Getting into the trucking industry is exciting, but you must be adequately prepared for the challenge. If you are seeking a new career opportunity, you might want to get into the Vancouver trucking industry while it is still ripe.
Canada’s economy relies on the trucking industry. In fact, in statistics updated in 2012, trucks transported 64 million shipments with more than 650 million tonnes of cargo approximately 40.7 billion kilometres, according to the BC Trucking Association (BCTA).
Critical Facts to Know about the Vancouver Trucking Industry for Newcomers
You are excited about the opportunities in today’s trucking industry in British Columbia. However, becoming a driver today requires that you pass a set list of stringent requirements and training before you can get a job. To help you get a jumpstart on your new career, consider the following requirements and facts:
· Driver’s License: To drive a truck in British Columbia, you must have a Class 5 driver’s license from the ICBC. Then, you can upgrade your passenger license to a Class 1 or Class 3 commercial license. To upgrade, you must visit an ICBC licensing
office, provide identification, meet the required medical standards, meet the minimum age requirements, successfully complete the knowledge test for your Class 1 or Class 3 Learner’s License, complete on road training then successfully pass the appropriate ICBC road test. Also, you must have a history of driving experience in a class 5,6 acceptable by ICBC.
· Clean Driving Record: You must have an acceptable driving record to upgrade to your commercial license. No more than 4 offences that carry penalty points in the previous two years, zero motor-vehicle-related Criminal Code convictions in the previous three years,
· Age: To become a licensed commercial truck operator, you must be 18 years old minimum for a Class 3 or heavy trailer endorsement. For a Class 1, 2 or 4, you must be 19 years old.
· Medical Test: ICBC requires a medical examination when applying for your commercial license. You will complete the medical examination on a scheduled basis. Keep in mind that the tests are completed by a physician and at your expense.
· Criminal Record: In addition to a clean driving record, you must have zero motor-vehicle-related Criminal convictions in the previous two years. With any criminal convictions, your chances of being hired by future employers are limited.
· Truck Driving Training: Established Langley driving schools offer truck driving training to teach you the essentials. Even if you have driven a semi-truck before, refresher courses teach you the latest in air brake technology and safety. To
get your commercial license, you must take the appropriate knowledge test, and complete a commercial vehicle on road training. If you plan to drive a truck equipped with air brakes, you must also complete the air brake knowledge test and complete an airbrake training class approved by the ICBC.
· Regulations and Requirements: Commercial truck drivers must follow the National Safety Code hours of service rules. For example, you cannot drive more than 13 hours in a 24 hour period.
Learn the Rules of the Road by Attending our Truck Driving School Serving Langley, Coquitlam, Vancouver & the Surrounding Area
If you are ready to venture into an exciting and rewarding career field, you must first go through the proper training and obtain the required license.
The Truck Division at North Shore Driving School, Ltd. offers truck driving training for Coquitlam, Richmond, Surrey, and surrounding cities.
To get a job as a commercial driver, you must complete the proper coursework, driving hours, and take the ICBC road test. With our courses, we help you increase the chances you will succeed and be able to start your new career.
Call our Truck Division in Burnaby for lessons by calling 604-299-9292, or connect with our Car Division serving exclusively North Vancouver by calling 604-988-1138. You can also contact a representative online with your questions about which driving course is right for you.