How Can I Get a Builder’s Licence?

Whilst it’s easy enough to submit the application for your builder’s licence or registration, getting it approved is an entirely different kettle of fish. The Builders Practitioners Board was established to regulate the professionals operating in the industry and to ensure an acceptable level of quality is enforced across the board.

Bottom line? If you don’t have the necessary skills and qualifications, you’re receiving a big, fat rejection letter. So what is an aspiring tradesperson to do if they’re hoping to make a career in the industry, but can’t get passed the front door? You have one of two options:

1. Give up and embrace your life’s dream of becoming travelling magician

Or

1. Seek out an RTO that can equip you with the necessary skills to obtain your licence

The three main qualities that will assist you in obtaining your builder’s licence

Knowledge- whilst practical experience is important, it’s not enough to qualify you for a licence. You must also have a sound understanding of the theory that comes with being a registered builder. This means you must seek out a structured course that covers the specific requirements in detail, so that you can attain a complete understanding.

Skills- your theory must be backed up with the competency to apply them in real world scenarios. Experience in your particular trade is typically obtained through an apprenticeship through a builder already established in the industry. Whilst you can learn many valuable skills through a training course, there’s only so much you can learn in a classroom setting.

Qualifications– even if you possess the theoretical and practical experience to work as a builder, having a Diploma, or Certificate III or IV in building and construction will certainly improve your chances of approval. Having such a qualification will essentially demonstrate you have filled in any knowledge gaps in your skill base.

What else is involved when applying?

When you apply for your domestic building licence you have to specify which building class you wish to apply for. The three classes include Limited, Unlimited and Manager, and will dictate the level of work you are registered to perform. Just to make things more confusing for you, there are 29 individual domestic building components within the class of Domestic Builder (Limited) which you can become registered for.

Keep in mind that when sending your application to the Builders Practitioners Board, you must also include the relevant application fee. Your application form will have further information as to the amount and how you should go about paying it.