What grade do I need to achieve to pass the C of Q exam? You need to score at least 70 per cent to pass the C of Q exam.

Examination Format There are 100 to 150 questions per exam, depending on the trade. All questions are multiple-choice and of equal value. Each question has four possible choices (A, B, C and D).

Red Seal exams have between 90 and 150 questions.

You must register at one of their offices in order to write the Red Seal exam. Most provinces and territories have application forms available on their website. If you have questions or cannot find the Red Seal exam application form, contact your provincial or territorial apprenticeship office.

What is a Certificate of Qualification (C of Q) exam? A C of Q exam is a test of an individual’s knowledge and competency related to the performance of tasks involved with the practise of a trade.

When tradespersons complete their apprenticeships and pass the Red Seal examination they receive a Red Seal Endorsement (“RSE”) on their provincial/territorial trade certificate, usually called a “Certificate of Qualification”.

You can challenge the Red Seal examination if you meet the experience criteria for your trade. Obtaining a Red Seal endorsement acknowledges a journeyperson’s competence and quality workmanship.

A journeyman, as a qualified tradesman could become a master and run their own business, but most continued working as employees. The Red Seal, when affixed to a provincial or territorial trade certificate, indicates that a tradesperson has demonstrated the knowledge required for the national standard in that trade.

It is designed to extend the benefits of training across all provinces and territories. As well, it alleviates barriers to labour mobility for workers in the skilled trades. It also reduces the risk of skill shortages by allowing qualified workers to seek work in other provinces/territories.

While Red Seal industrial electricians: “… install, maintain, test, troubleshoot, service and repair industrial electrical equipment and associated electrical controls. Their work includes equipment or components directly or indirectly exposed to electrical power such as motors, generators, pumps and lighting systems.”