How to Get Your SST Card in NYC (2026 Complete Guide)

If you’re working on a New York City construction site — or planning to — you’ve probably heard about the SST card. Maybe your foreman mentioned it. Maybe a DOB inspector asked for it. Either way, you need one, and this guide explains exactly what it is, who needs it, and how to get it without wasting time.

What Is an SST Card?

SST stands for Site Safety Training. The SST card is a credential issued under NYC Local Law 196 of 2017, administered by the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB). It proves you’ve completed the safety training required to work on covered construction sites in New York City.

This is not a federal OSHA certification. This is a New York City requirement, specific to NYC DOB-permitted sites. If you work on those sites without an SST card, you’re subject to removal and your employer is subject to violations.

Who Needs an SST Card?

You need an SST card if you work on a NYC DOB-permitted construction site that falls under Local Law 196 requirements. This generally includes:

• Major building construction projects
• Demolition sites
• Sites with a Construction Superintendent, Site Safety Coordinator, or Site Safety Manager
• Workers performing hands-on construction tasks (not office or administrative)

Not sure if your site is covered? If there’s a NYC DOB permit posted and the site has active construction, assume you need it. When in doubt, ask your site safety manager.

The Two Types of SST Cards

Limited SST Card

• Requires: 10 hours of approved SST training
• Who it’s for: Workers who need site access while completing full SST requirements

Full (40-Hour) Worker SST Card

• Requires: 10 hours of formal SST coursework + 30 hours of on-site safety training
• Who it’s for: All covered workers on NYC construction sites
• Valid: 5 years from completion date

Supervisor SST Card

• Requires: 32 hours of approved SST training
• Who it’s for: Site safety supervisors, construction superintendents, and site safety managers
• Valid: 5 years from completion date

Step-by-Step: How to Get Your SST Card

Step 1: Determine Which Course You Need

Workers start with the 10-Hour SST Worker course. Supervisors need the 32-Hour SST Supervisor course. If you’re not sure which applies to you, your employer or site safety manager can clarify based on your role.

Step 2: Choose an Approved Training Provider

Your training must come from a NYC DOB-approved SST provider. SST.NYC is a DOB-approved provider offering online courses in English and Spanish. Not all online courses you find through a Google search are DOB-approved — verify before you pay.

Step 3: Complete the Required Training Hours

Online courses are self-paced. The 10-Hour course typically takes 2 to 3 days. The 32-Hour Supervisor course usually takes one to two weeks. You can stop and resume — the course saves your progress.

Step 4: Pass the Assessment

Each course includes a final assessment. It’s not designed to trick you — if you paid attention during the course, you’ll pass.

Step 5: Receive Your Certificate and Card

Once you complete the course, your training record is submitted to the NYC DOB. Your SST card is processed and mailed to you.

How Long Does It Take?

• 10-Hour online course: 2–3 days at your own pace
• 32-Hour online course: 1–2 weeks at your own pace
• Card processing and delivery: Typically 1–3 weeks after completion

What Does an SST Card Cost?

• 10-Hour Worker SST: Industry range $149–$299
• 32-Hour Supervisor SST: Industry range $399–$699

Some employers cover the cost of SST training — check with your employer before paying out of pocket.

SST Card Expiration and Renewal

SST cards are valid for 5 years. Workers renew with the 8-Hour SST Worker Renewal. Supervisors renew with the 16-Hour SST Supervisor Renewal. Start the renewal process 90 days before your expiration date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the SST course online?

Yes. SST.NYC offers fully online, self-paced courses approved by the NYC DOB.

Is an OSHA 10 card the same as an SST card?

No. These are two different credentials from two different authorities. Read our full SST vs OSHA comparison.

Are SST courses available in Spanish?

Yes. SST.NYC offers courses in both English and Spanish.

Do I need an SST card if I’m a subcontractor?

If you’re performing construction work on a covered site — regardless of employment status — you need an SST card.