If you’re thinking about getting certified under AS/NZS 3760 this year, you basically have two paths: attend a face‑to‑face course, or take the training online. Which one is right for you depends on your learning style, schedule and access to equipment. Let’s break down the main differences.
What Does Face‑to‑Face Training Look Like?
For a face‑to‑face course, you attend a session run by the training provider, usually with a small group of other trainees (around 5–8 people).
- Hands‑on practice with real testers and peers. You’ll get to see and work with different types and brands of testers — sometimes testers other trainees bring — so you can get a feel for which suits you best.
- Guided instruction from experienced trainers. Because the trainers are both electrically qualified and test‑and‑tag qualified, you benefit from their field experience, including practical tips many purely theoretical courses can’t offer.
- Confidence from real‑world practice. The trainer supports you step‑by‑step as you test and tag equipment yourself. By the end of the day you should feel confident to handle your own testing and tagging.
- Certification and ID card. On completion, you’ll be assessed against AS/NZS 3760 standards, and receive a competency certificate. Many providers — including ours at Metrotest — also issue a photo ID card, which can be useful if your work requirements or health and safety policy demands it.
Considerations / Drawbacks
- Face‑to‑face courses are scheduled — you’ll need to attend on the day, typically from morning until late afternoon. This can be limiting if you have time constraints.
- Course availability depends on your region. Even large providers don’t always run face‑to-face courses in every area.
What About Online Test & Tag Training?
The online course offers an alternative — you can complete training from anywhere, at a pace that suits you.
- Flexible scheduling and pace. Once you enroll, you can begin when ready and complete the course on your own timetable. You might finish within a few days, or spread it out based on your availability.
- One‑on‑one practical assessment. Online training still includes a practical assessment, guided via video by one of our electrically qualified trainers. This ensures you still get hands‑on practice, even if remote.
- No need to own a PAT tester (initially). If you don’t yet have a PAT tester — the device used to test portable appliances — we can send you a loan tester for your assessment. This can lower the barrier to entry.
- Same certification outcome. After successful completion of the course and assessment, you receive the same industry‑leading certificate and a photo ID card, same as with face‑to-face training.
Face‑to‑Face vs Online: Which Should You Choose?
Both formats train you to the same standard under AS/NZS 3760 — the decision comes down to what suits your individual circumstances. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Choose Face‑to‑Face | Choose Online |
|---|---|
| You prefer hands‑on group learning with real equipment and peer interaction | You need flexibility — manage training around work/life schedule |
| You want personal interaction and support all day long | You’re comfortable with remote learning and video assessments |
| You value getting to try different testers and see what works | You don’t yet own a PAT tester, or want to avoid purchasing one immediately |
| You want an immersive, in‑person experience | You prefer convenience, or live in a remote area |
Why Both Options Lead to the Same Qualification
Regardless of format, successful completion — whether in‑person or online — results in a competency certificate and a photo‑ID card (if provided by the provider). This certifies you as a “competent person” able to carry out test and tag work under AS/NZS 3760.
At Metrotest, we believe the best choice is the one that matches your learning style, schedule, and equipment access — both online and face‑to‑face training deliver the same outcome and competence.
Book Your Test & Tag Training
With the end of the year fast approaching and the busy season leading into Christmas, now is a great time to start planning your training for 2026.
Why not explore Metrotest’s full range of training courses? If you prefer not to wait for an in-person session, you can jump into one of our online Test & Tag courses, available all year round — anytime, anywhere.
