How to Become a Plumber: Requirements, Timeline, & Salary
How to Become a Plumber: Requirements, Timeline, & Salary
Plumbing is a skilled trade that offers stability, good pay, and opportunities for advancement. This guide explains the key steps for how to become a licensed plumber, from education to employment. Whether you're just starting out or considering a career change, you'll find practical information to help you succeed.
How to become a licensed plumber
Becoming a licensed plumber requires education, hands-on training, and passing exams. Pathways vary in time, structure, and training order. Apprenticeships are the most competitive and structured start, while technical programs and helper jobs are easier to enter but still require completing an apprenticeship or equivalent training to become licensed.
| Pathway | Total time (years) | Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 4 – 5 | Apply for apprenticeship → Complete on-the-job & classroom training (4 to 5 years) → Pass licensing exam |
| Plumbing school / Technical program |
5 – 6 | Enroll at a technical or vocational school (1 to 2 years) → Apprenticeship or entry-level job → Pass licensing exam |
| Direct entry (Helper) | 4 – 7 | Start as a plumber's helper or laborer → Gain experience → Enter apprenticeship or formal training → Pass licensing exam |
| Accelerated path | 2 – 4+ | Enroll in a fast-track or bridge plumbing program (duration varies) → Apprenticeship or direct employment → Pass licensing exam |
Plumbing apprenticeship
The apprenticeship pathway is the most common route into the plumbing trade. It involves applying for and completing a 4 to 5-year program that combines paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Apprentices spend most of their time working under the supervision of experienced plumbers on real job sites, gaining practical skills. At the same time, they attend scheduled classroom sessions—often during evenings or certain days of the week. Coursework covers plumbing theory, codes, safety, and related subjects.
Upon completing the apprenticeship, candidates must pass a licensing exam to become a journeyman plumber.
Plumbing school
This pathway starts with enrolling in a plumbing program at a technical or vocational school, also called a trade school. These programs typically last 1 to 2 years and provide foundational knowledge and skills in plumbing systems, tools, and safety.
After completing the vocational portion, graduates usually enter a plumbing apprenticeship lasting about 4 to 5 years to gain the required hands-on experience.
Once they meet the experience requirements, they must pass the licensing exam to become fully licensed plumbers.
Direct entry
This pathway starts with working as a plumber's helper or laborer, gaining hands-on experience without formal training. After gaining enough experience, individuals can apply for a formal apprenticeship, which typically includes a probationary period of about 12 months.
Once accepted, the apprenticeship lasts 4 to 5 years and combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. After completing the apprenticeship, candidates must pass a licensing exam to become journeyman plumbers.
Accelerated path
The accelerated path involves enrolling in a fast-track or bridge plumbing program designed to shorten the training period. These programs can last from several months up to 18 months, depending on the curriculum and the student's prior experience.
After completing the program, individuals typically enter an apprenticeship or gain direct employment to fulfill state licensing requirements. This pathway is ideal for those seeking a quicker entry into the plumbing profession, though licensing exams and experience requirements still apply.
Plumbing exam
No matter which path you choose, you'll need to pass a state or local plumbing exam before you can apply for your license. The plumbing exam tests your knowledge and skills to ensure you meet trade standards. While details vary by state, most exams include:
Eligibility: You must meet your state's experience and training requirements before sitting for the exam. This often means completing 4,000 to 8,000 hours of hands-on work and, in some states, a set number of classroom hours.
Format: Exams may include multiple-choice questions, calculations, and code application exercises. Some states also require practical or hands-on components.
Topics covered: Exams cover plumbing codes (such as the International Plumbing Code or Uniform Plumbing Code), safety regulations, pipe sizing and installation, blueprint reading, waste, vent, and water distribution systems, backflow prevention, and specialty systems.
Passing score: Most states require a minimum score to pass, usually around 70% for journeymen and higher for master-level exams.
Exam fees: The licensing exam fees vary widely by state, typically ranging from $50 to $300 or more. Some states charge separate fees for the application and the exam itself.
Check with your state or local licensing board to learn who administers the plumbing exam in your area and what resources they offer. Many provide study guides, practice tests, or recommend prep courses to help you pass on your first try.
Plumbing license
To work as a professional plumber, you'll need to obtain a plumbing license. Licensing requirements vary by state and locality, but generally include submitting proof of completed training, documented work experience, and your exam results to your state or local licensing board.
You'll also need to pay application and licensing fees, which usually range from $50 to $500, and may need to complete additional steps such as background checks, fingerprinting, and getting insurance or surety bonds. To maintain your license, you'll need to renew it as required by your state (usually every 1 to 3 years) and complete any continuing education.
License levels
Most states issue plumbing licenses at several levels, each with its own requirements:
Apprentice plumber: An entry-level apprentice plumber works under supervision while completing required training and experience.
Journeyman plumber: After finishing your apprenticeship and passing the journeyman exam, you can work independently and supervise apprentices.
Master plumber: With additional experience and a more advanced exam, master plumbers can design systems, supervise teams, and run their own business.
Specialty license: Some states also offer specialty or contractor licenses for specific types of plumbing work.
Always check with your local licensing board for exact requirements and options in your area.
How long does it take to be a plumber?
Becoming a plumber takes 4 to 7 years, depending on the pathway you pursue. Apprenticeships usually last 4 to 5 years, while plumbing trade school programs require additional classroom time before the apprenticeship, extending the total duration. Accelerated programs can shorten the process to 2 to 4 years or more.
How much does a plumber make?
Plumber salaries vary based on experience, specialization, and location. The median annual wage in the U.S. is $61,550. Entry-level plumbers typically earn around $52,000, while experienced plumbers can make $73,000 or more. Master plumbers and top specialists often earn over $100,000 to compensate for their added skills and responsibilities.
The plumbing industry is growing steadily, creating strong demand and good earning potential.
Plumbing employment opportunities
Licensed plumbers can work in residential and commercial construction, maintenance companies, plumbing contractors, and local government agencies. Many are employed by plumbing businesses, but opportunities also exist with utility companies, manufacturing plants, and facilities management. With experience, you can advance to supervisory roles or specialized fields.
If you want more independence and earning potential, you can start your own plumbing business. This lets you set your schedule, choose clients, and build a team, but also requires managing licensing, insurance, marketing, and finances. Visit our step-by-step guide about how to start a plumbing business.
What does a plumber do?
Plumbers perform a variety of tasks to install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Their responsibilities typically include:
Installing plumbing systems: Pipes, fixtures, and appliances for water, gas, and waste management
Repairing and maintaining: Fixing leaks, broken pipes, clogged drains, and malfunctioning fixtures
Inspecting and testing: Checking systems for leaks, damage, and compliance with building codes and safety regulations
Diagnosing problems: Identifying issues with water pressure, drainage, or appliance performance
Clearing blockages: Using specialized tools to remove clogs in drains and sewer lines
Collaborating with other trades: Working alongside electricians, HVAC technicians, and construction teams during new builds or renovations
Ensuring safety: Following local codes and standards to prevent hazards like gas leaks or water contamination
FAQs about how to become a plumber
What is a journeyman plumber?
A journeyman plumber is a skilled tradesperson who has completed an apprenticeship and passed a licensing exam, qualified to install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems in residential and commercial settings. They often supervise apprentices and handle a wide range of plumbing tasks independently.
What is a master plumber?
A master plumber is the highest licensed level in the plumbing trade, requiring several years of experience as a journeyman plus passing a more advanced exam. Master plumbers design plumbing systems, ensure code compliance, and supervise other plumbers, often running their own businesses.
What are the basic requirements to become a plumber?
To become a plumber, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with hands-on work experience through an apprenticeship or on-the-job training. Most states require between 4,000 and 8,000 hours (about 2 to 4 years) of experience before you can take the licensing exam.
How much does it cost to become a plumber?
Becoming a licensed plumber can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars (mainly licensing fees) up to $20,000 or more if pursuing formal education. Apprenticeships reduce upfront costs significantly since you earn while you learn. Costs vary widely by state and training choice.
Choosing a plumbing trade school
If you can't start an apprenticeship right away, plumbing trade school is a great way to gain skills and prepare for the field. It provides hands-on training and classroom instruction to help you qualify for apprenticeships and entry-level jobs. Follow these tips when choosing a plumbing trade school:
Make sure the school is accredited and recognized by industry associations or your state licensing board.
Look for programs that cover essential plumbing skills, safety, and codes, and offer plenty of hands-on training.
Research the experience of instructors and the quality of training facilities.
Choose a school that offers job placement assistance or has connections to local apprenticeship programs.
Compare tuition and fees and ask about scholarships or financial aid options.
Read reviews and talk to recent graduates to gauge the school's success in helping students start plumbing careers.
Questions to ask about trade school
When researching vocational schools, asking the right questions can help you find a program that fits your goals, budget, and learning style. These questions can help guide your decision:
Is your school and program accredited by a recognized agency?
What are the graduation and job placement rates for your students?
What is the total cost of tuition, fees, and materials? Are financial aid or scholarships available?
What hands-on training or practical experience does the program include?
How experienced and qualified are the instructors?
Do you offer career services like job placement assistance or resume help?
Are there flexible scheduling options such as evening, weekend, or online classes?
What is the student-to-instructor ratio or average class size?
How long does the program take to complete?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.