If you’re balancing a full-time job and family responsibilities but still want to become a truck driver, you might be considering your training options. It allows you to learn at your own pace, without quitting your job.
But is weekend CDL training worth it?
While it may seem convenient, it could take more effort to refresh your memory and skills after a week’s break. Let’s compare it with full-time training and see if you’re a candidate for weekend CDL classes or the MELT program.
What is MELT Training?
Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) is a training program required in several Canadian provinces for anyone looking to get a Class 1 (tractor-trailer) or Class A (Ontario) commercial driver’s license.
It is mandatory in Ontario, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and British Columbia, while still recommended if you live in those provinces and territories.
What does this training include?
While the duration changes from province to province, the training combines classroom instruction, in-yard training, and on-road driving to prepare students for the realities of truck driving.
It covers:
- Theory instruction – Federal and provincial regulations, hours of service, defensive driving, and basic vehicle operation.
- Practical training – Pre-trip inspections, coupling and uncoupling trailers, and learning to drive both automatic and manual transmission trucks.
- On-road training – Real-world driving practice, including highway and city driving, turns, parking, and emergency procedures.
How long does MELT take in Ontario?
In Ontario, MELT is 103.5 hours long, which takes about 3-4 weeks to complete in a full-time program. However, a weekend-only class can take 8 weeks or more to finish.
Full-Time CDL Training vs. Weekend CDL Training
Hands-On Driving
Driving a truck takes muscle memory, coordination, and repetition to get comfortable behind the wheel. A full-time CDL program lets you practice daily from Monday to Friday.
With weekend training, you might drive for a few hours on Saturday and Sunday, then go all week without touching a truck. By the time the next weekend rolls around, you’ve lost progress or at least backtracked a few steps.
Pre-Trip Inspections Require Repetition
Pre-trip inspection is a detailed process that takes at least 20-30 minutes and includes checking brakes, tires, lights, and fluid levels. In full-time training, you practice pre-trip inspections every day, which makes you more confident in the process. With weekend training, you get fewer practice sessions, which can make inspections stressful and difficult to memorize.
Better To Practice On Manual Transmissions With Full-time Training
In all honesty, driving a manual truck is difficult and you need to get as much practice as possible. Canada still has many trucking companies that require manual transmission skills, especially for long-haul and cross-border jobs.
Job Placements and Hiring
Full-time students tend to get hired faster. Since weekend students take longer to graduate, they often miss out on early job openings. Some even find themselves struggling to secure employment because their training was too spread out.
Are There Any Hidden Costs of Weekend CDL Training?
You’ll pay nearly the same as a full-time student but lose valuable learning time. If you struggle with confidence or fail your CDL test, additional training will be necessary—adding to your costs.
Who Should Consider Weekend CDL Training?
Weekend CDL training isn’t for everyone, but in rare cases, it might be the only option. It may work for:
- People who absolutely cannot take time off work for full-time training.
- Those who have previous trucking experience and just need refresher training.
Weekend CDL training might seem convenient, but stretching out your learning over two months makes it harder to retain skills and delays your ability to start earning. If you’re still confused about your choice, we can help you at Caledon Truck Driving School. Schedule your consultation today.
