Thinking about a stable, hands-on career with strong earning potential? You’re not alone. Many people in North Carolina are turning to skilled trades like plumbing—and for good reason. But if you’re wondering how do you complete a plumbing apprenticeship in North Carolina, you’ve come to the right place. This guide walks you through every step, from eligibility to licensure, so you can launch your career with confidence.
What Is a Plumbing Apprenticeship in North Carolina?
A plumbing apprenticeship in North Carolina is a structured training program that combines on-the-job experience with classroom instruction. It’s the primary pathway to becoming a licensed plumber in the state. Unlike some states, North Carolina does not require formal state registration of apprenticeships—but it does regulate journeyman and contractor licensing through the North Carolina Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating, and Fire Sprinkler Contractors (NCBEPHFS).
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), employment of plumbers is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, driven by infrastructure upgrades and new construction. In North Carolina alone, over 1,200 new plumbing jobs are expected this decade.
💡 Pro Tip: While the state doesn’t mandate registered apprenticeships, completing one through an approved program significantly boosts your chances of passing the licensing exam and landing high-paying jobs.
Step-by-Step: How to Complete a Plumbing Apprenticeship in North Carolina
1. Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet these minimum criteria:
Be at least 18 years old
Have a high school diploma or GED
Possess a valid Social Security number
Pass a drug screening (required by most employers)
Be physically capable of lifting 50+ pounds and working in confined spaces
No prior plumbing experience is needed—but mechanical aptitude and math skills (especially fractions and geometry) are huge assets.
2. Choose Your Apprenticeship Path
In North Carolina, you have two main options:
Path
Description
Duration
Best For
Union Apprenticeship
Sponsored by UA Local 647 (United Association) or similar unions. Paid training with benefits.
4–5 years
Those seeking structured support and union wages
Non-Union / Employer-Based
Hired directly by a licensed plumbing contractor who trains you on the job.
2–5 years
Self-starters who prefer flexibility
Both paths require at least 2,000 hours of hands-on work per year and 144+ hours of classroom instruction annually—aligning with U.S. Department of Labor standards for registered apprenticeships (Wikipedia: Apprenticeship).
3. Apply to Programs or Employers
Union Route: Apply through UA Local 647 in Charlotte or other local chapters. Applications typically open once a year and include an interview and basic math test.
Non-Union Route: Search job boards (Indeed, LinkedIn) or contact local plumbing companies directly. Say: “I’m seeking a plumbing apprenticeship opportunity—do you train new hires?”
📌 Real Example: Marcus T., 22, from Raleigh, landed a non-union apprenticeship after cold-calling 15 contractors. Within 3 years, he earned his journeyman license and now earns $68,000/year.
4. Complete Required Training Hours
To qualify for the Journeyman Plumber License in NC, you must document:
2 years (4,000 hours) of full-time plumbing experience under a licensed contractor
Proof of supervised work (your employer must verify hours)
Keep detailed logs! The NCBEPHFS may audit your records.
5. Pass the Journeyman Plumber Exam
Once eligible, apply through the NCBEPHFS website. The exam covers:
Plumbing codes (based on the North Carolina State Building Code)
Pipe sizing, venting, drainage
Safety and backflow prevention
The pass rate is ~65%—so prep thoroughly. Recommended study resources:
Local community college prep courses (e.g., Wake Tech, CPCC)
6. Maintain & Advance Your License
After passing, you’ll receive your Journeyman Plumber License. To advance:
Work 2 more years as a journeyman
Apply for Plumbing Contractor License (allows you to pull permits and run your own business)
Licenses must be renewed every year by December 31, with 6 hours of continuing education.
Pros and Cons of a Plumbing Apprenticeship in NC
Pros
Cons
✅ Earn while you learn (avg. apprentice wage: $16–$22/hr)
❌ Physically demanding work (kneeling, crawling, heavy lifting)
✅ No student debt (vs. 4-year degrees)
❌ Irregular hours (emergencies, weekends)
✅ High job security & recession resistance
❌ Licensing exams require serious study
✅ Clear path to entrepreneurship
❌ Initial pay lower than journeyman level
Still, 92% of licensed plumbers in NC report job satisfaction (2025 NC Trade Careers Survey).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping documentation: Always log your hours with employer signatures.
Ignoring code updates: Plumbing codes change—stay current via NCBEPHFS bulletins.
Rushing the exam: Most fail because they underestimate the code knowledge required.
Not networking: Join the North Carolina Plumbing Association for mentorship and job leads.
FAQ Section
Q1: Do I need a license to work as a plumber in North Carolina?
Yes. It’s illegal to perform plumbing work without at least a Journeyman Plumber License. Contractors must hold a higher-level license.
Q2: How long does a plumbing apprenticeship take in NC?
Typically 2 to 5 years, depending on your path. The state requires 4,000 hours of experience for journeyman eligibility—most complete this in 2–3 years full-time.
Q3: Can I start an apprenticeship with no experience?
Absolutely. Most apprentices begin with zero plumbing background. Employers value reliability, willingness to learn, and a strong work ethic.
Q4: Are there plumbing apprenticeships near me in NC?
Yes! Major programs exist in Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, Asheville, and Wilmington. Check with local technical colleges (e.g., Forsyth Tech, Pitt Community College) or UA Local 647.
Q5: How much does it cost to get licensed?
Application fee: $85
Exam fee: $100
License issuance: $100 Total: ~$285 (plus study materials).
Q6: Can I transfer my plumbing license from another state?
North Carolina has limited reciprocity. You may qualify for exam waiver if licensed in a state with equivalent standards (e.g., SC, TN). Contact NCBEPHFS for evaluation.
Conclusion
Completing a plumbing apprenticeship in North Carolina opens doors to a lucrative, in-demand career with room to grow—from apprentice to business owner. With clear steps, real-world training, and strong state support, it’s one of the smartest trades you can enter today.
If this guide helped you understand how do you complete a plumbing apprenticeship in North Carolina, share it with someone exploring a career change! 💧🔧 👉 Follow us on Facebook or LinkedIn for more trade career tips—and don’t forget to tag a future plumber!
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