What is a Safety Fitness Certificate (SFC)?

Written By Sara Awatta

There are requirements for commercial carriers in Alberta to obtain a Safety Fitness Certificate (SFC) based on specific factors. Here's a breakdown of the key points:

Definition of Commercial Carrier: A commercial carrier is an entity that owns one or more commercial vehicles used for transporting goods, passengers, or providing a service.

Safety Fitness Certificate (SFC) Requirement: Carriers must obtain an SFC to operate commercial vehicles in Alberta. The necessity for an SFC is determined by three factors:

  1. Operational Location:

    • Whether the carrier operates within Alberta or outside the province.

  2. Registered Weight:

    • The registered weight of the commercial vehicle and/or trailer.

  3. Seating Capacity:

    • The seating capacity of the commercial vehicle.

SFC Requirement Criteria: Carriers must obtain an SFC for the following types of commercial vehicles:

  1. Truck or Trailer (or combination) within Alberta:

    • A truck or trailer, or any combination of the two, with a registered weight of 11,794 kg or more, operating solely within Alberta.

  2. Truck or Trailer (or combination) outside Alberta:

    • A truck or trailer, or any combination of the two, with a registered weight of more than 4,500 kg that is used (or intended to be used) to transport goods on a highway outside of Alberta. This includes farm-plated vehicles.

  3. Commercial vehicle for passengers:

    • A commercial vehicle originally designed for carrying 11 or more persons, including the driver, that is used (or intended to be used) for the transportation of passengers.

In summary, commercial carriers in Alberta must assess their operational location, vehicle weight, and seating capacity to determine whether they need to obtain an SFC. This certificate is a regulatory requirement to ensure that carriers operating commercial vehicles comply with safety standards.


Provincial or Federal Operating status

commercial vehicle operations in Alberta, the terms "federal" and "provincial" operating status refer to the jurisdiction under which carriers are regulated. The key difference lies in the geographical scope of the carrier's operations and the regulatory framework to which they are subject. Here's a breakdown of the differences:

  1. Federal Operating Status:

    • Carriers with federal operating status are subject to national or interprovincial regulations.

    • They engage in the transportation of goods or passengers across provincial or territorial borders.

    • Federal regulations are typically more standardized and apply consistently across multiple provinces and territories.

    • Carriers with federal operating status may be involved in long-haul or cross-border transportation.

  2. Provincial Operating Status:

    • Carriers with provincial operating status are subject to the regulations of a specific province or territory.

    • They primarily conduct their operations within the boundaries of that province.

    • Provincial regulations may vary between provinces, leading to differences in certain operational requirements.

    • Carriers with provincial operating status may be involved in intraprovincial transportation, serving local or regional markets within a specific province.

In Alberta, carriers can have either federal or provincial operating status based on the nature and scope of their operations. The operating status determines the regulatory framework under which carriers must comply with safety, licensing, and other transportation-related requirements. It's important for carriers to understand and adhere to the specific regulations applicable to their operating status to ensure compliance with legal and safety standards.

For carriers operating exclusively within Alberta, provincial regulations apply. If a carrier engages in interprovincial or international transportation, they fall under federal regulations. The operating status is a crucial factor in determining the specific rules and regulations that apply to carriers, including requirements for obtaining a Safety Fitness Certificate (SFC) and compliance with hours of service regulations.

Pre-Entry Program for Safety Fitness Certificate (SFC) in Alberta:

Introduced on March 1, 2019, the Pre-Entry Program is mandatory for all commercial carriers applying for a new Safety Fitness Certificate (SFC) in Alberta. The program involves several steps, and it's crucial for the appropriate individual to complete it. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Safety Fitness Certificate Compliance Course

  1. The course comprises 6 modules and takes approximately 6 to 8 hours to complete.

  2. Access the course online and create a 511 Alberta account in the individual's full name.

  3. Complete self-assessments for each module, and a certificate of completion will be generated.

  4. Save the certificate to the computer, as it will be needed for the SFC application.

Step 2: Safety Fitness Certificate Knowledge Test

  1. The knowledge test covers the content of the SFC Compliance Course and includes both bus and truck operations.

  2. The individual must take the test at an Alberta Registry Office with Alberta-issued identification (e.g., driver’s license).

  3. A passing score of 80% or higher is required. If unsuccessful, the applicant must wait 24 hours to retake the test.

  4. The knowledge test must be passed within 180 days of the application.

Step 3: Register Your Vehicle(s)

  1. Register your vehicle(s) at an Alberta registry office.

  2. Note the Motor Vehicle Identification (MVID) number on the registration document, as it is required for the SFC application.

Step 4: SFC Application

  1. Complete and pay for the new SFC application online.

  2. Ensure you have the following documents and information ready:

    • MVID number from the vehicle registration document

    • Nature of your business (e.g., hauling goods, providing a service, transporting passengers)

    • Amount of insurance coverage

    • Operating location (within or outside Alberta)

    • Certificate of completion for the SFC Compliance Course

    • Confirmation of written safety and maintenance programs

    • Credit card for the application fee payment (Visa, Visa Debit, MasterCard, Debit MasterCard, and American Express are accepted)

  3. Go to the Safety Fitness Certificate Application for new carriers.

Step 5: Obtain the Certificate

  1. The certificate is issued once the application is reviewed and approved.

  2. The certificate is available electronically through the Online Services, Carrier Document Portal.

  3. Create an account using the provided information (name, email address, approval code, MVID, NSC Carrier number).

  4. Access the certificate through the Carrier Document Portal.

  5. Notices, letters, and documents related to the SFC are available electronically, and carriers must keep their email address up-to-date.

Important Reminders:

  • Carriers must ensure access to the Carrier Document Portal and update their email address regularly.

  • A copy of the certificate must be carried in each vehicle requiring it.

  • Authorization to operate is granted upon receipt of the certificate.

By following these steps, carriers can successfully complete the Pre-Entry Program and obtain the required Safety Fitness Certificate in Alberta.


Sara Awatta
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