How to Get an AZ License in Ontario

Canada needs Truck Drivers. They provide a much-needed service – transporting essential goods and services across the country. There are plenty of truck driving opportunities available in each province and territory. Internationally-trained truck drivers can work in Canada once they have a commercial license and have received sufficient training for the job. 

If you are seeking work as a truck driver in Ontario, the first step is to get an AZ license. Getting an AZ license will increase your chances of having a successful truck driving career. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to get an AZ license in Ontario, how much it costs and funding you can consider to help pay for the license.   

What is an AZ license? 

An AZ license is a specific type of license that enables qualified drivers in Ontario to drive: 

• Straight trucks or tractor-trailers 
• Towed vehicles with total gross weights of 4,600kg 
• Towed vehicles with air brakes 
• Tractors that pull double trailers 

Most drivers with an AZ license drive a tractor-trailer vehicle, and some may work long-haul shifts driving this kind of vehicle. 

How much does an AZ license cost? 

It is expensive to get an AZ license and it can take time to pass each of the tests associated with it. On average, an AZ license can cost $10,000. Fees associated with this license include: 

• Air Brakes Knowledge Test = $16.00 
• Official MTO (Ministry of Transportation) Truck Handbook = $20.00  
• Official MTO Air Brake Handbook = $20.00 
• 5-Year License = $90.00  

• Class A Knowledge Test and Road Test = $122.75 (includes air brakes practical) 
• Medical Exam = $50.00 – $150.00 (depends on your medical practitioner)  
• MELT (Mandatory Entry Level Training) Course = $5,000 – $10,000  

 What funding is available for an AZ license? 

$10,000 is a lot of money to pay for an AZ license. Luckily, there are funding options available to help cover the fees. Government funding is one option – the Ontario Jobs Training Tax Credit is a refundable tax credit that can be used to cover costs like the AZ license. If you qualify for this credit, up to $2,000 tax relief can be deducted from 50% of your eligible expenses from the past two tax years.  

If you’re a newcomer with permanent status in Canada, you may be eligible for a low-interest Windmill microloan to help pay for an AZ license. Over 95% of eligible newcomers are approved for our microloans.  

Getting an AZ license will open many doors for you in your truck driving career. It’s a great opportunity to upskill in Canada and looks very good to a potential employer. 

Read our ultimate guide to becoming a truck driver in Canada here.