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$2,000 to CA$6,000
an estimate in Canadian dollars
Time to earn it
about 4 years
Issued by Red Seal Program (provincial and territorial apprenticeship authorities)
About
Metal fabricator fitters read drawings and plans, then cut, shape, and fit metal parts together so they can be welded or fastened. They work with steel plates, beams, pipes, and sheet metal. Their work ends up in buildings, bridges, tanks, machinery, and many other products.
The Red Seal is an endorsement added to a provincial or territorial certificate of qualification. You earn the certificate in the province or territory where you train. When you also pass the interprovincial Red Seal exam, your credential is recognised in every province and territory. You do not need the Red Seal to work in this trade, but it makes it easier to move for work and can help you stand out to employers.
How to get it
Find an employer or training path
Most people start as apprentices, working for an employer who agrees to train them. Some people begin with a pre-employment or trades program at a college to improve their chances of finding an apprenticeship.
Register as an apprentice
Contact the apprenticeship authority in your province or territory and register. They will explain the training you need and how your progress is tracked.
Learn on the job and in school
You build your skills while working under a certified tradesperson. You also attend technical training blocks, usually at a college or training centre, to learn theory and safe work practices.
Log your experience
Keep a careful record of your work hours and skills. Your apprenticeship authority needs this record to confirm you are ready to be assessed.
Pass the certification exam
When you have finished your training and work experience, you write the final exam. Passing it earns you your provincial or territorial certificate of qualification with the Red Seal endorsement.
Use your Red Seal across Canada
Once you hold the Red Seal, you can show it to employers in any province or territory as proof of your trade qualifications.
The exam
The Red Seal exam is a written, multiple-choice test. It covers the main skills of the trade, such as reading drawings, layout, cutting and forming, fitting, and safe work practices. You should study your training materials and review sample questions before you write. Your apprenticeship authority can tell you how to book the exam and what to bring.
Licensed by each province
Each province and territory issues this itself, under its own rules. Each province and territory runs its own apprenticeship system, so the steps, training schedule, and fees can differ. The Red Seal exam is the same across the country, and the endorsement is recognised everywhere. Always check with the apprenticeship authority where you live or plan to work.
Careers that mention it
No Canadian career on the site names this yet.
Keeping it
Renewal rules depend on where you are certified. In many places, the certificate itself does not expire once you have earned it. Some provinces and territories may ask you to keep your trade information up to date. Check with your apprenticeship authority to be sure.