1. How do I get started, or what is the procedure?
There is more in-depth information available on the ICBC website regarding government requirements and procedures.

These are the general steps:

I.   Pick-up learning manual from ICBC branch (FREE).
II.  Study for learner’s license and pass written test at ICBC.  If you have any
     questions contact us through Ask an Instructor.
III.  Complete 16-hour Air Brake course and pass written test at ICBC.  If you
     do both of these tests at the same time, the price will be two for one.
IV. Call us to book an appointment and then start the road training. 
V. Do the road test with an ICBC examiner, once you and your instructor feel
     you’re ready.  We arrange the test and it is conducted at our yard, so
     there’s no extra hassle.

2. How long does the program take?
On average the general time frame is two to four weeks.  Every student has a different background and learning abilities, and therefore, requires different amounts of training.  The amount will vary depending on whether one is mechanically inclined, ESL, has had a license in another country or province, and general aptitude towards driving etc. 

3. When does the next course start? (When can I take these…)
All of the training, except Air Brake classes, is done on a one to one basis; therefore, the courses are ongoing.  Lessons, usually two hours long, can be booked during the days, evenings and weekends; this allows for a very flexible training schedule that can fit any individual’s schedule.  Air Brake courses are conducted Sat. and Sun. from 8am to 4pm.

4. Where is the course conducted?
The majority of training takes place at our Burnaby location, although there are some lessons available in Surrey as well.  Please click here for address and location information.

5. Do you teach class five? (not yet)
We do not teach the GLP program as of yet.  www.icbc.com

6. Do you pick-up the student?
We do not pick-up for class 1 to 4, as a BC driver’s license is a pre-requisite for any of these classes.  One will have to find their way to the yard by car, bus or skytrain.  Please see the Translink website for further bus route information.

7. Do you offer a payment plan?
Students have the option to pay as they go, per lesson, for their training.  There are also several sources such as Human Resources, Employment Insurance, unions, etc. that provide funding if one is eligible for it.  Please see their websites or contact them over the phone for further information.

8. What type of equipment is used?
We have Kenworth tractor trailers for class one and three, school buses and coaches for class two training, as well as a 14 passenger van for class four training.  All equipment is rigourously examined every six months by independent inspection facilities.

9. When is the next instructor’s course?
Instructor’s courses run approximately every 6 to 8 weeks.  These courses are scheduled according to demand and either full-time or part-time courses are available in consensus with student response and majority.

10. Do you have instructor’s that speak other languages?
Yes, we do have several bi-lingual instructors.  They speak fluent English and either Hindi, Punjabi, Mandarin, or Cantonese; some of them even speak several of these languages.  The instructors help can also be utilized in preparation for the written tests that need to be passed at ICBC.

11. Who is Eligible?
All principle vehicle operators are eligible including:  
   All drivers, regardless of violation accident record
   Youthful drivers, in addition to discount for driver education training
   Senior citizens
   Assigned risk drivers
   Commercial executive vehicle operators
   Motorcycle riders

12. Who attends truck-driving school?
Our students range in age from 18 to over 60.  Men and women are considering the potential earnings and stability of the commercial driving industry and many more women today enter the field than ever before.

At BPDS we have students who have never driven a standard transmission let alone a “Big Rig”, but they are as equally competent at the end of school as the student who drove commercial trucks years ago and is re-entering the industry.

BPDS has the benefit of experienced staff members who know the industry and work as an integral team to see each and every student achieve their best in the school, the field training and in their new employment. 

13. Is there additional help if necessary for the learner’s license and otherwise?
Yes we offer help for any written test or questions about driving.  See ABOUT US for further information. (ICBC practice test)

14. Will I have the same instructor and what are their qualifications?
Yes, you will have the same instructor, unless there are extenuating circumstances causing a change to have to be made.  All instructors a certified by ICBC using strict regulations; In addition all of our instructors are highly experienced both in driving and teaching students.

15. What is the success rate of your students?
Eighty five percent of our students pass their exam the first time.  Though students are generally trained thoroughly enough to pass the test, some buckle under the pressure, while others insist upon a road test against counsel of their instructor. 

16. What are your cancellation, refund and lesson change policies?
A cancellation must be made a minimum of 24-hours prior to your appointment, or else a $50.00 cancellation fee will be charged for the instructor’s loss of time.  If one wishes to obtain a refund, there is no problem; a full refund of the money will be made.  If you wish to change your appointment and there is more than 24-hours notice, there are no penalties and it is as simple as making a phone call.

17. What should I bring for lessons?
You will need:

• A pen and piece of paper, for note taking
• A rain coat, for bad weather
• A pair of gloves, for the pre and post-trips
• Any corrective lenses that are required 
• Air Brake and Learner’s Manuals for additional information

18. What will I learn?
ABOUT COURSES AND RESOURCES

19. Which class is for me?
SEE PACKAGES AND RATES

20. Is there a registration fee?
Yes, there is a $100 registration fee.