Your Guide to Ontario's Skilled Trades
Ontario faces a shortage of 100,000+ skilled workers by 2030. Whether you are starting fresh or bringing experience from another province, this guide covers everything you need to build a successful trades career.
Why the Trades?
The skilled trades offer high earning potential, job security, and a career path that does not require a university degree. Ontario's construction and home services sectors face a generational workforce gap that creates unprecedented opportunity for those entering the industry today.
Ontario will need over 100,000 new tradespeople.
The opportunity is unprecedented for those entering the trades today.
Sources: BuildForce Canada · Skills Ontario · Statistics Canada
Licensing Requirements by Trade
Ontario regulates many skilled trades through compulsory certification. Understanding which licences and registrations your trade requires is the first step to a legitimate, insurable career.
Electrician
Requires an ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) licence and Skilled Trades Ontario certification. Electricians must hold a Certificate of Qualification to work independently in Ontario.
HVAC
Requires TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority) registration for gas fitting. Refrigeration mechanics also require Skilled Trades Ontario certification.
Plumber
Requires a Skilled Trades Ontario journeyperson Certificate of Qualification. Plumbing is a compulsory certification trade — you cannot legally perform plumbing work without it.
General Contractor
HCRA (Home Construction Regulatory Authority) registration is mandatory for builders of new homes and major renovations. General contracting itself is not a compulsory trade, but HCRA compliance is required for new home construction.
Pest Control
Requires MECP (Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks) licensing. Technicians must hold a valid pesticide licence to apply restricted-use products.
Tree Service
ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certification is strongly recommended. While not legally required, ISA certification is the industry standard and a significant trust signal for homeowners.
How Ontario Apprenticeships Work
Ontario's apprenticeship system combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. You earn while you learn, and graduate with a nationally recognized credential.
Register with Skilled Trades Ontario
Create your apprenticeship application through Skilled Trades Ontario. You will need proof of education (minimum Grade 12 or equivalent) and your Ontario residency documents.
Find an Employer Sponsor
An employer must agree to train you. Many trade unions, colleges, and industry associations help connect apprentices with sponsors. Some programs offer pre-apprenticeship training to make you a stronger candidate.
Complete In-School and On-the-Job Training
Most apprenticeships require 4 to 5 years of combined training. You spend roughly 80% of your time working on the job (earning a wage) and 20% in classroom sessions at an approved college.
Pass Your Certification Exam
After completing all required hours and in-school sessions, you write the Certificate of Qualification exam. Passing grants you journeyperson status and the legal right to work independently in your trade.
WSIB: Why It Matters
The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) provides no-fault injury coverage for Ontario workers. Understanding WSIB is essential for anyone entering the construction and home services industry.
Mandatory for Most Construction Employers
If you employ workers in construction or home services, WSIB registration is required by law. Independent operators in construction are also required to register in most cases.
Protects Workers and Business Owners
WSIB covers medical costs, lost wages, and rehabilitation for workplace injuries. For business owners, it provides liability protection against workplace injury lawsuits.
ProScore Verifies WSIB Registration
ProScore checks WSIB registration status as part of the Verification pillar. Verified WSIB coverage is a strong trust signal that differentiates professional contractors from uninsured operators.
How to Register
Register through the WSIB website at wsib.ca. You will need your business number, payroll information, and industry classification (NAICS code). Registration is typically completed within a few business days.
Expected Earnings by Trade
Skilled trades offer competitive compensation that grows significantly with experience and certification. Business owners in high-demand trades frequently exceed six figures.
| Trade | Journeyperson / Employee | Master / Business Owner |
|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $55K–$95K | $90K–$130K (Master) |
| Plumber | $50K–$90K | $85K–$120K (Master) |
| HVAC Technician | $50K–$85K | $80K–$115K (Master) |
| General Contractor | $60K–$100K | $100K–$200K+ (Business Owner) |
| Roofer | $45K–$75K | \u2014 |
| Landscaper | $35K–$60K | $80K–$150K+ (Business Owner) |
Electrician
Plumber
HVAC Technician
General Contractor
Roofer
Landscaper
Figures represent estimated annual earnings in CAD for the Ontario market. Actual earnings vary by region, specialization, and business structure.
How ProScore Helps New Tradespeople
ProScore aggregates data from 10+ data sources to create a single trust score for every contractor in Ontario. For tradespeople entering the industry, ProScore provides the fastest path to credibility.
Claim your free profile to establish your online reputation from day one
Your ProScore grows as you earn reviews, verify licenses, and build your track record
Display your ProScore badge to differentiate yourself from unlicensed competitors
Get matched with homeowners looking for contractors in your area
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to work in the trades in Ontario?
It depends on the trade. Ontario has compulsory certification trades (like electrician and plumber) that legally require a Certificate of Qualification. Other trades are voluntary, meaning certification is available but not legally required. However, even for voluntary trades, certification significantly improves your earning potential and credibility. Check with Skilled Trades Ontario for the full list of compulsory vs. voluntary trades.
How long does an apprenticeship take?
Most Ontario apprenticeships take between 2 and 5 years to complete, depending on the trade. Electricians and plumbers typically require 5 years (9,000 hours), while other trades like drywall finishing may take 2-3 years. The apprenticeship combines on-the-job training with in-school technical sessions, and you earn a wage throughout the entire process.
What is WSIB and do I need it?
WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) provides no-fault workplace injury insurance in Ontario. Most construction employers are required to register with WSIB. If you operate your own business, WSIB coverage protects both you and your workers. Many homeowners and general contractors require proof of WSIB before hiring subcontractors. ProScore verifies WSIB registration as part of every contractor's trust score.
How do I get my first customers?
Start by claiming your free ProScore profile to establish an online presence. Ask early clients for Google Reviews, as review volume and rating are major trust signals. Register with all relevant licensing bodies to show verification on your profile. Network with general contractors who subcontract work. Your ProScore grows automatically as you earn reviews, verify licenses, and build your track record.