When my air brake renewal reminder showed up in the mail, it was the first time it brought a smile – and not a grimace – to my face.

I was going to have an opportunity to try the controversial new learning module firsthand, allowing me to make an informed decision on whether it would expedite the renewal process as intended, or unleash a whole new population of cheating ignoramuses onto our roads.

As background, Ontario introduced a new air brake learning module last Sept. 1, replacing the in-person air brake knowledge test that A/Z licence holders previously had to complete when renewing their commercial driver’s licence.

There were mixed opinions on the change. Some industry groups lauded it, claiming that replacing the knowledge test with a learning module would expedite the renewal process for badly needed commercial truck drivers. Others said safety would be compromised as there is no assurance the person holding the licence is the same one who completed the module.

Right off the bat, I’m all for any change in requirements that reduces the time I have to spend at a godforsaken DriveTest facility. These facilities are perennially jammed beyond capacity and just generally unpleasant places to have to visit.

So, as an A/Z licence holder, I was in favor of the change without even having gone through the process.

Now, as background, I’m not a professional truck driver – never have been, never pretended to be one. I obtained an A/Z licence (Class 1 in Alberta, way back in 2001 to be precise) so I could better relate to the readers of this website.

I wanted to see the world how they see it, through the windshield of a heavy truck. I wanted to experience the challenge of blindside backing. I wanted to see firsthand how other motorists interact around big rigs on our roads.

More engaging, interactive

Carrying a rarely used trucking licence would never replace years of trucking experience, but it was enough to give me a taste of what professional drivers go through – and also allow me to drive newly introduced trucks on public roads, which is the only way to adequately assess a new vehicle.

So, when it comes time to renew my A/Z, I usually spend a little time tucking into the MTO air brake handbook as a refresher. The test itself was never overly challenging and would be even less so for those who go about inspecting their truck’s air brake system every day as part of their legally required pre-trip inspection.

The training module that replaced the previously required knowledge test was more engaging and interactive, and the information within it was easier to retain than the details found by leafing through a dated handbook. It took about a half hour to complete the module, and upon doing so I printed a certificate that I then brought to DriveTest when renewing my licence. (There’s no avoiding that place completely.)

While it’s true that no one sat over my shoulder to ensure I completed the module myself, those who want to cheat the system will always find a way to do so. Everyone learns differently. I’m a visual learner and the animations within the module were, for me, a more effective way of committing to memory key elements of inspecting an air brake system.

More effective process

The previous knowledge test was a memory test, more than anything. Anyone holding an A/Z licence has already demonstrated their competency on operating an air brake-equipped vehicle. But the test did serve the purpose of ensuring the occasional driver, such as myself, didn’t forget that important safety information. The module served the same purpose, but in a more effective manner.

The best part, admittedly, is that with certificate in hand I was in and out of DriveTest in record time. Ontario’s professional drivers face enough frustration, and any enhancements that can be implemented to streamline the renewal process without compromising highway safety should be welcomed.