviest vehicles on B.C. roads.”
Consultations will also look at how a B.C. program could dovetail with guidelines under development by the Canadian Council of Motor Transportation Administrators for inclusion in Canada’s National Safety Code Standard.
“The BC Trucking Association welcomes today’s announcement by the provincial government to begin consultation on this critical issue,” BC Trucking Association president and CEO Dave Earle said. “Development of a commercial driver training standard has been a key priority for our industry for many years, and the government’s decision to meaningfully engage industry early and throughout the process is greatly appreciated.
“Our shared goal is to ensure that drivers entering the industry meet enhanced training standards, improving road safety outcomes for all road users.”
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