Education · 1 of 5

The path

A 4-year apprenticeship in Ontario, 3 in some provinces. Mostly on the job.

1. 1

   High school diploma

   Grade 12

   Grade 12 with shop, art or design, and math. OYAP (Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program) lets you start in Grade 11 or 12.

2. 2

   Find a sponsor

   Weeks to months

   Collision shops, dealership body shops and big repair chains. Walk in with a resume. Detailing or prep jobs are the usual way in.

3. 3

   Register the apprenticeship

   Days

   With Skilled Trades Ontario (trade code 310B), Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training, SkilledTradesBC or your province's authority.

4. 4

   Work and study

   3 to 4 years

   Ontario requires 8,000 hours: 7,280 on the job plus 720 in school, taken in three blocks at a college.

5. 5

   Certificate of Qualification and Red Seal

   After your hours

   Pass the provincial exam. The Red Seal title is Auto Body and Collision Technician, valid across Canada.