Quebec – Continuing Education for OIQ Members

Engineers in Quebec are licensed through the OIQ under the Engineers Act. The path to an engineering permit involves academic assessment, a supervised Professional Admission Program (PAP) as a Candidate to the Engineering Profession (CEP), and OIQ’s own professional exam — a process that differs significantly from other Canadian provinces.

We don’t offer licensing prep for the OIQ path. Where we can help Quebec engineers is after the permit is issued: staying on top of OIQ’s mandatory continuing education requirements without spending hours tracking it down yourself.

Regulator:

OIQ (Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec)

Designation:

ing. (ingénieur / ingénieure)

OIQ Step: Continuing Education

CPD Companion – After You’re Licensed

For OIQ mandatory continuing education (formation continue obligatoire)

OIQ requires 30 hours of continuing education every two years. CPD Companion helps you find relevant courses and keep your learning organized so you can meet your obligations without spending hours searching.

How OIQ Licensing Works in Quebec

Apply to the OIQ

The application process depends on where you obtained your engineering degree. Quebec graduates from CEAB‑accredited programs apply directly and are typically granted academic equivalence. Canadian graduates from outside Quebec and international graduates go through a file review by OIQ’s Admissions Committee, which determines whether they have full or partial equivalence. Applicants with partial equivalence may be required to complete additional admission exams or training before proceeding. A language requirement also applies — OIQ requires members to have appropriate knowledge of French before issuing a permit, with some exceptions for temporary permits. .

Register as a CEP and complete the Professional Admission Program

Once academic requirements are satisfied, candidates register as a Candidate to the Engineering Profession (CEP) and complete OIQ’s Professional Admission Program (PAP). The program has three components: a theoretical component (completed via a professional exam), a practical component (supervised engineering work experience), and a language component. Candidates normally have five years to complete all three. The order in which they are completed is flexible. Candidates are responsible for finding their own supervisor — a licensed engineer who can attest to their practical work experience.

Obtain your permit

Once all three PAP components are complete and OIQ is satisfied with your file, you receive your engineering permit and the right to use the title ing. (ingénieur / ingénieure) in Quebec. Once licensed, all OIQ members must comply with the mandatory continuing education regulation — completing a minimum of 30 hours of recognized professional development every two years and declaring completed activities through the member portal by April 15 following the end of each reference period.

For full details on each step, visit oiq.qc.ca.

Where We Can Help Quebec Engineers

Where we do help is with continuing education after you’re licensed:

Common Questions About OIQ Continuing Education

How many continuing education hours does OIQ require?

OIQ requires a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education over a two‑year reference period. The reference period runs from April 1 to March 31 (two years total). You must declare completed activities in your member portal by April 15 following the end of each reference period.

What counts as an eligible continuing education activity with OIQ?

OIQ’s regulation offers significant flexibility. Eligible activities can include virtual or in‑person training, OIQ’s MAESTRO platform courses, recognized conferences, mentoring, self‑directed learning and more. The OIQ’s application guide for the mandatory continuing education regulation (Guide d’application) is the authoritative reference for what qualifies. If you complete training through MAESTRO, your member profile updates automatically.

Where do I declare my OIQ continuing education hours?

Continuing education activities are declared through the OIQ member portal under the “Formation continue” section. If you complete training through OIQ’s MAESTRO platform, your profile fills in automatically. For other activities, you complete a declaration form and attach supporting documentation. You must keep supporting documents for at least two years after the end of the reference period.

Does OIQ use the NPPE like other Canadian provinces?

Does OIQ use the NPPE like other Canadian provinces? No. Quebec has its own licensing process. OIQ does not use the National Professional Practice Exam (NPPE). Instead, candidates complete OIQ’s own professional exam as part of the Professional Admission Program. The NPPE is used by engineering regulators in all other Canadian provinces and territories.

I’m a licensed P.Eng. in another province. Can I practise engineering in Quebec?

Engineers licensed in good standing in another Canadian province can apply to the OIQ for membership. The process differs from the standard new‑applicant path — contact OIQ directly to confirm the steps and documentation required. Temporary permits are also available for specific projects. See the OIQ page for members of other Canadian associations for details.

Next Steps for Quebec Engineers

If you’re a licensed ing. looking to stay on top of your OIQ continuing education requirements, use

CPD Companion

If you’re working through the OIQ licensing process, visit