What Certifications Do I Need to Work in Construction?
If you’re considering entering construction work or looking to advance in the industry, understanding which construction certifications you need is essential. The good news? Most entry-level construction work requires minimal certifications, but obtaining the right credentials significantly improves your job prospects and pay.
For most entry-level construction work, only OSHA 10 is required or strongly preferred by employers. While technically voluntary at the federal level, OSHA 10 has become the baseline safety credential for construction work, with many states, unions, and contractors mandating it. Additional construction certifications like forklift operation, first aid/CPR, and trade-specific licenses boost your employability and earning potential.
OSHA 10
OSHA 10-Hour Construction Training is the single most important construction certification for anyone entering the industry. This foundational safety course teaches workers to recognize, avoid, and prevent common job site hazards. The training covers fall protection, scaffolding safety, electrical hazards, personal protective equipment (PPE), and workers’ rights under OSHA regulations.
You can complete OSHA 10 online or in-person for $50-$100 over at least two days. While not federally mandated for all construction work, many employers require OSHA 10 before your first day. New York City, Massachusetts, and Nevada mandate OSHA 10 for construction work, and most general contractors nationwide expect it even where not legally required.
OSHA 30: For Supervisors
If you’re pursuing supervisory positions in construction work, you need OSHA 30-Hour Construction Training. This advanced course ($150-$200) provides in-depth coverage of construction safety topics and prepares you for leadership responsibilities. OSHA 30 demonstrates commitment to safety leadership and employers often require it for foreman and superintendent roles.
Additional Valuable Construction Certifications
Beyond OSHA training, several construction certifications boost your job prospects:
Forklift Certification: Many construction sites require forklift operators. This costs $50-$150, takes one day, and employers often provide it free. Certified forklift operators earn $2-5 more per hour.
First Aid/CPR: Basic medical training demonstrates responsibility, especially when it comes to certifications for first aid and CPR. Red Cross or American Heart Association certification costs $50-$100, requires 4-8 hours, and remains valid for two years.
Aerial Lift Certification: To operate scissor lifts or boom lifts in construction work, you need proper certification. Training takes one day and costs $100-$200, though many employers provide it on-site.
Trade-Specific Licenses: As you advance beyond entry-level construction work, trade-specific construction certifications become important. Electricians need state licenses, plumbers require licensing after apprenticeships, and welders pursue AWS certifications for specialized construction work.
The Value of Construction Certifications
They provide tangible career benefits including increased employability (employers hire certified workers faster), higher pay (certified workers earn $2-5 more per hour), improved safety (reducing accidents and injuries), career advancement (creating pathways to supervisory roles), and professional credibility.
Starting with OSHA 10, adding equipment certifications, and eventually obtaining OSHA 30 positions you for leadership roles in construction work earning $60,000-$100,000+ annually.
Getting Started
Before your first day in construction work, obtain OSHA 10 certification. Budget $50-$100 and two days for completion. Once employed, pursue first aid/CPR and equipment-specific training your employer offers. After gaining experience, identify which trade interests you and pursue relevant apprenticeships.
Ready to start your construction career? Contact NCW today to explore construction work opportunities. Our team connects you with employers who offer comprehensive training, competitive pay, and real advancement potential in 2026.