Alberta Air Brakes (Q Endorsement)
Air brakes work by initiating air pressure at an engine-driven compressor and transmitting the pressure through hoses, reservoirs and control valves to the vehicle’s foundation brakes.
An air brake endorsement is required for drivers of vehicles with:
- an air-only braking system, or
- a combination of air and hydraulic braking system
When a person successfully completes an approved Alberta air brake course through an authorized agency and successfully passes the Air Brakes written test at a Provincial Registry office they are eligible to have the air brake endorsement (the letter Q) placed on their driver's licence.
How it works
Step 1: Complete classroom training
You must participate in a classroom training session delivered by a licensed driver training school.
The classroom session is a minimum of 6.5 hours.
Students will be provided a copy of the Air Brake Manual: A Guide for Students as a reference and study guide.
Step 2: Complete practical training
Once the classroom training is complete, you must participate in the practical training session.
The session includes a 15-minute instructor demonstration followed by each student practising the air brake pre-trip inspection twice.
Step 3: Pass practical assessment
The practical assessment is conducted in a one-on-one setting using the Air Brake Practical Test form and must be completed within the 15-minute time limit.
Only one practical re-assessment is allowed before additional training is required.
The re-assessment must be conducted on a different day.
The licensed driver training school and the student will determine additional training requirements.
Once you pass the practical assessment, you will be issued a Notice of Air Brake Program Completion form.
Step 4: Pass knowledge test
Bring the Notice of Air Brake Program Completion forms to any Alberta registry agent to take the driver knowledge test. A government fee and a service charge will apply.
If you pass the knowledge test, the registry agent will add the Q endorsement to your driver’s licence after payment of the License Transfer Fee.
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