Level

Challengers

Why Become a Level Challenger

By challenging a level exam and entering into an apprenticeship at the appropriate level, you can fast-track becoming a certified journeyperson—opening doors to a rewarding career.

 

What You Need to Know

A Level Challenger is an uncertified tradesperson who has:

  • some experience in their trade, and

  • completed 1,800 work-based training hours (1+ year) for each level they wish to challenge

Use the self-assessment forms to determine which level exam in the electrical and mechanical trades is best for you to challenge.

*Level exams are not available for Gasfitter Class A and B and Powerline Technician. Powerline Technician workers will need to register as an apprentice to work towards certification or challenge the certification exam if you are qualified as a Trade Qualifier. If you are a tradesperson in Gasfitter Class A or B , please refer to our FAQ section or the trade’s page for more information.

 

How To Assess Your Level

First, determine your level based on the work hours you have completed. The required hours for each level are the same for all trades under Skilled Trades Certification.

  • Level 1 Challengers = 1,800 hours of work-based training (1+ year)

  • Level 2 Challengers = 3,600 hours of work-based training (2+ years)

  • Level 3 Challengers = 5,400 hours of work-based training (3+ years)

Next, find the self-assessment form for your trade. These forms allow you to assess your knowledge of each of the areas of competencies taught in the particular level of technical training. The questions are also weighted similarly to the exam written at the end of each technical training level.

After assessing the level of competencies, the form will highlight areas of strength and areas where you may need further knowledge or practical experience.

  • If you score 65% or above, you may be ready for the selected level exam.

  • If you score 64% or below, you should seek further training or support, or re-take the self-assessment at a lower level.

 

Level Challenger Checklist

Use the self-assessment form, based on your work-based training hours, to find out which level exam is suitable for you.

Complete the self-assessment with a score of 65% or higher. Download and save the pdf version of your results.

Register your apprenticeship by signing up for an account on our the Portal.

Submit your completed level placement exam application form with all required documents to customerservice [at] skilledtradesbc.ca. After reviewing your application, SkilledTradesBC will schedule an exam if approved.

Prepare and write your exam. If you need to rewrite your exam, our customer service team and Apprenticeship Advisors are here to help.

After passing your level exam, your profile on the Portal will show your apprenticeship journey and reflect the level you have achieved. Note that you will need to sign up for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-approved training provider.

You may then continue working with your employer sponsor on your journey to certification.

New

Supports

In addition to provincial and federal support available to registered employers and apprentices, we have enhanced our support for Skilled Trades Certification.

Self-Assessment

Forms

Assess your knowledge and level for Skilled Trades Certification.