WELCOME

Home > Frequently Asked Questions > Compliance

frequently asked questions

compliance FAQ's

This is a list of frequently asked questions and corresponding answers. Please read this topic carefully before asking any questions

Q1. Who requires a license to practice engineering or geoscience, or use engineering or geoscience titles, in Alberta?

 If any of the activities of an individual, corporation, or other entity are consistent with the activities reserved by the EGP Act, a license is required before engaging in that activity.  Also, if the individual, corporation or other entity wishes to use specific reserved titles, or represent in general that they are entitled to practice engineering or geoscience in Alberta, they must also be licensed.  To learn more, read about Reserved Practice or Reserved Titles.  It is important to note that licensure in another jurisdiction does not entitle the holder to engage in reserved practice in Alberta.

Q2.  How does someone become licensed to practice engineering or geoscience in Alberta?

   For individuals, licensure is achieved by becoming a Professional Member of APEGA.  For corporations or other entities, licensure is achieved by obtaining a valid Permit to Practice issued by APEGA. 

Q3.   what titles can be used by e.i.t.'s, geo.i.t.'s, professional Licensees, and technologists?

    .... information here

Q4.  I am a member of APEGA and the sole owner and employee of an incorporated company.  Do I require a Permit to Practice in addition to my APEGA membership?

 Any corporation registered in the province of Alberta that offers engineering or geoscience services to any customer must hold a valid Permit to Practice at all times, regardless of the size of the company or whether the customer holds a Permit to Practice also.  May contract employees hired through a corporation of convenience are surprised to learn that this requirement applies to them.

Q5.  Only legal entities require a license to offer engineering or geoscience services in Alberta.  An unincorporated business does not legally exist and the sole-proprietor’s professional membership with APEGA is sufficient licensure?

   Only legal entities require a license to offer engineering or geoscience services in Alberta.  An unincorporated business does not legally exist and the sole-proprietor’s professional membership with APEGA is sufficient licensure. 

Q6.  if i am aware of a violator misuing reserved titles or engaging in reserved practice without a license, can I make an anonymous complaint?

   Compliance staff accepts enquiries and complaints confidentially.  If it is necessary for you to identify yourself or be named for any reason, we can advise you in advance.  Click the link to learn more about making complaints.

Q7.  If I make a complaint against someone, will they get in trouble?

    In an overwhelming majority of situations, APEGA’s first objective is to attempt to bring an unlicensed violator or suspected violator into voluntary compliance with the reserved title and reserved practice provisions of the EGP Act.  Violators may become voluntarily compliant, even if reluctantly, by either ceasing their unlicensed activity or by becoming licensed by APEGA.  Click the links to learn more about making complaints or the enforcement process.

      
     
Q8. If I make an enquiry about my own compliance situation, will I get myself in trouble?

    In an overwhelming majority of situations, APEGA’s first objective is to attempt to bring an unlicensed violator or suspected violator into voluntary compliance with the reserved title and reserved practice provisions of the EGP Act.  Violators may become voluntarily compliant, even if reluctantly, by either ceasing their unlicensed activity or by becoming licensed by APEGA.  Click the links to learn more about making complaints or the enforcement process.

Q9.  What are the penalties for violating reserved practice and reserved titles?

   APEGA is authorized under the EGP Act to seek injunctions or penalties through the Courts to address violations.  An injunction is a means of preventing a violator from continuing to violate in the future.  Penalties are a means of punishing a violator for past violations.  APEGA cannot arbitrate on behalf of aggrieved parties, nor seek restitution on behalf of others; the civil law system must be used for those purposes.  Click the link to learn more about the enforcement process.

Q10.   Is a Permit to practice required if a company only practices engineering or geoscience for its own consumption, meaning it does not do traditional consulting work to the public?

     The EGP Act does not make any distinction with respect to who consumes the outputs of engineering or geoscience activity.  It states simply that any company whose activities include the practice of engineering or geoscience must be licensed through a Permit to Practice (unless the activity is exempted from the Act).