Commercial Vehicle Wheel Service Training Information
Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for installing wheels on commercial vehicles in Ontario?

A regulation has been passed under the Trade Qualification and Apprentice Act requiring all persons who install wheels on commercial vehicles to successfully complete a course of study and obtain a certificate.

Which commercial vehicles fall under the requirements of this regulation?

All vehicles with a registered gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 9,000 kg or higher.

Does a licensed mechanic need to become certified?

No. Licensed Motor Vehicle Mechanics and Truck Trailer Repairers are already qualified to perform this work.

Can a vehicle operator employ an uncertified person to install wheels on commercial vehicles?

The Ontario Trucking Association has developed a training course which has been approved by the Ministry of Education and Training. The course will be delivered by qualified instructors drawn from industry. The Ontario Trucking Association does not intend to offer the course directly.

What is covered in the course?

The course focuses on methods and practices to safely secure wheels onto commercial vehicles. This includes inspection of wheel/rim system components, understanding out of service criteria, correct preparation of wheels for assembly, installation, and torquing practices, for the three major commercial vehicle Wheel/Rim Systems.

Since the course is directed at persons experienced in commercial tire service, instruction in tire repair and installation is not included in this course.

What are the prerequisites for installers who wish to become certified?

The required certification program is directed at experienced commercial vehicle tire service personnel. Candidates must have spent the equivalent of 480 hours performing tire service work and must fully understand industry accepted wheel rim, and tire safety practices. Wheel installers must obtain endorsement from their current employer to enroll in training courses.

When will the training courses begin?

The courses began in September. For a current schedule contact OTA at 416-249-7401.

How long is the course?

It is expected to take eight hours.

Is the certificate issued at the end of the course?

A test must be written at the end of the course. Upon passing, a temporary certificate will be issued. A permanent certificate will be issued later by the Ministry of Education and Training.

How much are the certification fees?

The fee for the course will be set by each instructor. It will include instruction, a reference manual, and the permanent certificate. The fee is not expected to exceed $150.00.

Can mechanics take the training?

Yes. A mechanic may take the training; however, since a mechanic is considered qualified, a different certificate will be issued by OTA. Some instructors may offer enhanced training for mechanics that will include hub, seals, and bearings, in a one-day supplementary course.

What are the prerequisites for becoming an instructor?

To ensure the integrity of the program, instructors must meet the following qualifications:

• Satisfactory knowledge of commercial vehicle wheel/rim system components as evidenced by:
  • a certificate of qualification as a motor vehicle mechanic, or an inter-provincial equivalent; or
  • an engineering qualification in a related field; or
  • experience in commercial vehicle tire and wheel/rim system service; and
• Be engaged in, or have experience in, a training or teaching role.
• Applicants must obtain endorsement from their current employer, or a recognized industry association, attesting to commercial vehicle wheel/rim system knowledge and teaching/training qualifications.

How do persons register to become certified wheel installers, or instructors?

Contact Ontario Trucking Association at 416-249-7401.