Professions and Trades

Professional and trades jobs in Ontario may be regulated or unregulated. Find out more about the credentials required to work in these fields.

Regulated

How do I get a Certificate of Qualification for my trade?
You need a Certificate of Qualification to work in some skilled trades in Ontario. Each skilled trade has different certification requirements.
What are regulated professions and trades?
Some professions and trades are regulated in Canada to protect public health and safety. That means that you must have a licence or certificate to work in these professions and trades.
Where can I get information about regulated professions?
Some professions are regulated in Ontario to protect public health and safety. That means that you must have a licence or certification to work in those fields.
Myths About the Skilled Trades as a Career Option in Ontario
Revealing some truths about the skilled trades and why you should consider it as a career option.
How do I get my nurse or doctor’s license as an internationally educated professional?
Nurses and doctors are regulated in Canada and internationally educated professionals in this field must get their license before they practice in Ontio.
How can I work in my trade in Ontario?
If you just arrived in Ontario and want to get back into your trade, there are some first steps you can take.

How do I get a Certificate of Qualification for my trade?
You need a Certificate of Qualification to work in some skilled trades in Ontario. Each skilled trade has different certification requirements.
Which trades are unregulated or have voluntary certification in Ontario?
For some trades, you are not obliged to have a Certificate of Qualification to work in Ontario. However, employers and unions might ask for "voluntary certification."
Which professions are unregulated in Ontario?
Most professions are unregulated in Ontario. This means that you do not need a licence or certification to do them.

Where can I get my international credentials evaluated for employment?
These organizations can evaluate the education that you completed outside of Canada. They charge a fee for their services.
Where can I get my international credentials evaluated for education?
Generally, elementary and secondary schools can evaluate your child's education themselves. However, each college and university has its own process for evaluating your previous education.
What are credentials?
"Credentials" often refer to academic or educational qualifications, such as degrees or diplomas that you have completed or partially completed. "Credentials" can also refer to occupational qualifications.

What are alternative jobs?
An alternative job is a position in the same or a related field to your original occupation. Working in an alternative job can be a good way to use your skills and get Canadian work experience.