Service NL
October 14, 2015

Building a Stronger Workforce

Veterans Bring Valued Skills to the Provincial Labour Force

The Provincial Government is helping veterans find rewarding careers and strengthening the provincial labour force by formally recognizing specific training under the Department of National Defence 404 driver's licence as equivalent to a commercial vehicle driver's licence. The Honourable Dan Crummell, Minister of Service NL, announced the initiative today with representatives from the Helmets to Hardhats program, Newfoundland and Labrador Building and Construction Trades Council, and the private sector.

"Military personnel have skills and experience that are just as valuable in civilian roles as they are when used in defence of our country. By recognizing the credentials of the Department of National Defence 404 driver's licence, we are not only helping veterans transition successfully into new careers, but we are also helping provincial companies secure the human resources they need to complete projects and pursue new commercial activity. This initiative is in keeping with the goals of the workforce development component of the Provincial Government's Population Growth Strategy."
- The Honourable Dan Crummell, Minister of Service NL

This change, which takes effect immediately, was pursued in collaboration with Helmets to Hardhats - a not-for-profit organization focused on providing career opportunities to Canadian military veterans and serving reservists.

"On behalf of Helmets to Hardhats I thank the Provincial Government for recognizing the Department of National Defence 404 driver's licence as being equivalent to commercial vehicle training. Military personnel are highly skilled and highly disciplined individuals who can make great contributions as part of the provincial labour force. This initiative will help many veterans pursue meaningful work at the end of their military service, and will strengthen many private sector companies throughout Newfoundland and Labrador."
- Brigadier General (Ret'd) Gregory C.P. Matte, Executive Director of Helmets to Hardhats

An appropriate driver licence equivalency will be automatically granted to any active Regular Force or Reservist service person, including those who have retired from the Canadian Armed Forces, provided they had a valid Department of National Defence 404 driver's licence within two years of applying for the civilian commercial equivalent driver's licence.

QUICK FACTS:

• The Provincial Government has announced that Service NL's Motor Registration Division will now recognize appropriate training under the Department of National Defence 404 driver's licence as equivalent to a commercial vehicle driver's licence.
• Other jurisdictions that recognize Department of National Defence 404 equivalencies include Ontario, Quebec and Manitoba.
• Previously applications for exemption were assessed through the relevant Motor Registation Division, based on Department of National Defence equivalent licences and training certification, on a case-by-case basis to determine driver licence equivalency.
• Veterans seeking further information regarding this initiative are encouraged to contact their nearest Government Service Centre, which can be found by visiting www.servicenl.gov.nl.ca/department/contact.html#locations.

- 30 -

Media contact:

2015 10 14                              10:20 a.m.