Certificate 3 in Bricklaying RPL: How to Get Qualified Without an Apprenticeship

RPL for Bricklaying allows experienced bricklayers to obtain a nationally recognised trade qualification without completing a formal apprenticeship or returning to full time study.

If you have been laying bricks or blocks for years but never completed your trade certificate, RPL is the fastest pathway to becoming formally qualified and legally recognised.

What Is the Certificate III in Bricklaying and Blocklaying?

The Certificate III in Bricklaying and Blocklaying (CPC33020) is the core trade qualification for bricklayers in Australia.

It is required for:

• Trade recognition
• Contractor licensing
• Structural building work
• Commercial projects
• Insurance approval

This is the same qualification completed by apprentices through TAFE.

What Is RPL for Bricklaying?

RPL for Bricklaying is an assessment process that recognises your existing bricklaying skills, knowledge, and on site experience and converts them into a nationally recognised qualification.

You are not trained.
You are assessed.

If you already perform brick and block work independently, you may already qualify.

Who Is Eligible for Bricklaying RPL?

You are eligible if you:

• Have worked as a bricklayer or blocklayer
• Perform work without supervision
• Have at least 12 months experience
• Can provide evidence of your work
• Have referees who can verify your role

RPL is designed for experienced bricklayers only.

What Experience Counts?

Experience may include:

• Residential brickwork
• Commercial brickwork
• Block laying
• Retaining walls
• Structural walls
• Feature brickwork
• Footings and set out
• Repairs and renovations

Your experience must show full bricklaying scope, not just labouring.

What Evidence Do You Need?

This is the most important part of the process.

You will usually need:

• Photos of you laying bricks and blocks
• Videos of you working on walls
• Job invoices or payslips
• Reference letters from builders or supervisors
• Site plans or drawings
• Safety documentation

Evidence must clearly show:
• You setting out, laying, and finishing
• Not just assisting

How Long Does Bricklaying RPL Take?

Most bricklaying RPL applications take:

• 4 to 8 weeks
• Faster if evidence is strong and organised

Compared to:
• 3 to 4 years for an apprenticeship

How Much Does Bricklaying RPL Cost?

Typical industry pricing:

• $2,000 to $4,000+

Depending on:
• Number of units
• Evidence quality
• Level of support

It is far cheaper than stopping work to study.

Is Bricklaying RPL Accepted for Licensing?

Yes.

Certificate III in Bricklaying and Blocklaying obtained through RPL is:

• Nationally recognised
• Issued by registered training organisations
• Accepted by state licensing bodies
• Valid for contractor and builder pathways
• Required for structural insurance

There is no difference between RPL and classroom qualifications.

Can You Get a Contractor Licence With It?

Yes, and this is one of the main reasons bricklayers pursue RPL.

Bricklaying RPL is commonly used to:

• Apply for bricklaying contractor licences
• Tender for larger projects
• Perform structural work legally
• Supervise teams
• Work independently

The Biggest Bricklaying RPL Mistake

The biggest mistake is thinking:

"I have laid bricks for years, so I qualify."

Experience alone is not enough.
You must prove it.

No evidence means no qualification.

Who Should Not Do Bricklaying RPL?

RPL is not suitable if you:

• Have no real bricklaying experience
• Are still learning
• Cannot provide evidence
• Want shortcuts

RPL is for real bricklayers, not general labourers.

In Summary

RPL for Bricklaying allows experienced bricklayers to:

• Obtain Certificate III in Bricklaying and Blocklaying
• In weeks instead of years
• Without apprenticeships
• Without classroom study

If you already lay bricks professionally, RPL simply gives you the qualification to match your real world skills and keeps you compliant with Australian trade and licensing regulations.





Let Us Make it Easy For You

Securing a QBCC Builders Licence can be complex and time consuming. Professional guidance can significantly reduce risk, delays, and unnecessary costs.

Licensing specialists assist with:

• Eligibility assessments
• Document preparation
• Financial reviews
• Application submission
• Checklist letter responses

This structured support ensures applications meet QBCC standards before submission, maximising approval success and avoiding costly mistakes.