Blog Post

How Much Do Truck Drivers Make In Canada?

  • By Jerit Justin
  • •
  • 15 Apr, 2024
  • •
In the world of trucking, experience is a priceless asset. Drivers who have honed their skills over the years and got the right certifications from a reputable trucking school in Canada tend to command higher salaries. Workers who handle difficult loads, like oversized cargo or perishable goods that need specific temperature control, usually get paid more.

The average truck driver salary in Canada is $79,963 per year. However, Truck driver salaries in Canada vary based on location, type of equipment, and experience

Factors That Affect A Trucker’s Salary

Recent data shows salaries can range from $65,481 to $320,031 per year. It's important to consider these factors when thinking about earning potential.
  • Trucking companies value drivers with clean records, as they represent lower insurance risks and potential liabilities.
  • Trucking companies also value truckers who graduated from a reputable trucking school in Canada. Consequently, drivers with good training can negotiate higher wages and bonuses.
  • Companies valuing safety, benefits, and career growth retain experienced drivers who earn higher salaries.
  • Some people may earn more money if they are willing to work in faraway places or in bad weather.
  • However, perhaps the pinnacle of truck driver compensation lies in transporting hazardous materials. Their rigorous hazmat training, stringent safety protocols safeguard them against potential disasters. Consequently, hazmat drivers earn significantly higher salaries, reflecting the risks involved.
  • Solo drivers follow strict regulations for rest breaks, while team drivers share responsibilities for continuous operation.
  • Over-the-Road drivers earn more by delivering across the country, while regional drivers have more predictable schedules and weekends at home.


For drivers who want to avoid transporting dangerous materials, there are plenty of ways to increase their income. Focusing on specific industries like refrigerated transport or specialized freight handling can lead to higher pay and job stability.

Highest Paying Provinces For Truck Drivers Ranked

According to recent data below are the highest paying provinces for truckers in Canada ranked;
Trucking Salaries In Different Provinces Of Canada

Highest Paying Trucking Roles Ranked

According to recent data below is the list of highest paying trucking roles in Canada ranked according to average salary per year.
Average trucking salaries of different trucking jobs in Canada

Owner-Operator

Average Salary: $320,031 per year

An entrepreneurial-minded individual who runs their own truck-driving business. As an owner-operator, you're not just a driver but also a business owner. You need to have a truck, find things to transport, and run the business every day. This includes handling business expenses, overseeing truck maintenance, and making employment decisions.

To be an owner-operator, you need a CDL and knowledge of business management. At Trukademy, we offer expert-led CDL training courses tailored to aspiring owner-operators. Join us today to start your journey towards becoming a successful owner-operator in the trucking industry.

Team Truck Driver

Average Salary: $104,577

Team truck drivers typically work in pairs, combining their skills and efforts to continuously deliver goods across long distances. They are essential for meeting tight delivery schedules and maximizing productivity in the transportation industry.

Team truck drivers take turns driving to ensure continuous movement, often working up to twenty-two hours a day. Their main goal is to make long-haul deliveries without stopping. This allows goods to be transported faster than if done by solo drivers.

Mine/Haul Truck Driver

Average Salary: $101,432 per year

Truck drivers in the mining and quarry industries are essential personnel. They operate large dump trucks to help with site-related activities.
Mine truck drivers transport materials at mining and quarry sites. They also assist with waste disposal. Additionally, they ensure that work flows smoothly and prioritize safety to prevent injuries.

Tanker/Liquid Hauler

Average Salary: $89,883 per year

Individuals experienced in transporting hazardous materials, such as gasoline, via tanker trucks. Safely transport hazardous liquids, adhere to strict safety protocols, and undergo regular safety checks.

To become a tanker/liquid hauler, you need the appropriate commercial driver's license (CDL) with tanker endorsement. At Trukademy, we offer comprehensive training programs specifically tailored to tanker hauling.

Hazmat Tanker Driver

Average Salary: $85,690 per year

A hazmat tanker driver is a specialized professional who transports dangerous materials, like toxic waste, in tanker trucks.

Responsibilities:
  • Safely transport dangerous and unstable materials in accordance with federal and state regulations.
  • Undergo specialized training and obtain necessary certifications for handling hazardous materials.
  • Conduct pre-trip inspections to ensure the tanker is in optimal condition for transport.
  • Adhere to strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and environmental hazards.
  • Collaborate with authorities and emergency responders in the event of incidents or spills.
  • To drive a hazmat tanker, you must have a Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) on your Commercial Driver's License (CDL). You also need to pass a background check conducted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

At Trukademy, we offer specialized hazmat training programs. These programs are led by experts. They are designed to help you acquire the necessary skills and certifications for hazmat roles. Contact us today to start your journey towards becoming a qualified hazmat tanker driver.

Ice Road Driver

Average Salary: $80,024 per year

Ice road truck drivers are skilled professionals equipped to navigate treacherous winter conditions and remote locations. They thrive in extreme environments, ensuring essential freight reaches its destination safely and on time.

Ice road drivers face the difficult job of moving goods across frozen landscapes, typically in the northern regions of Canada. Their main job is to drive through tough winter weather. They travel on icy roads. They deliver supplies to faraway places like mines and small towns.

To become an ice road driver, you need specialized training and the appropriate licenses. Trukademy offers winter driving programs led by experts. These programs help aspiring drivers learn the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in difficult conditions.

Specialty Vehicle Hauler

Average Salary: $79,290 per year.

A specialty vehicle hauler is a professional entrusted with the transportation of high-value specialty automobiles, including race cars and luxury collectibles.

The primary duties of a specialty vehicle hauler involve the safe and secure transportation of expensive vehicles. This entails implementing extra precautions and protective procedures to prevent damage and safeguard against potential theft during transit.

Long-haul Truck Driver

Average Salary: $77,429 per year

Long-haul truck drivers are individuals who are responsible for transporting goods over long distances.

Responsibilities:
  • Monitoring expenses, such as fuel and tolls
  • Creating schedules
  • Planning journey routes
  • Logging pick-ups
  • Recording mileage
  • Truck maintenance
  • Assisting with unloading goods

Oversized Load Truck Driver

Average Salary: $72,730 per year

Big load truck drivers are skilled professionals who transport large, heavy items like industrial machinery, wind turbines, or mobile homes.

Oversized load truck drivers have to drive carefully to transport big loads. They must follow state rules about when and where they can drive with these large loads. Sometimes, they may need someone to escort them during the trip.

Delivery Driver

Average Salary: $65,481 per year

Delivery drivers are individuals who are responsible for transporting goods to domestic households and businesses.
Their key responsibilities include delivering various items such as groceries, parcels, mail, office supplies, clothing, and home furniture. May also involve packing delivery trucks and unloading deliveries at the final destination.
Would you like to become a trucker in Canada? As mentioned in this post the highest average annual salary of a trucker is a whopping $320,000+. The trucking industry offers many opportunities and high demand, making it a promising career choice for those who pursue it. However, to navigate this path successfully, you need the right skills, experience, and certifications.

At Trukademy, located in Ontario, we specialize in shaping aspiring truckers into seasoned professionals. Our training programs are led by experts. They are designed to give you all the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in the trucking industry. From honing your driving skills to mastering safety protocols and logistics, we cover every aspect of the profession.

Imagine yourself behind the wheel, on a journey filled with adventure and financial stability. With Trukademy by your side, this vision can become your reality. Our trucking courses cover a range of popular topics. These include AZ License Training, Dispatcher Training, MELT Program, HAZMAT Training, and more.

If you want to drive large vehicles in Ontario, you can obtain an AZ License. With this license, you can earn over $55,000 in your first year as a truck driver in Canada. Sign up for trucking courses at Trukademy to start a successful career in the trucking industry. Reach out to us today!

Tips For Passing the AZ License Exam On Your First Attempt

By Ish Singh • 17 May, 2024
Obtaining your AZ license is a significant milestone in your trucking career, but passing the training exam can be daunting. At Trukademy, our truck training school in Mississauga , we understand the importance of preparing effectively for the AZ license training exam. At Trukademy, we are committed to offering the highest standards of quality and expertise in training professional drivers for successful careers in the transportation industry.

Understand the Exam Format:

Before diving into your study routine, familiarize yourself with the  AZ license training   exam format. Know how many questions are on the exam, the time limit, and the topics covered. This will help you structure your study plan more effectively.

Study the Official Handbook:

The official AZ license handbook is your ultimate guide to the exam. Study the handbook thoroughly, paying close attention to road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. Take notes, create flashcards, and quiz yourself regularly to reinforce your understanding of the material.

Take Practice Tests:

Practice makes perfect, and taking practice tests is an excellent way to gauge your readiness for the exam. Trukademy offers practice tests in our

truck driver training  programs in Mississauga. Use these tests to identify areas that need improvement and focus your study efforts accordingly.

Focus on Weak Areas:

Based on your practice test results, identify your weak areas and prioritize studying those topics. Whether understanding right-of-way rules or mastering backing maneuvers, dedicate extra time and effort to areas where you need improvement.

Utilize Online Resources:

 Supplement your learning with online resources such as instructional videos, interactive quizzes, and study guides. Trukademy offers a variety of online resources as part of our trucking school in Mississauga , providing you with additional support and guidance.

Practice, Practice, Practice:

Practice your driving skills regularly to build confidence behind the wheel. Take advantage of opportunities to practice driving on different roads and weather conditions to prepare for the real-world challenges you may encounter during the exam.

Stay Calm and Focused:

On the exam day, stay calm and focused. Arrive early, get a good night's sleep, and eat a healthy meal beforehand. Take deep breaths and visualize yourself passing the exam with flying colours. Remember, you've put in the time and effort to prepare, and you're ready for this challenge.

Follow Instructions Carefully:

Listen carefully to the instructions provided by the examiner and follow them to the letter. Pay attention to speed limits, lane changes, and signalling procedures. Following instructions correctly demonstrates your competence and professionalism as a driver.


Stay Positive:

Maintain a positive attitude throughout the exam, even when challenging situations occur. Remember that mistakes happen, and it's okay to make them as long as you learn from them. Stay focused on the task and believe in your ability to succeed.

Review Your Performance

After completing the exam:

  1. Take some time to reflect on your performance.
  2. Identify areas where you did well and areas where you could improve.
  3. Use this feedback to guide your learning and development as a truck driver.

AZ License course highlights:

  1.  200+ hours of in-class and in-cab training. 
  2. Course fees are 100% tax deductible 
  3. Part-time and full-time training are available 
  4. Flexible training schedules are available 
  5. Our instructors are highly experienced in providing superior AZ truck driver training.

Contact us today with any questions, and remember to ask about your financing options.

Trukademy Canada Inc. is registered as a private career college under the Private Career Colleges Act of 2005, and our Tractor Trailer MELT and AZ program courses are approved as vocational programs under the Act. With a location in Mississauga, Ontario, we provide our graduates with a wide range of commercial truck drivers and job placement programs. All courses are tax deductible.

Passing the  AZ license training  exam on your first attempt requires dedication, preparation, and a positive mindset. By following these tips and strategies provided by Trukademy, our truck training school in Mississauga, you can confidently approach the exam and increase your chances of success. Contact us for our truck driving programs today, and let us help you achieve your goal of becoming a professional truck driver.

Different Types of Commercial Driver's Licenses for Truckers in Canada

By Jerit Justin • 21 Mar, 2024
What are the different types of commercial driver's license truckers can earn in Canada? This post will answer all your questions related to CDLs for truckers in Canada

How To Get An AZ License In Ontario?

By Jerit Justin • 12 Feb, 2024
Learn about AZ License, it's requirements, the licensing process in this comprehensive guide to become an AZ licensed trucker in Canada.

How to Become a Truck Dispatcher in Canada?

By Jerit Justin • 23 Jan, 2024
Learn A-Z about becoming an effective truck dispatcher in Canada, the requirements, process, responsibilities, training courses and more

Essential Winter Driving Tips & Strategies For Truck Drivers

By Jerit Justin • 22 Dec, 2023
Get expert winter driving tips and strategies that will keep you safe during winter and drive through winter roads like a pro trucker!

Benefits Of An AZ License In Ontario

By Jerit Justin • 22 Nov, 2023
Learn about the top benefits you can experience as an trained AZ License holder in Ontario. Contact us to get your AZ training today!

The Crucial Importance of Collision Reviews: Trukademy's Commitment to Safety

By Jerit Justin • 26 Oct, 2023
Trukademy's dedication to safety means that we dive deep into collision reviews.

Navigating the Road to Success in Mississauga's Best Truck Driving School

By Jerit Justin • 28 Sep, 2023
For many, the open road represents freedom and opportunity, and there's no better way to experience it than behind the wheel of a powerful truck. If you're looking to embark on a career in the trucking industry, you'll want to start with the best education possible. Enter Trukademy, the leading truck driving school in Mississauga, dedicated to shaping confident and skilled truck drivers. In this blog, we'll explore why Trukademy stands out as the top choice for aspiring truck drivers.

The Ultimate Guide to Getting Your AZ Licence: All You Need to Know

By Jerit Justin • 23 Aug, 2023
Driving a truck is more than just navigating the open road – it's a career that offers freedom, challenge, and the opportunity to be part of a vital industry that keeps the world moving. If you're ready to take the wheel and explore the trucking world, look no further
than Trukademy's comprehensive AZ Licence Course. In this blog post, we'll delve into what makes Trukademy's course stand out and why it's the perfect choice for anyone aspiring to become a skilled and confident truck driver.

CVOR Training: Essential Skills and Resources for Commercial Vehicle Operators

By Jerit Justin • 14 Jul, 2023
Commercial vehicles require specialized skills and knowledge to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations. The Commercial Vehicle Operator Registration (CVOR) program is a key component of this training.
Show More
Share by: