Painter and Decorator
Painters and decorators apply decorative and protective finishes in residential, commercial, institutional and industrial settings. They prepare a variety of surfaces prior to the application of materials such as paint, high performance coatings, waterproofing, fireproofing, varnish, shellac, wall coverings and specialty finishes.
National Occupational Classification (NOC): 73112
Designation Year: 1964
Designated Red Seal in: AB, BC, MB, NB, NL, NS, NT, NU, ON, PE, QC, SK, YT
Trade title: Painter and Decorator, in AB, BC, MB, NB, NL, NS, NT, NU, PE, SK, YT
Other titles used in provinces/territories: Painter (QC), Painter and Decorator - Commercial and Residential (ON)
Red Seal Occupational Standard (RSOS) New
View the most recent standard. This is the complete description of the activities of the Painter and Decorator trade. Exams are currently under development.
Occupational Standard for current exams Previous
View the National Standard that is being used as the basis for the current Red Seal exams. New exams that are based on the new standard are currently under development.
Essential Skills
Please refer to the Essential Skills section of the trade’s Occupational Standard that describes the essential skills needed to succeed in this trade.
Job Market Reports
Find job market information such as wages, outlooks, education and skills needed at Explore Careers on the Job Bank website.
Sample Questions
Try the sample Painter and Decorator examination questions to prepare for your Red Seal examination.
Red Seal Self-Assessment and Exam Breakdown
Check how many questions there are on different topics, and reflect on your own experience and knowledge in the trade.
Ellis Chart
Consult the Ellis Chart for a full breakdown of apprenticeship data from across Canada for the trade of Painter and Decorator.