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How to Become a Plumber in 6 Steps

Profile picture of Seth Richtsmeier, freelancer writer for Jobber Academy
Seth Richtsmeier
Jan 29, 2025 11 min read
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Plumbing isn’t just about unclogging drains—it’s a skilled trade that keeps homes and businesses running smoothly. If you enjoy working with your hands and making a positive impact in your community, becoming a plumber could be the career path for you.

Whether you’re fresh out of school or curious about the trade, plumbing offers plenty of opportunity to grow and even run your own business. Not to mention the solid income and high demand.

This guide will walk you through every step of the process, from getting your first hands-on experience to securing a license and beyond.

Ready to take the plunge?

What does a plumber do?

Being a plumbing contractor is anything but boring. One moment you’re unclogging a sink. And next, you’re installing a state-of-the-art water heater. Here are a few tasks plumbers may tackle on any given day:

  • Installing, repairing, and maintaining systems: From water supply systems to industrial-grade piping, plumbers set up and keep systems running.
  • Marking and measuring: Marking walls and floors for pipes, measuring runs, and cutting materials are fundamental tasks.
  • Cutting and joining: Whether you’re cutting through walls to fit pipes or welding metal for a gas line, being precise matters.
  • Testing for leaks: Nobody wants a surprise drip after the job’s done. Plumbers use pressure gauges and testing methods to confirm everything’s sealed tight.
  • Preparing cost estimates: Got a knack for numbers? Calculating the cost of parts and labor is part of the gig.

If you love problem-solving, and you love working with your hands … then you’re going to enjoy [it].

James Droste My Handyman James

The work environment

Plumbers work across diverse environments, both indoors and out. You might be crawling under a house or balancing on a ladder to reach pipes.

You’ll collaborate with other trades, like electricians, HVAC specialists, and general contractors. You also need to manage relationships with customers, so a friendly demeanor can make or break your reputation.

And this trade isn’t always a 9-to-5 gig. It’s possible you could be answering middle-of-the-night emergency calls to fix a flooded basement or a broken water main.

Plumbing career development

Plumbing is a career with layers of opportunity. Most plumbers follow this path:

  • Apprentice plumber: Learn on the job while attending trade classes.
  • Journeyman: After completing your apprenticeship, you’ll get your license to work independently.
  • Master plumber: It’s the pinnacle of the trade. Becoming a master plumber often involves supervision, teaching apprentices, and working on larger-scale projects.

Specialization is another route. Want to work on solar hot water systems? Or be the local expert in fire suppression systems?

You can even run your own business, offering everything from repairs to full-scale installations.

READ MORE: 6 Different types of plumbers, services, and salaries

But how hard is it to become a plumber? Follow these steps to becoming a licensed plumber.

1. Earn a high school diploma or GED

You typically need a high school diploma or GED to get into an apprenticeship program or technical school. This is so you have the basic skills needed to succeed in plumbing, such as math and problem-solving.

As a plumber, you’ll calculate measurements, pipe lengths, and angles. Courses like algebra and geometry give you the tools to handle these calculations.

Physics and basic chemistry can help you understand water flow, pressure, and the materials you’ll work with.

If you didn’t graduate high school or don’t expect that you will, the alternative is to get your GED. GED programs cover similar core subjects so you can meet the prerequisites for further education and training.

When you’re in your mid-thirties, you have a family. You can’t really just [start]. But when you’re 19, you can.

If you want to do this, it’s a great career, but you’ve got to start now. Because you can’t really afford to start the apprenticeship later.

Adam Sylvester Charlottesville Gutter Pros

2. Get hands-on plumbing experience

Before committing to anything, explore what the trade entails. Understanding the responsibilities and work environments will help you decide if plumbing is the right path for you.

Spend time with experienced plumbers to see what the day-to-day tasks are like. This will give you a sneak peek into problem-solving, customer interactions, etc.

Consider working as a volunteer, assistant, or laborer to get an even better feel for the trade. These roles often involve helping with installations, organizing tools, or performing basic maintenance.

Learn about the industry

Reach out to licensed plumbers and ask about their experiences. Ask if they have any advice for newcomers.

Look into the types of tasks that plumbers handle, such as:

  • Residential repairs
  • Commercial installations
  • Specialized work like gas piping or sprinkler systems

You could even join a trade organization. Many of them offer networking opportunities and workshops.

3. Consider trade school or vocational programs

Even though it’s not mandatory, attending a trade school or enrolling in a vocational program can give you a head start in your plumbing career.

They provide a strong foundation by blending classroom instruction with hands-on training. You’ll be better prepared when you step onto a job site or begin your apprenticeship.

  • Benefits of formal education: You’ll learn about plumbing systems and how to use tools before jumping into an apprenticeship.
  • Types of programs available: From certificate courses to two-year degrees, there’s something for everyone. Short-term programs focus on essential plumbing skills and safety practices. Longer programs offer more in-depth instruction about advanced plumbing systems and construction codes.
  • Duration and cost: Programs range from six months to two years. They cost anywhere from $2,000 to $20,000, but the good news is that many schools offer financial aid and scholarships.

4. Find a plumbing apprenticeship

An apprenticeship is where you really learn the craft with on-the-job training and formal instruction. This step is the backbone of your journey to becoming a plumber.

To find a plumbing apprenticeship, try:

  • Researching unions: Reach out to local chapters of the United Association (UA), which often provide apprenticeship programs.
  • Contacting trade associations: Organizations such as the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) may offer apprenticeship opportunities or connections to local plumbing firms.
  • Connecting with local plumbing companies: Many businesses hire apprentices directly, so reaching out could open doors for you.
  • Using a state workforce agency: Agencies like the U.S. government’s Office of Apprenticeship frequently list apprenticeships.

To improve your chances of landing an apprenticeship, do the following:

  • Put together a resume and highlight any relevant experience, education, or skills that demonstrate your commitment.
  • Work on your interview skills and be ready to talk about your interest in plumbing and your willingness to learn.
  • Have your high school diploma or GED, as most apprenticeships require this.

The first step is often the hardest. But once you’re in, you’re on your way.

5. Complete the apprenticeship

Under the supervision of a licensed plumber, you’ll handle various tasks like repairing fixtures and maintaining pipes. This will help you develop the practical skills you need.

Most apprenticeship programs require you to complete 144 hours of annual classroom instruction. Topics covered will include plumbing codes, safety regulations, and system design.

These are also paid opportunities, letting you earn an income while you learn. On average, plumber apprentices earn about 50-60% of a licensed plumber’s wages.

While in the process of completing your apprenticeship, you’re considered a plumber apprentice even before you finish the program.

To complete your apprenticeship, you must:

  • Log hours: Complete the required training hours on the job—typically 2,000 per year over the course of 4-5 years.
  • Pass required exams: Many states require you to pass a journeyman plumber licensing exam to advance. Check with your state’s licensing board for requirements. You can prepare by taking plumbing practice tests.
  • Keep certification records: Document your work and coursework to make sure you meet all state or local requirements.

Once you’re done with all that, you’ll be eligible to take the licensing exam to become a journeyman plumber and move forward in your career.

Find yourself an environment where there are people that are going to be invested in your skills and your growth and development. You need a solid apprenticeship if you want to be of value in the marketplace.

Jason Savageau Current Electric Systems

6. Get your plumbing license

To officially work, you need to get a plumbing license in your state. The requirements vary, so check the qualifications in the state where you plan to work.

In some states, you need to pass a written exam. And in others, you need to show proof of your completed apprenticeship hours. For a list of state-by-state requirements, visit the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA).

Plumbing licenses come in different forms, depending on your experience and career goals:

The journeyman license is typically the first step after completing your apprenticeship. This license allows you to work under the supervision of a master plumber.

The master plumber license is for experienced professionals who want to manage projects or run their own business. This usually requires additional exams and years of work experience.

The licensing exam often includes:

  • Questions about plumbing codes and regulations
  • Practical assessments of your plumbing skills
  • Safety standards and best practices

Exam fees generally range from $100 to $300, depending on the state. For example, in Texas, the journeyman plumber exam fee is $40, with a $111 licensing fee on top.

READ MORE: How to become a certified plumber in the U.S. (state-by-state guide)

How long does it take to become a plumber?

The time it takes to become a plumber depends on the path you choose and your state’s licensing requirements.

Here’s a breakdown of the timeline:

  • Education: Four years for a high school diploma or a few months for a GED program. If you’re pursuing trade school or vocational training, programs last six months to two years.
  • Pre-apprenticeship experience: It’s optional, but before applying for an apprenticeship, you might consider gaining experience through entry-level roles for a few months.
  • Apprenticeship: 4-5 years, depending on state requirements and the program’s structure.
  • Licensing process: You may need to pass a licensing exam to work independently, which can take 2-3 months to prepare for.

In most cases, the journey from starting out to earning your license takes 5-7 years. This includes education, training, and fulfilling licensing requirements.

Several factors can determine how fast or slow the process is:

  • Part-time vs. full-time schooling: Juggling education with your day job? That could add some extra time.
  • State requirements: Some states require more apprenticeship hours or additional licensing exams.
  • Prior experience: If you have related skills or training, you may be able to shorten the time required to complete an apprenticeship.

How much does it cost to become a plumber?

The cost to become a plumber depends on your chosen education, training path, and state-specific licensing fees.

Here’s what you’ll need to budget for, in order:

  1. High school diploma or GED: A diploma is free if earned through public schooling. GED programs can cost $30-$150, depending on the state.
  2. Trade school or vocational training: While optional, trade school programs range from $1,250 to $3,000 for certificate programs, and up to $40,000 for associate’s degree programs.
  3. Apprenticeship fees: Programs typically cost $4,000-$5,000 per year. Many offer paid positions, so you’ll likely get to earn money while you learn.
  4. Certification fees: Exam costs can range from $35 to $100, and there’s a renewal fee every few years.
  5. Tools and equipment: As an apprentice, you’ll likely need to buy your own tools. To start, basic hand tools can run $45-$120 and safety supplies will be $50-130.

READ MORE: Plumbing tools list: 40 professional tools for all jobs

Depending on your state and career path, the total cost to become a plumber can fall between $5,410 and $48,500.

Plumber salaries and career outlook

Plumbers typically earn a solid income. Your earnings will depend on your experience, location, and specialization (if any).

As of May 2023, the median annual wage for plumbers is $61,550. The lowest 10% of plumbers earned less than $38,690, and the highest 10% earned more than $103,140.

As you might expect, apprentices earn less than fully trained plumbers. But your pay will increase as you gain experience.

The state you work in is a big factor in pay. In states with high demand and/or cost of living, you’ll earn more. Massachusetts, for example, is one of the most expensive states to live in, and there’s high demand for plumbing. As a result, it has the second-highest average wage ($89,140) in the country.

As for the future, the industry is projected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033. This is faster than the average growth rate for all occupations (4%).

Some of the key drivers of this growth and demand include:

  • New buildings
  • Renovations
  • Infrastructure projects
  • Older plumbing systems in need of repairs and upgrades
  • The demand for energy-efficient plumbing

READ MORE: How to start a plumbing business

Takeaways before starting your journey

By following the steps in this guide, you’ll be on your way to a fulfilling career as a plumber.

Before you take the plunge, here’s what to remember:

  • Start by getting your high school diploma or GED.
  • Trade schools, certifications, and on-the-job experience (even as a volunteer) can give you a competitive edge.
  • Get hands-on experience through an apprenticeship.
  • Each state has its own licensing requirements, so do your research.
  • From entry-level roles to running your own business, there are multiple ways to grow your career in the trade.

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