⚠️ Compulsory Trades Law:
Working in a compulsory trade (such as electrical or plumbing) without a valid Certificate of Qualification or active apprentice registration is illegal in Ontario and subject to significant provincial fines.
Trade Classification Lookup
Select an Ontario trade to view its certification requirements and hours:
Trade Equivalency Assessment (TEA) Process
If you completed your trade training outside of Ontario (or overseas), you must pass the Trade Equivalency Assessment (TEA) before you can write the provincial certification exam:
- Submit Work Verification: You must submit signed employer letters, pay stubs, and tax assessments proving you completed the required hours (e.g. 9,000 hours for electricians) in your trade.
- Book the Certification Exam: Once your TEA is approved, you will receive a voucher code allowing you to book the provincial exam. The exam consists of 100-150 multiple-choice questions.
- Passing Score: You must achieve a score of **at least 70%** to pass and receive your Certificate of Qualification (C of Q) with a Red Seal endorsement.
STO Quick Facts
TEA Assessment Fee$235 CAD
Exam Writing Fee$150 CAD
Passing Score70%
Red Seal EndorsementSupported