National Plant Operators Registration Scheme. It is a type of professional licence required to operate some smaller machines and plant equipment. Credible and officially honoured, it is also cheaper than other licences. Therefore, it enables the holder of an NPORS card to operate power tools, including an excavator, without having to pay for extended licences. After completing the first stage of certification, it is valid for two years and can be extended to five years after passing another exam.