Quebec introduces testing requirement for newer Ontario truck drivers seeking licence transfers

The Quebec government has announced temporary measures requiring some Ontario truck drivers to pass a practical road test before transferring their commercial licences to Quebec, citing concerns about driver training and road safety.

Under the changes announced Thursday, Ontario Class 1 truck drivers with less than two years of driving experience who want to exchange their licence for a Quebec equivalent will now be required to pass a practical driving examination. Drivers who fail the test twice will be required to complete additional training before becoming eligible, according to the Quebec government.

Quebec Transport Minister Benoit Charette said the measures were introduced following concerns raised in the Ontario Auditor General's report released in May. The report found Ontario was not adequately overseeing the training and licensing system for commercial truck drivers, increasing the risk that insufficiently trained drivers could obtain licences.

Previously, Ontario heavy truck drivers transferring to Quebec were generally able to exchange their licences without undergoing a practical driving test. Quebec officials say the new requirements are intended to reduce the risk of collisions involving heavy vehicles while the province reviews the situation.

The Quebec government also announced the creation of a working group to examine measures aimed at improving safe driving practices among temporary foreign workers employed in the trucking sector. Officials have not said how long the temporary measures will remain in effect.