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Who must take the RBQ GSC exam? Exemptions and répondants

Almost every RBQ licence applicant takes the GSC. Here is who, according to the RBQ, and what remains to confirm.

Who is concerned

• Contractor: the three management exams (administration, GSC, project management) plus one execution exam per sub-category, unless exempt.
• General owner-builder: GSC, project management and execution (no administration exam).
• Specialised owner-builder: GSC and execution (Annex II sub-categories).
• Who sits: the répondant(s); for a sole proprietor, the person; for a company, an officer.

Exemptions (to confirm)

An RBQ-recognised training can exempt you from an exam; according to the RBQ, since March 1, 2026, a full recognised training is needed to be exempt from the GSC. Having been répondant of a construction firm in the last 5 years is also cited by the RBQ FAQ (not read directly: to confirm). Check your situation with the RBQ.

Delegated exams

Exams for sub-categories 15.1 to 15.5 are handled by the CMMTQ and 16 by the CMEQ; owner-builders in those sub-categories go to the RBQ.

To remember

• GSC: all contractors and both kinds of owner-builder.
• The répondant sits the exam.
• Exemption: a full recognised training since March 1, 2026 (to confirm it applies to you).

Official sources

• RBQ, exams: who, how, how much (French)
• RBQ, general exam information sheet (French)
• RBQ, exam preparation: information sheets and skills profiles (French)

See also: RBQ construction site safety exam (GSC): what to expect · Construction site prevention program: when is it required?

General information, current as of 2026-11-01. When in doubt, the official text prevails. Rules, thresholds and fees can change: check rbq.gouv.qc.ca and legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca.