Career roadmap
How to Become a Roofer
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a roofer, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a roofer: (1) get hired as a helper, (2) learn safety first, (3) build installation skills, (4) consider an apprenticeship, (5) advance. Most people need about 3–12 months on the job. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a roofer
Get hired as a helper
Start by carrying materials, cleaning up and doing tear-off.
Learn safety first
Complete OSHA 10 and fall protection training.
Build installation skills
Learn underlayment, flashing, shingling and membrane work.
Consider an apprenticeship
Union and contractor programs add classroom training and raises.
Advance
Become a lead roofer, foreman, estimator or licensed roofing contractor.
Education and training requirements
No formal education is required. Most roofers learn on the job over several months. Some complete union or contractor apprenticeships that combine paid work with classroom training on safety and roofing systems.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | No formal educational credential |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 3–12 months on the job |
Certifications and licenses
- OSHA 10-Hour Construction: Basic construction safety training, often required by contractors.
- Fall protection training: Training on harnesses, anchors and guardrails, required for work at heights.
- Manufacturer installer certifications: Programs from shingle and membrane makers such as GAF, Owens Corning or Carlisle.
- Roofing contractor license: Required in some states to run your own roofing business.
Skills to build now
Start with shingle and membrane installation, flashing and leak prevention, and fall protection setup, and practice teamwork and work ethic. Learning the roofer vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Roofing Helper: Carry materials, tear off and clean up.
- Roofer: Install and repair roofing systems.
- Lead Roofer or Foreman: Run crews, layout and quality on job sites.
- Estimator or Roofing Contractor: Bid jobs or start your own licensed roofing company.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Roofer training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a roofer?
Most people need about 3–12 months on the job of training. No formal education is required. Most roofers learn on the job over several months. Some complete union or contractor apprenticeships that combine paid work with classroom training on safety and roofing systems.
Do you need a degree to be a roofer?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for roofers?
Common credentials include OSHA 10-Hour Construction, Fall protection training, Manufacturer installer certifications, and Roofing contractor license. Roofing contractors need a license in some states. Workers on job sites must be trained in fall protection under OSHA rules.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 47-2181 (Roofers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Roofers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.