Exam & certification information
About the Carpenter Red Seal exam.
The published examination has 100 four-option multiple-choice questions, a four-hour writing time and a 70% passing mark. Our two full forms match that length, time and published task distribution. The questions are independently developed.
The scope of your job may cover only part of the national trade. Use the occupational standard to identify areas outside your everyday work.
Your provincial or territorial authority determines eligibility, fees, booking and permitted references. This study package does not register you for the official exam or confer certification.
References checked 16 October 2026: official trade exam information ↗ and official preparation guide ↗.
The work, skills and trade scope
Build, install and repair structures and building components. The trade includes layout, concrete formwork, framing, exterior work, interior finishes and renovations.
Residential and commercial construction, formwork, renovation, maintenance and specialty contracting.
Spatial reasoning, drawing interpretation, accurate layout, sequencing and knowledge of how building assemblies manage loads and moisture.
- Site layout and levelling
- Formwork, foundations and framing
- Roof and wall assemblies
- Doors, stairs and interior finishes
- Renovation assessment and building envelope