Professional Instructor in Driver Education

The Professional Instructor in Driver Education program, previously known as P.R.I.D.E., is a joint venture of the Ontario Motor Coach Association (OMCA), Ontario Public Transit Association (OPTA) and Ontario School Bus Association (OSBA).  This one-of-a-kind program teaches driver instructors how to properly train drivers in their fleet in addition to designating participants as the "Signing Authority" under the Ministry of Transportation's "Driver Certification Program" upon completion.

                   By the end of the training, driver instructors receive:

1. "Signing Authority" certification from the Ministry of Transportation in order to sign, upgrade and renew drivers' licenses on your own premises (if passing grade achieved and all other MTO requirements are met).
2. Indispensable techniques for classroom instruction including the effective use of audio visual equipment, non-lecture format and more!
3. Proper facilitation skills including climate setting, guided questioning, being an active listener, and giving positive feedback both in the classroom and on-board the vehicle.
4. Valuable in-vehicle information on "HOW" to properly teach pre-trip inspections, defensive driving, right and left turns, night driving and more.
5. Effective techniques for dealing appropriately with the concerns and sentiments of new and seasoned trainees alike.
6. One-on-one interaction with instructors and endless opportunities to exchange information among participants.

Program dates for 2013:

Feb. 3-8

Mar. 10-15 (March Break) 

Jul. 7-12

Aug. 11-16

                                  Oct. 20-25                                 

Who Should Attend?        

Anyone currently involved in driver instruction for large vehicles, as well as instructors who may be involved with driver instruction in the future.  One of the objectives of this program is to encourage consistent instructional methods among all driver trainers regardless of the organization in which they work.  All participants taking part in the program are encouraged to hold a valid passenger carrying license (e.g. B,C,E,F for Ontario).

Program Approach

Designed specifically by and for bus driver trainers, this intensive five day program uses every moment of time!  There will be hands-on simulations and lots of practice with real-life situations both in the classroom and on the bus.  It is a highly participative and supportive approach within the adult learning environment.

Workshop Hours

(Daily ending times are approximate)

Sunday - 12:00 noon to 6:00 pm 
 Monday to Thursday (inclusive) - 8:00 am – 10:00 pm

Friday - 8:30 am – 1:00 pm

Our Session Leaders

The program is conducted by experienced facilitators.  Their highly professional approach reflects in-depth research based on behaviour modelling and developmental learning, and incorporates effective and proven instructional methodology and adult learning principles.                   

Ontario Signing Authority

This program has been approved by the Ministry of Transportation as a formal pre-requisite to becoming a Signing Authority in the province of Ontario.  An overview regarding "Signing Authority" and the MTO Driver Certification Program (DCP) is provided on the Friday morning of each program.  Participants wishing to qualify for "Signing Authority" must hold a valid Ontario driver's license for the previous three years in the class of vehicles for which they will be training. 

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