Manitoba License Requirements
In Manitoba, there are specific trades that require the appropriate certification in order for tradespeople to work in the province. These trades are called compulsory trades. Trades are regulated and standardized under The Apprenticeship and Certification Act.
Education and Certification
Compulsory trades require a tradesperson to be a registered apprentice, or have appropriate journeyperson certifications in order to practice their trade in Manitoba.
An Apprenticeship is a required for anyone entering into the compulsory trades workforce. Learning, training, and examination in an apprenticeship program leads to the 'ticket', or the Certificate of Qualification (C of Q). Once one has their C of Q, they are officially qualified to work in their trade across the province, and are considered a Certified Journeyperson by Apprenticeship Manitoba.
Certified Journeypersons are recognized under the Agreement of Internal Trade as certified to work in Canada, among other provinces, so long as they continue to practice their certified trade.
The Red Seal certifies highly skilled tradespeople to work across Canada no matter where they did their apprenticeship in Canada. This certification requires additional fees and testing.
Individuals who have extensive experience in the field but are uncertified can apply for a Challenge Certificate. A challenge exam tests the individual's knowledge, and provides them with a proper certification if they pass the exam. Challenge exams allow tradespeople to bypass full programs if they have sufficient knowledge and experience in their trade.
Licensing and Permits
Electricians
Electrician are required to have the C of Q, or be a registered apprentice in order to work in the field. Further electrical licensing under the Manitoba Electrician's Act is required, whether in Winnipeg, or Brandon.
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics
These specialists must have their C of Q, or be a registered apprentice in order to work in the field. They must also have a valid Ozone Protection Industry Association license, along with a Gasfitter "B" license. These specialists cannot work with accessories or equipment exceeding 400,000 buth units. Gas Fitters are included in this trade, obtaining the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics certification.
Plumbing
Converse to other provinces, plumbing is not considered a compulsory trade, and plumbers are not required to have particular certifications.
Permits
Depending on your municipality, permits may be required before your contractor begins a project. Building, occupancy, and plumbing permits are issued by 3 different authorities, and these authorities have jurisdiction over permit requirements. Your contractor requires an electrical permit before they begin your project. Permits help ensure that your projects comply with municipal and provincial safety standards.
Changes to Licensing Requirements
Because licensing requirements change, it is important that you check with both your provincial and municipal office to verify if any updates have been made, or additional licenses are required.
If you understand that there are additional or updated licensing requirements, or restrictions or laws pertaining to skilled trades performed in Manitoba, feel free to comment in the forum below.
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