Alberta is moving to modernize driver identification and training standards while Canadian and U.S. regulators tighten compliance expectations for carriers and drivers. Key changes include a proposed option to add personal health numbers to Alberta driver’s licences by late 2026, clarified Class 1 learning pathways, the selection of a new provincial licence plate, and renewed contractor tax reporting. South of the border, U.S. regulators continue to emphasize electronic logging device (ELD) and logbook accuracy enforcement.
Alberta ID modernization: health numbers on driver’s licences by late 2026
The Alberta government has tabled legislation that would enable residents to add a personal health number to their driver’s licence or provincial ID card as early as late 2026. The measure is part of a broader plan to replace paper health cards and consolidate credentials to reduce damage and loss. The proposal is included in Bill 11, the Health Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 (No. 2).
Alberta has also confirmed that a new provincial licence plate design has been selected following a public vote that drew more than 240,000 responses. Details on rollout timelines and distribution were not disclosed.
Class 1 (tractor‑trailer) learning period and experience pathways
Alberta has reiterated minimum prerequisites for progressing through the Class 1 licensing path, which is required to operate tractor‑trailers in the province. During the learning period, applicants must meet at least one of the following before advancing:
- Hold a Class 1 learner’s licence for three months, or one month if the applicant is 25 or older; or
- Have 60 months of cumulative experience as a Class 5 licence holder; or
- Be registered in an approved truck driver training program.
These prerequisites align with Alberta’s commercial driver training framework and are designed to ensure adequate experience prior to full Class 1 testing and licensure.
Contractor reporting: T4A slips return in Canadian trucking
Industry stakeholders report that the reintroduction of T4A information slips for independent contractors in the trucking sector concludes a decade-long policy debate. The move is intended to standardize income reporting for contractors and improve clarity for carriers and drivers engaging in contractor relationships. Carriers and contractors should monitor federal guidance for filing requirements and timelines.
U.S. compliance note: FMCSA logbooks and ELD enforcement
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) continues to enforce electronic logging device (ELD) requirements for most commercial motor vehicle drivers subject to federal Hours-of-Service rules. Drivers and carriers are required to maintain accurate records of duty status; falsification of logs can lead to citations, civil penalties, and out-of-service orders. Carriers may also face liability for permitting or requiring non-compliance. Cross-border fleets operating in the United States should verify that ELDs are compliant and that recordkeeping procedures align with FMCSA regulations.