Careers · Trades & artisans

How to become a plumber in South Africa

Plumbers install and fix water, drainage, and gas systems. You train through an apprenticeship and a trade test, no degree needed.

From R 12 000/mo · median ~R 25 000In demand
Starting payR 12 000/mo
Study timeAbout 3 to 4 years (paid)
QualificationOccupational
Register withPIRB
DemandIn demand

What it costs and how to pay

The plumbing trade is cheaper than a degree, and often you get paid to learn. NSFAS covers TVET N-courses, and apprenticeships and learnerships pay you a stipend. The main costs are the trade test and your tools.

The plumbing trade is one of the best 'earn while you learn' careers. You often get paid to train.

Apprenticeship stipend

As an apprentice, a company pays you a stipend while you learn. You earn, not pay, to train.

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SETA learnerships

The construction (CETA) and manufacturing (merSETA) SETAs fund plumbing learnerships, with a stipend.

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NSFAS

NSFAS pays for Plumbing N-courses and the NCV at a public TVET college, if your family earns under R350,000 a year.

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Ready to apply?

When you have picked a way in, apply before the closing date.

Questions people ask