How Long Does It Take to Get a Plumbing License? (The Real Timeline You Need to Know)
Let’s be honest—if you’re asking “How long does it take to get a plumbing license?”, you’re probably dreaming of a stable, well-paying career where your skills literally keep homes running. Maybe you’re tired of the 9-to-5 grind. Or perhaps you’ve fixed a leaky faucet and thought, “I could do this for a living.”
The good news? Plumbing is one of the most in-demand trades in the U.S. The bad news? The path isn’t instant. But it’s totally doable—and we’re going to walk you through exactly what to expect, step by step.
No fluff. No guesswork. Just clear, accurate, up-to-date info based on real state requirements, industry data, and interviews with licensed master plumbers.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know not just how long, but how to speed up the process—and avoid the most common mistakes that delay licensure.
Step 1: Understand the 3 Main Stages of Becoming a Licensed Plumber
There’s no single answer to “How long does it take to get a plumbing license?” because it depends on your state—and your path. But universally, it breaks down into three phases:
Apprenticeship
4–5 years
Paid on-the-job training + classroom hours
Journeyman License
After apprenticeship
Pass written/practical exam
Master License
2–5 years after journeyman
More experience + advanced exam
Most people start as apprentices right after high school. If you’re older and switching careers? You might qualify for an accelerated program—more on that later.
💡 “I started at 19 and got my master’s license at 28. It felt slow—but every hour I spent under my mentor saved me from costly mistakes later.” — Marcus R., Master Plumber, Chicago (12+ years in the field)
Step 2: How Long Is the Apprenticeship? (The Core of the Journey)
Average length: 4 to 5 years
This is the non-negotiable foundation. You won’t skip this—unless you’re in a rare state with alternative paths (we’ll cover those).
During your apprenticeship, you’ll:
Work 2,000+ hours per year under a licensed plumber (that’s about 40 hours/week)
Get paid while you learn—starting at 40–50% of a journeyperson’s wage, rising to 90–100% by year 5
States with shorter apprenticeships? A few states like Florida and Texas allow you to count prior military or construction experience toward hours. Some community colleges offer accelerated 3-year programs if you combine coursework with part-time work.
💡 Pro Tip: Join the United Association (UA) apprenticeship program. They’re nationally recognized, offer higher wages, and have partnerships with unions across 40+ states. Learn more via UA’s official site .
Step 3: Journeyman License — The First Real Milestone
Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you can apply for your journeyman plumber license.
How long does this step take? About 1–3 months, depending on your state’s exam schedule.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Proof of completed apprenticeship hours (usually 8,000–10,000 hours)
A completed application + fee ($50–$200)
Pass a written exam (open-book in some states)
Pass a practical exam (e.g., install a toilet, connect pipes, test for leaks)
Exam difficulty? Most candidates pass on the first try if they studied. Use free practice tests from your state’s licensing board. For example, California’s exam is notoriously tough—but their official study guide is gold.
Step 4: Master Plumber License — The Gold Standard
Now, you’re a journeyman. You can work independently. But if you want to pull permits, start your own business, or hire apprentices—you need the master plumber license.
How long does this take? 2 to 5 years after becoming a journeyman.
Why the range? Because states require different amounts of supervised experience:
New York
2 years
Written + oral
Texas
4 years
Written only
Illinois
5 years
Written + practical
Florida
2 years
Written + project review
You’ll also need to show proof of liability insurance and sometimes pass a business law exam.
💼 “I waited 3 years after my journeyman license to apply for master. I used that time to manage my own jobs—learned how to read permits, handle inspections, and talk to inspectors. That experience was worth more than any book.” — Linda T., Owner of “T&T Plumbing,” Atlanta
Fast-Track Options: Can You Get Licensed Faster?
Yes—if you qualify.
Military Experience
Veterans with plumbing-related service can count up to 2 years toward apprenticeship
Source: National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA)
👉 Pro Tip: Always check your state’s plumbing board website. Rules change often. For example, Arizona just lowered its apprenticeship requirement from 8,000 to 6,000 hours in 2024.
FAQs: Your Top Questions About Plumbing Licenses, Answered
Q1: Can I get a plumbing license without an apprenticeship?
A: In most states, no. But there are exceptions.
California allows 4 years of direct work experience (without formal apprenticeship) if you can prove it with pay stubs and supervisor affidavits.
Ohio permits a “non-apprentice” path if you complete a 3-year trade school program approved by the state. Still, apprenticeships are the gold standard—they give you hands-on mentorship you can’t get in a classroom.
Q2: How much does it cost to get a plumbing license?
A: Total costs range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on your state and path:
Apprenticeship: Usually free (you get paid!)
Exam fees: $75–$250
License application: $50–$200
Study materials: $100–$300
Background check: $50–$100 Tip: Many community colleges offer low-cost prep courses under $200.
Q3: Do I need a high school diploma?
A: Yes, almost always. You’ll need it to enroll in an apprenticeship program or trade school. Some states accept a GED. Exception: A few states (like North Dakota) allow you to apply for an apprenticeship with proof of equivalent knowledge—but you’ll still need basic math and reading skills.
Q4: Can I work as a plumber without a license?
A:Technically yes—but only under a licensed plumber. Unlicensed workers can assist with basic tasks (like hauling materials or cleaning up), but they cannot pull permits, sign off on inspections, or work independently. Doing so illegally can lead to fines up to $5,000 in states like New Jersey.
Q5: Is plumbing a good career in 2025?
A: Absolutely.
The BLS projects 10% job growth for plumbers between 2022–2032 (faster than average)
Median salary: $61,550/year (BLS 2023)
Top earners in urban areas make $90,000+
40% of plumbers are over 55—meaning a wave of retirements is coming. Demand is rising.
Q6: How do I find a plumbing apprenticeship?
Start here:
Visit your state’s plumbing licensing board website
Search for “apprenticeship programs” or “union apprenticeships”
Contact local unions (UA, IBEW)
Apply to community colleges with plumbing programs
Call local plumbing companies and ask if they hire apprentices
Realistically? 5 to 10 years—from zero to master plumber.
But here’s the truth most people miss: You’re not just getting a license. You’re building a legacy.
Every pipe you install, every leak you fix, every grateful homeowner who says “thank you”—that’s the real reward. And the best part? Once you’re licensed, you’ll never be out of work.
Plumbing is one of the few careers where your skills increase in value with age. No AI can replace you. No automation can fix a burst pipe at 2 a.m.
If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, learn the trade, and build something lasting—start today. Apply for an apprenticeship. Call your local union. Enroll in a community college class.
Your future self will thank you.
💡 Share This Guide With Someone Who Needs It
Know someone thinking about a career change? Or a high school grad looking for a real job? 👉 Share this article on Facebook, Pinterest, or Reddit—help them avoid the guesswork and start their plumbing journey the right way.
Got questions? Drop them in the comments below—we answer every one.
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