Licence application timeframe and process

This page presents the timeframe and steps involved in processing an application for a licence modification or a new licence.

We process licence applications within 60 days. This excludes primarily:

• periods when we are awaiting information from you
• the period between the time you are summoned to examinations and have taken them.

Some applications may benefit from priority treatment. Related fees are shown in Fee structure and fines.

Timeframes are different if your company meets the requirements of an interprovincial agreement.

Processing steps

Whether it relates to a licence modification or a new licence, the application process is similar. The steps are as follows.

Step 1 – Verifying that the application is complete

When we receive your licence application, we ensure that all of the form’s sections have been completed and that all required documents and the payment are included.

If your application is incomplete, we will contact you in writing. You will then have a 21-day deadline to send us the missing documents or information to process your request.

Step 2 – Verification of compliance and probity

Compliance

To ensure the compliance of your application, we check that the information and documents submitted with your application are accurate (including the name of your company on the Registraire des entreprises du Québec, selection of the correct security amount, etc.).

If your application is not compliant, all the elements of non-compliance will be notified to you. We will contact you to help you with the licence application process if needed.

Probity

If need be, concurrent with the verification of compliance, we also check the probity of your company, its officers and shareholders.

This step can create further delays, since we may ask for additional information or documents, in which case you are required to comply with the specified timeframe.

If your company fails to comply with probity criteria or if required elements are not received on time, your application may be declined.

Step 3 – Assessment of competency

Once your application has been found to be complete and compliant, we review the method(s) you chose to evaluate your professional competencies.

If you chose the exam method

A written notice will be sent to your guarantor’s home, indicating the date, time and place when the required exam(s) must be taken (no deferment allowed).

If a guarantor is unable to take the exam and wishes to re-register, you must, in the case of a new licence application, present an abridged application or, in the case of a modification, submit a new application. Go to the Examinations: instructions and results page to find out how.

Exam results will be mailed directly to the guarantors. No results will be given out by telephone or email. Should one or more exams be failed, go to the What happens if you fail? page for details.

A licence could possibly be issued, even if certain exams have been failed. Go to the Examinations – Who? How? How many? page to find out what exams are required to obtain your licence. Guarantors who have failed exams can retake them at a later date.

IF YOU HAVE CHOSEN THE EXEMPTION FROM EXAMS

If the guarantor has either successfully completed a recognized training program, submitted a professional file or his skills are already recognized, we will review your request and issue our decision by mail.

Should the request for an exemption be rejected, you can ask to take the exams or apply for a review of the ruling.

Step 4 – Issuance of the licence

If you meet all required conditions, your licence will be mailed to you. You can then check your enterprise’s profile in the Licence holders’ repertory [Fr] and legally carry out your professional activities.

While waiting to receive your paper licence, you can check your company’s profile using your file number.

If you do not meet all required conditions, you will receive a written notice explaining why we are refusing to either modify or issue a licence. Your licence fee will be reimbursed, but fees for processing your application will not be reimbursed. However, you may apply for a review of the ruling.