Are you working on a New York City construction site and need to know which card you need? There are three main types of SST cards you need to know about: the SST Worker card (blue card), the SST Supervisor card (yellow card), and the Worker Wallet card (purple card). This guide will help you understand which NYC SST cards you need, how to get them, and when to renew them.
What is Site Safety Training (SST)? Site Safety Training (SST) is a Department of Buildings (DOB) mandatory safety program required by NYC Local Law 196 of 2017. If you work on NYC construction sites that have a Construction Superintendent, Site Safety Coordinator, or Site Safety Manager, you must have an SST card. All NYC SST cards are issued by DOB-registered training providers and are valid for five years. To determine whether your job site requires Site Safety Training, please visit the Site Safety Construction Map and enter your job site address.
Find Out Which Card You Need
Not sure which NYC SST card you need? Answer these questions:
Are you getting a card for the first time, or renewing an existing card?
Jump to Section:
Understanding NYC SST Cards: Blue, Yellow, and Purple Cards
SST Cards use NFC (Near Field Communication) technology for easy verification with the Training Connect app. Many construction workers refer to NYC SST cards by their color. Here’s what each card is and who needs it.
SST Worker Card (Blue Card)
What it is: The SST Worker card is the most common NYC SST card. This blue card proves you completed 40 hours of Site Safety Training required by NYC Local Law 196 of 2017.
Who needs it: All construction and demolition workers on NYC job sites that require a Site Safety Plan. This includes sites with a Construction Superintendent, Site Safety Coordinator, or Site Safety Manager.
How long it’s valid: Your SST Worker card is valid for 5 years from the date it’s issued.
Common confusion: The SST Worker card is NOT the same as an OSHA card. Your OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour card is part of the training you need, but it’s not the same as your NYC SST card.
SST Supervisor Card (Yellow Card)
What it is: The SST Supervisor card (yellow card) proves you completed 62 hours of Site Safety Training. This card is required for anyone serving as a “competent person” on NYC construction sites.
Who needs it: You need an SST Supervisor card if you are designated as a competent person as specified by Section 3301.13.12 of the New York City Building Code. This includes supervisors who oversee construction work and ensure safety compliance on job sites.
How long it’s valid: Your SST Supervisor card is valid for 5 years from the date it’s issued.
Worker Wallet Card (Purple Card)
What it is: The Worker Wallet card is a purple digital card that holds your rigging and scaffold certifications.
Who needs it: You need a Worker Wallet card if you work with:
- Supported scaffolds
- Suspended scaffolds
- Scaffold installation and removal
- Rigging equipment
- Mast climbers and tower cranes
- Periodic gas piping inspection
Important deadlines: As of July 1, 2025, the Worker Wallet card is mandatory on all NYC job sites for workers in these specialized roles. The old individual certification cards are no longer accepted.
Does it replace your SST cards? No. The Worker Wallet card does NOT replace your SST Worker card or SST Supervisor card. You must carry both cards on site.
Does it expire? The physical Worker Wallet card expires in 10 years, but the certifications stored on it typically expire sooner and must be kept current. Each certification has its own expiration date that you must track.
SST Cards vs. OSHA Card: What’s the Difference?
Many workers confuse NYC SST cards with OSHA cards. Here’s the difference:
OSHA 10-Hour and OSHA 30-Hour Cards:
- National safety training recognized across the United States
- Teaches general occupational safety and health topics
- Does not expire
- Required as PART of your SST training, but not the same thing
NYC SST Cards:
- Required specifically for NYC construction sites under Local Law 196
- Includes OSHA training PLUS additional NYC-specific safety courses
- Expires after 5 years and must be renewed
- Issued only by DOB-registered training providers
Bottom line: You need OSHA training to get your NYC SST card, but having an OSHA card alone is not enough to work on NYC sites that require SST cards.
Getting Your First NYC SST Card
If this is your first time getting an NYC SST card, here’s what you need to know about the training requirements and process.
SST Card Requirements at a Glance
| Card Type | Training Hours | Who Needs It | Validity | Renewal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SST Worker (Blue Card) |
40 hours | All construction & demolition workers | 5 years | 8 hours |
| SST Supervisor (Yellow Card) |
62 hours | Competent persons & supervisors | 5 years | 16 hours |
| Worker Wallet (Purple Card) |
Varies by certification | Scaffold, rigging, mast climber, gas piping workers | Card: 10 years Certifications: Vary* |
Certifications expire individually |
*Worker Wallet card expires in 10 years. Individual certifications expire on different schedules and must be kept current.
SST Worker Card Requirements (40 Hours)
To get your SST Worker card, you must complete 40 hours of approved Site Safety Training through a DOB-registered provider.
Most Common Training Path:
- OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety (30 hours)
- 8-Hour Fall Prevention
- 2-Hour Drug & Alcohol Awareness
Total: 40 Hours of Training
Training format options: Most DOB-registered providers, including NextWave, offer training in multiple formats:
- Online live instruction (such as Zoom classes with an instructor)
- Self-paced e-learning courses
- In-person classroom training
After completing your OSHA 30, you’ll need 10 additional hours of SST courses. NextWave offers a Worker 10 Hour SST Bundle that includes the 8-Hour Fall Prevention and 2-Hour Drug and Alcohol Awareness courses you need.
SST Supervisor Card Requirements (62 Hours)
To get your SST Supervisor card, you must complete 62 hours of approved Site Safety Training.
Requirements:
- OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety (30 hours)
- 32 additional hours of DOB-registered SST supervisor courses
Total: 62 hours
Two common paths to get your SST Supervisor card:
Path 1: Already have an SST Worker card? If you already hold an SST Worker card, you need 22 additional hours of supervisor-level training to upgrade. NextWave offers a 22-Hour Supervisor Bundle that includes:
- 8-Hour Site Safety
- 4-Hour Supported Scaffold User
- 2-Hour Pre-Task Meeting
- 2-Hour Toolbox Talks
- 2-Hour Site Safety Plan
- (2) 1-Hour General Electives
- (2) 1-Hour Specialized Electives
Path 2: Starting fresh without a Worker card? You’ll need OSHA 30 plus 32 hours of supervisor training. NextWave offers a 32-Hour Supervisor Bundle that includes:
- 8-Hour Chapter 33 / Site Safety Manager Refresher
- 8-Hour Fall Prevention
- 4-Hour Supported Scaffold
- 2-Hour Drug and Alcohol Awareness
- 2-Hour Site Safety Plan
- 2-Hour Pre-Task Meeting
- 2-Hour Toolbox Talks
- (2) 1-Hour General Electives
- (2) 1-Hour Specialized Electives
If you don’t already have OSHA 30, you’ll need to complete that separately. NextWave offers OSHA 30-Hour online courses.
SST Worker Card – Required Courses (40 Hours)
| Course Name | Hours | Description |
|---|---|---|
| OSHA 30-Hour | 30 | Construction safety fundamentals |
| Fall Prevention | 8 | Fall hazard recognition and prevention |
| Drug & Alcohol Awareness | 2 | Substance abuse safety on job sites |
| TOTAL | 40 | Leads to SST Worker Card |
SST Supervisor Card – Required Courses (62 Hours)
| Course Name | Hours | Description |
|---|---|---|
| OSHA 30-Hour | 30 | Construction safety fundamentals |
| Chapter 33 / Site Safety Manager | 8 | NYC Building Code requirements |
| Fall Prevention | 8 | Advanced fall hazard management |
| Supported Scaffold User | 4 | Scaffold safety and inspection |
| Site Safety Plan | 2 | Developing and implementing safety plans |
| Pre-Task Meeting | 2 | Planning safe work activities |
| Toolbox Talks | 2 | Conducting safety meetings |
| Drug & Alcohol Awareness | 2 | Substance abuse safety |
| Electives (General) | 2 | Additional safety topics |
| Electives (Specialized) | 2 | Trade-specific safety |
| TOTAL | 62 | Leads to SST Supervisor Card |
How the SST Card Process Works
Once you complete your required training with a DOB-registered provider, here’s what happens:
Step 1: Training completion. You must attend every class and pass the test for each course you take.
Step 2: Card application and processing. Your training provider submits your information to the NYC DOB Training Connect system and processes your physical SST card.
Step 3: Card issuance. With NextWave, processing typically takes a minimum of 3-5 business days when all student information is complete and correct. Some providers may take longer depending on their processing procedures.
Step 4: Receiving your card. Different providers have different distribution methods:
- Some instructors distribute cards directly to students
- Some providers offer office pickup by appointment
- Some providers can mail cards upon request
Important: Always confirm with your training provider how and when you’ll receive your card. If picking up in person, schedule an appointment first to ensure your card is ready.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid SST Card Scams
If a training provider promises they can have your card ready the same day, this might be a red flag. Legitimate card processing takes time because providers must:
- Submit your training records to NYC DOB Training Connect
- Verify all course completions
- Process the physical card
Same-day cards are unlikely through legitimate channels, especially for classes that end in the evening. There are some exceptions to online courses.
Some fraudulent providers have been caught selling SST cards without providing actual training. If you’re found with a fake or improperly issued SST card, the NYC DOB will void it immediately, and you’ll have to pay to retake all training.
Always verify your provider is legitimate: Check the NYC DOB Registered Course Provider List before enrolling.
NextWave Provider ID: CP006
In 2024, the NYC Department of Investigation and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office shut down Valor Consulting for selling fake SST cards and invalidated over 20,000 fraudulent cards. Don’t risk your career and money—only work with DOB-registered providers and always check.
SST Card Costs
Training costs: Training costs vary by provider and course format (online vs. in-person). Contact providers directly for current pricing.
Card issuance fees: In addition to training costs, there are fees for the physical SST card itself:
- Provider processing fee: Varies by provider
Some training providers include the card fee in bundled course packages, while others charge it separately. Always ask your provider about card fees when enrolling.
At NextWave:
- Card processing is $25 if you trained with us, $40 if you trained elsewhere
- Our Worker 10 Hour SST Bundle, 22-Hour Supervisor Bundle, and 32-Hour Supervisor Bundle include the card fee in the bundle price
- If you purchase courses individually, the card fee is charged separately
To discuss training options and pricing, contact NextWave at (212) 933-9071 or sst@nextwavesafety.com.
IMPORTANT: Do You Also Need a Worker Wallet Card?
If you work with ANY of the following, you need a Worker Wallet card (purple card) IN ADDITION TO your SST card:
- Scaffolds (supported, suspended, or installation)
- Rigging equipment or cranes
- Mast climbers or tower cranes
- Gas piping inspection
Renewing Your NYC SST Card
Your NYC SST card expires 5 years after it’s issued. To keep working on NYC construction sites, you must renew your SST card before it expires.
When to Renew Your SST Card
CRITICAL TIMING RULE: You must complete your SST refresher training within 12 months BEFORE your card expires.
Example:
- If your SST card expires on December 31, 2025
- You must complete refresher training between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025
- If you wait until January 1, 2026, it’s too late—your card cannot be renewed
Important: After completing refresher training, you must activate your new NYC SST card BEFORE your current card expires.
What Happens If Your SST Card Expires?
There is NO grace period for expired SST cards.
If your NYC SST card expires, you CANNOT renew it. You will have to:
- Retake the full 40-hour training (for Worker cards) or 62-hour training (for Supervisor cards)
- Retake your OSHA 30-Hour course
- Pay for all training again
- Apply for a completely new NYC SST card
Do not let your SST card expire! Set a reminder on your phone or calendar for at least 6 months before your expiration date.
SST Worker Renewal Options (8 Hours Required)
| Option | Courses Required | Total Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Option 1 |
• 4-Hr Fall Prevention • 4-Hr Supported Scaffold User & Refresher |
8 hours |
| Option 2 |
• 4-Hr Fall Prevention • 2-Hr Toolbox Talks • 2-Hr Pre-Task Safety Meeting |
8 hours |
SST Supervisor Renewal Options (16 Hours Required)
| Option | Courses Required | Total Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Option 1 |
• 8-Hr Fall Prevention • 4-Hr Supported Scaffold User & Refresher • 2-Hr Toolbox Talks • 2-Hr Pre-Task Safety Meeting |
16 hours |
| Option 2 |
• 8-Hr Fall Prevention • 8-Hr Site Safety Manager Refresher / Chapter 33 |
16 hours |
| Option 3 |
• 8-Hr Site Safety Manager Refresher / Chapter 33 • 4-Hr Fall Prevention • 2-Hr Toolbox Talks • 2-Hr Pre-Task Safety Meeting |
16 hours |
SST Worker Card Renewal (8 Hours)
To renew your SST Worker card, you must complete 8 hours of DOB-registered refresher training.
You have two options:
Option 1:
- 4-Hour Fall Prevention
- 4-Hour Supported Scaffold User and Refresher
Option 2:
- 4-Hour Fall Prevention
- 2-Hour Toolbox Talks
- 2-Hour Pre-Task Safety Meeting
Many DOB-registered providers offer renewal bundles that package these courses together. For example, NextWave offers an 8-Hour Worker SST Renewal Bundle available as:
- Live online (Zoom) classes – includes either Option 1 or Option 2
- Self-paced e-learning – includes Option 1 (4-Hour Fall Prevention + 4-Hour Supported Scaffold User)
Some providers include the new SST card fee in their renewal bundles, while others charge it separately. Always confirm what’s included when you enroll.
SST Supervisor Card Renewal (16 Hours)
To renew your SST Supervisor card, you must complete 16 hours of DOB-registered refresher training.
You have three options:
Option 1:
- 8-Hour Fall Prevention
- 4-Hour Supported Scaffold User and Refresher
- 2-Hour Toolbox Talks
- 2-Hour Pre-Task Safety Meeting
Option 2:
- 8-Hour Fall Prevention
- 8-Hour Site Safety Manager Refresher / Chapter 33
Option 3:
- 8-Hour Site Safety Manager Refresher / Chapter 33
- 4-Hour Fall Prevention
- 2-Hour Toolbox Talks
- 2-Hour Pre-Task Safety Meeting
Many providers offer supervisor renewal bundles. NextWave offers a 16-Hour Supervisor Renewal Bundle with any of the three options above, available through live online instruction.
Do You Need to Retake OSHA 30?
No. According to the NYC Department of Buildings, you do NOT need to retake your OSHA 30-Hour course to renew your NYC SST card. The refresher training pathways fully meet the requirements for SST card renewals.
Note about Training Connect: If your OSHA certificate shows as expired in Training Connect, this does not affect the validity of your SST card. However, some employers may have their own requirements about OSHA certification, so check with your employer if you’re unsure.
Getting Your SST Card
When you complete your SST renewal training, you will receive a NEW physical NYC SST card. Your old card will be deactivated.
Processing time: After completing refresher training, card processing typically takes a minimum of 3-5 business days when all information is complete and correct.
Card distribution: Different providers have different distribution methods. Check with your provider about:
- Instructor pickup and distribution
- Office pickup by appointment
- Mailing options (if available)
New card costs:
- Provider processing fee: Varies by provider
Some providers include the card fee in renewal bundles, while others charge it separately.
At NextWave:
- The 8-Hour Worker SST Renewal Bundle and 16-Hour Supervisor Renewal Bundle both include the card fee at no additional cost
- If you take renewal courses individually, the card fee is $25 (or $40 if you trained elsewhere)
To enroll in renewal training, contact your chosen DOB-registered provider or call NextWave at (212) 933-9071.
New expiration date: Your renewed NYC SST card will be valid for another 5 years from the date it is issued.
NYC Worker Wallet Card Requirements
As of July 1, 2025, the Worker Wallet card is mandatory for all workers performing specialized work with scaffolding, rigging, mast climbers, and gas piping on NYC construction sites.
What the Worker Wallet Card Replaces
The Worker Wallet card consolidates multiple certification cards into one convenient card. It replaces the following individual cards:
- Mast Climber User/Operator and Refresher
- Climber/Tower Crane Rigger
- Rigging Supervisor
- Rigging Worker
- Supported Scaffold User
- Supported Scaffold Installer and Remover
- Suspended Scaffold User
- Suspended Scaffold Supervisor
- Periodic Gas Piping Inspector
How the Worker Wallet Card Works
The Worker Wallet card is a physical purple card with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology and a QR code.
Verification: Site supervisors and NYC DOB inspectors scan your Worker Wallet card using the Training Connect app to verify your certifications instantly.
Digital profile: Your certifications are stored in the NYC DOB Training Connect system. When you complete new training or renew certifications, they are automatically added to your profile—no need to get a new physical card.
What’s on the card:
- Your name
- Photo
- Worker ID number
- QR code for scanning
- NFC chip for tap verification
Do You Need Both an SST Card and a Worker Wallet Card?
Yes. The Worker Wallet card does NOT replace your SST Worker card or SST Supervisor card.
What you must carry on site:
- Your SST Worker card OR SST Supervisor card (blue or yellow card)
- AND your Worker Wallet card (purple card) if you do specialized work
Why both? Your SST card proves you completed general Site Safety Training (40 or 62 hours). Your Worker Wallet card proves you have specialized certifications for scaffold, rigging, or gas piping work. These are separate requirements under NYC law.
Getting Your Worker Wallet Card
Step 1: Complete the required DOB-registered training for your specialty
- Scaffold safety (Supported, Suspended, or installation)
- Rigging Training
- Mast climber operation
- Gas piping inspection
Step 2: Your training provider submits your certifications to the NYC DOB Training Connect system.
Step 3: Apply for your Worker Wallet card through a DOB-registered provider
Step 4: Card processing and issuance.
Processing typically takes a minimum of 3-5 business days when all information is complete and correct.
Step 5: Receive your physical Worker Wallet card.
Cards can be distributed through:
- Instructor pickup and distribution
- Office pickup by appointment
- Mail (if offered by your provider)
Already have certifications? NextWave can verify your existing certifications and issue your Worker Wallet card. We accept training from any DOB-registered provider.
Worker Wallet Card Costs
Card issuance fees:
- Provider processing fee: Varies by provider
At NextWave:
- $25 if you completed training with us
- $40 if you completed training elsewhere
- $40 for card replacements (lost, stolen, or damaged cards)
Note: The Worker Wallet card fee is separate from training costs unless specifically stated that the card is included in a course package.
To request a Worker Wallet card with NextWave, fill out this form.
Contact us at (212) 933-9071 or sst@nextwavesafety.com if you experience any issues.
Worker Wallet Card Expiration
The physical Worker Wallet card expires in 10 years from the date of issuance.
However, the certifications stored on the card typically expire much sooner—usually every 1-4 years, depending on the certification type.
You must renew individual certifications before they expire to maintain an active status on your Worker Wallet.
When DOB inspectors or site supervisors scan your Worker Wallet card, they can see which certifications are active and which are expired—only current, valid certifications count.
Renewing certifications:
When you complete renewal training for any certification, your training provider updates your Training Connect profile. The renewed certification automatically appears on your existing Worker Wallet card—you don’t need to get a new physical card.
Example: If your Supported Scaffold User certification expires in 2026, you’ll need to take the refresher course before it expires. Once you complete the refresher, that updated certification will appear in Training Connect linked to your existing Worker Wallet card.
NYC DOB Training Connect App
The NYC DOB Training Connect app helps you manage and verify your SST cards and Worker Wallet certifications directly from your smartphone.
What is Training Connect?
Training Connect is the NYC Department of Buildings’ digital platform that tracks all SST training, certifications, and card issuances. The mobile app allows workers and site supervisors to quickly verify credentials on job sites.
How to Download the Training Connect App
The Training Connect app is available for free download:
- For iPhone: Download from the Apple App Store (search “NYC DOB Training Connect”)
- For Android: Download from the Google Play Store (search “NYC DOB Training Connect”)
More information about Training Connect is available on the NYC DOB website.
What You Can Do With the App
Verify your own cards: Tap your SST card or Worker Wallet card to the back of your smartphone to view:
- Your active certifications
- Card expiration dates
- Training history
- Card validity status
Check if your card is working: The app helps you confirm your card is active and legitimate. If your card doesn’t scan or shows incorrect information, contact your training provider immediately.
Note about NFC technology: To use the tap-to-verify feature, your smartphone must have NFC (Near Field Communication) capability. Most newer smartphones have this built in. If your phone cannot read NFC, you can still view your profile by logging into Training Connect online.
For site supervisors: The app allows supervisors and DOB inspectors to quickly scan workers’ cards to verify credentials before allowing site access.
Frequently Asked Questions
My boss told me I need to renew my card. What do I do?
First, check your card’s expiration date (it’s printed on the front of your card). If your card expires within the next 12 months, you need to complete SST refresher training:
- 8 hours for Worker cards (Fall Prevention + Scaffold courses)
- 16 hours for Supervisor cards (Fall Prevention + Scaffold/Site Safety courses)
You must complete refresher training within the 12 months BEFORE your card expires. Don’t wait until the last minute—if your card expires, you’ll have to retake all initial training.
Contact NextWave at (212) 933-9071 to enroll in renewal training.
Can I take SST training in Spanish?
Yes! NextWave offers SST courses in both English and Spanish. We provide initial SST training and renewal courses in Spanish, available online (live Zoom and self-paced e-learning) and in-person.
When enrolling, let us know your language preference so we can schedule you in the appropriate class. Call us at (212) 933-9071 or email sst@nextwavesafety.com.
How long does it take to get my SST card from NextWave?
After you complete all required training and pass your exams, your physical NYC SST card typically takes a minimum of 3-5 business days to process, assuming all your information is complete and correct.
You’ll receive your card one of these ways:
- In-class students: Your instructor will distribute cards when ready
- Office pickup: Schedule an appointment to pick up your card at our office
- Mail: We can mail your card upon request
Please don’t come to the office before scheduling an appointment—we want to make sure your card is ready when you arrive!
Can I work on a construction site while waiting for my card?
This depends on your job site requirements and your employer’s policies. Once you’ve completed your training and your information has been submitted to the NYC DOB Training Connect system, your training record is active in the system even before you receive the physical card.
Some employers may allow you to work while waiting for your physical card to arrive, as long as your training is verified in Training Connect. However, you should always carry your physical card once you receive it.
Check with your employer about their specific requirements.
I lost my SST card. How do I get a replacement?
Contact NextWave at (212) 933-9071 or sst@nextwavesafety.com to request a replacement card. We can issue replacement cards whether you originally trained with us or with another DOB-registered provider.
Replacement card cost: $40
Replacement cards typically take 3-5 business days to process. You can pick up your replacement card by appointment or have it mailed to you.
Do I need an SST card if I’m just doing a small residential job?
It depends on the job site. SST cards are required at NYC construction sites that have a Site Safety Plan and require a Construction Superintendent, Site Safety Coordinator, or Site Safety Manager. Small residential projects may be exempt.
To check if your specific job site requires SST training, visit the NYC DOB Site Safety Construction Map and enter your job site address.
When in doubt check with your employer.
How much does an SST card cost?
SST card costs at NextWave:
- $25 if you completed training with NextWave
- $40 if you completed training with another provider
- $40 for card replacements (lost, stolen, or damaged)
Card included in bundles: Some of our training bundles include the SST card fee at no additional cost:
- Worker 10 Hour SST Bundle
- 8-Hour Worker SST Renewal Bundle
- 22-Hour Supervisor Bundle
- 32-Hour Supervisor Bundle
- 16-Hour Supervisor Renewal Bundle
If you purchase courses individually, the card fee is charged separately from the course price.
Can I use my SST card in other states or cities?
No. NYC SST cards are specific to New York City construction sites under Local Law 196. Other states and cities have their own safety training requirements.
However, your OSHA 30-Hour training is recognized nationally and can be used in other locations that require OSHA certification.
How do I know if my SST card is legitimate?
You can verify your SST card using the NYC DOB Training Connect app or website:
- Download the free Training Connect app (Apple App Store or Google Play Store)
- Tap your card to the back of your smartphone (if your phone has NFC capability)
- Your card information and certifications should appear in the app
If your card doesn’t scan or shows incorrect information, contact your training provider immediately. You should also verify that your training provider is on the NYC DOB Registered Course Provider List.
NextWave Provider ID: CP006
Get Started with Your NYC SST Card Today
Whether you need your first NYC SST card, it’s time to renew, or you need a Worker Wallet card, NextWave Safety Solutions is here to help.
Contact Us
New York, NY 10038
Why Choose NextWave?
- ✓ DOB-Registered Provider (ID: CP006)
- ✓ English & Spanish Courses
- ✓ Online, Hybrid, & In-Person Training
- ✓ Competitive Pricing
- ✓ Expert Support Every Step