Red Seal Trades in Ontario: What Are They & How to Get Into One

If you want to make a name for yourself in one of Ontario’s most prominent, highest-paying trades, getting a Red Seal endorsement can go a long way. This nationally recognized certification will open up opportunities for you all across the country, increase your earning potential, and allow you to establish yourself as an expert in your field.

Sounds exciting, right? But how many Red Seal trades are there, and how can you get that coveted Red Seal certification in Ontario? Keep reading to learn more!

What Is Red Seal Certification?

The Red Seal Program (formally the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program) is a partnership between the federal, provincial, and territorial governments that sets common standards for training and certification of skilled trades in Canada.

As such, a Red Seal endorsement proves you have met a high standard of knowledge, skills and experience in one of the program’s 50+ approved trades. Essentially, completing the Red Seal Program indicates to employers that you know what you’re doing.

So, what are the Red Seal trades? Some of the most common and popular on this list includes:

Electricians (industrial and construction)
Welders
Carpenters
Automotive service technicians
Powerline technician
Plumbers

The Benefits of a Red Seal Endorsement

A Red Seal endorsement is nationally recognized, meaning getting one in Ontario will allow you to move and work anywhere in the country without having to re-certify or undergo additional training.

Beyond that, some additional benefits include higher employability and earning potential, improved job security, professional recognition, and lucrative financial incentives being made available through Canada’s Apprenticeship Incentive Grant.

How to Get Red Seal Certification in Ontario

Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting Red Seal certification in Ontario:

Step 1: Complete Pre-Apprenticeship Training

While not mandatory, enrolling in a pre-apprenticeship program will give you a valuable headstart. These can be as short as 12 weeks and will teach you the foundational skills needed to secure an apprenticeship and thrive during it, too.

Pre-apprenticeships can also help you build networks within the industry, opening up doors to better apprenticeship opportunities. Don’t discount the many benefits of completing pre-apprenticeship training.

Step 2: Secure Your Apprenticeship

Most Red Seal trades require the completion of an apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. The length of apprenticeships varies by trade, but they often take a few years to complete.

You can typically find Red Seal apprenticeship opportunities through employers, unions, or industry associations. Once you have secured yours, you will need to formally register through Ontario’s apprenticeship authority.

Don’t forget to seek out financial aid; there are many government grants and deductions available for apprentices in designated Red Seal Trades in Ontario.

Step 3: Complete Your Apprenticeship Program

An apprenticeship means learning through a combination of on-the-job training and in-class technical training. The idea is to master both theory and practice—you’ll need both to complete your apprenticeship successfully!

Depending on your trade, your apprenticeship program may last from two to five years. Don’t worry, you’ll be getting paid to do this. As you progress through your apprenticeship, your wages may also increase to reflect your skills and experience.

Step 4: Become a Certified Tradesperson

Your apprenticeship is now complete! What’s next?

For compulsory trades, you will be required to take a final certification exam upon the completion of your apprenticeship. This is separate from the Red Seal Examination (more on that shortly) and makes you eligible for work in your province or territory.

For non-compulsory trades, the process can vary. Some non-compulsory trades still offer a voluntary certifying exam where you can get your Certificate of Qualification.

Step 5: Write and Pass the Red Seal Exam

Remember: the Red Seal exam is voluntary and you are well within your rights to begin your career after becoming a certified tradesperson without it. However, if you want the perks that come with a Red Seal certification in Ontario, then you need to write it!

Here’s an overview of the Red Seal examination:

It is a four-hour multiple-choice test that assesses your knowledge and ability to perform the tasks required by your trade
It’s administered by the MLTSD at designated test centres across Ontario
You will need to pay an exam fee of $150 (+HST) and book your exam date in advance
The minimum score to pass the exam is 70%
If you fail, you can try again after three months

A female trades student plasters a wall while instructors watch

Take the First Step to a Red Seal Trades Career

Becoming a Red Seal certified tradesperson in Ontario requires drive and determination. It won’t be easy, but the perks and opportunities are great for those who put in the work and persevere—your future self will thank you!

The first step? Learning the ropes. Skilled Trades College of Canada offers pre-apprenticeship courses that can give you a leg up in pursuing a career in several trades:

‍All of our courses only take 12 weeks, are taught in small class sizes, and place an emphasis on hands-on learning to better prepare you to succeed. You’ll graduate feeling ready to secure an apprenticeship and start your journey in a Red Seal trade!

Enrol today to kickstart your career!