Builders' licensing
You must be licensed to build.
Types of licences
Builders can have a class A, B, C or D licence. Separate licensing applies to owner-builders.
Functions of different licence classes
Different classes of licence have different functions, which are set out in the Construction Occupations (Licensing) Regulation. This regulation is amended from time to time. The classes are:
Class A Builder (unlimited)*
- building work other than specialist building work or handling asbestos.
This licence permits building work of unlimited height on any Building Code of Australia (BCA) class of work.
Class B Builder (medium rise)*
a) building work (other than specialist building work or handling asbestos) in relation to a building that is three storeys or lower; and
b) basic building work.
Class C Builder (low rise - residential)*
a) building work (other than specialist building work or handling asbestos) in relation to a building that is two storeys or lower and is a class 1, 2 or 10a building; and
b) building work (other than specialist building work or handling asbestos) in relation to a building that is a class 10b structure (other than a swimming pool or swimming pool fence) and is ancillary to a building mentioned in paragraph (a); and
c) basic building work.
Class D Builder*
- non-structural basic building work, other than specialist building work or handling asbestos.
Endorsements may apply to a Class D builder's licence (see licence restrictions and endorsements for more information.
The definitions above only apply to open licences (i.e. licences with no conditions, restrictions or endorsements)
Licence restrictions and endorsements
Any class of builder’s licence may be issued with a condition, restriction or endorsement. More
Eligibility
The Mandatory Qualifications Schedule sets out the qualifications required for the different types of licences. These include tertiary qualifications and work experience.
How to apply for a builder's licence
Please complete the forms that apply to you. Post, fax or bring in the completed forms in person to ACTPLA at 16 Challis St Dickson.
For individuals:
If you are licensed elsewhere in Australia or New Zealand:
For companies and partnerships, including changes and renewal:
Changes and replacements
Please complete the forms that apply to you.
- CL4 - Construction practitioner licence - Change of details and / or replace licence card
- CL7 - Construction practitioner licence - Update nominees
Renewal and refusal
Licences are typically for three years, but can be shorter. You need to renew your licence before its expiry. You can renew your licence online, including paying the required fee by credit card over a secure Internet connection. The Construction Occupations Registrar can refuse and may impose or remove conditions on a licence at the time of licensing.
Builders licence definitions and terms
