Farm workers driver training deadline extended

Farm workers now have more time to comply with new training requirements.

A new mandatory entry level training (MELT) program for those wanting a Class 1 or Class 2 driver’s licence has been introduced by the province to improve road safety.

These new requirements went into effect March 1, 2019 but does not apply to a driver who got a Class 1 or Class 2 driver’s licence on or before October 10, 2018.

Following a consultation with the agriculture industry, the province is extending the deadline to March 1, 2020 for farm workers to comply with the MELT requirements.

This does not mean an exemption for the agriculture industry when it comes to MELT, the province is just extending the deadline to avoid undue pressure on seeding and harvesting operations for the 2019 season.

Farm workers can apply to the Alberta Transportation for the MELT extension between March 15 and November 30, 2019. They must identify themselves as farmers or farm workers. Once the application is approved drivers will be authorized to take the pre-MELT knowledge and road tests for a Class 1 licence. Applicants need to get their Class 1 by November 30, 2019.

Those seeking to retain their Class 1 licence for future seasons are required to complete the enhanced Class 1 knowledge and road tests based on the new MELT program before March 1, 2020.