Drywall 

Finisher 

Drywall Finishers are precise and tactile professionals who enjoy bringing an interior close to the finish—providing the solid and well-presented base that allows for the final touches on a job. 

two drywall finishers working on wall

As a Drywall Finisher, you’ll work closely with your peers in a highly physical and hands-on role that will see you through a range of tasks. This includes preparing drywall for finishing, applying tape and fill and sanding all surfaces to ensure they are ready for paint. The work will test your physical and mental stamina, but also immensely rewarding, seeing your progress come to life.  

What You'll Learn

  • How to use safe work practices
  • How to read drawings and use math
  • How to install beads and trim
  • How to apply tape and fill drywall 
  • How to sand, apply texturing and repair surfaces 

Key Job Skills

  • Time management 
  • Coordination 
  • Math and specifications
  • Drywall repair
  • Drywall installation 

Technical Training

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. 

For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.

Technical Training 12 weeks over 2 years
Work-Based Training
4500 HOURS
General Skills
Athletic Collaborative Mathematical Precise Tactile

Program Updates

  • September 2025: OPSN 2025 017 (Implementation of Red Seal Program "Drywall Finisher and Plasterer" effective April 1, 2026. For details on the transition to the Red Seal program, please refer to the Transition Plan.)

Harmonized Red Seal Program Information and Resources

Effective April 1, 2026.

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Drywall finisher and plasterers prepare surfaces, tape, and finish drywall. They apply, maintain, and restore drywall and similar materials on interior and exterior walls, ceilings, and building partitions to make them more decorative, soundproof, and fire-rated. They apply tape to fire-rate and gas-proof walls and prevent drafts. They install beads to protect corners, fill joints, and imperfections, mix and apply compound, and sand to create a smooth surface for paint and other finishes.

Drywall finisher and plasterers may repair or restore plastered surfaces and textured drywall. They may also repair and restore mouldings. 

Drywall finisher and plasterers work in the construction industry, largely in the institutional, commercial, industrial, and residential sectors. They may be employed by wall and ceiling contractors or be self-employed.

View Profile

BC Certificate of Qualification Program Information

Effective until March 31, 2026.

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Information:

Information:

Challenge the Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.

OR

If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.