Electrical Licence : It can be quite a daunting task to get your electrical licence in Australia. Even some apprentices struggle to work out all the steps involved. This article will cover the major steps you need to undertake to be qualified and licensed as an electrician.

There's a few major milestones that you need to fulfill in order to become licensed in NSW. According to the Department of Fair Trading website (current as of 13/9/2014), the most straightforward pathway is to:

Completion of Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30806 or UEE30807 or UEE30811) and
hold a certificate of Proficiency as an Electrician or an Electrical Mechanic from the Department of Education and Communities (DEC) or the Vocational Training Tribunal (VTT).
At least 12 months relevant electrical wiring work experience utilising knowledge and understanding of the AS/NZS 3000:2007 in the residential, commercial, and/or industrial areas required by NSW Fair Trading ‘Referee’s Statement Electrical Work’ form current at the date of the application."

To get to the stage Fair Trading is requiring of you, here is what you may need to do:

Attain a Craft Certificate. This is acquired from VTT (call 13 28 11). This is awarded when you complete your practical training/apprenticeship. Alternatively, if you can demonstrate that you have sufficient practical experience whether locally or overseas, you may apply for a craft certificate. In your application, you will need to provide a portfolio of evidence demonstrating your experience. Where your evidence is not sufficient for the tribunal to make a call, you will most probably be called in for a theory and/or a practical trade test.
Complete your Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician. Check out our electrical skills recognition programs. Qualify Me! has a couple of RPL programs that cater to students that have not completed their electrical course for whatever reason and still have some units/subjects outstanding as well as UK electrical recognition.
Attain a Certificate of Proficiency. You will have to go back to VTT who will award you a Certificate of Proficiency. This certificate basically means you have successfully completed your practical training and you have received been awarded an appropriate qualification by a registered training organisation.
Apply for your licence at your local Department of Fair Trading office. Generally, it will take up to 6 weeks to hear back about your initial application.
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