Quebec's Stricter Rules for Ontario Truck Drivers: Enhancing Road Safety in the Trucking Industry
The Quebec trucking industry is applauding the provincial government's decision to implement stricter rules for Ontario truck drivers to enhance road safety. Starting Thursday, Ontario truck drivers with less than two years of experience must pass a driving exam with Quebec's auto insurance board to transfer their heavy vehicle license. If they fail the exam twice, they will need to undergo mandatory training to obtain authorization to drive heavy trucks. This measure aims to safeguard businesses, drivers, and all road users, emphasizing the industry's commitment to safety.
Marc Cadieux, CEO of the Quebec trucking association, emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety requirements without compromise. Jacques Ladouceur from Teamsters Canada supported the new measure, highlighting the responsibility of trucking companies to ensure their drivers' competency through thorough checks and driving tests. The move follows Ontario's auditor general's report, which identified deficiencies in training and oversight in the trucking sector and recognized Quebec's stricter regulations as a model to emulate.
The Ontario Ministry of Transportation responded to Quebec's announcement, stating that Ontario's testing and training system is rigorous to ensure drivers possess the necessary skills and knowledge for safe driving. Despite this, Quebec's auto insurance board spokesperson, Simon-Pierre Poulin, noted that obtaining a driver's permit is easier in Ontario than in Quebec, prompting the need for enhanced measures to protect against potential fraud and ensure road safety. The new evaluation requirement will be in place until Ontario addresses the concerns raised by their auditor general.
In addition to the driver evaluation measure, the Quebec government established a committee to enhance road safety requirements for temporary foreign workers in the trucking industry. This committee, comprising ministry representatives and industry stakeholders, aims to promote safe driving practices among drivers holding international permits, particularly in challenging winter conditions. The province introduced various safety measures following fatal accidents involving heavy trucks in 2025, including a public coroner's inquiry, increased highway patrol officer presence, and zero alcohol tolerance for new heavy vehicle drivers.
While trucking operations span multiple provinces, Poulin believes that Quebec's initiatives can inspire other provinces to implement stricter regulations. He urged Ottawa to address the issue of companies employing drivers as independent contractors to evade certain fees, known as the "drivers inc." scheme. By taking proactive steps to enhance road safety, Quebec aims to set a precedent for improved industry standards and collaboration among provinces to ensure safer roads for all users.