The sign and graphics industry evolves extremely fast. Many of today’s materials, films, and application methods simply did not exist a decade ago. Because of this, years of experience alone are no longer enough for a professional installer.

Toronto Sign Services focuses on staying current — technically, practically, and professionally. This is why we invest in advanced training and certification through industry leaders such as 3M™.

We are proud to be recognized as a 3M™ Preferred Installer serving Toronto and the GTA.

About the 3M™ Installer Certification Program

There is plenty of general information available about the 3M certification program for graphics installers. Below is a brief overview based on first-hand experience from attending multiple 3M training sessions and completing the Preferred Installer testing process.

3M has operated its installer certification program in the United States for many years before introducing it in Canada in 2010. Toronto Sign Services participated in the first advanced 3M installer training held in Hamilton, followed by several additional courses in subsequent years.

Training Scope & Practical Focus

3M installer training provides in-depth knowledge across most common vinyl applications, including:

• Vinyl Graphics
• Window and glass films
• Vehicle wraps

A significant portion of the training is dedicated to vehicle wrapping. The reasoning is simple: an installer capable of high-level wraps will generally adapt well to other vinyl applications.

While this is not true in every case, experience shows it is far easier to train a skilled wrap installer to work on walls and glass than the opposite.

One of the most valuable aspects of the training is hands-on exposure to 3M application tools and premium films — materials that are typically too costly for beginners to practice with extensively.

Preferred Installer Testing (PIT)

The Preferred Installer Testing (PIT) is intentionally demanding.

From practical experience, an installer should complete at least 20 full vehicle wraps before attempting the test. Without that level of experience, the testing becomes extremely difficult and costly to repeat.

The PIT process spans two full days and includes multiple timed installation challenges (“props”). Expect 10–11 hours per day of focused, high-pressure work. Failed props may be retaken once, but failing several usually makes it impossible to complete the full test within the allotted time.

Examples of Tested Applications

Testing props included real-world applications such as:

• Vinyl installation on brick, concrete, and cinder block walls
• Trailer panels with rivets
• Wall and floor graphics
• Wrapping a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter rear door
• Wrapping multiple sections of a Chevrolet HHR (doors, fenders, front bumper — the most demanding task)

In addition to hands-on testing, installers must pass a written knowledge exam covering product specifications and application standards. Preparation requires reviewing approximately 400 pages of 3M technical bulletins.

What the Certification Represents

By successfully completing all components of the testing process, Toronto Sign Services earned the designation of 3M™ Preferred Installer — the Canadian equivalent of the U.S. 3M Certified Installer status.

Combined with years of professional installation experience and additional industry training, this designation confirms a high level of technical competence, consistency, and adherence to manufacturer standards.

Learn More

• Learn more about our professional sign installation services in Toronto
• View our window graphics installation services
• Visit the official 3M™ Preferred / Certified Installer Program for program details