(TORONTO, Aug. 25, 2023) – Ontario Transportation Minister Mulroney visited OTA Board member Maritime-Ontario Freight Lines just ahead of National Trucking Week (Sept. 3-9) to celebrate the trucking industry and the province’s hard working truck drivers.

The minister, who was joined by OTA president Stephen Laskowski, OTA Chair James Steed, MPP Armarjot Sandhu (Brampton West) and MPP Graham McGregor (Brampton North) spoke with company drivers about industry topics and the new air brake learning modules set to take effect on September 1. The drivers she spoke with were effusive in their praise for the new system, which provides truck drivers and fleets with more flexible, modernized options to renew air brake endorsements on existing licences.

The new system means the previous air brake knowledge test will no longer be available for renewal purposes. Drivers who wish to renew their air brake endorsement can now complete the online learning module prior to renewing their driver’s licence.

The change, which has been championed by OTA and truck drivers, is also expected to improve truck driver retention and support, while reducing red tape for drivers and operators.

James Steed said the learning modules, as an alternative to the air brake knowledge test, offers greater flexibility and reduces unnecessary burdens for those renewing their licences, while enhancing knowledge of air brake systems and regulations.

“We applaud the Minister for listening to professional truck drivers and for introducing this modern, common-sense approach. The new options are expected to improve truck driver retention and support, as well as road safety, while reducing red tape for drivers and operators,” he said. 

OTA would like to thank OTA Board member Chris Walker, president of Maritime-Ontario and the Maritime-Ontario team for being exceptional hosts for today’s event.

Click here for more details on how to renew the air brake endorsement using the learning modules. 

Marco Beghetto

VP, Communications

OTA & CTA

416-249-7401 Ext 239

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