Painters and decorators prepare and finish interior and exterior surfaces on residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. The work covers surface preparation (filling, sanding, priming), applying paint, varnish, and speciality coatings, as well as hanging wallpaper and applying decorative finishes. In South Africa, the Painter & Decorator trade is registered under CETA (Construction Education and Training Authority). Entry requires a TVET N2 Certificate followed by a 3-year apprenticeship and a Government Certificate of Competency (GCC) trade test. Painters work for painting contractors, construction companies, property maintenance firms, and as self-employed contractors. Demand is consistent across the country as every new building, renovation, and maintenance project requires painting.
Painters prepare surfaces by scraping, sanding, filling cracks and holes, and applying primer. They mix and apply paint using brushes, rollers, and spray equipment, mask off areas not to be painted, hang wallpaper, and apply decorative finishes such as stippling or ragging. Commercial painters work from scaffolding on large buildings. Industrial painters apply protective coatings to steel structures, pipework, and plant equipment.
Grade 10 (Std 8) minimum for TVET N2 entry. No specific subjects required beyond Grade 10, but Mathematics and Physical Science support trade theory. Mathematical Literacy accepted for N-level entry. TVET N2 and N3 Certificates in Painting and Decorating required.
Use the free Career Helper APS Calculator to calculate your exact score for each SA university.
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
Programme names and requirements vary by institution. Always verify directly with the university before applying.
Complete Grade 10 and enrol at a CETA-accredited TVET college for the N2 and N3 Painting and Decorating programme. The theory covers surface preparation, paint chemistry, colour mixing, wallpaper hanging, and health and safety. Most TVET colleges in urban areas offer this trade.
Register as an apprentice with a CETA-accredited painting contractor or construction company for 3 years. Your apprenticeship combines hands-on site work with N4–N6 college theory. CETA bursaries are available to fund TVET fees and pay a monthly training allowance during your apprenticeship.
Pass the GCC Painting and Decorating trade test to qualify as a certified artisan. Qualified painters find work with construction companies, property management firms, and painting contractors — or start their own business. Specialising in industrial protective coatings, spray painting, or decorative finishes significantly increases earnings.
How do I become a painter and decorator in South Africa?
Are there bursaries for painting and decorating training in South Africa?
What do painters and decorators earn in South Africa?
Can I start my own painting business after qualifying?
Salary ranges are indicative for South Africa 2026 based on market data. Actual salaries vary by employer, location, and experience.