Recognition of interstate and overseas work licences
Workers and contractors with licences from interstate or New Zealand (NZ) can apply for the same type of South Australian (SA) licence. People with trade licences from other countries may be able to have some of their skills recognised.
Who can apply
Interstate and NZ licence holders
You can apply if:
- your interstate or NZ licence is current
- your licence isn’t suspended and has no conditions due to criminal, civil or disciplinary proceedings - including if you are being investigated.
Before you begin
You'll need to include a copy of your current licence with your application - showing the front and back if it’s a licence card.
Check if your interstate of NZ licence has an equivalent in SA
Licences from other countries
People with trade licences from another country may be able to have some of their skills recognised in South Australia.
Before you begin
Arrange for a registered training organisation (RTO) which has been approved by Australian Skill Quality Authority to check your technical skills if you are:
- a general plumber and gas fitter
- a general electrician
- an air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanic
- a cable jointer and electrical power lines tradesperson.
If you qualify, the RTO will give you an Offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR). Attach this to your application as supporting evidence. Your RTO can also give you advice on other study options.
Find an approved RTO - Trades Recognition Australia
How to apply
Online
1. Complete the form
Fill in the application.
2. Print and sign
Print and sign the completed form.
3. Scan and upload
Scan and upload the signed form along with your supporting evidence.
4. Payment
You can pay by credit card using CBS's secure service. Check your application form for the licence fee.
In person
1. Complete the form
Fill in the application.
2. Print and sign
Print and sign the completed form.
3. Lodgement
Take your application to CBS Customer Service Centre or to a Service SA regional office along with your supporting evidence and payment.
Post
1. Complete the form
Fill in the application form, then print and sign it
2. Payment
Make a cheque or money order payable to the Commissioner for Consumer Affairs.
3. Lodgement
Post your application, supporting evidence and payment to:
Consumer and Business Services
GPO Box 1719
Adelaide 5001
Phone
If you're not able to apply online, in person or by post, call 131 882 and our staff will complete the form for you.
We'll post it to you to sign, advise you of your payment options and ask you to send it back to CBS with copies of your supporting evidence.
What happens next
For most licences, you'll need to have your photo taken and undergo an ID check before being issued with a licence card.
Restrictions for overseas licence holders
When you receive your restricted licence, you can work if someone supervises you. Once you finish the study you need to do for an Australian licence (read your OTSR for details) you can apply to have the restriction removed.
Related information
On this site
Other websites
Licence recognition - Department of Industry, Innovation and Science
