How Hard Is It to Get a Plumbing License? (2025 Guide)

Thinking about a career in plumbing but unsure how hard it is to get a plumbing license? You’re not alone. Many aspiring tradespeople wonder whether the process is too time-consuming, expensive, or technically demanding. The truth? While it’s not instant or effortless, becoming a licensed plumber is very achievable with the right preparation—and it opens doors to stable, well-paid work. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what’s involved, state by state, so you can decide if this skilled trade is right for you.

What Does a Plumbing License Actually Allow You to Do?

A plumbing license legally authorizes you to install, repair, and maintain piping systems for water, gas, sewage, and drainage in residential or commercial buildings. Without one, you’re limited to assisting licensed plumbers or working under strict supervision—you cannot pull permits or run your own business.

Licensing ensures public safety by verifying that plumbers understand local codes, safety standards, and technical best practices. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, licensed plumbers earn a median annual wage of $60,090 (as of May 2024), with top earners making over $100,000—proof that the investment pays off.

How Hard Is It to Get a Plumbing License? It Depends on Your State

There’s no single national plumbing license in the U.S. Instead, requirements vary significantly by state—and even by county or city. However, most follow a similar path: apprenticeship → journeyman license → master plumber license.

Here’s a quick comparison of key states:

Source: State licensing boards, 2025 data

As you can see, most states require 2–5 years of hands-on experience before you can even sit for the licensing exam. So while the exam itself might take a few hours, the real “hard part” is the time and commitment upfront.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Plumbing License (2025)

Follow these concrete steps—most apply across the U.S.:

1. Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

2. Complete a Plumbing Apprenticeship

• Enroll in a state-approved apprenticeship program (often through unions like UA or non-union trade schools).
• Work 4,000–8,000 hours under a licensed plumber (typically 2–5 years).
• Attend classroom instruction (usually 144–500+ hours on plumbing theory, code, safety).

💡 Pro Tip: Many apprenticeships are paid—you earn while you learn. The average starting wage is $18–$25/hour.

3. Apply for Your Journeyman License

• Submit proof of hours, education, and fees (typically $50–$300).
• Pass a background check (some states disqualify applicants with certain felonies).

4. Pass the Plumbing Licensing Exam

• The exam covers:
  • Plumbing codes (usually based on the IPC or UPC)
  • Math calculations (pipe sizing, water pressure, drainage slope)
  • Blueprint reading
  • Local amendments (state-specific rules)
• Most exams are 75–100 multiple-choice questions.
• Passing score: 70–75%, depending on the state.
• First-time pass rates average 60–75%, according to Plumbing-Exam.org data.

📚 Study Smart: Use official study guides from your state board. Many offer practice exams that mirror the real test.

5. Maintain and Renew Your License

• Renew every 1–2 years.
• Complete continuing education (e.g., 4–8 hours on code updates or safety).

For a deeper dive into plumbing history and standards, see the Wikipedia entry on plumbing .

Common Challenges (And How to Overcome Them)

❌ “I’m bad at math.”

Plumbing math is practical—not theoretical. You’ll mostly calculate:

• Pipe slopes (¼ inch per foot for drainage)
• Water pressure loss
• Fixture unit loads

Use apps or cheat sheets during training—many pros do!

❌ “I can’t afford the time or cost.”

• Apprenticeships are paid—you’re not paying tuition; you’re earning.
• Some states offer grants or workforce development programs (e.g., through Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funds).

❌ “The exam seems too technical.”

Break it down:

• Study 1 hour/day for 60 days before the test.
• Focus on your state’s code book—80% of questions come from it.
• Join online forums like Reddit’s r/Plumbing or Contractor’s Exam Prep groups.

Plumbing License: Journeyman vs. Master – What’s the Difference?

Most plumbers start as journeymen. Becoming a master is optional unless you want to own a plumbing company.

FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered

Q: Can I get a plumbing license without going to trade school?

A: Yes—in most states, you can complete an apprenticeship through a licensed employer instead of formal school. However, classroom hours are still required (often provided by the employer or union).

Q: How much does it cost to get a plumbing license?

A: Total costs range from $500 to $3,000, including:

• Application fees ($50–$300)
• Exam fees ($100–$250)
• Study materials ($100–$500)
• Apprenticeship (usually $0—you get paid)

Q: Can felons get a plumbing license?

A: It depends on the state and offense. Many states conduct individual reviews. Non-violent, older convictions may not disqualify you—disclose everything upfront.

Q: Do I need a license for small plumbing jobs?

A: Yes. Even minor repairs (like fixing a leaky faucet in a multi-family building) often require a licensed plumber. Homeowners can DIY in their own house, but not for others.

Q: How long does the plumbing exam take?

A: Most exams last 3–4 hours. Some states split it into two parts (trade knowledge + business/law).

Q: Is plumbing license reciprocity available between states?

A: Limited. A few states (like Texas and Louisiana) have reciprocity agreements, but most require you to retake the exam or complete additional hours.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Effort?

Absolutely. While how hard it is to get a plumbing license depends on your dedication and location, the payoff is real:
✅ Job security (plumbers are always in demand)
✅ High earning potential (especially as a master or business owner)
✅ Low student debt (compared to 4-year degrees)

If you’re hands-on, problem-solving, and ready to learn, this trade offers a clear, respected career path—no college degree required.

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