Plumber

Steps

1. Confirm the trade requirements on the SkilledTradesBC trade page

   Other

   Use the SkilledTradesBC trade page and Find Your Trade tool to check the program profile and the Employer or Statutory Declaration form, which lists the work hours and job task percentages needed to challenge the exam. SkilledTradesBC does not require IELTS or CELPIP results.

   Official source

2. Alternative route: register as an apprentice

   Other

   Newcomers who do not yet have enough documented experience can register as an apprentice with an employer sponsor. This requires meeting the trade prerequisites and being legally allowed to work in Canada, and to study for the technical training.

   Official source

3. Document your work experience

   Work experience

   Experienced tradespeople who were not certified in Canada can apply as a Trade Qualifier to challenge the certification exam. SkilledTradesBC describes this route as being for workers with about five or more years of experience; workers with less experience can challenge a level exam and enter an apprenticeship at the right level. All documents must be in English, and references are contacted by phone to verify the experience.

   Official source

4. Apply in the SkilledTradesBC Portal and pay the application fee

   Registration Cost: CAD 120 (SkilledTradesBC challenge application fee, as listed Sept 2026) Time: About 10 to 12 weeks, or longer if the work experience is from outside Canada (challenge page); the newcomers page states 8 to 10 weeks

   Create a Portal account, choose to challenge a certification exam, upload the declaration forms and pay the fee. SkilledTradesBC then verifies the work experience with employers or references.

   Official source

5. Pass the certification exam (Interprovincial Red Seal exam)

   Exam Time: Must be completed within 24 months of approval

   Once approved, book the exam through the Portal. The pass mark is 70 percent and a maximum of four attempts is allowed. The exam and any practical assessment must be passed within 24 months of approval. A translation dictionary or an interpreter can be requested as an exam accommodation.

   Official source

6. Receive the BC Certificate of Qualification with Red Seal endorsement

   Registration

   After passing, SkilledTradesBC mails the certificate. Passing the Red Seal examination adds the Red Seal endorsement to the provincial certificate, showing the national standard for the trade has been met.

   Official source