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$3,000 to CA$8,000
an estimate in Canadian dollars
Time to earn it
about 4 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, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia; elsewhere it is voluntary or not offered.
About
Refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics work on the systems that keep food cold and buildings comfortable. They install, maintain, diagnose and repair equipment in homes, stores, restaurants, warehouses, hospitals and factories. The work includes handling refrigerants safely, reading technical drawings and testing electrical and mechanical parts.
The certification is issued through the apprenticeship authority in each province or territory. When you pass the national Red Seal exam, you earn an endorsement that is recognised across the country. That means you can take your qualification with you if you move for work. This certification leads to careers such as HVAC technician and refrigeration technician.
How to get it
Find an employer
Most people start by getting hired as an apprentice with a company that works in the trade. You can also look for pre-apprenticeship or introductory trades programs at a college to help you get started.
Register as an apprentice
Sign up with your province or territory's apprenticeship authority, usually together with your employer. They will track your progress and tell you what is required.
Learn on the job
Work under the guidance of a certified journeyperson and build your skills in the field. You will need to record your work hours as you go.
Complete technical training
Attend classroom and shop training at a college or training centre. This is usually done in blocks, with time away from the job site, and it covers the theory behind the trade.
Pass the certification exam
Once you have finished your training and logged enough work experience, you can write the certification exam. Passing it earns your certificate of qualification with the Red Seal endorsement.
The exam
The Red Seal exam is a written, multiple-choice test. It covers topics such as refrigeration theory, electrical controls, system installation, troubleshooting and safety. You will need to show that you understand both the theory and the practical side of the trade. Your apprenticeship authority will explain how to book the exam and what to bring.
Licensed by each province
Each province and territory issues this itself, under its own rules. Compulsory in: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia. In Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia, you must be certified or registered as an apprentice to work in this trade. In other parts of the country, certification is voluntary or not offered, though many employers still prefer it. The details, such as training format and how work experience is counted, vary from one province or territory to the next. The Red Seal endorsement is recognised everywhere.
Keeping it
Renewal rules depend on where you work. In some provinces and territories your certificate stays valid as long as you stay in good standing. In others you may need to pay a renewal fee or meet other conditions. Check with your local apprenticeship authority to see what applies to you.