Introduction

The Wireman’s Licence is an essential qualification for electricians in South Africa who want to issue Certificates of Compliance (CoC) or register as an Installation Electrician. One of the key requirements is passing the Installation Rules Exam based on the SANS 10142 wiring code. Understanding how this exam fits into the licensing process is crucial for anyone planning to advance their electrical career.

📘 New to the exam? Start with our Complete Installation Rules Exam Guide to understand Paper 1, Paper 2, calculations and SANS 10142 requirements.

The Role Of Installation Rules Exams

One of the compulsory requirements to become a licensed Installation Electrician (commonly known as a Wireman’s Licence holder) is passing the Installation Rules exams: Paper 1 and Paper 2. Candidates must achieve a minimum of 50% for Paper 1 and Paper 2 to meet the licence requirements. Your Installation Rules results prove that you understand:

  • SANS 10142‑1 low‑voltage wiring of premises standards
  • Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHS Act 85 of 1993)
  • Electrical Installation Regulations
  • Electrical Machinery Regulations
  • Verification, testing, and CoC responsibilities

Wireman’s Licence Requirements

Candidates must meet the following requirements to qualify:

  • Pass Installation Rules Paper 1 and Paper 2 with a minimum of 50% each.
  • Meet one of the recognised academic pathways (trade test, N3 subjects, or a diploma/degree in Electrical Engineering).
  • Complete the required practical experience and the Unit Standards.
  • Submit all official documents to the Department of Labour for licensing.

If you are preparing for the licensing exams, practicing with Installation Rules past papers can significantly improve your chances of passing.

Paper 2 in particular is calculation-heavy, with topics such as the calculations of: voltage drop, PSCC (AC/DC), touch voltage, conductor sizing, etc.

Registered Person

A Registered Person is an electrician with a license who has demonstrated knowledge, skills and ability to conduct verification and certification of the construction, testing and inspection of the electrical installations for which they have been registered. The Registered Person is permitted to issue a Certificate of Compliance (CoC), which proves that the electrical installation is compliant. There are three categories of registered people who are permitted to issue a 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.

Installation Electrician (IE)

This involves a registered person who 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 specialised electrical installations.

Master Installation Electrician (MIE)

The third category of registered person who is an electrician 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, including specialised electrical installations.

Wireman’s Licence requirements and Installation Rules exam in South Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Wireman’s Licence?

A Wireman’s Licence allows a registered electrician to legally verify electrical installations and issue a Certificate of Compliance in South Africa.

Do you need to pass the Installation Rules Exam?

Yes. Passing Installation Rules Paper 1 and Paper 2 based on SANS 10142 is a compulsory requirement for most Wireman’s Licence applications.

Who issues a Wireman’s Licence in South Africa?

The Department of Employment and Labour issues licences after verifying that all academic, practical, and exam requirements have been met.

Start Your Installation Rules Exam Preparation Today

Passing the Installation Rules Exam in South Africa requires more than reading SANS 10142 — it requires structured preparation and realistic exam practice. Our Installation Rules Study Guide is designed specifically for South African electricians and it includes: Realistic exam-style questions, clear and practical explanations, focus on high-weight SANS 10142 sections. If you are serious about passing on your first attempt, start preparing strategically today. The exam rewards strategic preparation — not last-minute cramming.


👉 Start preparing smarter today and increase your chances of passing on your first try.

Start Your Installation Rules Exam Preparation Today

What You Will Learn

You will learn how to:
  • Interpret and apply the OHS Act and Electrical Installation Regulations
  • Calculate Voltage Drop, PSCC (AC & DC), Touch Voltage correctly
  • Perform inspection, testing, verification, and complete CoC tasks
  • Master SANS 10142‑1 installation requirements
  • Work under exam time pressure