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$1,500 to CA$4,000
an estimate in Canadian dollars
Time to earn it
about 3 years
Issued by Red Seal Program (provincial and territorial apprenticeship authorities)
Required in some provinces: Certification is compulsory to work in the trade in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick; elsewhere it is voluntary or not offered.
About
Bricklayers build and repair walls, chimneys, fireplaces, and other structures using brick, block, and stone. The work calls for accuracy, strength, and a steady eye. Bricklayers read plans, mix mortar, set materials in line, and finish joints so the work is sound and looks good.
The certificate of qualification is issued by the province or territory where you train and test. When you also pass the interprovincial Red Seal exam, you earn the Red Seal endorsement. That endorsement is recognised in every province and territory, so it can help you move for work without starting over. Certification may be a legal requirement, a way to prove your skill, or not available at all, depending on where you live.
How to get it
Check the rules where you live
Find out whether the trade is compulsory, voluntary, or not offered in your province or territory. Contact the local apprenticeship authority to learn what applies to you.
Find an employer and register as an apprentice
Most people learn the trade on the job. You will usually need a sponsoring employer and must register with your provincial or territorial apprenticeship authority.
Complete on-the-job training
Work under a certified bricklayer and build up the required hands-on hours. Your hours and skills are recorded as you go.
Complete technical training
Attend in-class training at a college or training centre. You will study materials, layout, blueprints, safety, and trade methods.
Pass the certification exam
Once your training and work hours are complete, you sit the exam. A pass earns your certificate of qualification and the Red Seal endorsement.
The exam
The Red Seal exam is a written, multiple-choice test that covers the skills and knowledge of the trade. It is taken near the end of your apprenticeship. Study your course materials and review the national standard for the trade to prepare. The exam is set up so a pass is recognised across the country.
Licensed by each province
Each province and territory issues this itself, under its own rules. Compulsory in: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick. Each province and territory sets its own rules. Certification is compulsory in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, so you must hold it to work in the trade there. In other places it is voluntary or not offered, though many employers still prefer certified workers. Training paths, fees, and requirements also vary from place to place, but the Red Seal endorsement is recognised everywhere.
Careers that mention it
No Canadian career on the site names this yet.
Keeping it
Renewal rules depend on where you are certified. In some provinces and territories, a certificate of qualification needs to be kept current through a renewal. In others, it does not expire. Check with your local apprenticeship authority to see what applies to you.