Licensing pathway

Personal Support Worker (Ontario)

PSW education, employer requirements and Ontario's current oversight framework.

PSWs in Ontario are not a regulated health profession. Registration with HSCPOA is described as voluntary at launch — confirm current rules before relying on this.

Canada

Most employers expect a recognised PSW certificate. Ontario's oversight authority maintains a registry for personal support workers.

Health and Supportive Care Providers Oversight Authority (HSCPOA)

Stages

Complete a PSW program (public college, private career college or district school board)
Gain clinical placement experience
Meet employer requirements (e.g. vulnerable sector check, CPR/first aid)
Review HSCPOA registry requirements
Apply for PSW roles

Checklist

☐ PSW certificate
☐ Vulnerable sector check
☐ CPR/first aid
☐ Immunization records
☐ References

· HSCPOA

Under review: Confirm HSCPOA name, eligibility criteria and whether registration has become mandatory.

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