Air Brake Course
“A” Driving School’s air brake course is a 1-day classroom session which includes both the classroom and practical training for students getting their Air Brake Q endorsement.
Overview
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.
In order to operate a vehicle with air brakes, class 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 drivers must complete an approved air brake course to get a Q endorsement on their driver’s license.
The air brake endorsement is also required to get a class 1 driver’s license.
How it works: Getting your Q Endorsement
Step 1. Complete classroom training
You must participate in a classroom training session delivered by a licensed driver training school, like “A” Driving School.
The classroom session is a minimum of 6.5 hours.
Each student is provided with a copy of the Air Brake Manual: A Guide for Students as a reference and study guide. To order a copy, visit the Alberta Queen's Printer website.
Step 2. Complete practical training
Once you complete the classroom training, you must participate in the practical training session.
The session includes a 15-minute instructor demonstration followed by each student practicing 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.
“A” Driving School and the student will determine any 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. The knowledge test is conducted electronically and is available in English only, paper and translated tests are not available.
The knowledge test consists of 30 multiple choice questions. 25 questions must be answered correctly to pass the test. There is no time limit on the knowledge test or the number of times it can be taken.
If you pass the knowledge test, the registry agent will add the Q endorsement to your driver’s license. The Q endorsement will appear on your driver’s license card.
There is no renewal requirement for the Q endorsement.
A practical road test is not required to get the Q endorsement.