Class 1A Mandatory Training (Melt Course)

  • 5 week duration (25 days)

  • 47 hours In-Class time
  • 57 hours In-Cab time
  • 17.5 hours In-Yard Time (Pre-Trip/Air Brakes/Coupling)

  • Price is $12,500 + GST

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Course Overview

See what our training course will cover

Mandatory training was implemented to help prepare new drivers to have a full Class 1A license with a better understanding of the industry they are entering. The MELT course covers all requirements set forth by SGI for mandatory training. The length of the course ensures that students receive all the required minimum hours for in-cab training, in-yard and module work that completes the in-class hours. 18-Wheels uses a ratio of two students per one unit (2:1) during practical instruction. This allows the students the opportunity to observe as well as operate the equipment. Students may finish the course with more than the minimum hours listed.

Training is available in either standard or automatic transmissions. Any student who takes training in the automatic and tests with SGI will be restricted to driving automatic transmission only. The use of the truck and trailer for training and testing are provided for the students during the course.

Students are required to have a passing grade of 80% for all module work and competencies in each section of training. Testing will be booked after hours and passing grade are met as per SGI’s regulations.
Two road exams are included in the tuition fees. If students require a third test, additional charges for the cost of the exam and use of the equipment will be applicable.

The MELT program for Class 1A training is available only in Regina.

Course Requirements

Before we roll, you must provide the following documentation

  • Must be 18 years of age at time of course.

  • Must have a valid Class 5 license, and not be in the graduated driver licensing program.

  • Commercial Drivers Medical

  • Class 1 learner’s license (endorsed on license)

  • Proof of written air exam

  • Drivers Abstract (recent copy)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my learner’s license before starting?

We recommend completing it prior to starting. Only the SGI driver examination office is authorized to give the knowledge tests. This way you don’t lose any time from the course to go and complete your learner’s license.

MELT is short for Mandatory Entry Level Training. SGI gave the Class 1A program this name when it was regulated in 2019.

Courses are booked as a five week time period, typically the course takes about four weeks to complete and the test takes place on the fifth week. It is recommended taking your course all at once versus breaking it into stages, as you make more progress and retain more information.

Classes run Monday to Friday from 8am until 5pm. The school does not offer evening or weekend classes.

At this time the school is not offering payment plans. There may be grants available both for employers and individuals. Please contact the office for information on current grants.

Deposits are due three weeks prior to the course starting for Class 1A not at the time of booking.

Refunds will be issued if you cancel before the three week confirmation period. Anything after the cancellation date remains on file for future use. Tuition fees are non-refundable once the course has started.

As with any schooling, there is always the chance you may not pass the course or the road exam with SGI. The effort and time you put into it will make a difference whether you fail or succeed. All student hours and competencies are recorded and kept towards future completion.

SGI’s current regulations require everyone wanting a Class 1A license to complete the MELT course. They do not allow anyone to challenge the exam and do not recognize Class 3A experience towards the hours required.

Rentals of trucks and trailers to anyone that is not a current student is not allowed under school policy.

If a student needs to miss time, usually it is made up at the end of the course. The course is built to allow for one to two days of missed practical time that can be reasonably made up during the fifth week. The school doesn’t recommend missing in-class time if possible.

Road exams are only arranged and provided for students completing training through 18-Wheels.

What Our Students Say

From the students who have been down this road before

(Darin) taught me everything from the beginning in great detail. He ensured that I knew what I needed to and that I was prepared for the test.
Josh Rojas
Learned a lot about driving I didn’t know. The course exceeded my expectations.
Quin Halford
Norbert was excellent and very knowledgeable. I learned a lot and have a new found respect for truckers.
John Haight
It was definitely helpful in the way they made it very easy to learn how to drive and didn’t get mad over a mistake. Devin was a really great instructor.
Jayden Zaremba
Brooks is very informative with his years of experience.
Matthew Bergen
The practical experience is nice. Good experienced drivers (Rob) that pay their experience forward.
Michele Riccio
I could not have hoped for a better instructor than Norbert.
Dallas S.

There’s a great group of guys here at 18 Wheels Training Services. The training I received from Brent and the others exceeded my expectations by a long shot, they were a very helpful group.

Russ Panchuk
Rob is a great instructor, a good guy to drive with and learn from. I would recommend him to others.
Blaine Byers

The instruction was fantastic, Glendon was absolutely fantastic to work with. He’s a great instructor.

Sheldon Ferguson

Become a Driver Today

Give us a call to schedule your training sessions

CALL: 306-352-1818