If you're a truck driver looking to apply for or renew your licence, you'll need to complete a medical examination. Here, our panel physicians in Ottawa and Orleans share some of the medical requirements for truck drivers in Canada and why they are needed.
What is a truck driver?
Truck drivers transport goods and materials across the country or internationally using large trucks. They frequently travel to and from retail, distribution centers, or manufacturing facilities to deliver products. While their schedule may be flexible, they can be required to work any time of day or night. Truck driving is a challenging profession, often requiring long hours on the road.
After finishing truck driving school, you can apply for your truck driving license. Depending on the laws of your province or territory, a Class 3 or D license is required for straight-body trucks, while a Class 1 or A license is necessary for long combination vehicles. If you intend to operate a vehicle equipped with an air brake or air-over-hydraulic brake system, you'll also need a Z endorsement on your driver's license.
Commercial drivers must undergo a complete truck driver physical exam and provide the corresponding report when applying for a license. They must adhere to stricter licensing standards because they often work longer hours and face less-than-ideal weather conditions. Truck driving also comes with increased physical demands while operating large, heavy vehicles.
Medical Requirements for Truck Drivers
Vision Standards for Class 'A' or 'D' Drivers
Truck drivers applying for and holding a Class 'A' or 'D' licence must have:
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A visual acuity that is not poorer than:
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20/30 with both eyes open and examined together
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20/100 in the weaker eye, with or without corrective lenses (glasses or contact lenses)
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A horizontal visual field with both eyes open and examined together of at least:
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150 continuous degrees along the horizontal meridian
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20 continuous degrees above and below fixation
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Medical Reporting Requirements for Class 'A' or 'D' Drivers
You must submit a medical report when you apply for a Class 'A' or 'D' licence. A licensed physician or nurse practitioner (RN-EC) in Canada can complete the medical report form. This form can also be picked up at your nearest DriveTest centre.
If you are a truck driver who already holds a Class 'A' or 'D' licence, you need to submit a medical report:
- every five years, under age 46
- every three years, age 46-64
- every year, age 65 and over
If you already hold a Class 'A' or 'D' licence, you will receive a medical report form by mail 90 days before it is due.
Truck Driver Medical Exams at Immigration Physician Ottawa
Our team at Immigration Physician Ottawa offers the complete Truck Driver Medical Exam required by the Ministry of Transportation.
During your Truck Driver Medical Exam, you can expect the following:
- Full physical examination
- General health assessment (This includes height, weight, vision test, urine test for analysis, as well a blood pressure check)
- Review of medical history
Be sure to bring the following items with you to your examination:
- All medications in their bottles or blister pack
- Glasses worn while driving, if applicable
- Hearing aids, if applicable
- Your medical examination form
