If you’re wondering how to be a builder or how to get a builder license in Queensland, you’re in the right place. The building industry in QLD is both exciting and challenging, and obtaining your license is a critical step towards a rewarding career. In this blog post, we break down the process into three essential steps, ensuring you have a clear pathway to success.

Step 1: Determine What You Want to Build

Before you dive into the process of becoming a licensed builder, it’s crucial to establish your area of focus. Ask yourself:

• What Classes of Buildings do you want to work on? 
  Do you envision yourself constructing homes (Class 1), apartments (Class 2), or commercial buildings? Do you just want to build a brand new structure, do you just want to do renovations? Your answer will determine what type of builders license is required.
• How many stories?
  You will also need to determine how many stories in height you wish to construct, as this will also determine what builders license is required.
• Will you carry out specialist building work?
  If you intend to carry out specialist building work (eg. Plumbing, Electrical, Fire Protection, Mechanical Services etc.) then you may need an additional license as well as a builders license
• Finalising what builders license is needed.
  Once you have located the class of building, and height in stories you can now determine which QLD builders license is needed. If you refer to THIS document, on the very right hand side it will determine if you require a LR (Builder Low Rise), MR (Builder Medium Rise) or BO (Builder Open).

Understanding what kind of builders license is needed at the very beginning will ensure that you're setting yourself on the right path, and that your efforts are not in vain.

If you need assistance with determining what license you need, you're welcome to obtain clarification for this in a free 15 minute consultation

Step 2: Obtain the Appropriate Qualification

The next step is to obtain the necessary qualifications, which is different for each type of builders license. For a Builders License in Queensland, you need a formal qualification as well as specific experience.

Formal Courses and Training

If you do not have any site management experience, you will need to complete a recognised course. Many aspiring builders start with courses such as the Certificate 4 in Building and Construction or similar accredited programs. These courses cover essential topics including:

• Construction management and planning
• Building codes and standards in Queensland
• Safety regulations and compliance
• Project management fundamentals

These programs provide you with the technical knowledge and skills needed to operate safely and effectively in the field.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

For those who already have a solid foundation in site management, typically a minimum of three to four years of experience Queensland offers the option of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). This pathway allows experienced professionals to demonstrate their competence and obtain credit for their work experience, potentially bypassing some of the formal coursework which can take months or years to complete.

• How RPL Works:
  You will want to contact a registered training organisation to discuss your eligibility. You’ll need to provide evidence of your work experience, including project details, photos/videos, references and much more. The training organisation will assess your portfolio and determine which parts of the qualification you may already meet through real life experience.

Choosing between formal training and RPL depends on your background and experience. If you’re new to site management, the structured course for you to learn is the best starting point. If you have three or four years experience with documented proof, we would suggest exploring RPL to save you time.

Step 3: Gain Site Supervision Experience and Maintain Detailed Records

Qualifications and theoretical knowledge are just the beginning. Practical experience is equally crucial in establishing yourself as a licensed builder.

On site experience

After obtaining your qualifications, the next step is to gain a on site, supervisory role under a licensed builder managing trades on a regulator basis, as well as project management aspects of the project. Here are some key tips:

• Retain Documents
  If you have any documental proof showing that you are on site managing a project, keep all records of these as this is undeniable proof that the QBCC will want to see for your application.
• Keep a good relationship with the builder:
  There is nothing worse then working with a builder for many years, only for you to end on bad terms or not keep the builders contact details, you will need them as a reference for when you apply so keep a good relationship!
• Retain proof of how you were paid

If you are an employee, keep a hold of your payslips and employment agreements. If you're contracting (with a license we hope! That could be illegal and the QBCC won't accept this experience) keep a hold of your invoices and a matching bank statement showing you were paid by the builder/building company that is your reference.

Conclusion

The journey to become a licensed builder in QLD requires a clear plan and commitment. To recap:

1. Identify What you want to build:
   Decide what types of projects you want to undertake, as this will determine the specific license you need.
2. Obtain the Right Qualification:
   Each builders license requires a different qualification, make sure you know what qualification you need and obtain this first!
3. Gain and Document Practical Experience:
   Work on site in a supervisory role with a licensed builder, document and retain all relevant documents to use as proof for when you apply for your Builders License at a later stage

If you feel that you’ve checked off these steps and are ready to take the next leap in your building career, Licensing Advice is here to help. We specialise in preparing builder license applications with QBCC on your behalf, ensuring that your experience and qualifications are presented in the best possible light so that you're not rejected. Let us guide you through the application process so you can focus on what you do best.

For more detailed advice on builder licensing and additional resources, feel free to explore our other blog posts or contact us directly. Your journey to becoming a licensed builder in Queensland starts here!