Each province and territory regulates apprenticeship within its borders, ensuring systems respond to the unique industrial, economic and geographic realities of their region. Apprentices in designated trades must be registered with the provincial/territorial regulatory body and are subject to standards and training requirements set out by governing legislation.
There are 56 “Red Seal” trades where the majority of apprentices train. Red Seal tradespeople have achieved a standard of excellence in their trade, something recognized by employers across Canada and around the world. Apprentices in Red Seal programs across Canada take a common final exam and, if successful, receive an endorsement on their provincial/territorial certificate. The program is governed jointly by the provinces and territories through the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program. Apprentices in Red Seal trades are eligible for federal grants and loans while in technical training, in addition to supports that may be offered by their province/territory.