Working in Nova Scotia

Before working in Nova Scotia in any of the skilled trades, you need to know the apprenticeship and trade certification requirements in this province. Click here for a complete list of the designated trades. 

• Several trades are compulsory certified under our legislation (the Apprenticeship and Trades Qualifications Act) and are identified on the list of trades by a yellow dot . This means there is a legal requirement to be certified or registered as an apprentice with our division. 
• Some trades are compulsory certified under another regulatory authority and are identified on the list of trades by a green dot . Their licensing or certification requirements must be complied with.
• Most trades are NOT compulsory certified. 

To work in any of the trades that are compulsory certified under the Apprenticeship and Trades Qualifications Act, an individual must:

• Hold a Certificate of Qualification issued in Nova Scotia; or
• Hold a recognized Certificate of Qualification issued by another province/territory in Canada (you may be required to obtain an equivalency card); or
• Register as an apprentice

I do NOT hold a trade certificate. How can I obtain a Nova Scotia Certificate of Qualification?

I hold a Certificate of Qualification issued by another province/territory in Canada. What do I need to do to work in Nova Scotia?

I am internationally-trained. What do I need to do to work in Nova Scotia?

How do I register as an apprentice?