Check your starting point
Skilled Trades Ontario’s starting guide lists the general requirements: be at least 16, have permission to work in Canada, meet the education requirements for your chosen trade and have a sponsor in Ontario. Requirements can differ by trade; use the official trade profile rather than a general course advertisement.
Check the official Ontario requirements and application process
Choose the route that fits you
| Your situation | A useful next step |
|---|---|
| You know the trade and have a sponsor | Confirm the application and training-agreement steps with Skilled Trades Ontario. |
| You know the trade but need an employer | Use our sponsor search plan. |
| You want skills or experience first | Compare Ontario pre-apprenticeship programs. |
| You are exploring electrical work | Read the 309A electrician apprenticeship guide. |
| You are still in high school | Ask your guidance counsellor about OYAP. |
Find a sponsor and register your training
A sponsor is responsible for ensuring you receive the training in your apprenticeship. It may be an employer or a group of employers. Once you have a suitable sponsor, follow Skilled Trades Ontario’s application process and register the training agreement.
Before applying, agree on the trade, workplace, schedule and training arrangements. Keep questions about the official application or your registration with Skilled Trades Ontario; this independent directory does not register apprentices.
Prepare for a useful first conversation
- Bring the name and code of the trade you want to enter.
- Ask which education records and application documents are required.
- Discuss work locations, transportation, tools and the expected schedule.
- Confirm who handles each application step and when you should follow up.
Find the right official resource
- Trade profiles, training standards and certification
- Ontario’s apprenticeship and support hub
- Employment Ontario job-search support
Sources: Skilled Trades Ontario and the Government of Ontario, linked above. Reviewed October 13, 2026. Check requirements with the official authority before applying.