How to Get Your 631A Network Cabling Specialist (NCS) License with IBEW

August 3, 2022

Having a 63A trade license is not currently required to work as a Network Cabling Specialist in Ontario. Even thought it’s not a requirement (yet), having your 631A Network Cabling Specialist (NCS) License comes with many benefits. Those who have the license typically earn more money and experience greater career stability.

Licensed IBEW Network Cabling Specialists also receive between $2.39 and $4.25 /hour toward their retirement. This is in addition to base pay.

At the IBEW, we know first-hand that certified 631A NCS professionals are in high demand among our ECAO contractors. That demand is only expected to increase in the coming years.

What is the 631A NCS License?

The 631A Network Cabling Specialist License is a professional certification administered by Skilled Trades Ontario (STO). The licence demonstrates that your competences, knowledge, and abilities exceed industry requirements.

Scope of a Network Cabling Specialist

The scope of practice for the trade of Network Cabling Specialist includes installing and maintaining low voltage communication distribution systems or other signal sources to the terminal or equipment at the end of the distribution systems. Ontario Regulation 278/11, section 31 (1).

The distribution systems referred to in subsection (1) comprise the physical architecture that supports voice, video and data transmissions within industrial, commercial, institutional and office complexes. Ontario Regulation 278/11, section 31 (2).

How do I get my 631A NCS License with IBEW?

The IBEW Puts your in a position to succeed and each your 631A Network Cabling Specialist Licence

After completing 4,600 hours of work experience, you are eligible to take the certification exam and become a 631A Network Cabling Specialist. Don’t be intimated by the thought of studying or challenging an exam to get your license. The supportive team at IBEW is with you every step of the way.

Here’s an overview of what it takes to get certified if you’ve been working as a technician and have achieved the 4,600 hours of work experience.

1. Pass a Trade Equivalency Assessment

The Trade Equivalency Assessment determines your trade certification eligibility. The IBEW can help determine if you’re eligible for a pre-Certification of Qualification (CofQ) course, allowing you to achieve your License quickly. And, we cover your $265 sponsor fee.

2. Enroll in the course

Next, you enroll in a free online course designed to prep you to challenge the exam. Our test prep program includes classes, practice exams, study guides, and other resources to help you succeed. All of your required materials (Codebook, BICSI Manual, iPad, and Student Manual) are provided to you, free of charge.

3. Challenge the exam

The exam tests a few things such as:

Logical thinking
How to complete an installation in a timely manner
Your understanding of how a network system works, and,
Your knowledge of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code.

Upon successfully challenging and passing the exam, we reimburse your $150 examination charge.

Start working towards your 631A License today!

Talk to the IBEW team to learn how to take the first step toward getting your 631A License.

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