Do You Need to Be an Electrician to Test and Tag?

No - you don't need to be an electrician or have any previous electrical experience to test and tag.

You must, however, be a "competent person" and know how to inspect electrical equipment, use a portable appliance tester, perform the correct tests and understand the results.

What Does a "Competent Person" Mean?

A competent person has the knowledge and skills needed to inspect and test electrical equipment correctly and safely.

You should be able to:

• spot visible damage and other safety problems
• identify the type of electrical equipment being tested
• choose and perform the correct tests
• use a portable appliance tester safely
• understand the test results
• identify equipment that is unsafe to use
• apply the correct test tags
• maintain accurate testing records
• recognise when an item or task is outside your training

Being competent is about what you know and can do—not whether you are an electrician.

How Do You Become a Competent Person?

You can develop competency through training, qualifications, relevant experience, or a combination of these.

If you are new to testing and tagging, the simplest route is to complete our nationally recognised Test & Tag Course.

The course combines essential theory with hands-on practice. You'll learn how to visually inspect equipment, use a portable appliance tester and perform the tests required under AS/NZS 3760. Your knowledge and practical skills will be assessed before you complete the course.

Successful students receive a nationally recognised Statement of Attainment for UEESS00174 – Electrical Safety Testing of Electrical Cord Connected Equipment and Cord Assemblies Skill Set.

Note: The course does not allow you to carry out electrical installation, repair or modification work that requires an electrical licence.

Ready to Learn How to Test and Tag?

Choose face-to-face training at one of our locations or complete the course online to build the practical skills you need to test and tag confidently.

Face-to-Face Test & Tag Course

Online Test & Tag Course

The Additional Queensland Requirement

Queensland has an additional rule for businesses providing test and tag services.

If your business provides test and tag services to other people or organisations, it must hold an appropriate electrical contractor licence that permits test and tag work.

Important: The contractor licence is required in addition to your test and tag training - it does not replace the need to be competent.

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