Cannabis Training Programs in Canada

CannSell by WKT is the most widely recognized and trusted cannabis training program provider and is officially approved by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). The cannabis industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Canada. Certified cannabis training ensures you meet provincial laws, understand product safety, and deliver responsible customer experiences. CannSell courses will prepare you to start your career in the cannabis industry.

Provincial Certification: The CannSell Standard Course

To legally work in a cannabis retail environment in Ontario, every employee must complete an approved training program recognized by the AGCO. CannSell is an approved training provider in Ontario, offering the CannSell Standard Course for all retail employees and store managers.

Budtenders are the MVPs of cannabis retail in Ontario. They are crucial for guiding customers, ensuring compliance, and promoting responsible cannabis use.

CannSell Standard Course

Best For: New cannabis retail employees, individuals seeking mandatory AGCO certification or anyone who is genuinely curious about cannabis.
Cost: $64.99 CAD + HST
Passing Score: 80% minimum on the final exam
Exam Attempts: 2 retakes available
Validity: Lifetime certification (refresher modules recommended periodically)

Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Budtender Certification in Ontario

Complete an Approved Cannabis Retail Training Program:
Before you can work in cannabis retail, you have to complete approved training such as the CannSell Standard Course. CannSell is an AGCO-approved cannabis retail training program.

Understand Ontario’s Cannabis Retail Regulations:
The Cannabis License Act requires all budtenders to understand legal age and ID verification, retail store conduct and compliance, and restrictions on promotions. You will learn these essentials and more through the CannSell Standard Course.

Apply for Cannabis Retail Employment:
Once certified, you can apply to work at licensed retail stores across Ontario. Many employers list "CannSell certification" as a mandatory job requirement.

Pro Tip: Taking additional courses, like CannSell Expert, will help you stand out!

Overview of Specialized CannSell Programs

CannSell offers cannabis education programs designed for learners at every level, helping you develop your knowledge-base and enhance your career possibilities.

CannSell Expert Course

Best For: Experienced or curious budtenders, store managers, and retail supervisors who want a deeper and more vast understanding of everything cannabis
Key Details: Builds on the Standard certification with advanced modules on cannabis plant science and safety, product differentiation, and growing practices.
Cost: CAD $249.99 + HST.
Course Length: 16–18 hours.
Note: Completion of this course alone does not provide the mandatory AGCO certification required to work in cannabis retail.

CannSell Bundle Program

Best For: Learners who want more extensive training (Standard + Expert) at a bundled rate.
Key Details: Offers both courses at a discounted cost. Outcome: Two certifications—Standard + Expert.
Cost: CAD $299.99 (savings of $19.99)

Why Choose CannSell for Cannabis Education

CannSell was the first training program approved for legally authorized cannabis retailers in Ontario and remains the most reputable, accessible, affordable, AGCO-recognized option for new budtenders and cannabis retail professionals across Ontario.

Official AGCO-Approved status
100% online, self-paced learning
Certification has lifetime validity; no expiration
Widely recognized by employers and employees as the industry standard
CannSell has certified over 50,000 professionals in Ontario alone

Community

The CannSell ecosystem extends beyond mandatory training to recognize excellence and foster professional growth.

Community and Ongoing Education

CannSell provides ongoing resources and education to help budtenders, managers and other cannabis professionals stay ahead in the industry:

Updates & Insights: CannSell's blog and updates section feature articles like Budtender Networking 101 and key insights from industry events.
Budtender of the Month: CannSell spotlights and celebrates standout professionals with our Budtenders of the Month.
Networking: CannSell regularly features information about industry events across Ontario to help connect professionals.
Budtender Bulletin: Our monthly newsletter contains educational insights, community events info and networking opportunities, product spotlights and more. Subscribe to get updates

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which CannSell course do I need to start working in cannabis retail?
To begin your career in cannabis retail, complete the CannSell Standard Course, as it is an AGCO-approved minimum requirement.

Is certification mandatory to work in cannabis retail in Ontario?
Yes, completing an approved training program recognized by the AGCO is required for every employee working in a cannabis retail environment in Ontario. CannSell by WKT offers training that’s approved and recognized by AGCO and widely regarded as the preferred training option across the industry.

Does the CannSell certification expire?
No, the certification currently has lifetime validity, though refresher courses are recommended and encouraged.

How long does the CannSell Standard Course take to complete?
Most learners complete the program in 4–5 hours, however, you are free to work at your own pace.

What is the difference between CannSell Standard and CannSell Expert?
The Standard Course covers retail compliance basics, laws, and essential fundamental knowledge required to work in a cannabis retail environment; the Expert Course adds advanced cannabis education and in-depth insights. Completion of the Expert course alone does not provide the mandatory certification required for employment.

Can I work anywhere in Canada with this certification?
CannSell certification is specific to Ontario, but many cannabis retail employers across Canada recognize it as the benchmark for cannabis retail education.

Is there a group or corporate discount available?
Yes, if you buy multiple licenses, you can save with our bulk pricing and discounts.

Can I upgrade from the Standard course to the Expert course?
There is no direct "upgrade" path, as the Standard and Expert courses are separate certifications. The Expert course is an advanced program you can take to gain a competitive leg up with enhanced product and industry knowledge.

There is a bundle available if you plan to take the two courses right away. By purchasing the bundle, you save $19.99.