How to check a NSW White Card is valid

SafeWork NSW says a White Card (or general construction induction card) is required for workers who want to carry out construction work. That can include site managers, supervisors, tradespeople, labourers and others who access operational construction zones.

Use the official register

SafeWork NSW directs people to Verify.licence to look up and verify NSW White Cards. Service NSW also lists the general construction induction card among building and construction licence checks.

You can search the register by the cardholder’s name or licence number. Use the details exactly as they appear on the card. The register is designed so businesses can check the validity of workers’ cards before they start work.

You can also use Datesly’s free NSW White Card checker, which looks up the official NSW register. It does not store the number you enter. For a complete record, still confirm the result on Verify NSW if you need to.

When a White Card becomes void

A White Card does not have a fixed expiry date printed like a high risk work licence. SafeWork NSW and Service NSW both say the card becomes void if the holder has not carried out construction work for two consecutive years or more. If that happens, the person has to retrain.

What to look at on the card

SafeWork NSW’s guidance on checking licences says employers should check licences regularly, and confirm that a licence or card has not expired, covers the relevant class of work, and has the correct photo and name of the worker.

• The name and photo match the person on site.
• The licence or card number matches the official register.
• The card has not become void because the holder has been away from construction work for two consecutive years or more.

Digital cards and interstate cards

A digital White Card is available through the Service NSW app. SafeWork NSW says the digital card is optional and does not replace the physical card. A worker can show either the physical card or the digital card.

Construction workers can work in NSW on construction induction cards issued by other states and territories. SafeWork NSW publishes a fact sheet on recognition of general construction induction training cards. If you are unsure about an interstate card, follow that official guidance rather than guessing.

Replacing a lost card

If a NSW White Card is lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed, the holder can order a replacement online through Service NSW if their details still match the card. If their address or contact details have changed, those details must be updated first. Service NSW says to check the card number and details on Verify NSW before applying.