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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.