Restricted Electrical Licence in WA: Who Needs It and How to Apply

A restricted electrical licence allows you to legally carry out specific electrical tasks for those without an electrical qualification. Unlike a full electrician’s licence, it is designed for workers in other trades who only need to perform limited electrical work as part of their job.

In WA, a restricted electrical licence (REL)  is required for tradespeople such as plumbers, refrigeration mechanics, and appliance repairers who need to legally disconnect and reconnect electrical equipment as part of their work. To apply, you must hold a trade qualification, complete an approved disconnect/reconnect course, and lodge your application with Building and Energy WA.

Who Needs a Restricted Electrical Licence in WA?

A WA restricted electrical licence is essential if your trade requires you to work with electrical connections but you are not a qualified electrician. Common examples include:

• Air conditioning and refrigeration technicians – disconnecting and reconnecting air conditioners.
• Plumbers and gas fitters – working with hot water systems or appliances.
• Mechanical fitters and plant operators – disconnecting and reconnecting fixed-wired motors or equipment.
• Appliance repairers – working on washing machines, dishwashers, and similar household appliances.

In each case, a restricted licence ensures you can legally perform electrical tasks without needing a full Certificate III in Electrotechnology.

Types of Restricted Electrical Licences

Restricted licences are tailored to the type of work you carry out. The most common are:

• Connect Disconnect Licence (also called a Disconnect and Reconnect Licence): Allows you to legally disconnect and reconnect electrical equipment for maintenance, repair, or replacement.
• Restricted Electrical Licence for Specific Trades: Tailored to your trade (e.g. plumbing and gasfitting). These licences are limited to the tasks required for your occupation.

Each licence comes with specific conditions that limit the scope of work you can legally undertake.

Want to know exactly what this licence allows you to do? Read: What Can You Do with a Restricted Electrical Licence in WA

Restricted Electrical Licence Eligibility Requirements 

To apply for a restricted electrical licence in WA, you typically need to:

• Be declared a ‘fit and proper person’.
• Hold a recognised trade qualification (e.g. plumbing, refrigeration, gas fitting, mechanical).
• Complete approved training – such as CET’s Disconnect/Reconnect Course.
• Apply through Building and Energy WA with evidence of your training and trade qualifications.

For the full licensing process and conditions visit Building and Energy WA.

How to Apply for a Restricted Electrical Licence in WA

• Complete CET’s Disconnect and Reconnect Course – designed to give you the practical skills and knowledge needed for your application.
• Submit your application to Building and Energy WA with proof of training and trade qualifications.
• Receive your licence and begin working legally within your trade restrictions.

For more detail on the course and starting the process, see our article: How to Get a Restricted Electrical Licence in WA

Why Choose CET for Your Training?

At CET, we specialise in preparing tradespeople for licensing. Our hands-on, industry-led training ensures you graduate confident and ready to meet compliance requirements.

• Practical, real-world learning tailored to your trade.
• Experienced trainers with industry knowledge.
• Direct pathway to licensing through approved Disconnect and Reconnect courses.

A restricted electrical licence in WA is the legal requirement for tradespeople who need to carry out limited electrical work, such as disconnecting and reconnecting appliances. By completing CET’s accredited training, you’ll meet licensing requirements and gain the confidence to perform your job safely and legally.