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 3 years
Issued by Red Seal Program (provincial and territorial apprenticeship authorities)
About
Tilesetters prepare surfaces and install ceramic, porcelain, stone and glass tile in homes, businesses and public buildings. The work includes layout, cutting, setting, grouting and sealing. It also includes waterproofing areas such as showers and floors that get wet.
The Red Seal is an endorsement added to a provincial or territorial certificate of qualification. You earn it by passing the interprovincial exam. Once you hold it, your certification is recognised in every province and territory. That makes it easier to move for work, take on larger projects and earn the trust of employers and clients.
How to get it
Find an apprenticeship
Look for an employer who will hire you as an apprentice tilesetter. Then register with the apprenticeship authority in your province or territory.
Learn on the job
Work under a certified tilesetter and build your skills over time. Your hours of work experience are recorded and signed off as you go.
Complete technical training
Attend classroom and shop training in blocks during your apprenticeship. You will study topics such as surface preparation, tile layout, materials and safety.
Finish your apprenticeship
Once you have completed the required work experience and training, you become eligible to write the certification exam.
Pass the Red Seal exam
Write the interprovincial exam. When you pass, you receive your certificate of qualification with the Red Seal endorsement.
The exam
The Red Seal exam is a written, multiple-choice test based on the national standard for the trade. It covers the main skills of a tilesetter, including preparation, installation, finishing and safe work practices. Your apprenticeship authority can tell you how to apply and what to bring.
Licensed by each province
Each province and territory issues this itself, under its own rules. Each province and territory sets its own rules for apprenticeship, including how training is delivered and whether certification is required to work in the trade. In most places tilesetting is a voluntary trade, but some jurisdictions may treat it differently. The Red Seal endorsement is recognised across the country, so it is a good choice if you may want to work in more than one region.
Careers that mention it
No Canadian career on the site names this yet.
Keeping it
Renewal rules depend on your province or territory. Some places ask you to keep your certification current or pay a small administrative fee, while others do not. Check with your local apprenticeship authority to find out what applies to you.