How To Become A Plumber In South Africa (2025)

Plumbing is a vital trade in South Africa, offering stable employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. If you’re considering becoming a plumber, you need to follow a structured path that includes training, apprenticeships, and certification. This guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of how to become a professional plumber in South Africa.

1. Understanding the Role of a Plumber

A plumber is responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining water supply systems, drainage systems, and related fixtures in homes, commercial buildings, and industrial sites. Their tasks include:

• Installing and repairing pipes, taps, geysers, and sanitation systems
• Detecting and fixing leaks
• Unblocking drains and toilets
• Ensuring compliance with building regulations

Plumbers work in various environments, including construction sites, residential properties, and industrial facilities. The job requires technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and physical fitness.

2. Meeting the Basic Requirements

Before pursuing a career in plumbing, you should meet the following basic requirements:

• Age: Most training institutions require you to be at least 16 years old.
• Education: A Grade 9 certificate is the minimum requirement, but having a higher qualification, such as a matric (Grade 12) certificate, can be beneficial.
• Physical Fitness: Plumbing involves manual labor, including lifting pipes and working in confined spaces.

While formal education is not always necessary, strong mathematical and technical skills will help you understand measurements, calculations, and blueprints.

3. Choosing a Training Pathway

There are multiple pathways to becoming a plumber in South Africa. You can choose from:

1. Completing a Plumbing Learnership
2. Enrolling in a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College
3. Becoming an Apprentice Under a Qualified Plumber
4. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for Experienced Workers

Each route has different requirements and durations.

Option 1: Plumbing Learnerships

A learnership is a structured program that combines theoretical training with on-the-job experience. Plumbing learnerships are offered by organizations registered with the Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA) and the Plumbing Industry Registration Board (PIRB).

• Duration: 2-4 years
• Qualifications Earned: National Certificate in Construction Plumbing (NQF Level 4)
• Where to Apply: Companies, municipalities, and government-sponsored training programs

Learnerships are ideal because they allow you to earn while learning.

Option 2: Studying at a TVET College

TVET colleges offer plumbing courses that provide foundational skills before entering an apprenticeship or practical training.

• Common Courses:

  • National Certificate (Vocational) (NCV) in Plumbing
  • National Certificate: Plumbing (NQF Level 4)

• Duration: 6 months to 3 years

• Colleges Offering Plumbing Courses:

  • Northlink TVET College
  • Ekurhuleni TVET College
  • False Bay TVET College
  • Tshwane North TVET College

Completing a TVET course can improve your chances of securing an apprenticeship.

Option 3: Apprenticeship Under a Qualified Plumber

An apprenticeship involves hands-on training under an experienced plumber while studying theory part-time.

• Duration: 3-4 years
• Benefits: Practical experience and mentorship
• Where to Find Apprenticeships:
  • Construction companies
  • Plumbing firms
  • Municipal water departments

Apprenticeships allow you to gain industry-recognized qualifications.

Option 4: Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

If you have experience in plumbing but no formal qualification, you can apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) through the Plumbing Industry Registration Board (PIRB). This process assesses your skills and allows you to obtain certification without starting from scratch.

4. Getting Certified as a Plumber

To work as a professional plumber in South Africa, you must obtain certification. The main certification bodies are:

1. Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA) – Responsible for training accreditation.
2. Plumbing Industry Registration Board (PIRB) – Regulates plumbing professionals and ensures compliance.
3. National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB) – Administers trade tests.

Trade Test (Red Seal Qualification)

To become a fully qualified plumber, you must pass a Trade Test. The process includes:

1. Completing formal training and workplace experience
2. Applying for the trade test at a National Trade Test Centre
3. Passing the test to obtain a Red Seal Certificate, which allows you to work independently

The Red Seal certification is highly recognized and enables plumbers to work anywhere in South Africa.

5. Registering with the Plumbing Industry Registration Board (PIRB)

Once you are a qualified plumber, you should register with the Plumbing Industry Registration Board (PIRB). This registration is essential for:

• Legally working on plumbing projects
• Ensuring compliance with industry standards
• Qualifying for tenders and insurance work

PIRB offers different registration levels, such as:

• Learner Plumber
• Qualified Plumber
• Licensed Plumber

A Licensed Plumber can sign off on compliance certificates for completed plumbing work.

6. Finding a Plumbing Job or Starting Your Own Business

Once qualified, you can either work for a company or start your own plumbing business.

Working for a Company

• Apply for jobs in construction firms, municipalities, and private plumbing companies.
• Gain experience working under an experienced plumber before going independent.

Starting Your Own Business

Many plumbers choose self-employment. To start your business:

1. Register Your Business with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC).
2. Obtain a Business License if required by your municipality.
3. Get Insurance to cover damages and liabilities.
4. Market Your Services through online platforms, word of mouth, and partnerships with construction companies.

Successful plumbers build strong reputations and expand their businesses over time.

7. Continuous Learning and Specialization

To stay competitive in the industry, consider specializing in areas such as:

• Solar Water Heating Systems
• Gas Installation and Compliance
• Pipefitting and Industrial Plumbing
• Drainage System Design

Attending refresher courses and staying updated on new plumbing technologies will enhance your skills.

The plumbing industry offers good earning potential, job security, and opportunities for growth, making it a great career choice

• Installing Pipes & Fixtures – Setting up water supply lines, sinks, toilets, showers, and water heaters.
• Repairing Leaks & Blockages – Fixing broken pipes, clogged drains, and malfunctioning fixtures.
• Maintaining Plumbing Systems – Performing routine checks and servicing for efficiency.
• Working with Gas Lines – Installing and repairing gas pipelines for heating and appliances.
• Interpreting Blueprints – Reading construction plans to ensure proper pipe placement.

Plumbers may specialize in residential, commercial, or industrial plumbing, and they often work on call for emergencies like burst pipes or sewage backups

1. Job Security & Demand

• Plumbing is an essential service, ensuring steady work opportunities.
• High demand due to new construction, repairs, and maintenance needs.

2. Good Income Potential

• Competitive wages, with opportunities for overtime pay.
• Experienced plumbers or those running their own businesses can earn even more.

3. No Need for a College Degree

• You can start with an apprenticeship and avoid student loan debt.
• Training programs are often shorter and more affordable than traditional college degrees.

4. Career Growth & Independence

• Opportunity to specialize in different areas (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial).
• Potential to start your own plumbing business and become self-employed.

5. Hands-On & Active Work

• Great for those who enjoy problem-solving and working with their hands.
• Avoids the monotony of a desk job.

6. Job Variety & Satisfaction

• Every day is different, with new challenges and locations.
• Helping people with essential plumbing needs brings job satisfaction.

7. Strong Earning Potential Over Time

• Experience leads to higher pay, and master plumbers can earn a very good income.
• Additional certifications can boost income opportunities.

8. Work Anywhere

• Plumbing skills are needed worldwide, offering flexibility in job location.
• Can work in urban, suburban, or rural areas.

9. Good Benefits & Retirement Plans

• Many plumbing jobs come with health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

10. Eco-Friendly & Technological Advancements

• Opportunities to work with green technology and energy-efficient plumbing systems.
• Stay engaged with evolving tools and techniques in the trade.

If you enjoy problem-solving, working with your hands, and want a stable, well-paying career, plumbing is a great choice

South Africa boasts a number of reputable plumbing companies known for their quality services across various regions. Here are some notable ones: