Commercial Vehicle D Licence Programs
Make Driving Your Career!
CLASS D LICENCE
A DZ licence, according to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, allows you to operate a motor vehicle exceeding 11,000 (24,000 lb) kilograms in total weight, or any combination of motor vehicle exceeding 11,000 (24,000 lb) kilograms and towed vehicle not exceeding a total gross weight of 4,600 kilograms (10,000 lb).
That means you could get a position driving any one of these vehicles:
Choose between our Manual DZ Training program and our Automatic DZ Training program, where a combination of interactive in-class, simulation training, and in-vehicle practice prepare you for your Road Test!
CLASS DZ MANUAL PROGRAM
Our manual Class D training program* covers Schedule 1, Class D vehicle operation, and backing. The course includes 5 full days of in-class and simulation training, 12 hours automatic in-vehicle training, and 12 hours manual in-vehicle training. You can combine the manual training program with one of our DriveWise career-ready programs, including Fire, Snowplow, Hydro, Waste Management, Construction, or Delivery Service.
*This program requires approval under the Private Career Colleges Act, 2005.
*We are a TTSAO accredited school.
CLASS DZ AUTOMATIC PROGRAM
Our automatic Class D training* program covers Schedule 1, D Class vehicle operation and backing. The course includes 5 full days of in-class and simulation training, and 12 hours in-vehicle training on an automatic transmission. Similar to our Manual transmission DZ training, you can combine your D licence program with one of our DriveWise career-ready programs for Fire, Snowplow, Hydro, Waste Management, Construction, or Delivery Service.
*This program does not require approval under the Private Career Colleges Act, 2005 (for programs under 40 hours).
Register Today!
Class D and DZ Program
Next Full-Time Course Starts: Monday, December 7, 2026
Upcoming Course Dates: Monday, January 11, 2027
Next Part-Time Course Starts: Friday, November 20, 2026
Class D Commercial Vehicle Training
This program has been designed in compliance with the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) Commercial Truck Driver Training Standard (Modified for Class D) for entry-level commercial truck drivers.
Core Skills You’ll Learn:
DZ Part-Time Training Program
Our part-time DZ courses run on weekends and take about 4-6 weeks to complete, depending on lesson availability. Typically, the courses are scheduled as follows:
DZ Training For Firefighters
KnowledgeSurge offers a DZ program for future and current firefighters. Firefighters need a DZ licence to operate a fire truck in Ontario, and most departments will require a DZ licence upon applying or by the start date of employment. This course combines in-class learning and in-vehicle practice to prepare operators for airbrake-equipped apparatus. Contact us to register and build a schedule that works around your availability. We also offer department training dates, group options, and a schedule that works around shifts.
Testimonials
Don't just take our word for it!
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I had an excellent experience with this truck driving school during my DZ truck driving training and exams! The instructors were absolutely fantastic. … More They were professional, patient, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the entire process. The air brake training and hands on driving were practical and relevant to landing a real job in the commercial driving field. The equipment and simulator hands on time exceeded what was promised. The equipment and environment is class!
They took the time to explain everything clearly, build my confidence, and make sure I was well prepared for both the practical training and the exams. Their encouragement, experience, and dedication made a huge difference in my learning experience.
I highly recommend this school to anyone looking to get their DZ licence or any commercial driving training. Great instructors, great training, and an overall excellent experience!
Thanks for all your help and support! Five stars well deserved! 🚛
RossB -
The staff and instructors were incredibly helpful, friendly, and professional throughout my experience. The driving instructors I had John, Dom, and Dave … More did an amazing job preparing me for my DZ road test.
They were extremely knowledgeable and made sure I was as prepared as possible to succeed. Every little detail they taught me was helpful, and they took the time to point out any areas where I could improve. Rather than simply telling me what I was doing wrong, they explained how to correct it and helped me build better driving habits.
By the time I took my road test, I felt much more confident in my abilities and prepared for what I was going to face. I’m happy to say that I passed my DZ road test, and I genuinely feel that the training and guidance I received played a huge part in that success.
Thanks to all of the staff that helped train and prepare me to succeed -
When I was looking for a truck driving school I tossed up going with KnowledgeSurge or another school. At the end of it all, I can confidently say that … More I have NO REGRETS and I’m VERY HAPPY that I went with KnowledgeSurge!
The experience was positive from the start. Rhiannon and Chelsey took extremely good care of me at the front desk and I will forever be grateful for their help! The theory and lessons taught by Dave and Don made for a relaxed and easy learning environment and I felt well prepared to go into the main part of my driving hours.
My main driving instructor was John; an amazing teacher and all-round great guy! John ensured that I knew all the technicalities required as well as things that only his many years of experience can teach. It was the perfect blend of formal training embedded in lived experience. To John, I say an even more special thank you! I couldn’t have gotten my AZ licence without you!
Anybody looking for a trucking school, look no further, KnowledgeSurge is the best choice!
Documentation & Admission Requirements
To obtain a Class DZ licence you will need to:
Commercial Licence Upgrade Requirements
As of May 11, 2026, anyone upgrading to a commercial class A, B, C, D, E or F licence must confirm that:
- Ontario is their primary place of residence.
- Their presence in Canada is legal.
Applicants must answer both declarations and provide supporting documents to verify their residency, legal status and work eligibility.
See the DriveTest list of acceptable identification documents for details.
Class D FAQs
What is a DZ licence?
A DZ licence allows you to operate straight trucks with a registered gross weight of more than 11,000 kg that are equipped with air brakes. Common vehicles include dump trucks, garbage trucks, fuel trucks, cement mixers, and many fire apparatus. A Z Endorsement is required to legally operate vehicles with air brakes.
What jobs can I get with a DZ licence?
A DZ licence can qualify you for careers such as:
- Dump truck driver
- Ready-mix concrete driver
- Waste and recycling driver
- Snowplow operator
- Fuel or propane delivery driver
- Municipal public works operator
- Utility company driver
- Firefighter (many Ontario departments require a DZ licence)
- Equipment transport driver
What is included in the DZ training program?
Our DZ programs include:
- Classroom instruction
- Air brake (Z Endorsement) training
- Vehicle inspections (Schedule 1)
- Backing and yard exercises
- Defensive driving techniques
- On-road driving
- Road test preparation
Do I need my Z Endorsement before taking the DZ course?
We include the Z Endorsement as part of our DZ programs because it is required to drive most commercial DZ vehicles equipped with air brakes. You do not need to have your Z Endorsement prior to starting our course.
How long does it take to get the licence?
The length of a DZ program varies depending on the school and whether you attend full-time or part-time. We work closely with each student to keep their progress on track and avoid unnecessary extensions whenever possible. Our program can typically be completed in 3-4 weeks depending on your availability for lessons.
Is there a MELT program for DZ licences?
No. Ontario’s Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) currently applies to Class A tractor-trailer licences, not DZ licences. However, quality training is still highly recommended to prepare you for the road test and employment.
Can I upgrade from a DZ to an AZ later?
Yes. Many drivers begin with a DZ licence and later upgrade to an AZ licence to qualify for tractor-trailer positions and additional career opportunities.
Is there an upgrade program when going from a DZ to an AZ?
No. If you already have a DZ licence and want to upgrade to an AZ, you will still have to complete the full MELT program.
Is a DZ licence enough to become a firefighter?
Many Ontario fire departments require applicants to hold a valid DZ licence or obtain one during the hiring process. Requirements vary by department, so always check the specific job posting before applying.
What support will I receive throughout my training?
From your initial scheduling to your practical training and program completion, our team is here to help. Our administrative staff coordinates key details, monitors documentation, and helps keep your training organized so you can focus on developing the skills you need to succeed.