How Long Does It Take To Become an Apprentice Plumber?

Thinking about a hands-on, in-demand career with strong earning potential? Many Americans are turning to skilled trades like plumbing—and it all starts with an apprenticeship. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How long does it take to become an apprentice plumber?”, you’re not alone. The good news? You can begin your journey faster than you think, often with little to no student debt. Let’s break down exactly what to expect, how long it takes, and how to get started the right way.

What Is a Plumbing Apprentice?

Before diving into timelines, it’s important to understand what a plumbing apprentice actually is. An apprentice plumber is someone who learns the trade through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction, typically under the supervision of a licensed journeyman or master plumber.

Unlike traditional college paths, plumbing apprenticeships are paid learning experiences—meaning you earn while you learn. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most plumbing apprenticeships last 4 to 5 years, but the application and acceptance process can begin much sooner.

💡 Did You Know? The plumbing industry is projected to grow 2% from 2024 to 2034, with over 48,000 job openings expected annually due to retirements and new construction demands (BLS, 2025).

How Long Does It Take to Become an Apprentice Plumber? (Step-by-Step Timeline)

Many people confuse “becoming an apprentice” with “completing an apprenticeship.” Let’s clarify:

Step 1: Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements (0–2 Months)

To apply for a plumbing apprenticeship in the U.S., you typically need:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Be at least 18 years old
• A valid driver’s license (in most states)
• Pass a basic math and reading assessment

Some programs also require a clean background check and drug screening.

Time to complete: Often under 2 months, depending on how quickly you gather documents and apply.

Step 2: Apply to an Apprenticeship Program (1–6 Months)

Apprenticeships are offered through:

• Unions (e.g., United Association – UA)
• Non-union contractors
• Community colleges or trade schools (often in partnership with local employers)

Application windows vary. Union programs may accept applications only once or twice a year. Competition can be high, so apply early.

📌 Pro Tip: In high-demand areas like Texas, Florida, or California, waitlists can stretch 3–6 months. Start your search at Apprenticeship.gov , the U.S. Department of Labor’s official portal.

Step 3: Begin Your Apprenticeship (Day 1!)

Once accepted, you officially become an apprentice plumber. This is the moment you’ve been asking about—“How long does it take to become an apprentice plumber?”
Answer: As little as 1–3 months from starting your search, assuming you meet requirements and apply during an open window.

How Long Is a Plumbing Apprenticeship?

Now that you’re in the program, how long until you become a licensed journeyman?

Most states follow guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship or state-specific boards. For example:

• New York: 4 years (8,000 hours OJT + 576 classroom hours)
• Texas: 4 years (8,000 OJT hours + related instruction)
• California: 5 years (10,000 OJT hours)

You’ll progress through skill levels (1st-year apprentice to 5th-year), with pay increases at each stage—often starting at 40–50% of a journeyman’s wage and rising to 90%+ by year 4 or 5.

Paid vs. Unpaid: Do Apprentice Plumbers Get Paid?

Yes—absolutely. Unlike internships in other fields, plumbing apprenticeships are paid positions. In fact, the average starting wage for a first-year apprentice in the U.S. is $18–$22/hour, according to 2024 data from the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

By the final year, many apprentices earn $28–$35/hour, plus benefits like health insurance and retirement plans—especially in union programs.

💬 Expert Insight:
“Apprenticeships in the skilled trades offer one of the best ROI in post-secondary education today. You graduate debt-free, with years of experience and a license in hand.”
— Sarah Mitchell, Director of Workforce Development, Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC)

Advantages and Challenges of Plumbing Apprenticeships

✅ Pros:

• Earn while you learn (no student loans)
• High job security (plumbers are essential workers)
• Clear career path to journeyman → master plumber → business owner
• Strong demand nationwide, especially in growing states

❌ Cons:

• Physically demanding work (lifting, crawling, outdoor conditions)
• Irregular hours (emergencies, weekends, holidays)
• Initial pay lower than journeyman level
• Competitive entry in some regions

Still, 89% of plumbing apprentices complete their programs and obtain licensure, per a 2023 study by the National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (NAPHCC).

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Accepted

Want to stand out in the application pool? Try these proven strategies:

1. Take a pre-apprenticeship course (offered at many community colleges)
2. Brush up on basic math (fractions, geometry, measurements)
3. Get OSHA 10 certification (shows safety awareness)
4. Shadow a plumber or volunteer with Habitat for Humanity
5. Prepare for the interview—employers look for reliability, punctuality, and problem-solving skills

For more on trade apprenticeships, see the U.S. Department of Labor’s overview on apprenticeships .

FAQ: Common Questions About Plumbing Apprenticeships

Q1: Do I need prior experience to become a plumbing apprentice?

A: No. Most programs accept beginners. A strong work ethic and willingness to learn matter more than experience.

Q2: Can I become an apprentice plumber at 30, 40, or older?

A: Absolutely. The average age of new apprentices is rising—many career-changers enter plumbing in their 30s, 40s, and beyond. Age is rarely a barrier.

Q3: Is a plumbing apprenticeship the same as trade school?

A: Not exactly. Trade school is classroom-only. An apprenticeship combines paid on-the-job training + classroom learning. Some programs blend both.

Q4: How much does a plumbing apprenticeship cost?

A: Most are free or low-cost. You may pay small fees for books or union dues ($25–$100/month), but tuition is typically covered by the employer or union.

Q5: Can I work while doing my apprenticeship?

A: Your apprenticeship is your job. You’ll work 35–40 hours/week in the field plus attend night or weekend classes.

Q6: What’s the difference between an apprentice, journeyman, and master plumber?

A:

• Apprentice: In training (0–5 years)
• Journeyman: Licensed to work independently (after passing state exam)
• Master: Can run a business, design systems, and supervise others (requires additional experience + exam)

Conclusion: Start Your Plumbing Career Sooner Than You Think

So, how long does it take to become an apprentice plumber?
If you’re ready to act, you could be on the job in as little as 60–90 days. The full apprenticeship takes 4–5 years—but you’ll be earning, learning, and building a future from day one.

Plumbing offers stability, respect, and real financial independence—without the burden of student debt. Whether you’re a recent high school grad or switching careers mid-life, the pipes are open for you.

Found this guide helpful? Share it with someone exploring a trade career!
👉 Tag a friend on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter who’s looking for a practical, rewarding path.