Northern Territory • Carpenter

Carpenter Licence Requirements in Northern Territory

Everything you need to know about carpenter licensing in Northern Territory — qualifications, costs, the licensing body, available licence types, and penalties for unlicensed work. Updated for the 2025–2026 financial year.

Licensing Body

Carpenter licences in Northern Territory are issued and regulated by:

NT Building Practitioners Board

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Do You Need a Licence?

Yes — a licence is required

You must hold a valid licence to carry out carpenter work in Northern Territory. This is regulated by NT Building Practitioners Board. Working without a licence is illegal and may result in significant fines.

Licence Types Available

Building Contractor Registration — Carpentry

Contract for carpentry work in the NT

Requirements

To obtain a carpenter licence in Northern Territory, you need:

  • Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC30220 or equivalent)
  • Completed 4-year apprenticeship
  • NT Building Practitioners Board registration
  • Public liability insurance
  • Construction induction card (White Card)

Costs

Fee Type Amount
Application Fee $200 for registration
Renewal Fee $200 annually
Renewal Period 1 year

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

Unregistered carpentry work in the NT carries fines up to $31,400 for individuals. The Building Practitioners Board can suspend or cancel registration.

Exemptions

A licence is not required for the following work in Northern Territory:

  • Minor repairs and maintenance
  • Non-structural timber work
  • Owner-builder work on your own home

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to work as a carpenter in Northern Territory?
Yes, you need a licence to carry out carpenter work in Northern Territory. The licensing body is NT Building Practitioners Board. Working without a valid licence is illegal and can result in significant penalties.
How much does a carpenter licence cost in Northern Territory?
The application fee for a carpenter licence in Northern Territory is $200 for registration. Renewal costs $200 annually and must be renewed every 1 year. Additional costs may include public liability insurance and any required assessments.
What qualifications do I need to become a licensed carpenter in Northern Territory?
To obtain a carpenter licence in Northern Territory, you typically need: Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC30220 or equivalent); Completed 4-year apprenticeship; NT Building Practitioners Board registration. Check with NT Building Practitioners Board for the complete list of requirements.
What are the penalties for unlicensed carpenter work in Northern Territory?
Unregistered carpentry work in the NT carries fines up to $31,400 for individuals. The Building Practitioners Board can suspend or cancel registration.
Can I use my Northern Territory carpenter licence in other states?
Northern Territory carpenter licences are not automatically valid in other states. However, Australia's Mutual Recognition Act allows you to apply for an equivalent licence in another state through a streamlined process. You'll still need to lodge an application and may need to meet additional local requirements.

Compare Carpenter Requirements in Other States

Licence requirements vary between states. Compare carpenter requirements across Australia:

Queensland (QLD)
New South Wales (NSW)
Victoria (VIC)
Western Australia (WA)
South Australia (SA)
Tasmania (TAS)
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

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