How Long It Takes to Become a Plumber (Step-by-Step Timeline)

How Long It Takes to Become a Plumber: Your Realistic Roadmap

Let’s be honest—most people don’t wake up one day and say, “I think I’ll be a plumber.” But if you’re reading this, maybe you’ve started noticing something: plumbing jobs are always in demand. Homes need repairs. New buildings need pipes. And skilled plumbers? They get paid well… and rarely worry about layoffs.

So you’re asking: How long it takes to become a plumber? Is it a 6-month shortcut? A 5-year degree? Or something in between?

The good news? There’s a clear, proven path—and it’s faster than you think. In this guide, we’ll break down every step, from your first wrench to earning a full-time salary, with real data, expert insights, and no fluff. Whether you’re 18 or 45, this roadmap works for you.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements (1–2 Weeks)

Before you touch a pipe, you need to clear a few hurdles. These aren’t hard—but they’re non-negotiable.

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old in most U.S. states.
• Education: A high school diploma or GED is required. Courses in math, physics, and shop class? Huge advantages.
• Legal: A clean background check is usually needed (some states require fingerprinting).
• Physical Fitness: Plumbing involves lifting, climbing, and working in tight spaces. You don’t need to be an athlete, but stamina matters.

“I thought I needed a college degree to make good money. Turns out, I just needed strong hands and the willingness to show up.”
— Marcus R., Licensed Plumber, Chicago (12 years in the field)

You can start researching apprenticeships or trade schools while you finish high school. No need to wait.

Step 2: Choose Your Path: Apprenticeship vs. Trade School (3–6 Months Planning)

Here’s where most people get confused. There are two main routes—and both lead to the same goal.

Most plumbers (over 70%, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics ) enter through apprenticeships—and for good reason.

Apprenticeships are sponsored by unions (like United Association) or private companies. You work 40+ hours a week under a master plumber, then attend classroom training 1–2 days a week. You’re paid from Day 1—starting at 40–50% of a journeyman’s wage, climbing each year.

Trade schools are great if you want to fast-track into an apprenticeship. Many employers prefer hiring grads because they already know basic safety and tools.

💡 Pro Tip: Apply to both. Many trade schools partner with local unions. You can graduate in 1 year and immediately enter a 4-year apprenticeship as a “pre-apprentice”—cutting your total time.

Step 3: Complete Your Apprenticeship (4–5 Years)

This is the meat of the journey. An apprenticeship isn’t just “learning to fix leaks.” It’s becoming a professional.

You’ll train in:

• Reading blueprints and building codes
• Installing water, gas, drainage, and sewage systems
• Using tools like pipe cutters, torque wrenches, and pressure testers
• Understanding local plumbing codes (each state has different rules)

You’ll also complete 4,000–8,000 hours of on-the-job training—depending on your state—and 144+ hours of classroom instruction per year.

Most apprenticeships last 5 years, but here’s the kicker:
👉 After 2–3 years, you can become a Journeyman Plumber and start working independently (under supervision).
👉 After 5 years, you’re eligible to take your Master Plumber License Exam.

📊 Real Data: According to the U.S. Department of Labor, apprentices who complete their program earn $60,000–$80,000/year on average as journeymen—with overtime and emergency calls pushing some past $100,000.

Step 4: Get Licensed (1–3 Months After Training)

You can’t legally work as a plumber without a license in any U.S. state. But licensing rules vary.

Most states require:

• Proof of apprenticeship completion
• Passing a written exam (code knowledge, safety, calculations)
• A background check
• A small fee ($100–$300)

📌 Important: Some states (like Colorado and Idaho) don’t require state licensure—but local cities do. Always check with your state’s plumbing board.

Don’t skip this step. Unlicensed work can mean fines, lawsuits, or even jail in extreme cases.

Step 5: Become a Master Plumber (Extra 2–4 Years)

Want to run your own business? Hire apprentices? Pull permits? Then you need a Master Plumber License.

Requirements:

• 2–4 years of experience as a Journeyman
• Pass a tougher exam (often includes business law and project management)
• Some states require proof of liability insurance

It’s not mandatory—but it’s the difference between working for someone and owning the company.

💬 “I spent 7 years total. First 5 as an apprentice, then 2 as a journeyman. Passing my master’s exam felt like graduating college—except I was already making $75k.”
— Lisa T., Owner of “T’s Plumbing Co,” Portland, OR

How Long Does It Really Take? The Timeline Summary

Let’s cut through the noise. Here’s exactly how long it takes based on your path:

*Note: Fast track requires working 50+ hours/week and taking extra classes. Not for everyone—but possible.

Bottom line: You can start earning a living as a plumber in under 2 years. But to be truly licensed, respected, and high-earning? Plan for 4–5 years.

FAQ: Your Top Questions About Becoming a Plumber, Answered

Q1: Can I become a plumber without a degree?

Absolutely. A college degree isn’t required. High school or GED is enough. Most plumbers learn through apprenticeships or trade schools—no bachelor’s needed.

Q2: Is plumbing a good career in 2025?

Yes—more than ever. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5% job growth for plumbers between 2022–2032—faster than average. Why? Aging infrastructure, new construction, and a shortage of young workers. By 2026, the U.S. could face a shortage of 250,000 skilled tradespeople, according to Construction Industry Institute .

Q3: How much does it cost to become a plumber?

• Apprenticeship: $0–$2,000 (you get paid!)
• Trade School: $5,000–$15,000
• Licensing Fees: $100–$500 total
• Tools: $1,000–$3,000 (you can buy gradually)
  Many apprenticeships provide tools or reimburse you. Trade school students can apply for FAFSA or state trade grants.

Q4: Do plumbers make good money?

Yes. The median annual wage is $60,000 (BLS, 2024). Top earners in cities like San Francisco or New York make $90,000–$120,000+. With emergency calls (24/7 service), overtime, and side gigs, many plumbers double their income.

Q5: Can women become plumbers?

Definitely. Women make up 5% of the workforce now—but that number is rising fast. Organizations like Women in Plumbing offer mentorship and scholarships. If you’re strong, detail-oriented, and willing to work hard—gender doesn’t matter.

Q6: Is plumbing physically hard?

It can be. You’ll lift heavy pipes, crawl under houses, work in freezing basements, and stand all day. But it’s not just brute strength—it’s technique. Smart plumbers use leverage, tools, and body mechanics to avoid injury. Many employers offer safety training. Stretching, core strength, and good shoes make a huge difference.

Final Thoughts: Your Future as a Plumber Starts Today

So, how long it takes to become a plumber?
👉 Minimum: 2 years to start earning
👉 Ideal: 4–5 years to become licensed, respected, and financially secure

This isn’t a “get rich quick” path. But it’s one of the most reliable, rewarding, and recession-proof careers in America. No student debt. No online classes you forget. Just real skills that people will always need.

If you’re ready to turn wrenches into paychecks, here’s your next step:
✅ Find a local apprenticeship program (start at UA.org )
✅ Call a local plumbing company and ask if they hire apprentices
✅ Enroll in a community college trade prep course (often under $500)

You don’t need to be a genius. You just need to show up, learn, and keep going.

Found this helpful?
👉 Share this guide with a friend who’s thinking about a new career.
👉 Pin it to Pinterest or post on Facebook Groups for aspiring tradespeople.
👉 Comment below: “I’m starting my plumbing journey in 2025!” — let’s build a community.

Your hands are your future. Make them skilled. 💪🔧