You’ve finished your apprenticeship—massive achievement! But what now?
Many apprentices think completing their time on the job means they’re automatically qualified. While you’ve got valuable skills, you’re not fully recognised until you hold a formal qualification like a Certificate III.
Without this, your job options, pay rate, and ability to work independently are limited.
Here’s a practical step-by-step breakdown of what to do next to go from apprentice to licensed, certified, and confident tradie—and how Upskilled Training can help you fast-track your journey through RPL.
Step 1: Assess Your Current Qualification Status
Ask yourself: Did I receive a formal Certificate III during my apprenticeship?
If your apprenticeship didn’t include a nationally recognised qualification (which is common in many trades), you’re likely classified as experienced but uncertified.
You might still be:
- Unable to legally advertise your services as a qualified tradie
- Ineligible for trade licensing in your state
- Limited to employee roles under supervision
- Missing out on higher-paying opportunities
Action: Check your credentials, training records, and whether your apprenticeship included a formal qualification. If not, move to Step 2.
Step 2: Use RPL to Convert Your Experience into a Qualification
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is one of the fastest ways to get certified without going back to TAFE or a trade school.
If you’ve spent the past few years:
- Learning directly under a licensed tradie
- Working on job sites
- Completing tasks relevant to your trade (e.g., framing, wiring, painting, tiling)
Then chances are, you’re eligible for RPL.
Here’s how it works through Upskilled Training:
- Skills Assessment – A quick consultation to check if you’re eligible for RPL.
- Submit Evidence – This can include job logs, reference letters, photos, videos, site plans, or client testimonials.
- Assessment by a Registered Assessor – Your work is mapped against the units of competency for the relevant qualification.
- Receive Your Certificate – Once approved, you’ll receive a nationally recognised trade qualification, such as Certificate III in your trade.
Pro Tip: You can complete the RPL process in as little as 4–6 weeks. It’s 100% online and works around your job schedule.
Step 3: Apply for Licensing (If Required)
In most Australian states, you need both:
- A nationally recognised qualification, and
- Relevant experience or supervision history
…to apply for a licence in your trade.
Depending on your location and trade, you might need to apply through:
- Fair Trading NSW
- QBCC (Queensland)
- Victorian Building Authority
- Consumer and Business Services (SA)
- …or other state-specific bodies.
Licensing is essential if you plan to:
- Work as a subcontractor or sole trader
- Quote for jobs independently
- Take on government or commercial projects
- Advertise your services legally
Action: Once you’ve received your certificate via RPL, begin your licensing application immediately to avoid downtime.
Step 4: Upgrade Your Tradie Profile
Now that you’re qualified (and soon to be licensed), it’s time to level up your professional presence. This is a step many tradies skip—but it’s essential to stand out.
Here’s what to do:
- Build a resume/CV – Include your apprenticeship experience and new qualifications
- Create a portfolio – Include before-and-after job photos, testimonials, and project summaries
- Claim your ABN – If you’re going solo, apply for an Australian Business Number
- Start an online presence – A simple Instagram page or Facebook business profile can help you build trust with potential clients
- Network – Let past employers or mentors know you’re now qualified. Referrals go a long way.
Bonus Tip: List yourself on platforms like Hipages, Airtasker, or Oneflare to attract local jobs fast.
Step 5: Choose Your Career Direction
With your apprenticeship done and your certification sorted, it’s time to set your sights on a long-term goal.
Here are a few career options you can explore:
1. Get Hired as a Qualified Tradie
- Work with building firms, maintenance contractors, or government projects
- Now eligible for higher pay and more independence on the job
2. Start Your Own Business
- Operate as a licensed tradie, set your own hours, and grow your own client base
- Potential to earn more by quoting your own jobs
3. Subcontract on Big Projects
- Get hired by builders or site managers for larger jobs
- Less admin than business ownership, but with better pay than employee roles
4. Continue Your Education or Stack Skills
- Add complementary qualifications through RPL (e.g., waterproofing, asbestos removal, WHS)
- Pursue leadership roles like site supervisor or foreperson
Do’s and Don’ts After Your Apprenticeship
DO:
- ✅ Apply for your trade certificate ASAP (before your experience becomes outdated)
- ✅ Take advantage of your momentum and contacts from your apprenticeship
- ✅ Keep records of every job you’ve done—it’s useful for future RPL or business use
- ✅ Ask for a written reference from your mentor or employer
DON’T:
- ❌ Assume you’re licensed because you’ve done the work
- ❌ Delay your application—you could miss job offers or contract opportunities
- ❌ Undersell your skills—know your worth as a qualified tradie
- ❌ Wait for jobs to come to you—market yourself and apply confidently
