White card NSW: cost, online rules and how long it lasts
How to get a white card in NSW: what the course costs, whether you can do it online, how long it takes and when it stops being valid.
Updated 2026-10-07
Who needs a white card
Anyone doing construction work must complete general construction induction training — unit CPCWHS1001 Prepare to work safely in the construction industry — and hold the card, which SafeWork NSW calls a general construction induction card.
Can you do it online in NSW?
Not with a NSW provider. SafeWork NSW's conditions for white card trainers (in force since 1 October 2022) require training delivered in NSW to be face to face with a nominated trainer; distance education and online learning are not permitted.
Two things make this confusing:
- SafeWork NSW accepts construction induction cards issued in other states and territories for work in NSW.
- Some interstate providers therefore advertise live online white card courses to NSW residents.
If you are weighing an online course, check which state issues the card and confirm your employer or site will accept it before you pay. It also pays to check the provider is legitimate.
How much does it cost?
Providers listed on this site advertise a median of about $120, with the middle half between $107 and $150. The cheapest listed prices are around $29. See the full white card price analysis.
How long does it take?
SafeWork NSW sets a minimum of six hours of training, excluding breaks, registration and ID checks. Most courses run in one day, and many providers issue a statement of training the same day so you can start work while the card is posted.
What to bring
100 points of original ID — together it must show your photo, date of birth, signature and current residential address. Photocopies and certified copies are not accepted. You must be at least 14.
Does it expire? Do you renew it?
There is no renewal. The card stays valid unless you have not done construction work for two consecutive years; after that it is void and you redo the course. A lost card can be replaced online through SafeWork NSW. Other tickets work differently: see how long tickets last.
Compare white card courses near you · White card cost in NSW
White card courses near you: we list providers in Western Sydney, South Western Sydney, Newcastle & Hunter, Sydney CBD & Inner, Liverpool, Parramatta, Burwood and Bankstown.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I do a white card online in NSW?
- Not with a NSW provider. SafeWork NSW requires white card training delivered in NSW to be face to face; distance and online learning are not permitted. SafeWork NSW does accept construction induction cards issued by other states, which is why some interstate providers advertise live online courses to NSW residents.
- How much is a white card in NSW?
- Providers listed here advertise a median of about $120, with the middle half between $107 and $150. Many include the card; some providers charge for it separately, so check before booking.
- How long does a white card last?
- There is no expiry date and no renewal. A white card becomes void if you have not carried out construction work for two consecutive years or more, and then you do the course again.
- How long is the white card course?
- At least six hours of training, not counting breaks and ID checks — SafeWork NSW sets that minimum. Most providers run it in one day.
- What do I need to bring?
- 100 points of original ID showing your photo, date of birth, signature and current address. Photocopies are not accepted. You must be at least 14 to do the training.