Obtaining your owner builder licence in Queensland

Back to Basics Business Training has supported the Queensland construction sector for nearly three decades by delivering practical, flexible training solutions. Our distance learning programmes cover nationally recognised Certificate and Diploma qualifications in construction, making them suitable for individuals at all stages, including those commencing with an owner builder course in Queensland.


We are dedicated to helping you meet the education requirements needed to work and grow within the Queensland building industry.

How to become a licensed builder in Queensland

To work as a licensed builder in Queensland, you generally need to:


  • Identify the licence class relevant to your intended work
  • Complete the appropriate qualification pathway
  • Demonstrate practical industry experience
  • Meet any financial or eligibility requirements set by the relevant authority


The exact requirements can vary depending on the type of licence you are applying for and your previous experience within the industry.

Licence types in Queensland

Queensland offers a range of builder licence classes to match different construction scopes and responsibilities. These include:


  • Restricted builder licences for specialised work such as shopfitting, kitchen, bathroom and laundry installations, and structural landscaping
  • Low Rise and Medium Rise builder licences for residential construction projects
  • Open builder licences for unrestricted building work
  • Project management licences
  • Supervisor licences available across Low Rise, Medium Rise, and Open categories


Each licence category determines the type and scale of construction work you are authorised to carry out.

Construction worker in a hard hat and safety vest using a tablet at a building site.

Qualification and experience requirements

For most standard residential building projects, holding either a Low Rise or Medium Rise licence is necessary.


Applicants must also meet additional criteria, including:

  • Providing evidence of between two and four years of relevant construction experience
  • Supplying work references that confirm hands-on involvement across different project types
  • Demonstrating the ability to meet the financial requirements outlined by the licensing authority
  • These combined requirements ensure that licence holders are capable of managing building projects to industry standards.

Continue your professional journey in Queensland

Meeting licensing requirements requires careful planning, documentation, and understanding of industry standards. Our team works closely with you to simplify this process, helping you align your existing experience with formal qualifications.

Start your builders licence journey

Contact us to discuss the qualifications required for your state.

Browse our courses

Expand your knowledge and stay current within the construction industry by exploring our additional training options, including short courses and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs.

Stay compliant and up-to-date with our CPD programs. These individual micro-credentials focus on high-impact technical skills and are delivered via flexible distance learning.

Short courses

Complete in less than 6 months

Long courses

Long-term study from 6+ months

Our comprehensive programs are designed for those seeking trade licensing, site supervisor roles, or project management positions. We offer streamlined RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) for experienced tradespeople to fast-track their certification.

Begin your construction training today

Whether you are entering the industry through an owner builder course in Queensland or working towards a higher licence class, Back to Basics Business Training can support your goals. Complete the enquiry form and our team will respond promptly, or contact us directly if you need immediate assistance.

Contact us