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How to become a Plumber in South Africa

Installs and repairs water, drainage and gas systems.

Step-by-step path

  1. STEP 1
    Education
    N3 + Trade Test (Red Seal)
    1–6 yrs
  2. STEP 2
    Entry job
    First role: Apprentice
    0–2 yrs
  3. STEP 3
    Mid-level growth
    Move into: Qualified Plumber
    3–6 yrs
  4. STEP 4
    Senior transition
    Reach: Senior Plumber
    7+ yrs

Time estimate

Total typical time to senior level
~ 7–10 years
Education n3 + trade test (red seal), then practical experience.

Salary growth timeline

Year 1
R7 000
/month
Year 5
R28 000
/month
Year 10
R42 000
/month

Required skills by stage

FOUNDATIONAL
  • PIRB registrationHigh
  • Gas installerHigh
MID-CAREER
  • Gas installerHigh
  • Solar geyser installMedium
SENIOR
  • Solar geyser installMedium

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