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.
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 Part-Time Course Starts: Saturday, August 15, 2026
Next Full-Time Course Starts: Monday, September 14, 2026
Upcoming Course Dates: Monday, October 5, 2026 | Monday, November 2, 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 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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Thank you so much knowledge surge institute. I successfully completed my DZ driving test today. All the teachers and driving instructors were a pleasure … More to work with and very knowledgeable. Im confident i will be a great safe driver thanks to the great staff a knowledge surge. Really only good thing to say. Thanks again. -
Knowledge surge truck driving school is an excellent institute to acquire your license through the instructors are great the school is easygoing and they … More get you your license quickly with proven results!
Once again thank you knowledge surge and big thanks to all your incredible instructors! -
I did my F license for my paramedic studies. I am from England, so had never taken a Canadian driving test (I transferred to full G). DriveWise was very … More accommodating, and gave perfect instruction to help me pass the road test. Admin staff were very communicative and efficient. Shoutout to Dave and Rhiannon!
Documentation & Admission Requirements
To obtain a Class DZ licence you will need to:
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. 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.