A Certificate of Proficiency shows that you are adequately trained to work in a trade.

What you need to apply for a Certificate of Proficiency

• Completion of the Australian trade qualification.
• Evidence to support the award of your qualification.
• A detailed letter that demonstrates 3 years or more full time work across the entire scope of duties. This must include your current or most recent employment in the trade you are applying for.
• Can demonstrate a minimum of 12 months experience working in Australia in the vocation you require the Certificate of Proficiency for.
• Must be living in NSW or have proof you are starting work in NSW.

When you need a Certificate of Proficiency

You don’t need a Certificate of Proficiency for all occupations, but it is needed:

• for an Electrical Contractors Licence (Q) or Qualified Supervisor Certificate licence (licences are issued by the NSW Office of Fair Trading)
• to demonstrate trade certification for a job.
• where it is a requirement for a policy or regulation that you must hold a Certificate of Proficiency (e.g. you are working for the Mining industry).

How long does the application take?

Depending on your qualification, your work experience and trade, the processing timeframe can vary. Building and Construction trades can take up to 12 weeks, and all other trades are completed within 8 weeks. A delay in the processing of your application will occur if:

• You have not provided sufficient detail in your reference for our expert to determine skills and knowledge across the entire scope of duties.
• Your supporting documents are not complete and further information is required.
  
• You are required to undertake an Interview.
• You are required to undertake an Independent Competency Assessment (trade test).

How much does the application cost?

You’ll need to pay a fee of $200 once your application and all attached documents are accepted. We’ll email you when it’s time to pay.

If you need to complete an Independent Competency Assessment during the application review, there will be an additional fee of $350. We’ll also email you to let you know if this is required.

Steps for applying

1. Read the guide: Preparing your application for a Trade Skills Recognition (TSR) Certificate of Proficiency.

The guide explains how to apply for a Trade Skills Recognition (TSR) Certificate of Proficiency and to make sure you have all the necessary documents.

2. Complete the Eligibility Form to check if you qualify.

• If you qualify, you’ll get an email with a link to the application form. Make sure to attach all the supporting documents you mentioned in your eligibility form.
• If you don’t qualify, check the instructions to see if you meet the basic requirements before applying again. You’ll need to fill out the Eligibility Form again for a new application.
  

After you submit your application, you’ll receive confirmation within 7 days that your application and documents have been accepted.

Contacts

For advice and information contact Training Services Apprenticeships and Traineeships unit.

Email: trade.skills@det.nsw.edu.au