Machinist - Red Seal Exam Breakdown
A Red Seal exam is based on the Red Seal Occupational Standard for the trade. The standard describes the skills and knowledge required to perform the duties of the trade. Each standard is divided into Major Work Activities, which are divided into Tasks, which are divided into sub-tasks.
The Red Seal exam has a certain number of questions assigned to these sections. The number of questions are provided below. For more information, see the full Red Seal Occupational Standard, and Self-Assessment Guide (PDF, 923 KB) for this trade.
Total number of questions on Red Seal exam - 135 questions
Major Work Activity A - Performs common occupational skills - 13 questions
Major Work Activity B - Performs benchwork - 11 questions
Major Work Activity C – Machines using power saws - 8 questions
Major Work Activity D – Machines using drill presses - 9 questions
Major Work Activity E – Machines using conventional lathes - 28 questions
Major Work Activity F – Machines using conventional milling machines - 28 questions
Major Work Activity G – Machines using precision grinding machines - 11 questions
Major Work Activity H – Machines using computer numerical control (cnc) machines - 27 questions
For more information about exam preparation materials (textbooks, modules, etc.) contact your provincial/territorial apprenticeship office.
*Number of questions assigned are derived from the input from people in this trade from across Canada.