Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT) for New Commercial Class 1 Drivers Funding Support

Effective August 5, 2024, all drivers wishing to obtain a Class 1 driver’s license for the first time will be required to enroll and complete a Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT) course at a provincially licensed training school. Funding will be provided to assist individuals who are affected by this new measure.

Learn more about the MELT program: MELTPEI

For more information on training in Prince Edward Island: PEI Trucking Sector Council - Explore (peitsc.ca)

Who is Eligible to Participate for Funding?

If you are a Prince Edward Island resident, are unemployed and seeking employment as a Class 1 driver, or are currently employed and lack the licensing to maintain sustainable employment in your current position, you may be eligible to receive funding.

You are eligible to apply if you are:

• legally authorized to work in Canada (Canadian citizen or permanent resident); or
• a protected person within the meaning of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act;
• other criteria may apply

How Do I Apply for Funding?

1. To determine suitability and to apply for financial assistance, you must meet with a case manager to complete a needs assessment and develop a Return-to-Work Action Plan. Your case manager will assist you through the application process. For resources on obtaining a case manager, please visit Employment Assistance Services.
2. Apply for one of the upcoming courses at one of the two provincially licensed training schools in our province- JVI Provincial Transportation and Safety Academy and ASTA Safety & Commercial Driver Training.
3. Complete an employment assessment with the PEI Trucking Sector Council.

When is my Application Due?

You must submit your application package and receive confirmation from SkillsPEI that you have been approved for the program before your course starts.

How Does the Program Work?

SkillsPEI will pay up to 70% of your course costs and you will be responsible for the remainder of the course costs. You may also be eligible to receive financial supports while participating in training.

This information is a general guide for applicants. Applications received by SkillsPEI will be assessed against additional program criteria to determine eligibility.

Where Can I Get More Information?

Call SkillsPEI's general inquiries line at 1-877-491-4766 or visit one of the SkillsPEI offices.

Application Forms

Industry Specific Training PEI Application

Funding Agreement

Funded by the Department of Workforce, Advanced Learning and Population through the Canada-PEI labour market agreements.