Sunday, June 1, 2025

What are Compulsory vs. Non-Compulsory Trades?

Did you know that in both Ontario and Manitoba we classify different types of trades as either compulsory or non-compulsory? Each classification has different standards, and the qualifications vary between the two provinces.

For anyone working in compulsory trades, you must hold a valid Certificate of Qualification, Provisional Certificate of Qualification (in Ontario), or Registered Training Agreement. In Manitoba, a temporary permit will be provided instead of a Provisional Certificate of Qualification while you wait to take your exam. All compulsory trades will require a qualifying exam as part of completing the apprenticeship.

A reminder for Manitoba apprentices: Apprenticeship Manitoba is no longer issuing Authorizations to Practice. However, they will continue to recognize Authorizations to Practice that have been issued prior to December 18, 2020.

In Ontario, there are 23 compulsory trades

Alignment and Brakes Technician
Auto Body and Collision Damage Repairer
Auto Body Repairer
Automotive Electronic Accessory Technician
Automotive Service Technician
Electrician — Construction and Maintenance
Electrician — Domestic and Rural
Fuel and Electrical Systems Technician
Hairstylist
Hoisting Engineer — Mobile Crane Operator 1
Hoisting Engineer — Mobile Crane Operator 2
Hoisting Engineer — Tower Crane Operator
Motorcycle Technician
Plumber
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic
Residential (Low Rise) Sheet Metal Installer
Residential Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic
Sheet Metal Worker
Sprinkler and Fire Protection Installer
Steamfitter
Transmission Technician
Truck and Coach Technician
Truck-Trailer Service Technician

In Manitoba, there are only nine compulsory trades

Construction Electrician
Crane Operator

Mobile Crane Operator
Boom Truck Hoist Operator
Tower Crane Operator

Industrial Electrician
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic
Sprinkler Fitter
Steamfitter-Pipefitter
Electrologist
Esthetician
Hairstylist

All other trades listed in either province are considered non-compulsory trades. Some examples in both Ontario and Manitoba include concrete finishers, construction craft workers, and millwrights. For anyone who performs work in these trades, completing an apprenticeship or earning a Certificate of Qualification is not required. However, you can still choose to register as an apprentice under non-compulsory trades and earn a Certificate of Qualification.

What are Compulsory vs. Non-Compulsory Trades?

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