5-minute read · by Philippe, who runs a home-service business in Québec
To get a licence from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec, you must pass qualification exams or have an equivalence recognized. Here is how they work and how to prepare. Current details are on the RBQ’s site.
Who takes the RBQ exam
The business’s representatives take the exams, one per required knowledge area. The representative can be you or someone in the business. The RBQ sends a written notice with the date, time and regional office.
The exam areas
Exams cover administration, project and site management, health and safety, and the technical side of each licence subcategory. Each area is taken separately, and the RBQ publishes sample questions.
How to prepare
Start from the reference material the RBQ lists for each area, work through the sample questions, and check whether a recognized training program can exempt you from an exam. Some contractor associations offer prep courses.
After the exam
Once licensed, your number must appear on quotes, contracts and advertising. It is also the time to set up what brings first customers: a Google profile, a text on every missed call and followed-up quotes. See the RBQ licence guide.