Complete Guide to the RBQ Exam and Contractor Licensing in Quebec

By RenoGiants • Updated October 19, 2025 • Primary keyword: RBQ licence

1. What is the RBQ Licence and Why You Need It

The Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) issues licences for contractors in Quebec. Anyone who carries out construction work (or has it carried out) must generally hold a licence unless specifically exempt. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Benefits of having a licence:

• You are legally recognized and compliant in the province.
• You can work on larger or more complex projects and bid reliably.
• Clients and partners trust you more when you hold a valid licence.

2. How Licence Categories & Subclasses Work

The RBQ divides licences into categories and subclasses depending on the type of work you’ll perform (e.g., general contractor vs specialised contractor) and the scale. For example: 1.2 (small buildings), 1.3 (all buildings) among general contractors. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Key licence types

• General contractor licence — covers broader types of work and often requires more extensive experience/exams. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Specialized contractor licence — for a specific trade or subset of work (e.g., HVAC, plumbing). :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Owner-builder licence — for individuals doing work on their own building, under certain conditions. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

3. The RBQ Qualifying Examinations

Before you can obtain many licence types, you must pass one or more RBQ exams. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6} Here’s the breakdown:

Which exams you might need

• Administration (for general contractors) :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Construction site safety management :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
• Project and site management :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
• Carrying out construction work (for the subclass you apply for) :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Important exam details

Make sure you:

• Arrive 15 minutes early at the exam venue; you must bring valid government‐issued photo ID. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
• Use the official “Information sheets” and competency profiles published by the RBQ to study. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
• Understand sample questions and familiarise yourself with the format. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
• Achieve the minimum passing grade (typically 60%). :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

4. How to Prepare for the RBQ Exams

Proper preparation can significantly improve your chances of success.

Study resources

• Use the official competency profiles and information sheets from the RBQ. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
• Enroll in exam-prep courses from trusted providers. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
• Use sample exam questions to test your knowledge. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

Study strategy

1. Review each required exam’s topics (administration, safety, project/site, construction work).
2. Create a study schedule: e.g., 10-15 hours/week over 6-12 weeks depending on your experience.
3. Practice sample questions under timed conditions to get comfortable.
4. Focus also on Quebec-specific codes (e.g., building code, safety legislation) as required. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

5. Applying for Your Licence — Step by Step

Once you’ve passed the exams (or secured equivalent recognition/training), follow these steps: :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}

1. Determine if you need a licence. If you carry out or have construction work done, check the RBQ exemption list. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
2. Register your company with the Registraire des entreprises du Québec (REQ) unless you’re a sole proprietor under your own name. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
3. Meet qualifications either via exams, training, or equivalent experience. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
4. Pay licence security or join guarantee plan as required by subclass. Example: $40,000 security for general contractors. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}
5. Complete and submit application form with all required documents and fees. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}
6. Wait for processing — once approved you receive your official licence. Processing times vary.

6. After You’re Licensed — What You Should Do Next

Getting your licence is just the start. To leverage it fully:

• Ensure you maintain your licence obligations and renewals.
• Consider building your online presence — website, branding, SEO — to attract clients.
• Stay up-to-date with continuing education if required in your subclass. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}
• Register with the Commission de la construction du Québec (CCQ) if you’ll hire construction labour. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}

7. Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Some frequent errors include:

• Under-estimating exam preparation for specific subclasses.
• Choosing the wrong licence subclass for your intended work.
• Missing required security guarantee or not registering the company correctly.
• Neglecting to build professional credentials or online visibility.

8. Summary & Final Thoughts

Your path to a valid RBQ contractor licence involves four major phases: selecting the right licence category, passing the required exams, submitting your application (with the security or guarantee as required), and launching your business fully compliant.

Stay methodical in your preparation, use reliable study resources, and ensure your paperwork is complete. If you need help building your brand, website or marketing after obtaining your licence, we at RenoGiants can support you every step of the way.

Need more resources? Check our RBQ Knowledge Base or refer to the official RBQ site: RBQ-Gouv.