How to Get an Electrical Licence in Australia

by Team Tradify, June 20, 2024

To get an electrical licence in Australia, you'll need to undergo both theoretical and practical training. This will include a four-year apprenticeship where you'll get hands-on experience and feedback from a qualified electrician, ensuring you're able to perform your duties safely. If you're already licensed by another country, you can apply to have your qualification reviewed by Trades Recognition Australia (TRA), before applying for an Australian electrical licence.

To apply for your electrical licence in Australia, find the local governing body of your state and their requirements below.

Types of electrical licences in Australia
How to get an electrical licence in Western Australia (WA)
How to get an electrical licence in New South Wales (NSW)
How to get an electrical licence in Victoria (VIC)
How to get an electrical licence in Queensland (QLD)
How to get an electrical licence in South Australia (SA)
How to get an electrical licence in Tasmania (TAS)
How to get an electrical licence in the Northern Territory (NT)
How to get an electrical licence in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
How to get an Australian electrical licence if you’re from overseas
- From New Zealand
- From the rest of the world

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1. Types of electrical licences in Australia

Anyone wishing to work as an electrician in Australia needs an electrical licence. Each requires you to undergo theoretical training and an apprenticeship. However, each state requires specific licences, so be sure to check your qualifications before moving or performing work outside the state that issued your licence.

There are six different types of electrical work licences, including:

An electrical mechanic licence, which authorises all electrical work.
An electrical linesperson licence.
An electrical fitter licence.
An electrical jointer licence.
A restricted electrical work licence.
An electrical work training permit.

As well as two types of electrical contractor licences:

An unrestricted electrical contractor licence, which authorises all electrical work.
A restricted electrical contractor licence, which authorises some types of electrical work — excluding installations.

2. How to get an electrical licence in Western Australia (WA)

Before you start your application to train for an electrical licence in Western Australia (WA), you’ll need to complete Year 10 or its equivalent. Future sparkies must also be at least 15 years old to begin a school-based apprenticeship, or 17 to start full-time. However, businesses will often recommend completing a Certificate II in Electrotechnology and gaining a driving licence before committing to an apprenticeship. If you meet these requirements, you can begin training!

Application process:

Complete training: Finish an apprenticeship and complete Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician.
Gain experience: Gain 12 months of on-the-job experience under the supervision of a licensed electrician.
Submit application: Apply to the Electrical Licensing Board of Western Australia, including proof of identity, qualifications, and work experience logbooks, plus the application fee.
Pass the examination: Successfully pass the Capstone Assessment, which includes both theoretical and practical components.
Receive your licence: After passing the exams and meeting all requirements, you'll receive your electrical licence!

Training providers can be found through the Department of Training and Workforce Development and additional study resources can be found on the ETCWA website. Licences need to be renewed every 5 years, which will include an element of Continuing professional development (CPD).

2. How to get an electrical licence in New South Wales (NSW)

To apply for an electrical licence in New South Wales (NSW), you must have completed Year 10 or an equivalent level of education. Prospective electricians, or 'sparkies,' need to be at least 15 years old to start a school-based apprenticeship. Businesses often advise obtaining a Certificate II in Electrotechnology and a driving licence before beginning an apprenticeship. If you meet these criteria, you can start your training!

Application process:

Complete an apprenticeship: Undertake an electrical apprenticeship and complete Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician.
Work experience: Gain at least 12 months of work experience under supervision from a qualified electrician.
Submit application: Submit an application and fees to NSW Fair Trading, alongside your workbook and Certificates.
Pass examinations: Pass the Capstone Assessment, which includes theoretical and practical exams.
Receive licence: Upon successful completion of all steps, you will be granted an electrical licence!

Accredited providers and apprenticeship programs are listed on NSW Training Services. Once you're licensed, you'll need to renew your licences within 5 years to fulfil the CPD requirements.

3. How to get an electrical licence in Victoria (VIC)

Before applying for an electrical licence in Victoria (VIC), you should have completed Year 10 or an equivalent qualification. Aspiring sparkies must be at least 15 years old to commence a school-based apprenticeship, or 17 to begin full-time. Many businesses recommend completing a Certificate II in Electrotechnology and securing a driving licence prior to starting an apprenticeship. If you've got the above, you’re ready to start your training!

Application process:

Complete apprenticeship: Finish a recognised electrical apprenticeship program and obtain Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician.
Gain work experience: Complete at least 12 months of practical experience under supervision from a qualified electrician.
Apply for a Licence: Apply for the Grade A licence through Energy Safe Victoria.
Pass exams: Successfully pass both the Licensed Electrical Assessment (LEA) and the Safe Working Practice Exam.
Receive licence: Once all requirements are satisfied, you will receive your electrical licence.

Accredited training providers can be found through Apprenticeships Victoria. The LEA and Safe Working Practice Exam are mandatory. Preparation materials are available through training providers. Licences need to be renewed every 5 years with CPD requirements.

4. How to get an electrical licence in Queensland (QLD)

Before starting your application for an electrical licence in Queensland (QLD), you must have completed Year 10 or an equivalent. Prospective sparkies must be at least 15 years old to start a school-based apprenticeship, with their parent's permission. Businesses often recommend completing a Certificate II in Electrotechnology and securing a driving licence before committing to an apprenticeship. Once you meet these requirements, you can begin training!

Application process:

Complete training: Complete an apprenticeship and complete Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician.
Gain experience: Throughout your apprenticeship (or beyond), you must acquire at least 12 months of on-the-job experience under the supervision of a licensed electrician before applying for a full electrical licence.
Apply for a licence: Apply to the Electrical Safety Office, including proof of identity, qualifications, and work experience logbooks. Pay the application fee.
Pass the examination: Successfully pass the Capstone Assessment, which includes both theoretical and practical components.
Receive your licence: After passing the exams and meeting all requirements, you'll receive your electrical licence.

Qualified training providers can be found through TAFE Queensland. Licences must be renewed every 5 years, with CPD requirements. For more information, check out Queensland Worksafe and ETU Queensland (Electrical Trades Union)

5. How to get an electrical licence in South Australia (SA)

To start your application for an electrical licence in South Australia, you need to have completed Year 10 or an equivalent. Future sparkies must be at least 15 years old to start an apprenticeship, with their school and parent's permission. It is often suggested by businesses to complete a Certificate II in Electrotechnology Electrician and secure a driving licence before beginning an apprenticeship. If you fulfil these requirements, you can begin your training!

Application Process

Complete apprenticeship: Finish an electrical apprenticeship program and complete a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician.
Gain work experience: Get at least 12 months of practical experience, under qualified supervision.
Apply for a licence: Apply to Consumer and Business Services, including proof of identity, qualifications, and work experience logbooks. Pay the application fee.
Pass exams: Successfully pass theoretical and practical examinations, including the Capstone Assessment.
Receive licence: Once all requirements are satisfied, you will receive your electrical licence.

Training providers can be found through TAFE SA. In order to fit CPD requirements, licences must be renewed every 5 years. Check the South Australian Electrical Safety Standards for more details.

6. How to get an electrical licence in Tasmania (TAS)

Before applying for an electrical licence in Tasmania, you must have completed Year 10 or an equivalent qualification. Businesses recommend getting a Certificate II in Electrotechnology Electrician, along with a driving licence, before committing to an apprenticeship. Once you meet these criteria, you can begin your training!

Application Process

Complete training: Undertake a recognised apprenticeship and complete Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician.
Gain experience: Acquire the required on-the-job experience under the supervision of a licensed electrician.
Apply for a licence: Apply to Consumer, Building and Occupational Services Tasmania, including proof of identity, qualifications, and work experience logbooks. Pay the application fee.
Pass the examination: Successfully pass the Capstone Assessment, which includes both theoretical and practical components.
Receive your licence: After passing the exams and meeting all requirements, you'll receive your electrical licence.

Training providers can be found through TasTAFE. Licences must be renewed every 5 years, with CPD requirements.

7. How to get an electrical licence in the Northern Territory (NT)

Before applying for an electrical licence in the Northern Territory, you must have completed Year 10, or an equivalent qualification, and be 15 years old. Businesses often recommend obtaining a driving licence and testing your aptitude for electrical work with a Certificate II in Electrotechnology Electrician before starting an apprenticeship.

Application Process

Complete Apprenticeship: Finish a recognised electrical apprenticeship program and obtain Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician.
Gain Work Experience: Gain 12 months of practical, hands-on experience under the supervision of a licensed electrician.
Submit Application: Apply to NT Worksafe, including proof of identity, qualifications, and work experience logbooks, then pay the application fee.
Pass Exams: Successfully pass theoretical and practical examinations, including the Capstone Assessment.
Receive Licence: Once all requirements are satisfied, you will receive your electrical licence.

Accredited training providers can be found at Charles Darwin University. Licences must be renewed every 5 years, to meet CPD requirements. More resources can be found at ETU Northern Territory (Electrical Trades Union)

8. How to get an electrical licence in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

Before applying for an electrical licence in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), you must meet specific requirements. These include completing Year 10 or an equivalent qualification. Generally, businesses recommend completing a Certificate II in Electrotechnology and obtaining a driving licence before committing to an apprenticeship.

Application Process

Complete Training: Undertake a recognised apprenticeship and complete a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician.
Gain Experience: Acquire at least 12 months of on-the-job experience under the supervision of a licensed electrician.
Submit Application: Apply to ABLIS, including proof of identity, qualifications, insurance and work experience, plus the application fee.
Pass the Examination: Successfully pass the assessment, which will include theoretical and practical components.
Receive Your Licence: After passing the exams and meeting all requirements, you'll receive your electrical licence.
Training Providers and Courses:

Training providers can be found through Seek, local universities or colleges or the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA) ACT. Licences need to be renewed every 5 years. Continuing professional development (CPD) is required for renewal.

9. How to get an Australian electrical licence if you’re not from Australia

If you're an electrical worker with qualifications issued outside Australia or New Zealand, you may be eligible to apply for a state-specific electrical worker’s licence. To check if your qualifications are valid and will allow you to bypass a second apprenticeship within Australia, your qualifications must be assessed by Trades Recognition Australia (TRA), or one of their nominated training providers. Once you're sure you fit the criteria, an application can be lodged with your state licensing agency to fast-track your licence.

From New Zealand

Due to the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Agreement (TTMRA), New Zealand electricians have a more streamlined process of applying for an Australian electrical licence.

Application Process

Get your licence verified: Make sure your New Zealand electrical licence is current and in good standing! Apply to the appropriate state licensing authority with proof of your licence and identity, and meet any additional local state requirements, such as a short course on local electrical standards.

From the rest of the world

Electricians from the rest of the world may have to go through additional training to ensure their experience fits with local laws and requirements.

Application Process

Get your qualifications assessed: For electrical workers from other countries, contact a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)in order to have your qualifications assessed against the Australian Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician. You may need to complete gap training and apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). After your qualifications are assessed, you can submit an application to the state authority, pass the necessary examinations, including the Capstone Assessment, and then receive your electrical licence. Licences need to be renewed every 5 years, and continuing professional development (CPD) will likely be required for renewal.

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