ESA Launches New Self-Serve Licensing Platform

November 10, 2025

The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) has officially launched its new self-serve licensing platform, a modern system designed to transform how Master Electricians (MEs) and Licensed Electrical Contractors (LECs) manage their licensing needs. The platform replaces paper-based processes and provides a centralized, web-based experience for renewing and applying for licences, paying fees and managing licensing documents. ME Exam applicants can also register for an exam, and, upon passing, seamlessly apply for their ME licence through the same platform.

Ontario is home to over 10,000 LECs and 17,000 MEs, all of whom will benefit from streamlined and more transparent licensing processes.

Key Benefits for Licence Holders

The new platform brings improvements with the following features:

  • Web-first access from any device, no app download required
  • Simplified licence applications and renewals for MEs and LECs
  • Online payments and digital receipts for faster, more convenient transactions
  • Online ME Exam registration and payment 
  • Centralized document management, allowing licence holders to download, view and update licensing details
  • Enhanced compliance tools to support oversight and complaint tracking

Consumer Protection at the Core

A key feature of the platform is the new Contractor Locator Tool, which connects consumers directly with LECs. The tool, accessible to the public, flags unlicensed entities and highlights any relevant history of non-compliance. This helps Ontarians make informed decisions, avoid unsafe work and hire professionals who meet ESA’s strict licensing requirements.

The Licensing Platform is another proof point in ESA’s evolution as a modern regulator. We’re listening, adapting and making it easier for our licence holder community to focus on what matters most: doing safe, quality work, says Emily Larose, Vice President of Regulatory and General Counsel, Electrical Safety Authority. “We are proud to launch this tool and reduce red tape for our licencees, while strengthening regulatory oversight.”

To learn more about the new Licensing Platform, along with its benefits and features, please visit ESAsafe.com/LicensingPlatform.

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