C.A. · Registered Migration Agent (MARN: 1803385)

NOC 2021 · 73300 · TEER 3

NOC 73300: Transport truck drivers

Official NOC 2021, Job Bank and IRCC data · checked 21 October 2026

Transport truck drivers drive straight trucks or tractor-trailers to transport freight. Long-haul truck drivers operate heavy trucks over urban, interurban, provincial and international routes, while short-haul and local transport truck drivers operate over urban and short interurban routes. They are employed by transportation, manufacturing, distribution and moving companies, and trucking employment service agencies, or they may be self-employed.

TEER

TEER 3

Usually needs a college diploma, an apprenticeship of less than 2 years, or more than 6 months of on-the-job training

Median wage (Canada)

$26.42 / hour

Job Bank, 2023-2024

High-wage tier (from 3 Nov 2026)

Not on the list

No high-wage CRS points

Express Entry categories

None

General and program draws only

Express Entry

How NOC 73300 counts for Express Entry

  • Federal Skilled Worker: eligible occupationNeeds 1 year of continuous skilled (TEER 0–3) work in the last 10 years and 67 points on the FSW grid.
  • Canadian Experience Class: eligible occupationNeeds 1 year of skilled (TEER 0–3) work in Canada in the last 3 years.
  • Federal Skilled Trades: eligible occupationNeeds 2 years of work in an eligible trade group in the last 5 years, plus a job offer or a Canadian certificate of qualification.

High-wage CRS points

NOC 73300 is not one of IRCC's 186 high-wage occupations, so Canadian work or a job offer in it earns no high-wage points. Your usual Canadian work-length points still count.

See all 186 high-wage occupations

Category-based draws

NOC 73300 is not on any of IRCC's 2026 occupation categories. You can still be invited through general, program-specific or French-language draws.

IRCC category lists

Duties

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

  • Long-haul transport truck drivers
  • Operate and drive primarily tractor-trailer, long-combination vehicle and straight-body trucks weighing over 4500 kg to transport goods and materials over long distances
  • Plan trip logistics and obtain required documentation to transport goods
  • Perform pre-trip, en route and post-trip inspection of vehicle systems, equipment and accessories such as tires, lights and turning signals, brakes and cold storage
  • Ensure cargo is secured properly in accordance with safety requirements and follow safety procedures for transporting dangerous goods
  • Obtain special permits and other documents required to transport cargo on international routes
  • Record cargo information, hours of service, distance travelled and fuel consumption
  • Administer bills of lading and manually or electronically maintain log books
  • Communicate with dispatcher, other drivers and customers using communication devices and on-board computers
  • May perform emergency roadside repairs
  • May drive as part of a two-person team or convoy
  • May transport hazardous products or dangerous goods.
  • Short-haul and local transport truck drivers
  • Operate and drive primarily straight trucks to transport goods and materials mainly on local routes and short interurban routes
  • Perform pre-trip, en route and post-trip inspection and oversee all aspects of vehicle such as condition of equipment, and loading and unloading of cargo
  • May drive special purpose trucks such as tow trucks, dump trucks, hydrovac trucks or cement mixing trucks.

For Express Entry, your experience must match the lead statement and most of these duties, not only the job title.

Job titles

Example job titles

  • bulk goods truck driver
  • dump truck driver
  • flatbed truck driver
  • heavy truck driver
  • logging truck driver
  • long haul truck driver
  • moving van driver
  • shunt truck driver
  • tow truck driver
  • tractor-trailer truck driver
  • transport driver
  • truck driver
All 63 job titles in NOC 73300
  • automobile carrier driver
  • automobile transport driver
  • bulk goods truck driver
  • bulk milk truck driver
  • cement truck driver - construction
  • coal hauler (except underground mining)
  • commercial driver
  • commercial truck driver
  • commercial vehicle operator
  • dangerous goods truck driver
  • dump truck driver
  • dumpster truck driver
  • escort - transportation
  • explosives truck driver
  • flatbed truck driver
  • freight truck driver
  • fuel oil truck driver
  • gasoline truck operator
  • gravel hauler
  • gravel truck driver
  • groceries long haul driver
  • heavy truck driver
  • hydrovac truck operator
  • line-haul driver
  • line-haul truck driver
  • liquid fertilizer truck driver
  • local truck driver
  • log hauler
  • log truck driver
  • logging truck driver
  • long combination vehicle (LCV) driver
  • long distance truck driver
  • long haul driver
  • long haul tractor-trailer driver
  • long haul transport driver
  • long haul truck driver
  • low-bed semi-trailer driver
  • mobile cement mixer driver
  • mobile concrete mixer driver
  • mobile support equipment operator - Canadian Armed Forces
  • moving truck driver
  • moving van driver
  • muskeg tractor operator
  • oil transport driver
  • professional truck driver
  • ready-mix driver - construction
  • ready-mix truck driver
  • regional truck driver
  • short haul truck driver
  • shunt truck driver
  • shunter - trucking
  • shunter truck driver
  • tank truck driver
  • tow truck driver
  • tractor-trailer truck driver
  • transport driver
  • transport truck driver
  • truck driver
  • truck mixer driver - construction
  • truck operator
  • truck owner operator
  • trucker
  • truck-trailer driver

Requirements

Employment requirements

  • Completion of secondary school is usually required.
  • On-the-job-training is provided.
  • Completion of an accredited driver training course of up to three months duration, through a vocational school or community college, may be required.
  • A Class 3 or D licence is required to drive straight-body trucks.
  • A Class 1 or A licence is required to drive long combination vehicles.
  • Air brake endorsement (Z) is required for drivers who operate vehicles equipped with air brakes.
  • Transportation of dangerous goods (TDG) certification is required for drivers who transport hazardous products or dangerous goods.
  • Additional licensing endorsement or certification may be required to drive articulated trucks.

Additional information

  • Progression to supervisory positions or to non-driving occupations, such as driver trainer, safety officer or truck dispatcher is possible with additional training or experience.

This occupation may be regulated in some provinces. You may need a licence or certificate from the provincial regulator before you can work in it in Canada, even if you hold permanent residence.

Wages

Wages for NOC 73300 in Canada

Low, median and high wages per hour in Canadian dollars, from ESDC Job Bank's 2025 wage data.

RegionLowMedianHighSource
Canada$19.45$26.42$37.00Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Newfoundland and Labrador$17.97$24.75$36.00Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Prince Edward Island$18.00$24.00$30.29Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Nova Scotia$18.00$24.00$30.00Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
New Brunswick$17.00$23.00$32.00Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Quebec$19.45$25.20$34.50Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Ontario$19.23$26.00$35.00Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Manitoba$17.00$24.00$34.72Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Saskatchewan$18.50$27.00$37.00Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Alberta$21.00$30.00$42.31Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
British Columbia$22.00$30.77$40.38Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Nunavut$20.00$29.00$40.00Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024

Provinces with too little data are not shown. Wages vary by city and employer; see Job Bank for regional figures.

Job outlook

Job outlook by province, 2025–2027

Job Bank rates the 3-year outlook as good or very good in Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Saskatchewan.

GoodNewfoundland and Labrador

The employment outlook will be Good for transport truck drivers (NOC 73300) in Newfoundland and Labrador for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.

A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

Due to the seasonal nature of this occupation, employment opportunities may vary depending on the time of the year.

Activity in the trucking industry tends to reflect general economic conditions. Most opportunities in this position in Newfoundland and Labrador will arise from retirements. Some long-haul trucking companies are attempting to improve conditions that have long characterized this occupation, such as reducing long periods away from home. Technology has impacted the trucking industry significantly over the past decade. Trucks are now more efficient and safer to operate, but they are also more mechanically complex. Emerging training needs for drivers include computer skills, electronic technologies, vehicle inspection and troubleshooting. The mobile nature of this occupation often allows transport drivers to live in the community of their choice.

Here are some key facts about transport truck drivers in Newfoundland and Labrador:

Approximately 3,100 people work in this occupation.

Transport truck drivers mainly work in the following sectors:

Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 34%

Construction (NAICS 23): 21%

Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 8%

Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 5%

48% of transport truck drivers work all year, while 52% work only part of the year, compared to 56% and 43% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 38 weeks compared to 40 weeks for all occupations.

10% of transport truck drivers are self-employed compared to an average of 8% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 51% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 49% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 21% compared to 11% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 31% compared to 27% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 36% compared to 17% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 10% compared to 23% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 14% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations

GoodPrince Edward Island

The employment outlook will be Good for transport truck drivers (NOC 73300) in Prince Edward Island for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment growth will lead to several new positions.

A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

This occupation falls under the provincial Occupations in Demand immigration stream, which is a program designed to help employers fill vacant positions that they are unable to fill locally. Furthermore, Employers rely on the Temporary Foreign Worker program to fill temporary jobs/vacancies in this occupation when qualified Canadian labour is not available.

The demand for workers in this field often fluctuates with economic conditions, especially those in the manufacturing, wholesale trade and construction sectors. Since truck drivers carry goods to various markets within Canada and the United States, the occupation is quite sensitive to regional and global economic turns. Recent developments, including tariff negotiations and the “Buy Canadian” model, have disrupted traditional routes and raised costs, forcing companies to adapt operations. Furthermore, hiring challenges persist due to insurance barriers for younger drivers, limited training pathways, and high turnover in long-haul positions, while seasonal fluctuations in construction, agriculture, and forestry add variability. Technology is reshaping the trade, with trucks becoming more efficient but mechanically complex, requiring drivers to develop skills in computer diagnostics, electronic systems, and safety compliance.

Working conditions, such as long work hours, unconventional work schedules and being away from home are listed as some of the main causes for the high employee turnover in this occupation. In particular, there tends to be a high turnover rate for long-haul drivers increasing the number of openings in this specific area.

Here are some key facts about transport truck drivers in Prince Edward Island:

Approximately 1,550 people work in this occupation.

Transport truck drivers mainly work in the following sectors:

Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 46%

Construction (NAICS 23): 19%

Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 6%

52% of transport truck drivers work all year, while 48% work only part of the year, compared to 59% and 41% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 40 weeks compared to 41 weeks for all occupations.

12% of transport truck drivers are self-employed compared to an average of 13% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 51% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 49% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 26% compared to 11% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 42% compared to 28% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 20% compared to 11% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 9% compared to 25% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 17% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations

GoodNova Scotia

The employment outlook will be Good for transport truck drivers (NOC 73300) in Nova Scotia for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.

A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

Demand for transport truck drivers is strong and is expected to increase further as a large share of drivers reach retirement age during the next several years. The need for drivers is particularly acute in long-haul trucking due to the more challenging lifestyle associated with it. To increase the supply of workers, the trucking industry is drawing on underrepresented demographic groups and newcomers. Despite the severe need for drivers, candidates who have little-to-no experience, or are under the age of 21, may struggle to find work due to insurance requirements and/or costs. Candidates must also be 21 years of age to cross the international border with the U.S. Jobseekers may benefit from employer programs aimed to attract workers, such as subsidized tuition and productivity-based bonuses. The mobile nature of this occupation often allows transport drivers to live in the community of their choice. Given the strong need for workers in this occupation, applicants should have little trouble finding work.

Here are some key facts about transport truck drivers in Nova Scotia:

Approximately 6,900 people work in this occupation.

Transport truck drivers mainly work in the following sectors:

Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 44%

Construction (NAICS 23): 15%

Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 8%

Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 6%

The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:

Full-time workers: 94% compared to 82% for all occupations

Part-time workers: 6% compared to 18% for all occupations

60% of transport truck drivers work all year, while 40% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 43 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.

11% of transport truck drivers are self-employed compared to an average of 11% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 51% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 49% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 28% compared to 10% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 31% compared to 27% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 24% compared to 12% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 12% compared to 22% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 20% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 10% for all occupations

GoodNew Brunswick

The employment outlook will be Good for transport truck drivers (NOC 73300) in New Brunswick for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.

A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

There is currently a shortage of workers in this field, with employers constantly seeking to fill vacant positions. The main challenges facing New Brunswick’s trucking industry are recruitment and retention. Industry has responded through incentives such as paid education and training, benefits, part-time and flexible schedules. The demand for truck drivers is particularly strong in Moncton, where economic growth has been more persistent than in the rest of the province, and Saint John, due to the need to transport goods from the city’s port facilities.

No post-secondary education is required, as on-the job training is typically provided. Ability to perform minor truck maintenance is generally an asset.

Drivers will require a class 1 Motor Vehicle License, so an unrestricted Class 5 Motor Vehicle License and completion of mandatory entry-level training (MELT) are prerequisites. Other licenses and certifications may be required, depending on the type of vehicle being driven and the cargo being transported. Commercial drivers may benefit from acquisition of a FAST Card/Pass from Canada Immigration Visa and Travel, which provides expedited U.S. Canada Border Crossing for commercial drivers who are predetermined to be low-risk Canadian citizens. Several employers consider this an asset and/or a requirement.

A clean driving record is also important as many companies will avoid hiring drivers who have recorded several accidents.

Truck drivers typically work a 40-to-50-hour week (60 hours maximum), though the schedule would depend on the type of goods being transported and distance travelled. Some companies may specialize in one or more areas, such as cross-border transport. Drivers are expected to work in a variety of weather conditions.

Here are some key facts about transport truck drivers in New Brunswick:

Approximately 8,150 people work in this occupation.

Transport truck drivers mainly work in the following sectors:

Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 57%

Construction (NAICS 23): 10%

The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:

Full-time workers: 94% compared to 84% for all occupations

Part-time workers: 6% compared to 16% for all occupations

57% of transport truck drivers work all year, while 42% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 42 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.

15% of transport truck drivers are self-employed compared to an average of 10% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 52% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 48% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 26% compared to 11% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 38% compared to 30% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 21% compared to 12% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 11% compared to 23% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 16% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations

GoodSaskatchewan

The employment outlook will be Good for transport truck drivers (NOC 73300) in Saskatchewan for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.

Several positions will become available due to retirements.

Job prospects may be softened by tariff-related disruption to U.S.-bound trade shipments, as growth prospects may be tempered for export-related sectors that hire this occupation.

Growth in interprovincial trade between Saskatchewan and the rest of Canada following Saskatchewan's MOU with Ontario to facilitate greater trade, and the removal of 53 federal exceptions in the Canadian Free Trade Agreement by the federal government should sustain and improve employment prospects for this occupation.

Transportation of dangerous goods (TDG) certification is required for drivers who transport hazardous products or dangerous goods.

Driverless vehicles are not expected to affect the industry in the short term but could pose a challenge in the long term.

Here are some key facts about transport truck drivers in Saskatchewan:

Approximately 11,650 people work in this occupation.

Transport truck drivers mainly work in the following sectors:

Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 53%

Construction (NAICS 23): 8%

Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 7%

The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:

Full-time workers: 92% compared to 81% for all occupations

Part-time workers: 8% compared to 19% for all occupations

56% of transport truck drivers work all year, while 43% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 42 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.

21% of transport truck drivers are self-employed compared to an average of 16% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 53% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 47% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 28% compared to 11% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 43% compared to 33% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 15% compared to 15% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 8% compared to 17% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 18% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations

ModerateOntario

The employment outlook will be Moderate for transport truck drivers (NOC 73300) in Ontario for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.

Several positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

What Types of Employers Are Out There?

General freight trucking

A smaller number work in construction, wholesale trade, and manufacturing

What are the Main Trends Affecting Employment?

Ongoing e-commerce and warehousing activities

Favourable levels of construction, led by large infrastructure projects in Ontario

The overall volume of goods requiring transportation may decline given trade uncertainties

What Skills Do I Need to Succeed?

A valid commercial truck driver’s licence

Certification to transport dangerous goods is required for the movement of hazardous products or dangerous goods

Certification from the Technical Standards and Safety Authority is required to operate a propane truck

What Other Information Will I Find Helpful?

Self-employment is rather common in this occupation

Ability to work long hours, irregular work schedules, and to be away from home may be required, especially for long-haul truck drivers

Some positions may require frequent travel to the United States.

Here are some key facts about transport truck drivers in Ontario:

Approximately 114,150 people work in this occupation.

Transport truck drivers mainly work in the following sectors:

Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 59%

Other transportation and warehousing (NAICS 482-483, 486, 487, 493): 7%

Construction (NAICS 23): 7%

The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:

Full-time workers: 92% compared to 81% for all occupations

Part-time workers: 8% compared to 19% for all occupations

56% of transport truck drivers work all year, while 43% work only part of the year, compared to 63% and 37% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 43 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.

32% of transport truck drivers are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 52% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 48% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 22% compared to 9% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 39% compared to 25% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 13% compared to 8% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 15% compared to 22% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: 8% compared to 24% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 13% for all occupations

ModerateAlberta

The employment outlook will be Moderate for transport truck drivers (NOC 73300) in Alberta for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.

A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

Opportunities in this occupation will be positive due to the ageing workforce, persistent labour shortages and challenges attracting young workers.

The government of Alberta launched the Class 1 Learning Pathway training program for commercial truck drivers in April 2025. The program provides more formal training and replaces the previous Mandatory Entry Level Training program.

Here are some key facts about transport truck drivers in Alberta:

Approximately 48,000 people work in this occupation.

Transport truck drivers mainly work in the following sectors:

Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 57%

Construction (NAICS 23): 9%

Support activities for mining, oil and gas (NAICS 213): 5%

The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:

Full-time workers: 91% compared to 80% for all occupations

Part-time workers: 9% compared to 20% for all occupations

54% of transport truck drivers work all year, while 46% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 42 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.

25% of transport truck drivers are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 53% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 47% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 27% compared to 10% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 41% compared to 28% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 14% compared to 13% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 10% compared to 19% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: 6% compared to 21% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 9% for all occupations

ModerateBritish Columbia

The employment outlook will be Moderate for transport truck drivers (NOC 73300) in British Columbia for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.

Several positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

The current trade environment has resulted in reduced cross border travel and transportation of goods.

Key trends in this occupation include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist to enhance safety and reduce fatigue.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are used to provide the most efficient routes.

The use of Transportation Management Systems (TMS) supports improved communication between drivers, dispatchers, and customers.

In May 2025, TransLink announced that it was working on a new truck safety initiative to make the trucking industry safer and more efficient.

The new initiative would look to simplify permitting and definitions to reduce the administrative burden on trucking companies to comply with regulations.

In October, Teamsters Local 213 and the Laborer’s International Union of North America Local 1611 (LiUNA 1611) opened a new 13,000 sq.

ft.

training facility in Chilliwack.

The facility will focus on training commercial truckers to aid in addressing workforce gaps in the industry.

Here are some key facts about transport truck drivers in British Columbia:

Approximately 36,000 people work in this occupation.

Transport truck drivers mainly work in the following sectors:

Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 56%

Construction (NAICS 23): 7%

The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:

Full-time workers: 92% compared to 78% for all occupations

Part-time workers: 8% compared to 22% for all occupations

61% of transport truck drivers work all year, while 39% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 44 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.

26% of transport truck drivers are self-employed compared to an average of 17% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 52% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 48% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 22% compared to 8% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 46% compared to 28% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 14% compared to 13% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 9% compared to 17% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: 6% compared to 22% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations

ModerateNorthwest Territories

The employment outlook will be Moderate for transport truck drivers (NOC 73300) in Northwest Territories for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.

Several positions will become available due to retirements.

Due to the seasonal nature of this occupation, employment opportunities tend to be more favourable during the summer months.

From 2021-2040, 86 job openings are forecast for transport truck drivers in the Northwest Territories (

Government of Northwest Territories, May 2023

).

Employment opportunities in this occupation may be constrained by automation and digital transformation initiatives.

Arctic Response’s Class 1 MELT program offers 5–6 weeks of commercial driver training with airbrakes endorsement and full testing support. This training is available to remote communities and open to anyone with a non-GDL Class 5 licence (

Wayfinder, October 31, 2025

).

Aurora College offers training to prepare individuals to write and pass the written and practical GNWT Class 1 Driver Entry Level training (

Aurora College, 2025

).

Here are some key facts about transport truck drivers in Northwest Territories:

Approximately 450 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

Transport truck drivers mainly work in the following sectors:

Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 28%

Public Administration and Defence (NAICS 91): 19%

Wholesale and Retail Trade (NAICS 41, 44-45): 12%

Construction (NAICS 23): 11%

Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction (NAICS 21): 11%

The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:

Full-time workers: 89% compared to 88% for all occupations

Part-time workers: 11% compared to 12% for all occupations

63% of transport truck drivers work all year, while 37% work only part of the year, compared to 71% and 28% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 42 weeks compared to 44 weeks for all occupations.

7% of transport truck drivers are self-employed compared to an average of 7% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: 91% compared to 52% for all occupations

Women: 9% compared to 48% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 45% compared to 17% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 27% compared to 26% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 22% compared to 12% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 18% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 17% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: n/a

ModerateNunavut

The employment outlook will be Moderate for transport truck drivers (NOC 73300) in Nunavut for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment growth will lead to several new positions.

A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

Due to the seasonal nature of this occupation, employment opportunities tend to be more favourable during the summer months.

Employment opportunities in this occupation may be constrained by automation and digital transformation initiatives.

Here are some key facts about transport truck drivers in Nunavut:

Approximately 350 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

Transport truck drivers mainly work in the following sectors:

Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 28%

Public Administration and Defence (NAICS 91): 19%

Wholesale and Retail Trade (NAICS 41, 44-45): 12%

Construction (NAICS 23): 11%

Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction (NAICS 21): 11%

The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:

Full-time workers: 82% compared to 87% for all occupations

Part-time workers: 17% compared to 13% for all occupations

65% of transport truck drivers work all year, while 35% work only part of the year, compared to 72% and 28% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 41 weeks compared to 44 weeks for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: 90% compared to 51% for all occupations

Women: 10% compared to 49% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 65% compared to 37% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 17% compared to 22% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 12% compared to 11% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 15% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: n/a

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: n/a

LimitedQuebec

The employment outlook will be Limited for transport truck drivers (NOC 73300) in Quebec for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.

A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

These workers transport goods to Canadian and foreign markets. Employment in this occupation is therefore influenced by economic conditions and the business environment in these markets.

Household consumption of goods has been growing steadily for several years, which boosts truck freight transportation. However, the climate of uncertainty surrounding U.S. tarrifs could curb exports to the United States, slow down the economy and consumption and thereby limit hiring in some companies in the short term.

Technological advances in logistics, such as navigation and communication systems, are improving the efficiency of road transport by optimizing itineraries and reducing delays. Productivity gains are tempering the demand for these drivers. In the long run, the gradual arrival of self-driving trucks could also reduce the outlook for this occupation.

Here are some key facts about transport truck drivers in Quebec:

Approximately 75,100 people work in this occupation.

Transport truck drivers mainly work in the following sectors:

Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 49%

Construction (NAICS 23): 7%

Postal service, couriers and messengers (NAICS 491, 492): 7%

Food services and drinking places (NAICS 722): 6%

Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 6%

The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:

Full-time workers: 86% compared to 82% for all occupations

Part-time workers: 14% compared to 18% for all occupations

56% of transport truck drivers work all year, while 43% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 42 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.

18% of transport truck drivers are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: 94% compared to 52% for all occupations

Women: 6% compared to 48% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 26% compared to 12% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 25% compared to 19% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 33% compared to 19% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 10% compared to 22% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 17% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 11% for all occupations

LimitedManitoba

The employment outlook will be Limited for transport truck drivers (NOC 73300) in Manitoba for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.

Several positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

Due to the seasonal nature of this occupation, employment opportunities tend to be more favourable during the summer months.

Demand for this occupation is driven by conditions in trade and the supply chain, which are currently tariff exposed and subject to economic cycles. The supply chain depends on this occupation for goods movement.

Key trends in this occupation include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist to enhance safety and reduce fatigue. Artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are used to provide the most efficient routes. The use of Transportation Management Systems (TMS) supports improved communication between drivers, dispatchers, and customers.

Jobs are concentrated in the South Central, North Central and Southeast regions.

Here are some key facts about transport truck drivers in Manitoba:

Approximately 16,400 people work in this occupation.

Transport truck drivers mainly work in the following sectors:

Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 74%

Construction (NAICS 23): 6%

The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:

Full-time workers: 94% compared to 81% for all occupations

Part-time workers: 6% compared to 19% for all occupations

59% of transport truck drivers work all year, while 41% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 43 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.

24% of transport truck drivers are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 53% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 47% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 27% compared to 12% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 36% compared to 31% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 13% compared to 12% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 14% compared to 17% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: 7% compared to 20% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations

Source: ESDC Job Bank, 3-year employment outlooks 2025–2027 (released December 2025).

Provinces

Provincial Nominee Programs

A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points. Most provinces run occupation-targeted draws or in-demand lists, and some accept TEER 4 and 5 occupations that Express Entry does not.

Provincial lists change often, sometimes between draws. We check whether NOC 73300 is being targeted by any province as part of a consultation.

Similar occupations

Related NOC codes

Classified elsewhere

If your duties fit one of these better, use that code instead.

  • 75201 Delivery service drivers and door-to-door distributors
  • 74205 Public works maintenance equipment operators and related workers
  • 72024 Supervisors, motor transport and other ground transit operators
  • 14404 Dispatchers
  • 75211 Railway and motor transport labourers
  • 41210 College and other vocational instructors

Same occupation group

Transport truck and transit drivers

Questions

NOC 73300: common questions

What is the NOC code for transport truck drivers?
The NOC 2021 code is 73300 (Transport truck drivers). Job titles in this group include bulk goods truck driver, dump truck driver, flatbed truck driver, heavy truck driver, logging truck driver. Your NOC is set by your actual duties, not your job title.
What TEER category is NOC 73300?
NOC 73300 is TEER 3. Usually needs a college diploma, an apprenticeship of less than 2 years, or more than 6 months of on-the-job training.
Is NOC 73300 eligible for Express Entry?
Yes. As a TEER 3 occupation it counts as skilled work for the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Canadian Experience Class, and it is also in a Federal Skilled Trades group. You still need to meet each program's other requirements.
Is NOC 73300 a high-wage occupation for Express Entry?
No. It is not on IRCC's list of 186 high-wage occupations, so work or a job offer in it does not earn the new high-wage CRS points from 3 November 2026.
Is NOC 73300 eligible for category-based Express Entry draws?
It is not on any of IRCC's 2026 occupation category lists. You can still be invited in general, program-specific or French-language draws.
What is the median wage for NOC 73300 in Canada?
The national median wage is $26.42 per hour, according to Job Bank (Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024). It ranges from $19.45 to $37.00.

Classification

Where it sits in NOC 2021

  1. 7Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupationsBroad Category
  2. 73General tradesMajor Group
  3. 733Transportation occupationsSub-major Group
  4. 7330Transport truck and transit driversMinor Group
  5. 73300Transport truck drivers

Enquiry

Is NOC 73300 your occupation? Ask us about your options.

Tell us your duties, experience and language scores. We will confirm your NOC code and the Canadian routes that fit.

The more context you give, the more useful the first conversation will be.

Sources: Statistics Canada, NOC 2021 Version 1.0, Job Bank wages (2025), Job Bank outlooks 2025–2027 and IRCC. Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – Canada. Checked 21 October 2026.

NOC 2026 is due from Statistics Canada in December 2026. IRCC still uses NOC 2021 codes, and this page will show any change once IRCC switches.

This page is general information, not immigration advice. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Government of Canada, IRCC or ESDC.

Plan your move to Canada

A first consultation covers eligibility, realistic timelines, total cost and the tax consequences of the move. You leave with a written plan, not a brochure.