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.
Get Qualified for Your Trade or Builders Licence.
If you’ve worked in the trade, we can help you turn that experience into a nationally recognised qualification fast — with zero study required.
Trade & Builder Licensing in Australia
Turn your experience into a trade or builder licence, fast.
If you're looking to get licensed as a trade contractor or builder in Australia, you’ve likely realised how overwhelming and complicated the process can be. Every state has different rules, different application processes, and different qualification requirements.
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