
If you’re considering a career in commercial driving in Ontario, one of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing between an AZ and DZ license. While both open doors to rewarding opportunities in the transportation industry, they serve different purposes, vehicle types, and career paths. In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between AZ and DZ licenses, help you decide which is right for you, and explain how Trukademy can guide you through the process. What is an AZ License? An AZ license is the highest class of commercial license in Ontario. It allows drivers to operate any truck/tractor-trailer combination, including: Tractor-trailers Double trailers Dump trucks with towed trailers Tankers and flatbeds Key Features of an AZ License: Required for operating vehicles exceeding 4,600 kg with air brakes and towed trailers In-demand for long-haul trucking jobs Allows you to drive throughout Canada and the U.S. Offers higher salary potential Requires completion of a Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) program Ideal For: Long-haul truck drivers Logistics and freight transportation Cross-border and regional trucking High-paying transport careers What is a DZ License? A DZ license is another class of commercial license in Ontario, but it comes with limitations. It allows you to operate: Straight trucks Dump trucks Cement mixers Garbage trucks Key Features of a DZ License: Operate vehicles over 11,000 kg with no towed trailer over 4,600 kg Often used for local and municipal work Lower training requirements compared to AZ Typically day shifts and home daily Ideal For: City and regional driving Construction and utility vehicles Municipal services Drivers seeking more predictable hours AZ vs. DZ: Key Differences

If you’re considering a career in commercial driving in Ontario, one of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing between an AZ and DZ license. While both open doors to rewarding opportunities in the transportation industry, they serve different purposes, vehicle types, and career paths. In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between AZ and DZ licenses, help you decide which is right for you, and explain how Trukademy can guide you through the process. What is an AZ License? An AZ license is the highest class of commercial license in Ontario. It allows drivers to operate any truck/tractor-trailer combination, including: Tractor-trailers Double trailers Dump trucks with towed trailers Tankers and flatbeds Key Features of an AZ License: Required for operating vehicles exceeding 4,600 kg with air brakes and towed trailers In-demand for long-haul trucking jobs Allows you to drive throughout Canada and the U.S. Offers higher salary potential Requires completion of a Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) program Ideal For: Long-haul truck drivers Logistics and freight transportation Cross-border and regional trucking High-paying transport careers What is a DZ License? A DZ license is another class of commercial license in Ontario, but it comes with limitations. It allows you to operate: Straight trucks Dump trucks Cement mixers Garbage trucks Key Features of a DZ License: Operate vehicles over 11,000 kg with no towed trailer over 4,600 kg Often used for local and municipal work Lower training requirements compared to AZ Typically day shifts and home daily Ideal For: City and regional driving Construction and utility vehicles Municipal services Drivers seeking more predictable hours AZ vs. DZ: Key Differences