How do I get my license if I have no one to sign off on my hours?
This is definitely a challenge, but there are solutions. One approach is to hire a certified Petroleum Mechanic (PM) to work on your projects and supervise you or your staff who need their hours signed off.
The hour requirement is modelled after a traditional trade apprentice/supervisor relationship. Therefore, a licensed Petroleum Mechanic must sign off on the hours to ensure they meet the certification criteria. Working with a licensed professional not only helps you meet the requirements but also provides valuable mentorship and guidance.
Why must I complete the training if I have experience?
While experience is valuable, it must be verified and signed off by a licensed Petroleum Mechanic. Additionally, you must hold the prerequisite Petroleum Mechanic Helper (PMH) certification to qualify.
Allowing unverified experience would be unfair to those who complete the required training. We recommend obtaining the PMH certification as soon as you know you’ll need the license. The sooner you have the PMH, the sooner you can start logging your hours toward certification.
In some cases, relevant certifications may be recognized in lieu of training, including:
- TSSA Petroleum Certification: PM1, PM2, and/or PM3
- Nova Scotia Petroleum Storage Tank System Installer Certificate: Class 1
- ITABC Certification: Technician and/or Installer
These certifications demonstrate your knowledge and experience, but you may still need to meet additional training or logging requirements based on your specific situation.
How do I know if my experience is relevant to the PM scope of certificates?
The scope of Petroleum Mechanic certificates is detailed on the CPCA website under the “Training” section. For a comprehensive breakdown of each license, refer to the CPCA Trade Experience Logbook, which is also available on the CPCA website.
The logbook outlines the tasks and competencies required for each certificate, making it easier for you to evaluate whether your experience aligns with the certification standards. If you’re still unsure, contacting CPCA directly for clarification is always a good step.