Carpenter
Carpenter
- How to read blueprints and follow building codes
- How to use construction hand and power tools
- How to measure, cut, shape, assemble and join materials on site
- How to build foundations, install floors, sub-flooring, walls and roofs
- How to install doors, stairs, moulding and hardware
Carpenters build the world around us, from our homes, city centres, and more. They are collaborative and enjoy physical and precise work—as well as the reward of seeing their projects materialize.
As a Carpenter, you’ll work on a wide range of projects, from furnishings to skyscrapers, mastering numerous materials. While you’re a builder, you’ll take satisfaction in the challenging physical and mathematical nature of the work.
You can work for construction companies, in maintenance departments, or for yourself, often working as part of a team of trade professionals on the job site.
Technical Training
The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province.
Harmonized (2024) Program Information and Resources
Harmonized (2024) Program Information and Resources
In effect starting April 1, 2024
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page.
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms & Formula Sheet
- Code Book required: 2012 or 2018 BC Building Code
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms & Formula Sheet
- Code Book required: 2012 or 2018 BC Building Code
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms and Formula Sheet
- Code Book required: 2012 or 2018 BC Building Code
- Red Seal Occupational Standard 2022
- Red Seal Exam Preparation Guide
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (online)
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (pdf)
- Acronym Sheet (PDF)
- Formula Sheet (PDF)
- Code book provided: National Building Code of Canada - 2020, Part 9 (Volume 2)
Program and Exam Updates
July 2025: OPSN 2025 012 (Carpenter Level 1, 2 and 3 SLE Launch)
February 2024: Carpenter Standardized Level Exams on-hold pending alignment to the 2024 Carpenter Program Outline and 2024 British Columbia Building Code. The level challenge process and trade challenge pathway are not impacted. Please see this Program Update for details.
November 2022: For more information regarding transition, please see the Program Update
March 2023: OPSN-2022-015.1 (Revised Implementation Date)
November 2022: Program Update (Competency Migration Chart)
August 2022: OPSN 2022-015 (Updated Program Profile and Program Outline)
March 2022: All Current (pre-harmonized) levels have been phased out. Apprentices who have completed Current Level 2 (CL2) or Current Level 3 (CL3) and are interested in registering for Harmonized Level 3 (HL3) or Harmonized Level 4 (HL4) of training are asked to contact their Apprenticeship Advisor before registering to discuss potential gaps in their training. Please see the Transition Update or the Transition Plan for details.
July 2025: OPSN 2025 012 (Carpenter Level 1, 2 and 3 SLE Launch)
February 2024: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2022 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2013 NOA and 2022 RSOS can be found here.
Challenge the Certification Exam
Challenge the Certification Exam
If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program.
If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level.
Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.
Online Application
Create a SkilledTradesBC Portal account to start your application
Declaration Forms Instructions
A section-by-section guide on how to complete the declaration forms
Employer Declaration
A form for your employer to document and attest to your work experience
Statutory Declaration
A form for you to document and attest to your work experience from self-employment or because a direct supervisor cannot be contacted
- Critical thinking and coordination
- Hand and power tool operation
- Construction site layout
- Formwork and framing
- Finishing materials
Interested in this trade? Learn how to start your apprenticeship.