Electrician Requirements In South Africa

The minimum theoretical qualifications needed by a person applying for registration as an installation electrician is an N3 certificate issued by the Department of Education, with minimum pass of 40% in each of the following subjects: mathematics, engineering science, and electrical trade theory or Electro-technology.

Also acceptable is a Grade 12 certificate with a minimum pass of 40% in mathematics, science, and Technica – electrical or an equivalent subject that may include an N3 subject.” explains du Plessis.

Finally, the applicant will have to submit proof of knowledge of the legislation and relevant health and safety standards applicable to electrical installations by having passed the subject, Installation Rules, as administered by the Department of Education through an FET campus or college.

There are three categories of registered people who are permitted to issue a Certificate of Compliance (CoC).

  • Electrical Tester for Single Phase: This is an electrician who has been registered as an electrical tester for single phase in terms of regulation 11 (2) for the verification and certification of the construction, testing and inspection of electrical installations supplied by a single-phase electricity supply at the point of control, excluding specialized electrical installations.
  • Installation Electrician: This is an electrician who has been registered as an installation electrician in terms of regulation 11 (2) for the verification and certification of the construction, testing and inspection of any electrical installation, excluding specialized electrical installations.
  • Master Installation Electrician: This is an electrician who has been registered as a master installation electrician in terms of regulation 11 (2) for the verification and certification of the construction, testing and inspection of any electrical installation.

For each of the registration types, there are three options – practical knowledge, theoretical knowledge and knowledge of statutory requirements – and each contains criteria or conditions that the applicant has to fulfil before applying for registration.

“One criteria for a person applying for registration as an installation electrician is that they must have a trade qualification as either an electrician; an electrician (engineering); an electrician (construction); a millwright (electro-mechanical); a lift mechanic; or the Electric: Chemical Electrical NQF level 4 qualification issued by the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA). He stresses that the individual would not be accepted if they were to have any other trade.

How do I become an electrician without an apprenticeship in South Africa?

Without an apprenticeship, you can become an electrician within two years (no specialization). Study courses can range in length, but most take between 6 to 18 months to complete. Now take into account that you will have to take a licensing exam in order to work, so give yourself some extra time to study.

How long does it take to become a qualified electrician in South Africa?

You will need three years of hands-on experience working as an apprentice electrician before you can take your trade test. The trade test will give you professional electrician accreditation – and then you are set