Trade licensing
Plastering Licence (Solid & Dry): qualification and requirements
Solid plastering (rendering) and dry plastering (wall and ceiling lining) are licensed as separate categories in some states. Each has its own Certificate III.
CPC31020CPC31220
What a plastering licence (solid & dry) generally covers
- Rendering and solid plaster finishes
- Plasterboard walls and ceilings
- Cornices and suspended ceilings
- Fire-rated lining systems
The exact scope of work, job-value thresholds and licence classes differ in each state and territory.
Qualifications commonly used
CPC31020Certificate IIICertificate III in Solid Plastering
For solid plasterers who render and finish internal and external walls.
CPC31220Certificate IIICertificate III in Wall and Ceiling Lining
For plasterboard fixers and stoppers who line walls and ceilings in homes and commercial fit-outs.
Where to apply
| State | Licensing authority | |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | Building Commission NSW / NSW Fair Trading | Official site ↗ |
| VIC | Building and Plumbing Commission (formerly VBA) | Official site ↗ |
| QLD | Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) | Official site ↗ |
| WA | Building and Energy (WA Government) | Official site ↗ |
| SA | Consumer and Business Services (CBS) | Official site ↗ |
| TAS | Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS) | Official site ↗ |
| ACT | Access Canberra | Official site ↗ |
| NT | NT Building Practitioners Board | Official site ↗ |
Requirements change. Confirm the current rules with the regulator before applying. We help with the qualification only; we do not issue licences or guarantee a licence outcome.
Plastering Licence (Solid & Dry) FAQs
What qualification do I need for a plastering licence (solid & dry)?
Regulators most commonly list CPC31020 or CPC31220 as the technical qualification. Some states accept alternatives or add extra units, so confirm with the regulator in the state where you will work.
Can I get that qualification through RPL?
If you have solid, verifiable experience in the trade, yes. A partner RTO assesses your evidence against each unit. Some regulators set additional rules about how the qualification was gained, which we will flag during your skills check.
Does the qualification guarantee a licence?
No. The qualification is one requirement. The regulator also assesses your experience, identity and other criteria and makes the decision.
Is my licence valid in other states?
Many trade licences are covered by mutual recognition or automatic mutual recognition between states, but there are exceptions. Check with the regulator in the state you are moving to.
Find out what your experience is worth
The skills check is free, takes about a minute and puts you under no obligation.