Driver Training Programs in Saskatchewan | 1A, 3A, MELT Program & More

Q: What are the requirements to start driver training?

To enroll in a driver training program in Saskatchewan, students generally need a valid Class 5 licence, a clean or acceptable driver abstract, medical clearance for 1A training, and a commitment to completing both classroom and in-cab training.

Q: Is there demand for truck drivers in Saskatchewan?

Yes. There is consistent demand for trained heavy truck drivers across Saskatchewan and Western Canada in industries such as agriculture, construction, oil and gas, forestry, freight, and logistics.

Q: What makes Trans Industrial one of the best driver training schools in Saskatchewan?

Trans Industrial focuses on real-world readiness with SGI-accredited instructors, structured MELT training programs, hands-on in-yard and on-road experience, training on practical job scenarios, and support through testing and licensing.

If you’re looking for driver training in Saskatchewan, you’re likely asking the same questions we hear every day:

What does it cost to get my 1A licence?
How long does driver training take?
What are the requirements for a 3A or 1A licence?
Where can I learn to drive a semi trailer properly?

At Trans Industrial in Saskatoon, we don’t just offer driver training courses, we prepare you for a career in the trucking industry.

Our programs are built around SGI-approved training standards, including the MELT Program, and are designed to give you real-world experience operating a heavy truck and trailer safely and confidently.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading your licence, our courses cover everything from:

Driving semi trailers on highways and job sites
Heavy truck safety and defensive driving techniques
Air brakes, circle checks, and inspections
Backing, maneuvering, and in-yard procedures
On-road experience across Saskatchewan conditions

We train students from across the province, including Saskatoon, Prince Albert, North Battleford, Melfort, Regina, Swift Current, Yorkton, Humboldt, La Ronge, Meadow Lake, and surrounding Northern Saskatchewan communities.

If your goal is to become a professional truck driver, this is where you start.

MELT Program

(Mandatory Entry Level Training)

17.5 hours of in-yard instruction (Circle Check, Air Brakes, and Backing Procedures)

57 hours of in-cab training (39 hours on-road, 18 hours of off-road)

47 hours of in-class instruction

Includes 2 SGI Road Test attempts

MELT Program (Mandatory Entry Level Training) 121.5hr 5 Week Program $11,428.57 + GST

Includes 47 hours of classroom instruction which teaches the students the theory behind operating a Class 1A vehicle. This instruction is done in person in a classroom setting with an SGI Accredited Instructor which includes the following 11 Modules
- Employment in the Trucking Industry
- Vehicle Components and Systems
- Basic Driving Techniques
- Professional Driving Habits
- Practical Off-Road Tasks and Maneuvers
- Documents, Paperwork, and Regulatory Requirements
- Vehicle Inspection Activities
- Federal And Provincial Hours of Service Compliance
- Cargo Securement and Loss Prevention
- Handling Emergencies
- Air Brakes
17.5 hours of in-yard instruction (Circle Check, Air Brakes, and Backing Procedures)
57 hours of in-cab training (39 hours on-road, 18 hours off-road)
Includes 2 SGI Road Test attempts

3A Driver Training or 1A Driver Training after completion of the MELT Program

20 Hour Program $3300.00 + GST

Includes 3 hours of classroom instruction (Basic Components & Systems)
5 hours of in-yard instruction (Circle Check, Air Brakes, and Backing Procedures)
12 hours of in-cab training (On-Road and Off-Road)
Up to 20 hours of observation (Observing another student in training)
Includes 1 road test attempt

30 Hour Program $4950.00 + GST

Includes 3 hours of classroom instruction (Basic Components & Systems)
8 hours of in-yard instruction (Circle Check, Air Brakes, and Backing Procedures)
19 hours of in-cab training (On-Road and Off-Road)
Up to 40 hours of observation (Observing another student in training)
Includes 1 road test attempt

40 Hour Program $6600.00 + GST

Includes 3 hours of classroom instruction (Basic Components & Systems)
10 hours of in-yard instruction (Circle Check, Air Brakes, and Backing Procedures)
23 hours of in-cab training (On-Road And Off-Road)
Up to 40 hours of observation (Observing another student in training)
Includes 2 road test attempts

Other Driver Training Services

Air Brakes Endorsement $800.00 + GST

This program includes classroom training, practical in-cab training, and 1 SGI Air Brakes Test attempt for individuals looking to obtain their Air Brakes Endorsement

Air Brakes Endorsement (2nd exam attempt) $475.00 + GST

For individuals who were unsuccessful on their first SGI Air Brakes Test attempt

5G Driver Heavy Trailer Training $1200.00 + GST

This 1-day program is designed for individuals who will be pulling a trailer with payload (trailer weight plus payload weight) of over 10,000 lbs (4,600kg)
Individuals will be taught the proper circle check, driving, and backing procedures
Includes 1 Road Test Attempt after the 1-day program has been completed

5G Driver Training (2nd road test attempt) $475.00 + GST

For individuals who were unsuccessful on their first SGI 5G Road Test attempt

1A/3A Additional Road Test $475.00 + GST

For individuals who were unsuccessful on their first or second Road Test attempt, depending on which program they chose

Hourly Rate for 1A and/or 3A if applicable $200.00 + GST

For individuals who are looking for additional training after they’ve completed one of the other Driver Training Programs

Frequently Asked Questions About Driver Training in Saskatchewan

How much does driver training cost in Saskatchewan?

The cost of driver training courses varies depending on the program and licence class. The full MELT Program is $11,428.57 + GST, while 3A or 1A upgrade programs range from $3,300 to $6,600 + GST.

How long does it take to get a 1A licence in Saskatchewan?

The MELT Program is a 121.5-hour program typically completed over 5 weeks. This includes classroom instruction, in-yard training, and in-cab driving experience.

What is the MELT Program?

MELT stands for Mandatory Entry Level Training. It is required in Saskatchewan for drivers working toward a Class 1A licence and covers the skills needed to safely operate a semi truck and trailer.

What is the difference between a 1A and 3A licence?

A 1A licence allows you to operate semi trucks with trailers. A 3A licence allows you to operate heavy straight trucks. Both require proper training, testing, and air brake knowledge.

What are the requirements to start driver training?

To enroll in a driver training program in Saskatchewan, you generally need:

A valid Class 5 licence
A clean or acceptable driver abstract
Medical clearance (for 1A training)
Commitment to completing both classroom and in-cab training

Our team can walk you through the exact requirements before you start.

Do you train students outside Saskatoon?

Yes. Trans Industrial trains students from Saskatoon and across Saskatchewan, including Prince Albert, North Battleford, Melfort, Regina, Swift Current, Yorkton, Humboldt, La Ronge, Meadow Lake, and surrounding Northern Saskatchewan communities.

Is there demand for truck drivers in Saskatchewan?

Yes, there is consistent demand for trained heavy truck drivers across Saskatchewan and Western Canada. Industries hiring include:

Agriculture
Construction
Oil & gas
Forestry
Freight and logistics

Completing a recognized driver training course gives you a direct path into these industries.

What makes Trans Industrial one of the best driver training schools in Saskatchewan?

We focus on one thing: real-world readiness.

SGI-accredited instructors
Structured MELT training programs
Hands-on in-yard and on-road experience
Training on actual job scenarios, not just test prep
Support through testing and licensing

You’re not just learning to pass a road test. You’re learning to operate a heavy truck safely, professionally, and confidently.

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Ready to Start Your Driver Training?

If you’re serious about getting your 1A or 3A licence, or upgrading your current credentials, Trans Industrial is ready to help.

Book your training, ask questions, or talk to our team about which program fits your goals.

Contact Our Team