Arbeidstilsynet’s role in the HSE-card scheme
An HSE card connects a worker to an employer. Here we explain what Arbeidstilsynet oversees, what must be in place before ordering, and how employers keep their cards valid.
Who is responsible for what?
Arbeidstilsynet supervises the HSE-card scheme. The appointed card issuer acts on its behalf and checks that the conditions for issuing a card have been met. This includes checking the cardholder’s identity.
The employer is responsible for making sure workers have valid cards. Using an ordering service does not transfer this responsibility or replace the company’s own checks.
Which industries require HSE cards?
HSE cards are required for work on construction sites, commercial cleaning, and manual car care, tyre changes and tyre storage. The rules apply to both Norwegian and foreign workers within the scheme’s scope.
Since 1 January 2026, the scheme also covers specified transport of other people’s goods by car or van for payment. There are vehicle limits and exemptions, including rules for transporting your own goods. Check the official scope for your business.
What must be in place before ordering?
The business and cardholder must meet the applicable public-register requirements. The employer must check identity before ordering and ensure that the employment details used in the application are correct.
If required information is missing or outdated, correct it in the relevant register. Sending another card order does not resolve an underlying registration issue.
Approval for cleaning and car-care businesses
Businesses offering cleaning or manual car-care, tyre-change and tyre-storage services must apply for approval from Arbeidstilsynet. They receive information about when they can order HSE cards.
Company approval and the employee’s personal card are connected parts of the process. A card order alone is not company approval. Follow the instructions from Arbeidstilsynet and order cards for new employees when needed.
What happens during an inspection?
Workers must wear the card visibly and show it when required. The QR code allows its current status to be checked, so the printed expiry date is not the only thing that matters.
If valid cards are missing, Arbeidstilsynet can issue an order, stop work or impose a penalty. Employers should investigate invalid-card notifications and correct the underlying issue.
Keep cards valid after delivery
A construction HSE card is issued for two years and is valid only while the employment relationship continues. A change of employer requires a new card connected to the new employment relationship.
A lost or stolen card must be reported promptly to the employer, who informs the issuer so it can be invalidated and replaced. When employment ends, the card must be returned and destroyed.
How Jobbkort helps with ordering
Jobbkort AS provides an independent ordering service. We follow up your order and contact you if a photo, identification or other information is missing. You receive updates by email.
Arbeidstilsynet is the supervisory authority. The official HSE-card scheme also provides ordering and administration through hmskort.no. Choose the route that suits your business and make sure the requirements are met.