Thinking about becoming a journeyman plumber but unsure how long it’ll take to get there? You’re not alone. Many aspiring plumbers wonder: How much class time and hands-on experience do I really need before I can sit for the Journeyman Plumbing Test? The path isn’t just about wrenches and pipes—it’s a structured journey that balances classroom learning with real-world hours. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what’s required, how long it typically takes, and how to prepare efficiently.
What Is the Journeyman Plumbing Test?
Before diving into timelines, it’s important to understand what the Journeyman Plumbing Test actually is. This exam certifies that you’ve acquired the technical knowledge and field experience to work independently as a plumber—without direct supervision from a master plumber.
Administered by state or local licensing boards (requirements vary by state), the test typically covers:
Plumbing codes (often based on the International Plumbing Code or IPC)
Pipe sizing and installation
Drain-waste-vent (DWV) systems
Water supply systems
Safety and local regulations
Passing the test earns you a journeyman plumber license, a critical milestone toward becoming a master plumber or starting your own plumbing business.
💡 Did You Know? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, plumbers with a journeyman license earn a median annual wage of $60,090, with demand projected to grow 5% through 2032—faster than average.
How Many Hours of Training Are Required?
The short answer: It depends on your state, but most require 4 to 5 years of combined apprenticeship and classroom training.
Here’s a general breakdown:
Component
Typical Requirement
On-the-Job Training
6,000–8,000 hours (≈4–5 years full-time)
Classroom Instruction
500–1,000 hours (≈144–288 hours per year)
Total Time
4–5 years
For example:
California: Requires 4 years (7,200 hours) of work experience + 576 hours of instruction.
Texas: 4 years (8,000 hours) + related technical instruction.
New York: 7,700 hours of supervised work + 1,000 hours of classroom time.
⚠️ Tip: Always check with your state plumbing board—requirements can differ significantly. The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) provides helpful state-by-state guidance.
Do You Need Formal Classes to Take the Test?
Yes—in most states, formal classroom instruction is mandatory. These “plumbing classes” aren’t just optional study sessions; they’re a core part of your apprenticeship.
Where Can You Take These Classes?
Trade Schools (e.g., Lincoln Tech, RSI)
Community Colleges (often partnered with unions)
Union Apprenticeship Programs (e.g., UA Local 12 in Chicago)
Online Platforms (limited acceptance—verify with your state)
📌 Important: Not all online courses count toward licensing. For example, California’s CSLB only accepts instruction from state-approved providers.
These classes typically cover:
Blueprint reading
Math for plumbers (fractions, geometry, pressure calculations)
Local and national plumbing codes
Backflow prevention
Isometric drawing
How Long Does It Take From Start to Test Day?
On average, 4 to 5 years—but there are ways to optimize your timeline.
Standard Path (Union or Non-Union Apprenticeship):
Year 1–4: Work full-time (40 hrs/week) under a licensed plumber + attend night classes (1–2 nights/week).
Year 5: Apply for the exam once you’ve logged required hours.
Accelerated Options:
Some states allow credit for prior experience or military training. For example:
Veterans may get hour credit through the VA’s Hire Vets program.
Licensed tradespeople from other states may qualify for reciprocity.
✅ Pro Tip: Keep detailed logs of every work hour. Many states require signed timesheets from your supervising plumber.
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare for the Journeyman Plumbing Test
Follow this roadmap to stay on track:
Confirm Your State’s Requirements Visit your state’s contractor licensing board website. Example: California CSLB.
Enroll in an Approved Apprenticeship Combine on-the-job training with classroom learning. Unions like UA (United Association) offer paid apprenticeships.
Track Every Hour Use a digital log or official form. Most states require notarized proof of experience.
Complete Required Classroom Hours Ensure your courses are state-approved. Keep certificates of completion.
Apply for the Exam Submit proof of hours, pay fees ($50–$200), and schedule your test.
Study Strategically Use official study guides like PSI’s Journeyman Plumbing Exam Prep or Black & Decker’s Complete Guide to Plumbing.
Take the Test Most exams are computer-based, 100–150 multiple-choice questions, 3–4 hours long. Passing score: usually 70–75%.
Journeyman vs. Apprentice vs. Master: What’s the Difference?
Understanding these tiers helps clarify your goal:
License Level
Supervision Required?
Can Work Independently?
Typical Experience
Apprentice
Yes
No
0–4 years
Journeyman
No
Yes (but can’t pull permits in some states)
4–5 years
Master
No
Yes (can supervise, own business, pull permits)
1–2 years post-journeyman
Becoming a journeyman is the gateway to higher earnings and autonomy.
FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered
Q1: Can I take the Journeyman Plumbing Test without an apprenticeship? A: In nearly all states, no. You must complete a state-approved apprenticeship or prove equivalent experience. A few states (like Florida) allow “experience-only” paths, but these are rare and require extensive documentation.
Q2: How much does the test cost? A: Fees range from $50 to $200, depending on the state. Retakes usually cost less but require a waiting period (e.g., 30 days in Texas).
Q3: What’s the pass rate for first-time test takers? A: According to PSI (a major exam provider), the average first-time pass rate is 65–70%. Candidates who complete formal prep courses score 15–20% higher.
Q4: Can I study online for the test? A: Yes—but only for exam prep, not for fulfilling mandatory classroom hours. Use resources like PlumbingTraining.com or ExamEdge for practice tests.
Q5: How long is the license valid? A: Most journeyman licenses must be renewed every 1–2 years, often with continuing education (e.g., 6–8 hours in code updates).
Q6: Do I need to know the IPC or UPC? A: It depends on your state. The International Plumbing Code (IPC) is used in most states, but California, Washington, and others use the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). Know which one your state follows!
Conclusion: Your Journey Starts Now
Becoming a journeyman plumber isn’t just about passing a test—it’s about proving you’ve put in the hours, learned the codes, and mastered the craft. While the Classes to Lesson Time Needed to Take Journeyman Plumbing Test typically spans 4–5 years, every hour brings you closer to independence, higher pay, and professional respect.
If you’re just starting out, enroll in an approved program today. If you’re nearing eligibility, start studying now—your future self will thank you.
👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend who’s dreaming of a plumbing career! 🔧 #PlumbingCareer #JourneymanLicense #TradeSchoolSuccess #SkilledTrades
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