Understand the credential · 3 min read
What a Red Seal endorsement means
The relationship between your trade certificate, the national standard and the Red Seal endorsement.
A national standard within provincial and territorial certification
The Red Seal Program establishes common standards for designated skilled trades across Canada. Provinces and territories administer apprenticeship and trade certification. Passing the Red Seal examination can lead to an endorsement on the applicable provincial or territorial trade certificate.
The certificate and the endorsement are connected
A trade certificate and a Red Seal endorsement are not interchangeable terms. The endorsement records that the holder demonstrated the knowledge required by the national standard through the examination. Confirm a person’s certification with the authority that issued it.
What it does not do
An endorsement does not replace every local requirement that may apply to a job or business. Confirm the rules for the trade, location and work you plan to undertake. This website does not issue either trade certificates or Red Seal endorsements.
Start with the correct trade
Similar-sounding designations can have different occupational standards and examinations. Construction Electrician and Industrial Electrician are separate trades, as are Auto Body and Collision Technician and Automotive Refinishing Technician. Check the exact designation before choosing training or preparation material.