A contractor license lookup in Canada is usually provincial, territorial, trade-specific, or local. There is no single national lookup that verifies every contractor for every job.
Last checked: June 2, 2026
Quick answer
Identify the province and trade first, then check the relevant skilled-trades register, safety authority, builder registry, municipal business license, and permit record for the work location.
What to verify
| Check | Why it matters | Official place to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Province or territory | Rules are not national. | Provincial regulator |
| Trade type | Electrical, gas, plumbing, builder, and HVAC paths can differ. | Trade or safety authority |
| Business or builder registration | New-home builders may be separate from trades. | Builder registry |
| Municipal license | Some cities require business licensing. | Local government |
| Permit history | Major work should align with permits. | Building department |
Step-by-step check
- Ask the contractor what province, trade, and registration applies.
- Search the official provincial or territorial register.
- Check trade-specific safety or skilled-trades authorities.
- If it is a new-home builder, check the builder registry where applicable.
- Check local permits for the address and work type.
- Save records before paying a deposit.
Red flags or common mistakes
- Looking for one Canada-wide contractor database.
- Treating a business registration as a trade license.
- Ignoring local permit requirements.
- Assuming a contractor from another province can work locally without meeting local rules.
Official sources to check
Use official government, regulator, utility, or program pages before relying on private directories, ads, or contractor claims.
FAQ
Is there a national Canadian contractor license lookup?
No. Contractor and trade verification is generally provincial, territorial, local, or trade-specific.
Is a business number the same as a license?
No. A business registration does not prove trade qualification or permit authority.
Should I check permits too?
Yes. Permits can reveal whether the work is being handled through official local channels.
Related checks
Note: Home Public Check is not a government agency, licensing board, utility, insurer, tax adviser, or legal adviser. This guide explains how to find and read official sources. Rules, eligibility, records, fees, and portals can change by location and date.