If you do restricted building work in New Zealand, you need an LBP licence. Working without one is illegal and can result in fines of up to $20,000. This guide walks you through exactly how to get licensed.
What is an LBP Licence?
An LBP (Licensed Building Practitioner) licence is issued by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and allows you to carry out restricted building work — work on homes and small buildings that is critical to their structure or weathertightness.
What Counts as Restricted Building Work?
- Structural work (foundations, framing, load-bearing walls)
- Weathertightness work (roof cladding, exterior walls, decks over certain heights)
- Design work related to the above
- Site work (earthworks related to foundations)
If you do this type of work without a licence, you're breaking the law — and the building owner's insurance may be void.
LBP Licence Classes
| Class | What you can do |
|---|---|
| Design 1 | Structural and weathertight design for simple buildings |
| Design 2 | More complex design work |
| Carpentry | Structural and weathertight carpentry |
| External Plastering | Plaster cladding systems |
| Bricklaying and Blocklaying | Structural masonry |
| Roofing | Roof cladding and waterproofing |
| Site 1 | Foundation/groundwork for simple buildings |
| Site 2 | More complex site work |
Most NZ builders need Carpentry class at minimum.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an LBP licence you need to demonstrate competence in your area. There are three pathways:
Pathway 1: New Zealand Qualification
Hold a relevant NZ qualification (or overseas equivalent recognised by NZQA): - National Certificate in Carpentry (Level 4) — most common for builders - New Zealand Diploma in Construction (Level 6)
Pathway 2: Experience Assessment
If you've been working in the trade for years but don't have formal qualifications, you can apply through the Experience Pathway: - Demonstrate 5+ years of relevant experience - Provide references from other LBPs or clients - Submit a portfolio of completed work - May need to pass a trade test
Pathway 3: Overseas Qualification
If you're a migrant builder, you can have overseas qualifications assessed by NZQA. If recognised, you can apply directly. If not, you may need to complete additional training.
The Application Process
Step 1: Choose Your Class
Decide which LBP class(es) you need. Most builders start with Carpentry.
Step 2: Gather Evidence
- Certificates and transcripts of qualifications
- Employment history (dates, employer names, type of work)
- References from other LBPs, architects, or clients
- Photos or records of completed work (for experience pathway)
Step 3: Complete the Application
Apply online at lbp.govt.nz. You'll need: - A registered account - Scanned copies of all documents - Application fee (see below)
Step 4: Assessment
MBIE will assess your application. This typically takes 4–8 weeks. They may ask for additional evidence.
Step 5: Receive Your Licence
Once approved, you'll receive your LBP licence number and card. You must display your LBP number on all building consent documents and statutory declarations.
Costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Application fee (initial) | $300–$400 |
| Annual licensing fee | $150–$200 |
| Skills maintenance (training) | $100–$500/year |
Skills Maintenance — Keeping Your Licence Active
Every 2 years you must complete Skills Maintenance to renew your licence. You need to: - Complete a minimum number of learning activities (typically 100 points per 2-year cycle) - Log your activities on the MBIE portal
Activities include: - Attending industry training - Completing online learning modules - Reading industry publications (some count as points) - Attending industry events
If you don't complete Skills Maintenance, your licence lapses and you cannot do restricted building work.
Do Subcontractors Need an LBP?
Yes, if they're doing restricted building work. The building owner is also obligated to ensure their contractors are licensed for the work being done.
Checking if Someone is LBP Licensed
The MBIE public register lets anyone check whether a builder is licensed: lbp.govt.nz/public-register. Clients increasingly check this before engaging builders.
About NZ Tradie Tools: Practical guides for New Zealand tradies. See also our NZ Tradie Tax Guide.