Challenge exams and exam rewrites
The challenge route is for applicants with specified equivalent certification and relevant trade experience who want to pursue a CPCA Petroleum Mechanic licence without completing the usual theory course. CPCA must approve a challenge application before the exam is arranged.
Who can apply?
CPCA considers applicants with relevant trade experience and one of these equivalent certifications:
- TSSA Petroleum Mechanic certification: PM1, PM2, and/or PM3
- Nova Scotia Petroleum Storage Tank System Installer Certificate: Class 1
- ITABC certification: Technician and/or Installer
Approval depends on CPCA’s review of the certification and experience submitted. Applications are reviewed by a standing committee several times a year, so allow time for a decision. If you do not have a listed equivalent certification, see the Home Study route.
Choose the licence scope
PM1 · Service and Maintenance
Service and maintain petroleum equipment and systems, including suction pumps, submersible pumps, dispensers, and related equipment.
PM2 · Underground Installation
Install, remove, test, service, and maintain underground tanks, transfer systems, monitoring systems, and related equipment.
PM3 · Aboveground Installation
Install, remove, test, service, and maintain aboveground tanks, monitoring systems, bulk handling equipment, and related components.
Use the Trade Experience Log Book to compare your work with the detailed requirements for each category.
How the challenge process works
- Prepare your evidence. Gather CPCA Form 3 (Verification of Trade Experience), proof of applicable manufacturer certification, and an employer letter confirming your work experience. Find Form 3 on the Documents & Forms page.
- Apply and pay. Submit the online challenge application. The published fee is $500.00 per licence, payable at submission.
- Wait for CPCA approval. CPCA reviews the application and may request additional evidence. Approved applicants receive access to the applicable CPCA training manual through the online learning platform.
- Arrange the exam. When ready, contact CPCA for an approved testing centre in your area. Review the testing-centre list and confirm current availability with CPCA.
Exam reference publications
CPCA recommends bringing the current National Fire Code and the CCME Environmental Code of Practice for Aboveground and Underground Storage Tank Systems for reference during the exam. Confirm the accepted editions and formats in your exam instructions.
Need to rewrite an exam?
Applicants who do not pass the first attempt may rewrite after 30 days. The published rewrite fee is $200.00, plus any invigilation fee charged by an approved testing centre.
For questions about a challenge, a testing centre, or a rewrite, call 1-866-360-6722 or email info@cpcaonline.com.