How to Become an Electrician in Toronto: Steps, Licensing, and Career Growth

The demand for licensed electricians in Toronto has never been higher. As the city’s skyline continues to evolve (with new commercial towers, healthcare facilities, industrial sites, and EV infrastructure) skilled tradespeople are the backbone keeping it all running.

At Salson Electric Ltd., we’ve seen how rewarding this career path can be. From apprentices who begin their first day on-site to experienced electricians leading complex institutional projects, every journey starts with the same spark: curiosity, discipline, and a drive to learn.

If you’re wondering how to become an electrician in Toronto, this guide walks you through the essential steps, qualifications, and growth opportunities waiting in Ontario’s electrical industry.

Why Choose an Electrical Career in Toronto

Toronto’s development shows no signs of slowing. Between healthcare expansions, new data centers, and green energy projects, licensed electricians are in demand across every sector.

Electricians in Toronto benefit from:

• Competitive wages and strong union support

• Consistent demand in commercial and institutional sectors

• Opportunities to work on advanced energy systems and automation projects

With the city’s ongoing modernization, an electrical career in Toronto isn’t just stable—it’s future-proof.

Step 1 – Meet the Basic Requirements

Start with Education and Readiness

To begin your path, you’ll need:

• A high school diploma or equivalent (Grade 12 recommended)

• Strong math and science fundamentals

• A passion for hands-on work and problem-solving

You must also be 18 years or older to register as an apprentice in Ontario.

At Salson Electric Ltd., we value candidates who bring reliability, teamwork, and initiative to every project. Technical skills can be taught, but the mindset to learn, grow, and take ownership is what sets great electricians apart.

Step 2 – Secure an Electrical Apprenticeship

How the Apprenticeship Works

In Ontario, the typical electrician apprenticeship lasts about 9,000 hours (roughly five years). It combines:

• On-the-job training (about 8,160 hours) under a licensed journeyperson

• In-class technical training (about 840 hours) at an approved college or training provider

During this time, you’ll learn electrical theory, safety protocols, blueprint reading, and hands-on installation techniques for residential, commercial, and industrial systems.

Apprenticeship at Salson Electric Ltd.

At Salson Electric Ltd., apprentices gain exposure to large-scale commercial, industrial, and institutional projects across the Greater Toronto Area. Working alongside experienced forepersons, they develop the skills that define professionalism: precision, safety, and integrity.

Our team is committed to mentorship, ensuring every apprentice grows not just as a tradesperson, but as a future leader in Ontario’s electrical industry.

Step 3 – Register with Skilled Trades Ontario

Getting Officially Recognized

Once you find a sponsoring employer, the next step is to register your apprenticeship with Skilled Trades Ontario. This registration allows you to:

• Log your on-site training hours

• Access in-school technical training

• Work toward your Certificate of Qualification (309A)

Step 4 – Pass the 309A Certificate of Qualification Exam

Becoming a Licensed Electrician

After completing your apprenticeship hours, you’ll be eligible to write the Certificate of Qualification (C of Q) exam, commonly known as the 309A Red Seal exam.

Passing this test officially certifies you as a Construction and Maintenance Electrician in Ontario. The Red Seal endorsement means you’re qualified to work across Canada, opening opportunities nationwide.

At Salson Electric Ltd., many of our electricians began as apprentices before earning their 309A certification. Today, they manage complex installations, lead preventive maintenance programs, and mentor the next generation of tradespeople.

Step 5 – Advance Your Electrical Career

Explore Growth Opportunities

Once licensed, electricians can choose to:

• Become forepersons or project supervisors

• Specialize in controls, automation, or energy-efficient systems

• Transition into estimating, design, or management roles

How Salson Electric Ltd. Supports Career Growth

Our team works on diverse projects, from EV charger installations and lighting retrofits to hospital maintenance programs and power distribution upgrades. This range allows our electricians to expand their expertise while staying on the cutting edge of technology and sustainability.

We also believe in lifelong learning. Whether you want to master preventive maintenance or manage full-scale commercial builds, Salson Electric Ltd. provides the platform to grow.

If you’re passionate about starting your career in the trades (or ready to take your experience further) we’d love to hear from you.