In Nova Scotia, there are more than 65 trades that are designated under the Apprenticeship and Trades Qualifications Act. Of these trades, a number are specified as compulsory certified. For a complete list of designated and compulsory certified trades in Nova Scotia, please visit the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency’s website.

To work in a compulsory certified trade, a certificate, temporary work permit or apprentice status is required. In non-compulsory trades, certification is not required. However, having it may assist you in securing employment.

N.S. Department of Labour and Advanced Education, Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency

Please contact the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency and ask to speak to the Training Officer for your trade/region.

Varies

For compulsory certified trades, certification is valid for five years and is renewable.

Please contact the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency for information about fees.

If an individual from another jurisdiction within Canada has a certificate in one of Nova Scotia’s designated trades and wishes to work in Nova Scotia, they may visit Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency's website for information.

For more information about registering as an apprentice or obtaining certification in one of Nova Scotia's designated trades, please visit the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency's website.

Apprenticeship and Trades Qualifications Act and General Regulations