You must pass the Owner Builder Authorization Exam as part of your application for an Owner Builder Authorization. The exam makes sure you understand basic construction concepts and your legal responsibilities as an owner builder.
What the exam covers
The exam tests your knowledge in two main areas:
- Construction basics
- The statutory obligations and requirements that an owner builder must meet under the Homeowner Protection Act
How to prepare for the exam
Most applicants prepare by reviewing the Owner Builder Exam Guide which outlines the competency areas and topics. It also includes suggested resources and answers to common questions.
You can also watch our Regulatory Obligations for Owner Builders in British Columbia video, which explains the key information you need to understand for the statutory obligations portion of the exam.
Some applicants choose to take optional courses related to:
- Building code
- Construction management
- Construction technology
These courses are offered by various colleges, universities, and industry groups and can help strengthen your knowledge. There is also an optional Owner Builder Exam Preparation course designed to support applicants studying for the exam.
Use our Education Registry to find courses in your area that may help you prepare.
Scheduling the exam
After we review your application and confirm that you are eligible, we will send you an eligibility letter with instructions on how to schedule your exam.
You can take the exam:
- Online with a remote proctor, or
- In person at a designated proctoring centre
If you choose the online option, you must use a desktop or laptop computer with a webcam and audio.
Note: Cell phones, tablets, and Chromebooks do not work with the online proctoring system.
What to expect on exam day
Only the owner builder applicant may take the exam.
On exam day, you must bring:
- The same government-issued photo ID you used in your application
- A copy of your eligibility letter
The exam is completed on a computer. You will need the login information provided in your eligibility letter.
Exam details:
- 100 minutes to complete
- 100 multiple choice questions
- No reference materials or electronic devices allowed
- You must score 70% to pass
- You are allowed one exam attempt per Owner Builder Authorization application
Final assessment
After you finish the exam, our Licensing team will conduct a final review of your application and notify you in writing once a decision is made.
If your application is approved, you will receive a New Home Registration Form confirming that your project has a valid exemption. You will need this form to obtain your building permit.
If your application is not approved, you will receive a written decision outlining the reason(s). You may request a review of the decision within 30 days if you believe an error has been made. Once the 30-day appeal period has passed and no appeal is filed, we will begin processing your $375 refund.