Red Seal Painter Decorator Challenge
DC17 Offers
A Red Seal endorsement on your trade certificate is a nationally recognized credential that confirms you have the knowledge and experience to work as a skilled Painter Decorator anywhere in Canada. As interest grows among members in achieving this designation, DC17 is proud to support eligible Union members through the Red Seal Challenge process.
While it is DC17’s strong recommendation that all tradespeople complete the traditional apprenticeship pathway—consisting of three 8-week levels of in-class technical training and 1,300 on-the-job hours per level—we also recognize that, historically, apprenticeship training was not widely promoted within our Union. This created a gap for many experienced workers who never had the opportunity to pursue certification through conventional means.
To address this, DC17 offers support to members who qualify for the Red Seal Challenge through their provincial apprenticeship authority. This pathway is designed for experienced tradespeople who meet specific criteria and wish to challenge the Red Seal exam based on work experience.
How DC17 Supports You
If you are eligible to challenge the Red Seal exam in your province, DC17 will:
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Assist with understanding and completing the provincial application process
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Provide access to study materials
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Reimburse the Red Seal application fee upon successful completion of the exam
Please note: fees for prep courses, study guides, rewrite exams, and other additional expenses are not covered.
Ultimately, members are responsible for submitting required documents, communicating with their provincial apprenticeship authority, and meeting the application and testing deadlines.
Eligibility Criteria
To receive support from DC17, applicants must:
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Be a member in good standing with a DC17 Local
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Meet all provincial Red Seal Challenge application requirements
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Have 15,000 verifiable on-the-job hours in the Painter Decorator trade (supported by ROEs or employer letters)
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Have completed 1,000 hours in the last 12 months with a DC17 signatory contractor
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Commit to working 1,000 hours in the 12 months following certification with a DC17 signatory contractor
Interested in Challenging the Red Seal?
Before applying, review the eligibility and application guidelines available through your provincial apprenticeship authority. Once you're familiar with the requirements and believe you meet them, contact us to get started:
DC17 is here to help qualified members take this important step toward career advancement, recognition, and increased mobility across Canada.
How to Enroll in Training
If you’ve been working in the field for years but never had the opportunity to complete formal apprenticeship training, the Red Seal Challenge may be the pathway for you to earn your credentials and gain recognition for your experience.
DC17 is here to support eligible members through this process. While we strongly encourage all new apprentices to complete the full in-school Painter Decorator Apprenticeship Training at our Edmonton facility, we recognize that many long-time members have built valuable experience on the job without certification.
Click the link below to express your interest and begin the enrollment process. A DC17 team member will contact you to discuss your eligibility, help guide you through your provincial apprenticeship authority's application process, and provide access to study materials.
Have questions before applying? Reach out to Training@dc17.ca for more information and personalized support.
Earn the credentials you deserve. Take the next step in your career with DC17’s support.