The Ministry of Transportation is reminding industry that as of September 1, 2023, the air brake knowledge test will no longer be available for renewal purposes. Drivers who wish to renew their air brake endorsement will instead be required to complete the online learning module prior to renewing their driver’s licence.
Please see further details below:
Renew your air brake endorsement:
Renewing your driver’s licence with a (Z) endorsement before September 1, 2023
- Current rules are still in effect for non-DCP air brake endorsement holders: you must complete the air brake knowledge test at a DriveTest Centre or through a Driver Certification Program organization.
Renewing your driver’s licence with a (Z) endorsement on or after September 1, 2023
- All air brake endorsement holders must complete the air brake learning module online before going to a DriveTest Centre to renew. As of September 1, 2023, the air brake knowledge test will no longer be required or available for renewals.
Drivers may complete the air brake learning module:
- Through their DCP location, or
- Online at home/other location of their choice.
Visit https://mto.bluedrop.io/storefront/airbrakeon.
- You must have your driver’s licence with you to start the learning module.
- After completing the learning module, download or print the “Certificate of Completion.”
- Bring the digital or printed copy of your “Certificate of Completion” and your driver’s licence to a DriveTest centre or your Driver Certification Program organization.
- If you hold a commercial class (A, B, C, D, E or F) driver’s licence, you will need to complete the vision and commercial class knowledge test in person at a DriveTest Centre or through your Driver Certification Program organization.
In addition to the air brake handbook, further information on renewing an air brake endorsement can be found at: https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-truck-drivers-licence#section-10.
The ministry is also working with Plenary/Serco to ensure DriveTest Centres are prepared for this upcoming change. Should you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out.
OTA applauds the move, which OTA says is supported by most truck drivers and fleets, providing them with more flexible, modernized options for drivers to renew air brake endorsements on existing licences. The new options are also expected to improve truck driver retention and support, while reducing red tape for drivers and operators.