New standards for Class 1 commercial licenses take effect Friday, March 15.

The changes were announced by the Government of Saskatchewan to make Saskatchewan roads safer for everyone.

Changes include minimum standardized training hours, both in classroom and behind the wheel, focus on driving habits and vehicle inspections,
and a 12-month safety monitoring program for new drivers. As well, Class 1 road tests will now only be undertaken by SGI examiners.

A standardized curriculum has been rolled out to training schools across the province since the changes were announced in December.

Under the new requirements, anyone wishing to drive a semi used in farming operations as of March 15, 2019 will need to pass the same more rigorous tests to get an “F” endorsement on their existing driver’s licence. They will be restricted to operating within Saskatchewan’s borders and will be subjected to the same 12-month monitoring program as Class 1 drivers.

Existing Class 1 drivers are grandfathered in as of the implementation date.