How to Become a Plumber in Ontario: Step-by-Step Guide

Thinking about a stable, in-demand career with solid earning potential? How do you become a plumber in Ontario is a question many aspiring tradespeople ask—and for good reason. Plumbing isn’t just about fixing leaky faucets; it’s a licensed profession that offers job security, hands-on work, and opportunities for entrepreneurship. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step—from high school to Red Seal certification—so you can launch your plumbing career with confidence.

What Does a Plumber Do in Ontario?

Before diving into training, it helps to understand the role. Licensed plumbers in Ontario install, maintain, and repair piping systems for water, gas, sewage, and drainage in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. According to Skilled Trades Ontario (STO), plumbing is one of the province’s designated trades, meaning you must be certified to work legally.

Plumbers often:

• Read blueprints and building codes
• Install fixtures like sinks, toilets, and water heaters
• Diagnose and fix leaks or blockages
• Ensure compliance with the Ontario Building Code

💡 Fun fact: The average plumber in Ontario earns between $55,000 and $90,000 annually, with experienced journeypersons or business owners earning even more (source: Job Bank Canada, 2024).

Step-by-Step: How to Become a Plumber in Ontario

Becoming a licensed plumber in Ontario follows a structured apprenticeship model. Here’s the exact process:

Step 1: Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements

You must:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Have a Grade 10 education (minimum), though Grade 12 with math and English is preferred
• Be legally eligible to work in Canada

No prior plumbing experience is required—most training happens on the job.

Step 2: Find an Employer & Register as an Apprentice

Unlike college-first trades, plumbing in Ontario starts with on-the-job training. You’ll need to:

1. Find an employer (e.g., plumbing company, contractor) willing to hire and train you
2. Apply to Skilled Trades Ontario (STO) for apprenticeship registration

🔍 Tip: Use the Ontario Job Bank or attend local trade fairs to connect with employers.

Once approved, you’re officially an apprentice plumber.

Step 3: Complete Your Apprenticeship (4 Years)

Ontario’s plumbing apprenticeship takes 4 years and includes:

• 7,200 hours of on-the-job training (approx. 1,800 hours/year)
• 720 hours of in-class technical training (delivered in 3 blocks of 8 weeks each)

Technical training covers:

• Pipefitting and soldering
• Drainage systems
• Backflow prevention
• Safety protocols

Classes are offered at Ontario colleges like George Brown, Mohawk, or Fanshawe.

Step 4: Pass the Certification Exam

After completing your hours and classroom training, you’ll take the Plumbing Certification of Qualification (C of Q) exam.

• The exam is written, multiple-choice
• Passing score: 70%
• If you pass, you earn your Certificate of Qualification and become a Licensed Journeyperson Plumber

✅ Bonus: With your C of Q, you can apply for the Red Seal endorsement—a nationally recognized credential that lets you work anywhere in Canada.

For more on skilled trades regulation, see Skilled Trades on Wikipedia.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Plumber in Ontario?

While a pre-apprenticeship college program isn’t required, it can help you stand out to employers and shorten your on-the-job phase.

How Much Does It Cost?

Good news: Apprentices get paid while they learn. Typical apprentice wages (2024):

• Year 1: $18–$22/hour
• Year 4: $28–$35/hour

Additional costs:

• Technical training tuition: $300–$600 per block (often reimbursed by employers or grants)
• Exam fee: ~$150
• Tools & PPE: $500–$1,000 initial investment

💰 Financial aid is available! Explore the Ontario Apprentice Incentive Grant (up to $2,000 for underrepresented groups).

Pros and Cons of Becoming a Plumber in Ontario

✅ Advantages

• High demand: Ontario faces a shortage of 100,000+ skilled tradespeople by 2028 (STO, 2023)
• No student debt: Earn while you learn
• Career flexibility: Work for companies, go solo, or start a business
• Job stability: Plumbing is recession-resistant

❌ Challenges

• Physically demanding work (lifting, kneeling, tight spaces)
• On-call or emergency hours may be required
• Initial job hunt can be competitive without connections

FAQ Section

Q1: Do I need a license to work as a plumber in Ontario?

Yes. It’s illegal to work as a plumber in Ontario without a Certificate of Qualification (C of Q) from Skilled Trades Ontario. Only licensed journeypersons can legally pull permits or run a plumbing business.

Q2: Can I become a plumber without a high school diploma?

You need at least Grade 10, but employers strongly prefer Grade 12 with credits in math, science, and English. Strong numeracy skills are essential for measurements, pressure calculations, and code compliance.

Q3: How hard is the plumbing exam in Ontario?

The exam tests practical knowledge and code understanding. With proper preparation (study guides, practice tests), most apprentices pass on the first try. STO provides official resources to help you prepare.

Q4: Can immigrants become plumbers in Ontario?

Yes! Newcomers can apply as apprentices if they’re legally authorized to work in Canada. Foreign credentials may count toward experience—contact STO for assessment.

Q5: Is plumbing a good career for women?

Absolutely. Women are underrepresented but highly valued in the trades. Programs like Women in Skilled Trades (WIST) offer mentorship, tools, and networking support across Ontario.

Q6: What’s the difference between a plumber and a pipefitter?

Plumbers work on water, gas, and sewage systems in buildings. Pipefitters handle high-pressure industrial systems (e.g., in factories or power plants). Both are Red Seal trades but require separate certifications.

Conclusion

So—how do you become a plumber in Ontario? It’s a clear, four-year path that blends hands-on experience, classroom learning, and certification. With strong wages, growing demand, and the freedom to be your own boss, plumbing offers one of the best ROI career paths in Ontario’s skilled trades sector.

If you’re ready to turn wrenches into a rewarding career, start reaching out to local plumbing companies today—your future as a licensed journeyperson is closer than you think!

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Disclaimer: Requirements may change. Always verify current guidelines at SkilledTradesOntario.ca.