Licensing Requirements
Introduction
01.
Licensing Requirements Across Canada
Navigating licensing requirements in Canada can be complex as they vary by province and trade. This page provides a comprehensive overview of provincial requirements for General Contractors, Engineers (P.Eng), Electricians, Plumbers, and Home Inspectors. Whether you’re starting your career or expanding your business, understanding these requirements is essential to ensure compliance and success.
General Contractor Licensing Requirements
Alberta
• Prepaid contractors must obtain a Prepaid Contractor License if accepting payment before completing work.
• Additional municipal licensing may be required (e.g., Calgary and Edmonton).
British Columbia
• Contractors working with regulated systems (e.g., electrical, gas) must hold a Certificate of Qualification.
• Licensing is regulated by BC Housing.
Ontario
• No specific General Contractor License is required; however, trades like plumbing and electrical work require certifications.
• Municipalities like Toronto require a Building Renovator License for general contracting businesses.
Quebec
• All contractors must hold a license from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ).
• Additional certifications may be required for specific trades.
Manitoba
• No specific provincial license required; municipal regulations may apply.
Saskatchewan
• Contractors must follow municipal licensing requirements and building codes.
Professional Engineer (P.Eng) Licensing Requirements
General Requirements Across Canada
• Engineering degree from a program accredited by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB) or equivalent.
• Minimum 48 months of verifiable engineering work experience.
• Pass the National Professional Practice Exam (NPPE) to demonstrate knowledge of law and ethics.
• Demonstrate good character and proficiency in English or French.
Ontario
• Regulated by Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO).
• Applicants must complete a competency-based assessment (CBA) to validate their work experience.
British Columbia
• Regulated by Engineers and Geoscientists BC (EGBC).
• Requires at least one year of Canadian work experience or equivalent.
Alberta
• Regulated by the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA).
• Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is mandatory after licensure.
Quebec
• Regulated by Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec (OIQ). French language proficiency may be required.
Manitoba
• Regulated by Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba (EGM). Applicants must pass the NPPE exam and meet work experience requirements.
Saskatchewan
• Regulated by Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan (APEGS). Requires academic assessment, work experience validation, and NPPE exam.
Electrician Licensing Requirements
Ontario
• Completion of a 9,000-hour apprenticeship program.
• Pass the Certificate of Qualification (C of Q) exam.
• Electrical contractors must hold an Electrical Contractor License issued by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA).
British Columbia
• Completion of a recognized apprenticeship program.
• Pass the Red Seal or provincial licensing exam.
• Registration with Technical Safety BC is required.
Alberta
• Completion of a four-year apprenticeship program with 1,560 hours per year.
• Pass the Red Seal Exam to become licensed.
Quebec
• Completion of an approved training program regulated by CMEQ. Passing the provincial electrician exam is mandatory.
Manitoba & Saskatchewan
• Completion of apprenticeship programs recognized by their respective provincial authorities. Red Seal certification is recommended for interprovincial mobility.
Plumber Licensing Requirements
Ontario
• Completion of a five-year apprenticeship program.
• Pass the Certificate of Qualification Exam to obtain licensure.
British Columbia
• Completion of a four-year apprenticeship program or equivalent training.
• Pass the Interprovincial Red Seal Exam.
Alberta
• Completion of a four-year apprenticeship program.
• Pass the Red Seal Exam to become licensed.
Quebec
• Completion of an approved plumbing training program regulated by CCQ. Passing the provincial plumbing exam is mandatory.
Manitoba & Saskatchewan
• Apprenticeship programs recognized by provincial authorities with Red Seal certification for interprovincial mobility.
Home Inspector Licensing Requirements
Ontario
• Completion of an accredited home inspection training program.
• Pass the National Home Inspector (NHI) exam.
• Liability insurance is mandatory.
British Columbia
• Complete 150 hours of education approved by Consumer Protection BC.
• Conduct 50 hours of supervised inspections with an approved trainer.
• Obtain errors & omissions insurance and pass the licensing exam.
Alberta
• Complete an approved training program and supervised field inspections.
• Obtain liability insurance and register with Service Alberta for a Home Inspection Business License.
Quebec
• Membership with InterNACHI Québec or AIBQ is required along with completion of training programs and field inspections.
Key Notes on Licensing Across Provinces
- Many provinces recognize interprovincial mobility through programs like the Red Seal certification for trades such as electricians and plumbers, allowing professionals to work across provinces without additional licensing.
- Some municipalities may impose additional business licensing requirements beyond provincial regulations (e.g., Toronto’s Building Renovator License).
- Ongoing education or certification renewal may be required in some provinces to maintain licensure.
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