People who have been working in a trade for many years (but not as an apprentice) may want to become recognized for their skills. Earning a Certificate of Qualification and becoming a journeyperson is the highest professional standard for the skilled trades. If an experienced tradesperson meets the trades qualification eligibility criteria, they can challenge a certification examination.

For some trades, your certification also includes successfully completing a practical exam.

Review the Explore Trades section of the website and click on the Trades Qualifier tab to learn about the specific eligibility requirements for each trade.

In general terms, each trade requires you to have:

• a minimum number of years working in the trade
• a minimum number of hours working in the trade
• experience in at least 70 per cent scope of the trade

A certification exam tests your knowledge of all of the tasks and activities of your trade. It is a four-hour multiple-choice exam. Samples exams are available in your trade profile. Also, take advantage of exam preparation tips and plan to study for your exam.

A passing grade is 70 per cent or higher for the final certification exam.

Once you are accepted as a trade qualifier, you have one year to register for and take the certification exam. If you do not register for your exam within that year, you will have to re-apply, pay the fees and complete your documentation again.

However, if you take the exam within the year but fail to achieve a passing grade of 70 per cent or more, you can re-schedule your second attempt within one year of your previous attempt without needing to reapply.

Do not be discouraged! Use what you have learned from your previous experience to help prepare you for your next attempt. If you didn’t pass your certification exam as a trade qualifier, you can reschedule a second attempt. If you still do not pass, you will need to take additional approved training before you can register for a third exam.

Remember to access exam resources and sample exams are available to help you study for your certification exam; they are in the trade profile for your trade.

Alternatively, you may apply to become an apprentice. You may challenge a level exam and reduce the overall length of your apprenticeship program. Contact Apprenticeship Manitoba for more details.

Some trades in Manitoba require a practical exam to earn your Certificate of Qualification. Check your trade profile to see if your trade has this requirement.