About the new Class 1 Pathway
Thinking about a career as a commercial driver in Alberta?
Start your journey at AMTA’s Driver Pathways —an informational hub designed to help you explore the opportunities, requirements, and steps needed to enter the commercial transportation industry. Whether you’re brand new to driving, considering a career change, or looking to understand licensing and training options, DriverPathways.com is your first stop for clear, reliable guidance.
Once you’re ready to take the next step, the new Class 1 Learning Pathway, launching April 1, 2025, offers a modern, flexible approach to driver training. Designed to replace the previous MELT program, it equips aspiring drivers with the hands-on experience and in-depth instruction needed to succeed:
- Foundational training – 40 hours of classroom learning to build your core knowledge
- Core instruction – 60 hours of in-yard and in-cab training
- One-on-one driving – Personalized coaching to build skill and confidence
- Advanced options – Additional programs for drivers who want to level up
- Flexible, apprenticeship-style learning – Up to 133 hours of total instruction
And to make it even more accessible, Alberta is introducing the Employment Pathway Grant:
- $10,000 Training Reimbursement – For eligible employers to cover the cost of driver training
- $10,000 Onboarding Incentive – For hiring new drivers with less than 2 years of experience
- $5,000 Professional Development – To support ongoing training and skill-building
Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or ready to hit the road, Driver Pathways helps you understand what it takes to build a safe, successful career as a professional driver in Alberta’s commercial transportation industry.
Is a career in Commercial Transportation right for you?
New!
Government of Alberta Drivers Pathway course
Alberta’s new Class 1 Learning Pathway is your first step toward a rewarding commercial driving career, offering flexible, hands-on, industry-ready training.
About AMTA
The Alberta Motor Transport Association (AMTA) is the Voice , the Standard and the Resource for commercial transportation in Alberta. Since 1938, the Association has advanced the industry through safety programs, progressive policy, and key partnerships.
For more than 85 years, AMTA’s work has encompassed a broad range of environmental, psychosocial, socioeconomic, safety, advocacy, and compliance matters that impact provincial highways. Projects in research and innovation bring key stakeholders together to lead and develop innovative technologies that will significantly enhance the industry while reducing adverse human and environmental impacts.
Our partners
AMTA would like to thank our partners who helped make this project possible. This includes funding from the Government of Alberta and project development support from the following organizations: Trucking HR Canada, Women Building Futures, Blood Tribe Employment and Skills Training, Bison Transport, and Trimac Transportation.
