Carpentry Licence New South Wales

Name: Carpentry Licence NSW | How To Get My Carpentry Licence NSW?
Brand: Skills Certified
Rating: 4.8 (2875 reviews)

How to get your carpentry licence in NSW

If you’re considering a career as a professional carpenter, it’s essential to understand how to get your carpentry licence in NSW.

The NSW Government’s Fair Trading regulates the registration and licensing of builders and tradespeople, including carpenters. Licensing ensures you’re operating legally and safely while giving homeowners peace of mind. This guide walks you through all you need to know—requirements, fees, pathways, and how Skills Certified can help.

Do you need a carpentry licence in NSW?

Yes, in NSW, a licence is required for any building or general trade work exceeding $5,000, inclusive of materials and labour. NSW Fair Trading mandates this requirement to ensure safety and professionalism in the industry. Without a licence, you risk significant penalties—up to $22,000 for individuals and $110,000 for companies under the Home Building Act 1989.

Steps to obtain your carpentry licence

Secure the required qualifications. You need a Certificate III in Carpentry, such as CPC30220 or its predecessors.
Gather experience. NSW Fair Trading expects applicants to verify their competence through practical experience. (Details vary by case—often through apprenticeships or portfolio evidence.)
Complete the application. Download the Individual Application Form, associated Checklist, and supporting documents from NSW Fair Trading or Service NSW.
Submit via Service NSW. Bring ID, qualification proofs, referee statements, and licensing fees to your appointment. Your licence options include:
- Individual (contractor) licence (carpentry-specific)
- Company or partnership contractor licence
- Qualified Supervisor Certificate
Display and abide by your licence. Once issued, your licence number must appear on all ads, contracts, and stationery.

For more information, visit the NSW Government’s Fair Trading website here.

Qualifications required for licensing

Carpenters looking to acquire a NSW carpentry licence need at least one of the following qualifications:

CPC30220 Certificate III in Carpentry (current)
CPC30208 Certificate III in Carpentry or CPC32008 Certificate III in Carpentry and Joinery
CPC30211 Certificate III in Carpentry or CPC32011 Certificate III in Carpentry and Joinery
BCG30203 Certificate III in Carpentry
Qualification 10888 Certificate III in General Construction (Carpentry)—Housing Trade TAFE Course #2192
BCG30798 Certificate III in General Construction (Carpentry – Framework/Formwork/Finishing) TAFE course #7078
Certificate III in Carpentry and Joinery Trade TAFE Course #5158
Certificate III in Carpentry and Joinery Trade TAFE Course #2149

Completing an apprenticeship with these qualifications can streamline the process. Alternatively, significant relevant experience may be considered—particularly through RPL routes.

Types of carpentry licences available

In NSW, the licence types align with roles in the building process:

Carpentry Contractor Licence (Individual) – to contract and undertake carpentry work above $5,000
Contractor Licence (Company/Partnership) – if your business trades under a legal entity
Qualified Supervisor Certificate (endorsed) – if you supervise carpentry or building work

These licences are available for 1-, 3-, or 5-year terms, with associated fees (see below).

Cost of a carpentry licence in NSW

Fees vary by licence type and term length. As of 2025/26, the baseline costs (including processing and fixed components) for an individual trade or specialist contractor licence (like carpentry) are approximately:

1 year: $387 total
3 years: $772 total
5 years: $1,187 total

Applying via MyServiceNSW can save you 10% on the processing component (or $5, whichever is greater).

How Skill Certified can help

Getting licensed can feel overwhelming—documentation, experience proof, and administering applications. That’s where Skills Certified steps in:

We’ll help you assess whether your skills meet the carpentry licence NSW prerequisites through RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning).
We guide you in gathering relevant evidence: qualifications, references, work portfolios, and referees.
We walk you through the application stages, ensuring forms, proofs, and fees are correct for NSW Fair Trading.
Whether you’re applying individually or through RPL, we streamline the process and support you every step of the way.

Faq's

Can I conduct work without a carpentry licence?

In NSW, performing carpentry work without a licence is not permissible for projects that exceed the $5,000 mark. A carpentry licence is crucial for adhering to industry standards and regulations. Working unlicensed can result in penalties and put your legal and financial standing at risk.

Does past experience count towards my carpentry licence?

Yes, experience is a significant factor in obtaining a carpentry licence in NSW. The licensing process recognises the skills and knowledge acquired through practical work experience in the field and RPL.

How much does a carpentry licence cost?

The cost of a carpentry licence in NSW varies based on several factors, including the type of licence and the duration of the licence. Applicants need to check with NSW Fair Trading for the most up-to-date fees and charges, however, as of 2025/26, fees range from approximately $387–$1,187, depending on licence term and type. Discounts apply for online submissions.

Next Steps for Your NSW Carpentry Licence

Skills Certified Australia is committed to supporting carpenters in advancing their careers. We acknowledge your existing experience and talents and assist you in obtaining an official qualification. Our goal is to ease the process of obtaining a state licence by connecting you with professionals who can offer bespoke advice based on your specific needs and career aspirations.

Get in Touch

For further assistance with your NSW Carpentry Licence, contact our team at Skills Certified. Reach us at 13 17 75 or via email at [email protected], and we will guide you through the licensing process, ensuring a smooth transition to your next career milestone.

The links provide specific information by trade.

Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration

Bricklaying

Building

Carpentry

Concreting

Dry Plastering

Glazing

Painting

Plumbing & Drainage

Structural Landscaping

How our customers rated our service

Discover why Skills Certified is trusted by thousands. With over 2,500 reviews and an impressive average rating of 4.9 stars on Trustpilot, our commitment to quality and excellence in skills recognition through RPL is evident through the experiences of our satisfied clients across Australia.