Carpentry Licensing in Quebec

Carpentry in Quebec operates under a dual system. Individual carpenters do not need a specific provincial licence to work. However, contractors performing construction work valued over a certain threshold must hold the appropriate RBQ general or specialized contractor licence. On regulated construction sites (governed by the Act respecting labour relations, vocational training and workforce management in the construction industry, known as Act R-20), workers must hold a CCQ competency certificate (apprentice or journeyman). The carpenter-joiner apprenticeship through the CCQ consists of three periods of 2,000 hours each (6,000 hours total). Red Seal endorsement is available for interprovincial mobility.

Ask if the contractor holds an RBQ licence. For workers on construction sites, ask for their CCQ competency certificate.

(1) Cannot show examples of previous similar work or provide references (2) No liability insurance - carpentry involves power tools and structural work (3) Vague quote without specifying materials, timeline, or scope of work (4) Unwilling to obtain building permits for structural or code-regulated work

(1) Do you have experience with this specific type of carpentry work? (2) Can I see photos of similar completed projects or speak with past clients? (3) Do you carry liability insurance and WSIB coverage? (4) Will a building permit be needed, and will you handle it? (5) What materials do you recommend and why?

While not legally required, it is strongly recommended that carpentrys carry liability insurance. Ask for proof of coverage before hiring.

The Red Seal endorsement is a nationally recognized certification that allows tradespeople to work across all Canadian provinces and territories without additional testing. A Red Seal-endorsed tradesperson has met a standardized level of competency.

In Quebec, most contractors performing construction work must hold an RBQ (Régie du bâtiment du Québec) licence. You can verify any contractor's licence on the RBQ's online Licence Holders' Registry at rbq.gouv.qc.ca. Always ask for the licence number and verify it before hiring.

Typical rates for carpentrys in Quebec range from $50-$100/hour. The type of carpentry (finish work commands higher rates than framing), wood species and material quality, project complexity, custom vs. standard work, whether structural engineering is needed, and the carpenter's experience level. Master carpenters with specialized skills (e.g., heritage restoration) charge $75-$200/hour.