Trades Qualifier - Recognized Credential Program

The Trades Qualifier - Recognized Credential program is for experienced tradespeople who hold a credential that is recognized by the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) Board and who wish to obtain an Alberta qualification certificate.  

Your application is valid for a maximum of 18 months from the date it's approved, during which time you are expected to complete all of the program requirements for certification.    

Note: If you previously attempted the Trades Qualifier - Recognized Credential program exam in the same trade and failed twice, a Training Plan must be completed and approved by AIT before the third and any subsequent attempt.

How to Apply for the Trades Qualifier - Recognized Credential Program

Trades Qualifier – Recognized Credential Application Process

 

See steps below for more detailed information. 

Step 1: Apply Online for the Trades Qualifier – Recognized Credential program

  • Confirm your trade certificate is recognized in Alberta. 
  • Ensure your recognized trade certificate is non-expired for a minimum of 6 weeks from the date of your application.
  • Create your MyAlberta Digital ID account.
  • Create your MyTradesecrets account.
  • Complete the online application.
  • Upload and attach a clear copy of your trade certificate to your application.
  • Pay the non-refundable $60 (Canadian) application fee.

 

Step 2: Application Verification

A.  AIT reviews your application and verifies your trade certificate with the issuing jurisdiction.

  • Processing time is approximately 4 to 6 weeks. If your recognized credential is from outside Canada, it may take longer

B.  The results of your application are attached to your MyTradesecrets (MTS) profile.

  • If AIT does not approve your application, an explanation is attached in your MTS profile.
  • You have 30 days from the date of your non-approval letter to respond to AIT with new/additional information.
    • Your new/additional information is reviewed and assessed by AIT. This process may take up to 4 weeks. If your new/additional information is from outside Canada, it may take longer.
    • If we do not receive anything from you within 30 days, your application remains rejected.

Step 3: Schedule Exam(s)

A. After you receive approval from AIT, your theory exam is scheduled for the next available session.

  • You are notified of the theory exam’s date, time and location in your MTS profile.
  • If you are unable to attend your exam on the scheduled date, you must provide AIT with a minimum of 24 hours advance notice.
  • If you do not appear (DNA) twice and have not provided the required notice, your application is cancelled. You are only permitted to reschedule your exam twice.

*Note: Only Red Seal exams are available in both English and French. All other exams are available in English only.

B. Some trades require a practical exam (see 'Trades with Practical Exams and Fees Chart'). 

  • Practical exam fee(s) vary by trade.
  • Practical exam fee(s) are non-refundable and must be paid before the exam is scheduled.
  • You are notified of the practical exam's date, time and location in your MTS profile.

C. Under limited conditions, you may be allowed to use an interpreter/reader during an examination. For more information, contact AIT.

D. A completed training plan is required and must be approved before consideration of a third, and every subsequent attempt, at the exam.

  • This also pertains to any accumulated attempts at the Red Seal exam outside of Alberta, and any other exam attempts under previous applications in the same trade.

Step 4A: Exam Rewrite(s)

 

Step 4B: Application Result

A. You have 18 months from the date your application was approved to complete all program requirements and obtain certification.

If you have not satisfied all program requirements by 18 months, your application is cancelled, and you must:

  • apply for a new application,
  • pay the non-refundable application fee, and
  • repeat Steps 1 through 4. 

B. If you complete all Trades Qualifier–Recognized Credential program requirements within 18 months, your credential(s) is mailed to the address in your MTS profile.