New Bill Proposes One-Year Wait for Class G Drivers Before Commercial License Eligibility in Ontario to Boost Road Safety
The aim of this bill is to ensure that individuals have sufficient driving experience before transitioning to operate commercial trucks.
Ontario’s roads could see a significant boost in safety with the introduction of a new Private Member’s Bill by Amarjot Sandhu, MPP for Brampton West. On October 20, 2024, Sandhu announced his proposal to require a one-year waiting period for Class G drivers before they are eligible to apply for a commercial driver’s license. The aim of this bill is to ensure that individuals have sufficient driving experience before transitioning to operate commercial trucks.
“This bill will make our roads safer by ensuring that drivers are more experienced before getting behind the wheel of commercial trucks,” Sandhu tweeted. His proposal seeks to reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall road safety by allowing new drivers to build a stronger foundation before tackling the more complex and demanding task of driving large commercial vehicles.
The Ontario Trucking Association (OTA) and other industry advocates have been calling for stricter regulations and enhanced training protocols for new commercial drivers. A graduated approach to licensing, where drivers earn endorsements specific to the types of trucks they operate, has also been suggested by stakeholders. This aligns with Sandhu’s vision, promoting a safer and more responsible entry into the commercial driving field.
Parvasi Media Group spoke with Raj Saini, President of the Canadian Truckers Association, about the proposed rule. Saini stated, “We have long advocated for this change to enhance road safety and ensure fairness for local drivers. Many accidents occur when foreign car drivers, unfamiliar with Canadian road conditions, are allowed to obtain commercial licenses based solely on their driving experience from other countries without sufficient acclimatization.”
This bill comes at a time when the trucking industry is under pressure to address safety concerns while also managing labor shortages. If passed, the new legislation could also support Ontario’s long-term transportation infrastructure goals by ensuring drivers are better prepared for the demands of the road. Sandhu’s initiative is likely to spur discussions on how best to balance road safety with the economic needs of the trucking industry.