Blog

/ / /

A Comprehensive Guide to Obtaining a Saskatchewan 1A License

A Guide to Obtaining a Saskatchewan Commercial Class License

Are you interested in becoming a commercial driver in Saskatchewan? Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to upgrade your existing license, this guide can help you find all the information you need to know about obtaining a Saskatchewan Class 1 license. From the required training and exams to the process of maintaining your license, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and explore the steps involved in becoming a professional commercial driver in Saskatchewan.

Understanding the Requirements

Before we delve into the specifics of obtaining a Saskatchewan 1A license, it’s crucial to understand the requirements and qualifications. In Saskatchewan, all drivers seeking a Class 1 commercial license to drive semi-trucks must complete a minimum of 121.5 hours of training. This training program consists of classroom or online instruction (47 hours), yard training (17.5 hours), and behind-the-wheel training (57 hours).

It’s important to note that there are other class licenses available as well. To explore the full list of class licenses offered by SGI (Saskatchewan Government Insurance), visit their website here. If you’re interested in upgrading your Class 5 driver’s license to any commercial class of license, the process involves a few additional steps.

Steps to Obtain a Saskatchewan Class 1 License

Step 1: Medical Report and Endorsements

To begin the process of obtaining your Saskatchewan 1A license, you’ll need to have the Commercial Driver’s License Medical Report form completed by a physician. Once completed, submit the form to SGI’s Medical Review Unit for review at mruinquiries@sgi.sk.ca. After your medical report is approved, you can visit an SGI exam office to complete the vision test and written exams for the class of license you’d like to be endorsed for.

If you’re upgrading to a Class 1 license, you will also need to complete mandatory entry-level training (MELT). After passing the written exams, you’ll need to visit a motor license issuer to have your Class 5 license validated with a Professional Learner’s endorsement for the class of vehicle you’ll be testing for. This endorsement allows you to practice for your road test by driving with someone who holds a valid license for that class of vehicle.

Step 2: Road Test

Once you feel prepared, it’s time to schedule your road test by contacting a driver exam office. The road test is a crucial step in the process, as it assesses your practical driving skills and ensures that you are capable of safely operating a commercial vehicle. Upon successfully passing your road test, you can then visit a license issuer to have your Class 5 license upgraded to the appropriate commercial class license, in this case, the Saskatchewan Class 1 license.

Step 3: Exams

Throughout the process of obtaining a Saskatchewan Commercial license, you’ll need to pass several exams. These exams include the basic knowledge exam, sign exam, endorsement exam, and vision test. To prepare for these exams, it’s essential to study the Saskatchewan Driver’s Handbook and the Professional Driver’s Handbook. Additionally, if you’re upgrading to a Class 1A license with an Air Brake Endorsement, take advantage of the interactive online Class 1A Practice Quiz, which will help you familiarize yourself with the exam questions.

Are You Moving to Saskatchewan?

If you’re moving to Saskatchewan from another Canadian province, the process of obtaining a Saskatchewan 1A license varies depending on the province you’re coming from. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements based on your current license and the province you’re coming from:

Canadian province with mandatory entry-level training:
- There are no restrictions; you can simply exchange your Class 1 license for a Saskatchewan Class 1 license.
Canadian province without mandatory entry-level training or from an American jurisdiction:
- If you’ve held a Class 1 license for 24 months or more, there are no restrictions, and you can exchange your license for a Saskatchewan Class 1 license.
- If you’ve held a Class 1 license for more than 1 year but less than 2 years, you can exchange it for a Saskatchewan Class 1 license, but you must complete the Class 1 knowledge and road test within 1 year of the exchange. Alternatively, you can complete MELT. Failure to successfully complete the tests or training will result in your license being downgraded to a Class 3.
- If you’ve held a Class 1 license for less than 12 months, you will be issued a Class 3 license. To obtain a Class 1 license, you must complete MELT and Class 1 testing.
Reciprocal country outside Canada or the U.S.:
- SGI may waive the mandatory entry-level training requirement if you can provide acceptable proof of 5 years of Class 1 experience in the last 10 years. You’ll need to provide a driver’s abstract, driver record, or an official letter from your home jurisdiction showing the duration of your Class 1 license. For more information, visit an SGI motor license issuer.
Non-reciprocal country:
- If you’re from a non-reciprocal country, you’ll need to restart the process of obtaining your Class 1 license, which includes completing all mandatory training. Visit the Upgrade to Commercial License section for more information.

Maintaining Your Commercial License

Once you’ve obtained your Saskatchewan 1A license, it’s important to understand the requirements for maintaining it. The National Safety Code Program mandates that commercial drivers must have an up-to-date medical report to operate vehicles across Canada and in the United States.

The frequency of medical reports depends on your age:

Drivers aged 18 to 45 years are required to submit a medical report every 5 years.
Drivers aged 46 to 65 years must submit a medical report every 3 years.
Drivers aged 66 years or older must submit a medical report annually.

Make sure to return the completed and signed Commercial Driver’s License Medical Report form to SGI within 90 days. Failure to submit the report on time may result in your license being downgraded to a Class 5 license. If you cannot meet the deadline, contact the Medical Review Unit (MRU) as soon as possible to request a deadline extension.

Obtaining a Saskatchewan 1A license is a rigorous process that involves training, exams, and practical assessments. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the requirements and successfully obtain your commercial license. Remember to stay updated with any laws, policies, and procedures changes, as they may affect the licensing process. Good luck on your journey to becoming a professional commercial driver in Saskatchewan!

For more resources on driver training, legal requirements, and transportation-specific news, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Harvard Western Insurance today. We’re here to provide you with valuable insights and solutions for all your insurance needs.

HWI branded lined breaker

Thanks for reading our article; I hope you enjoyed this month’s topic on obtaining a commercial class licence in Saskatchewan. Here are some more ways to access more insurance information and tips: