How to get your BCIN

1. Create a QuARTS account

Start in the Ministry's Qualification and Registration Tracking System (QuARTS). Creating an account generates your BCIN. You use the same number when you book exams and register. (MMAH)

2. Pass the exams

Qualification is by the examination program administered or authorized by the Ministry. (Div. C, 3.2.4.2.(1) and 3.2.5.2.(1)) Humber Polytechnic delivers the exams. You need:

• a legal/process exam: Designer Legal/Process for most designers
• a technical exam for each class you want, such as House, Small Buildings or Building Structural

Each exam has 70 multiple-choice questions, is open book, takes 3 hours, needs a 70% pass and costs $150. (Humber FAQ; Div. C, 3.2.4.5.(1))

Some exams cover more than one class. Passing Small Buildings also qualifies you for House. Complex Buildings covers Large Buildings. Building Services covers HVAC – House and Detection, Lighting and Power.

3. Register

Choose the registration that fits how you work. Firms and individual designers explains the difference.

Insurance (firms only)

Firms registered under 3.2.4 must carry professional liability insurance. The minimum is set by the fees you billed for design work in the previous 12 months. (Div. C, 3.6.2.3.(1)(f))

New firms use their estimated fees for the coming year. The deductible can't exceed the lesser of $70,000 or 5% of fees. (Div. C, 3.6.2.3.(1)(h)) If the insurance lapses, the registration must be suspended or refused. (Div. C, 3.2.4.9.(2)(a))

4. Renew every year

Registration lasts one year. (Div. C, 3.2.4.4 and 3.2.5.4) Apply to renew within the 60 days before it expires. (Div. C, 3.2.4.3.(2) and 3.2.5.3.(2)) As of October 2026, Division C, Section 3.2 doesn't set a continuing-education requirement for designers. Many designers keep current anyway, especially through code changes.

Next: How to check a designer on QuARTS →