# Get Started Canonical page: https://carecard.ca/knowledge/get-started Before you upload anything, read the four rules below — they apply to **every document** in this guide and cover the most common reasons submissions get rejected. ## The four upload rules [#the-four-upload-rules] 1. **Upload the whole document, clearly readable.** Every page, all four corners visible, no cropped edges, no blur. Retake the photo or rescan if you can squint at it. 2. **Your full name must be visible** on the document and match the name your program has on file. Documents under a nickname, maiden name or initials are a frequent cause of rejection. 3. **Dates must be visible and current.** The issue date, expiry date or test date has to appear on the document — a certificate without a date cannot be verified. 4. **Submit one PDF or image per requirement.** Combine multi-page documents into a single file, and never upload password-protected or edited files. ## How each requirement page works [#how-each-requirement-page-works] Every requirement follows the same five-part layout, so once you learn the pattern you can read any page in under a minute: | Section | What it tells you | | -------------- | -------------------------------------------- | | What this is | A plain-language explanation of the document | | What to submit | The exact items you need to provide | | Accepted proof | Which records and formats are accepted | | Good to know | Tips and common rejection reasons | | Validity | How long the document stays valid | ## Plan your timeline [#plan-your-timeline] Work backwards from your placement start date: * **6–8 weeks before** — request police checks, work permits and anything issued by a government office. Book blood tests and any missing vaccine doses; some series need weeks between doses. * **3–4 weeks before** — complete certifications such as CPR and first aid, and gather records from your clinic or previous institute. * **1–2 weeks before** — fill out declarations and forms, double-check every upload against the four rules, and submit. ## The requirement categories [#the-requirement-categories] The 19 requirements are grouped into three categories: Vaccines, blood tests and the records that prove them. CPR, first aid and the other courses you need to complete. Police checks, declarations and the forms to fill out. ## If something is unclear [#if-something-is-unclear] Requirements can vary slightly by program and placement site. If a document is unclear — or you think one may not apply to you — always confirm with your program before you submit. It is much faster to ask first than to fix a rejected submission later.