OSHA 10 takes at least two days and OSHA 30 takes at least four days, because OSHA limits Outreach training to a maximum of 7.5 hours per day, whether online or in person. Online courses must be finished within six months of starting. After you finish, authorized trainers must issue the official DOL wallet card within 90 days.
Key takeaways
- OSHA caps Outreach training at 7.5 hours per day.
- OSHA 10 needs at least 2 days; OSHA 30 needs at least 4.
- No legitimate OSHA 10 can be finished in one day.
- Online courses must be completed within 6 months of starting.
- Cards must be issued within 90 days of finishing the course.
The 7.5-hour daily limit
OSHA's Outreach Training Program rules cap training at 7.5 hours per day. That's the reason the "10" and "30" can't be squeezed into one long day. The limit applies to in-person classes and online courses alike.
| Course | Contact hours | Minimum days | Common schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
| OSHA 10 (Construction or General Industry) | 10 | 2 | Two consecutive days |
| OSHA 30 (Construction or General Industry) | 30 | 4 | Four to five days, or one day a week for a month |
How long each format takes
In-person and on-site classes
A live class follows a set schedule, so you know exactly when you'll be done: two days for OSHA 10, four or more for OSHA 30. On-site classes can be split into shorter sessions to fit shifts. See on-site OSHA training.
Online courses
Online courses are self-paced but still limited to 7.5 hours a day, and they must be completed within six months. In practice, many workers take a week or more to fit an online OSHA 10 around work.
When you get your card
- End of class: you receive proof of completion.
- Within 90 days: OSHA requires the trainer or provider to issue the official DOL wallet card.
If a job start date depends on your card, plan at least a couple of weeks ahead. Read how to get your OSHA 10 card for the full process.
Watch out for "fast" cards
Any offer to finish OSHA 10 in one day or OSHA 30 in two is a red flag. Learn how to verify an OSHA card.
Frequently asked questions
Can you do OSHA 10 in one day?
No. OSHA's 7.5-hour daily limit means a legitimate OSHA 10 takes at least two days. A provider offering a one-day OSHA 10 is not following OSHA rules, and the card may not be valid.
How many days is OSHA 30?
At least four days. Many classes take four or five days, or are spread over several weeks.
How long do I have to finish an online OSHA course?
OSHA requires online Outreach courses to be completed within six months of the start date.
How long until I get my OSHA card?
You get proof of completion when you finish. OSHA requires the official wallet card to be issued within 90 days of course completion, and it often arrives sooner.