> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.ccew.com.au/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# NSW licence search

> Verify NSW electrical licence details with real-time database integration, automatic field population, and compliance validation

The NSW Licence Search feature connects directly to the official NSW Government database to verify electrician licence details and automatically populate licence information. This Pro-only feature ensures accuracy and saves time while maintaining compliance.

## What is NSW licence search?

NSW Licence Search connects to the official NSW database to verify electrician licence numbers and automatically fill in licence details including expiry dates, licence holder names, and status information. It's available in both Installer and Tester sections of the CCEW form.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Real-time verification" icon="wifi">
    Direct integration with NSW Government API provides current, accurate
    licence information from the official database.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Current licences only" icon="shield-check">
    Results are automatically filtered to show only current, active licences for
    compliance assurance.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## How to use

<Steps>
  <Step title="Click the search icon">
    In the Installer or Tester Details section, click the magnifying glass icon next to the licence number field.

    <Info>
      Free users will see an upgrade prompt to access this feature.
    </Info>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Enter search criteria">
    Type either:

    * **Licence number** for direct licence lookup
    * **Licence holder name** for name-based searching

    <Tip>
      Use at least 2 characters to start the search. The system supports partial name matching.
    </Tip>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review search results">
    The system displays matching licences with:

    * Licence holder name and company
    * Licence number and type
    * Expiry date and current status
    * Location information

    <Check>
      Only current, active licences are shown to ensure compliance.
    </Check>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select the correct licence">
    Choose the correct licence from the search results. The system will auto-fill:

    * Licence number (properly formatted)
    * Licence expiry date
    * Licence holder details

    <Warning>
      Always verify the selected licence belongs to the correct person before proceeding.
    </Warning>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Verify and continue">
    Review the auto-filled information and make any necessary manual adjustments before completing your form.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Benefits

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Reduce errors" icon="check">
    Eliminate typos and incorrect licence numbers that could cause compliance
    issues.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Save time" icon="clock">
    Auto-fill licence details instead of manually entering each field.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Ensure compliance" icon="shield">
    Verify licence validity and expiry dates from the official database.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Professional" icon="star">
    Present accurate, verified information to customers and regulators.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Best practices

<Tip>
  Always verify the licence details after auto-filling, especially for licences
  that may have been recently renewed or updated.
</Tip>

<Warning>
  If a licence search returns no results, double-check the licence number or
  contact the licence holder to verify the correct number.
</Warning>

## Troubleshooting

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="The licence number isn't found">
    Verify the licence number is correct and current. Some recently issued
    licences may take time to appear in the database.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Search is slow or not working">
    Check your internet connection. If the problem persists, try refreshing the
    page or using manual entry.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="The licence details seem incorrect">
    Contact the licence holder to verify their current details, as the database
    may not reflect recent changes.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Related docs

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Installer details" icon="user" href="/form-guide/sections/installer">
    How to fill out installer information and use licence search.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Tester details" icon="user-check" href="/form-guide/sections/tester">
    How to fill out tester information and use licence search.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>