Written by AI from public information on 2026-10-26. Fees and rules change and vary by province — confirm with the official body before relying on anything here.
Typical cost
about CA$500 to CA$1,500
an estimate in Canadian dollars
Time to earn it
about 3 to 6 months
Issued by Electrical Safety Authority (Ontario)
Required to start: In Ontario an electrical contracting business must have a licensed master electrician.
About
A master electrician is an experienced electrician who is licensed to take responsibility for the electrical work a business does. The Electrical Safety Authority issues the licence in Ontario. It is a legal requirement, not an optional credential.
The licence matters most to people who want to move beyond working for someone else. Many master electricians go on to run their own shops or lead teams as foremen and superintendents. The skills also apply in fast-growing areas such as EV charging and specialized electrical work.
Each province and territory licenses electrical contractors in its own way. This page focuses on the Ontario licence, which sits above the usual electrician trade qualification and shows you are ready to be accountable for a business's work.
How to get it
Become a qualified electrician
Complete an apprenticeship and earn your journeyperson electrician qualification. This gives you the hands-on foundation the licence builds on.
Gain hands-on experience
Work in the trade long enough to build solid knowledge of the electrical code and safe practice. The regulator sets out the experience it expects.
Prepare for the exam
Review the electrical code, safety rules and business responsibilities. A few months of focused study is common for people already working in the trade.
Pass the exam and apply
Complete the written exam and submit your application and fee to the Electrical Safety Authority. Check the regulator's current requirements before you apply.
Link your licence to a business
An electrical contracting business needs a licensed master electrician. Make sure your licence is tied to the contractor you will work for or operate.
The exam
The licence involves a written exam. It tests your knowledge of the electrical code, safe work practices and the duties of a master electrician. Ask the Electrical Safety Authority for the current exam details and study resources.
Licensed by each province
Each province and territory issues this itself, under its own rules. For example — Ontario: Electrical Safety Authority. Licensing of electrical contractors is handled by each province and territory, and the rules, titles and requirements differ from place to place. If you plan to work or run a business outside Ontario, check what that jurisdiction requires. Your Ontario licence may not transfer automatically.
Keeping it
The licence must be renewed on a regular schedule to stay valid. Renewal usually means paying a fee and keeping your details up to date. Check with the Electrical Safety Authority for the current rules and any other requirements.