Challenge a
Level Exam
If you have some practical experience in your trade but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge level exams to demonstrate your skills and knowledge and enter the apprenticeship program at the appropriate level. See the application process below.
Note: Apprentices who have failed a level of in-class technical training must wait a minimum of 30 days from the final day of failed training before applying to challenge a level exam.
Questions?
See our Frequently Asked Questions or Contact Us.
Steps to Challenge a
Level Challenge Exam
Search for your trade using Find Your Trade.
Review the Program Profile (often near the middle of the trade page) to confirm whether level exams are offered for your trade.
You will need to meet the following minimum work-based training hour requirements to be eligible to challenge each level exam:
Level 1: 1,800 hours (approximately 1 year)
Level 2*: 3,600 hours (approximately 2-3 years)
Level 3*: 5,400 hours (approximately 3-5 years)
*You must pass each level exam in sequence to ensure you have the foundational knowledge needed for advanced training.
To challenge a level exam in a Skilled Trades Certification (compulsory) trade, visit this page for the applicable process and requirements.
Complete and submit a Level Placement Exam Application form to customerservice@skilledtradesbc.ca. The application form must be signed by your sponsor/employer or a certified journeyperson to endorse your level of experience and knowledge of the trade. Incomplete applications will not be processed and will be returned to you.
There is no fee for level exams.
SkilledTradesBC will review your application to determine whether you meet the requirements to challenge the level exam. The typical processing time is approximately 30 business days.
If approved:
SkilledTradesBC will schedule the level exam and you will receive an email notification confirming the details.
If the exam date requested is unavailable, we will schedule you for the next available date at your chosen location.
If denied:
You will receive an email notification with further instructions on next steps.
Visit the Exam Study and Support section for resources to help you succeed.
You have a maximum of two attempts to achieve the required 70 per cent passing score on your level exam. For more information on exam rewrites, visit the Exam Rewrites page.
Note: Previously approved level exam applications do not guarantee future rewrites.
After passing your level exam, your profile on the Portal will show your apprenticeship journey and reflect the level you have achieved, including credit for the relevant technical training and work-based training hours. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider.
Your trade program may be available at a school in your community or you may have to travel to relocate for a couple of weeks each year. Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC provide helpful search tools to find where your trade program is being offered across the province.
We recommend scheduling your in-class technical training once a year throughout your apprenticeship to get a balance of theory and on-the-job practical experience. It’s important to communicate with your employer about the best time to be away from work for in-class technical training.
You are now on your apprenticeship journey to certification!
