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 licence. Only individuals (not companies) with equivalent occupations can apply for mutual recognition. Check the licence recognition website for details.
Licences from other countries are not recognised, but you may be able to have overseas qualifications and experience assessed to help you get a South Australian licence.
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.
How to apply
Find the appropriate South Australian licence and follow the instructions:
For most licences, you'll need to have your photo taken and undergo an ID check before being issued with a licence card.
Overseas plumbers, gas fitters and electricians
People with plumbing, gas fitting and electrical licences from a country other than Australia or NZ may be able to have some of their skills recognised in South Australia. Licences are generally issued with a restriction to work under supervision until further training is completed.
Before you begin
Overseas trained plumbers, gas fitters and electrical workers may apply for an Offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR) which is an assessment of your overseas qualifications and experience.
Only certain approved Registered Training Organisations (RTO) can issue an OTSR. Any additional units of competency that need to be completed will be listed on the certificate.
You must provide a copy of the OTSR certificate when applying for a restricted licence.
Find an approved RTO - Trades Recognition Australia
Restrictions for overseas licence holders
When you receive a restricted licence, you can work if someone supervises you. Once you finish any 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 - Australian Government Department of Industry, Innovation and Science
Contact CBS Occupational Licensing
Email: occupational@sa.gov.au
Phone: 131 882
In person:
91 Grenfell Street
Adelaide
Post:
GPO Box 1719
Adelaide SA 5001
