Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

  1. I haven’t received my ID card, what should I do?
    In January 2024, the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency (NSAA) moved to a digital credential system and all credentials are now issued through that system. These credentials are more secure, can be shared with other organizations without the need for further verifications, and can be revoked when the card expires. Please check your inbox and junk folder for a MyCredsTM email. Learn more about MyCredsTM.
  2. How do I renew my apprenticeship card?
    To review your apprenticeship card, please fill out the Form for Replacement of a Photo ID.
  3. I lost my identification card. How do I get a new one?
    All credentials, including replacement cards, are now issued through MyCredsTM. To apply for a new one, please fill out Form for Replacement of a Photo ID.
  4. I’m a tradesperson, but not certified. Can I write the certification exam?
    Individuals with significant experience in a designated trade in Nova Scotia, but who are not registered apprentices or certified in the trade, can challenge the certification exam through our Trade Qualifier process.
  5. How do I transfer my apprenticeship to Nova Scotia?
    You must register as a Nova Scotia apprentice by completing an Apprenticeship Registration Form. Ensure that you report your most recent logbook hours to your previous apprenticeship authority, so the most up to date information will be available when requested by NSAA. 
  6. How do I update my logbook and hours?
    To update your logbook and hours, please contact your Industry Training Consultant. 
  7. How do I update my contact information?
    To update your contact information, please complete the Update Your Contact Info Form. 
  8. Who do I contact?
    Any other questions, please visit the Contact Us page on our website to connect with an Industry Training Consultant in your area. You can also email apprenticeship@novascotia.ca or call 1-800-494-5651.

Training and Exams

  1. How do I apply for technical training?
    Apply for technical training as soon as you have the required hours, as seats fill up fast. Training is available in class and online. The training schedule is posted each May. Details on technical training.
  2. How do I apply for an exam?
    Apprentices required to write level exams are automatically scheduled and will be notified via email of the date and location. For rewrites, apply here. Visit our Training and Exams FAQ to learn more about the exam scheduling procedure and what to expect on exam day.
  3. I haven’t received exam confirmation. Who do I contact? 
    If you haven’t received your exam confirmation, please reach out to our exam clerk, NSAA_Exams@novascotia.ca, who will be happy to assist you. You should also check your junk email folder.
  4. I haven’t received technical training confirmation. Who do I contact?
    If you haven’t received your training confirmation, please reach out to our Registrar, nsaaregistrar@novascotia.ca, who will be happy to assist you. You should also check your junk email folder. 
  5. I am struggling to pass exams and prepare for training?
    You can visit our Learning Supports page, contact your Industry Training Consultant or NSAA Learning Supports for guidance and accommodations to help you progress in your trade.
  6. I am on a waitlist, what should I do?
    You may still get a seat if space becomes available before training starts and we frequently add new classes to meet demand. Keep an eye on your email for confirmation if you’re moved from the waitlist to an enrolled status and check the Training Schedule frequently for new training offerings.
  7. More questions regarding training and exams?
    Visit our Training and Exams FAQs for more information.

Starting Your Apprenticeship

  1. How to find a job?
    To get help with your job search and explore job opportunities, connect with or visit a Nova Scotia Works Centre near you. Visit our Get Started page for guidance on how to get started in apprenticeship. 
  2. How do I become an apprentice?
    When an apprentice and employer agree to an apprenticeship, they must complete the Apprenticeship Registration Forms.

Financial Supports

  1. How do I apply for the Journeyperson Financial Incentive?
    Launched on July 31, 2024, the Journeyperson Financial Incentive Program offers up to $2,500 to eligible journeypersons who have been nominated by their employer and have supported the successful progression of apprentices. Click here for more details.
  2. How do I apply for support for technology? 
    NSAA offers up to $900 in funding for Technology Measures to support eligible apprentices during technical training. Visit Employment Nova Scotia for more information and to apply. 
  3. How do I apply for financial assistance for living costs during training?
    To apply online for financial assistance to cover some or all miscellaneous costs during your training, visit the Employment Nova Scotia – Apprenticeship Program website and click “Start now”.

  4. Can I apply for Employment Insurance (EI) during technical training?
    Yes, you can apply for Employment Insurance while on approved training. You can find details, including the application process and reference codes, on Service Canada’s support for skilled trades and apprenticeship page.

    This webpage explains how to apply using your 16-digit reference code, which is issued annually and included in your training confirmation letter. The 2024-2025 code is 1512-02-2024-242505.

    For more on eligibility and Records Of Employment (ROEs), visit the Employer Information page.

  5. What is the Canada Apprentice Loan (CAL)?
    Apprentices in Red Seal trades can apply for up to $4,000 in interest-free loans per technical training period through the Canada Apprentice Loan program. This loan can be used for technical training expenses. You can apply online and find more details here.

  6. Are there any tax incentives for apprentices?

    MOST Program: Provincial Tax rebate for tradespersons under 30 on their first $50,000 of income.

    Tools Deduction & HST Rebate: Tradespersons may also be eligible for a tools tax deduction and HST rebate through the Canada Revenue Agency.

  7. What is the Apprenticeship Tools Grant?
    New apprentices can receive up to $1,000 for tools, clothing, or safety equipment. Apply through Employment Nova Scotia.