Thinking about becoming a plumber in Minnesota but unsure how long it’ll take? You’re not alone. Many aspiring tradespeople ask, “How long to get a degree for plumbing in Minnesota?”—especially when balancing work, family, or financial goals. The good news? You don’t need a traditional 4-year college degree. In fact, most plumbers in Minnesota enter the field through hands-on training and apprenticeships that can launch your career in as little as 2 to 5 years. Let’s break down exactly what to expect—and how to get started efficiently.
What Does “Plumbing Degree” Really Mean in Minnesota?
First, let’s clarify a common misconception: Minnesota doesn’t require a “degree” in the academic sense (like a bachelor’s) to become a licensed plumber. Instead, the state uses a licensing system based on apprenticeship hours, classroom instruction, and exams.
According to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI), all plumbers must be licensed, and the path begins with registration as an unlicensed plumber (also called a plumbing apprentice).
💡 Key Insight: There’s no “plumbing degree”—but there are structured educational and experiential pathways that function like one.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Licensed Plumber in Minnesota?
The timeline depends on your chosen route. Here’s a realistic breakdown:
Path
Duration
Key Requirements
Apprenticeship + On-the-Job Training
4–5 years
7,000+ hours of work + 160+ classroom hours per year
Most people follow the apprenticeship route, which combines paid work under a licensed master plumber with technical classroom learning. You’ll typically spend 4 to 5 years before qualifying for the Journeyman Plumber license exam.
📌 Fact: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 89% of plumbers learn through formal apprenticeships—making it the gold standard nationwide.
Step-by-Step: Your Path to Becoming a Plumber in Minnesota
Programs typically last 1–2 years and award a certificate or diploma, not a “degree.”
3. Complete Required Hours
To sit for the Journeyman exam, you need:
7,000 hours of practical plumbing experience (≈4 years full-time)
160 hours per year of related classroom instruction (total ≈640+ hours)
⚠️ Note: Hours must be verified by your supervising master plumber and submitted to DLI.
4. Pass the Journeyman Plumber Exam
Covers Minnesota State Plumbing Code, safety, and system design.
Passing score: 70% or higher.
Fee: $75 (as of 2025).
Once licensed, you can work independently—but not supervise others. For that, you’ll need a Master Plumber license (requires 2+ additional years of experience).
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship: Which Is Faster?
Many wonder if skipping school and going straight into an apprenticeship saves time. Here’s a comparison:
Factor
Trade School First
Direct Apprenticeship
Time to License
4–5 years (school + apprenticeship)
4–5 years (all on-the-job)
Upfront Cost
$5,000–$15,000
$0–$500 (registration only)
Job Readiness
High (structured curriculum)
Moderate (learn as you go)
Earning While Learning
Limited (during school)
Yes (paid from Day 1)
💡 Pro Tip: Some unions (like UA Local 159) and contractors offer paid apprenticeships with built-in classroom training—giving you the best of both worlds.
Work full-time: Part-time work extends your timeline.
Track hours meticulously: Use DLI’s logbook template.
Take night classes: Fulfill classroom requirements faster.
Seek accelerated programs: Some schools partner with employers for “earn-and-learn” tracks.
However, Minnesota law caps credit—you can’t test for Journeyman status before completing at least 4 years (or 7,000 hours), even with prior experience.
Salary & Career Outlook in Minnesota
Your investment pays off. According to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED):
Median plumber salary: $62,000/year (2025)
Top 10% earn over $90,000
Job growth: 12% by 2030 (faster than average)
With aging infrastructure and new construction booming in the Twin Cities, demand for skilled plumbers is consistently high.
FAQ: How Long to Get a Degree for Plumbing in Minnesota?
Q1: Do I need a college degree to become a plumber in Minnesota?
No. Minnesota requires a license, not a degree. Most plumbers complete an apprenticeship and pass state exams.
Q2: How long is plumbing school in Minnesota?
Trade school programs last 6 months to 2 years, depending on full-time or part-time enrollment. But school alone doesn’t make you licensed—you still need apprenticeship hours.
Q3: Can I become a plumber in less than 2 years?
Not legally. Even with intensive training, Minnesota mandates at least 4 years (7,000 hours) of supervised experience before you can take the Journeyman exam.
Q4: Are online plumbing courses accepted in Minnesota?
Partially. Online classes may count toward classroom hours only if approved by DLI and paired with hands-on work. Purely online programs won’t qualify you for licensure.
Q5: What’s the difference between a Journeyman and Master Plumber?
A Journeyman can install and repair systems independently. A Master Plumber can design systems, pull permits, and supervise others—requiring 2+ additional years of experience.
Q6: How much does plumbing training cost in Minnesota?
Apprenticeships are often free or low-cost (you earn while you learn). Trade schools range from $5,000 to $15,000, but many offer scholarships or federal aid.
Conclusion
So, how long to get a degree for plumbing in Minnesota? While there’s no traditional “degree,” you can become a licensed Journeyman Plumber in 4 to 5 years through a mix of hands-on work and classroom learning. It’s a clear, respected, and well-paid career path—especially in a state with growing infrastructure needs.
If you’re ready to turn wrenches into wages, start by registering as an apprentice with the Minnesota DLI today. And if this guide helped you map your future, share it with someone else considering a trade career—they’ll thank you later!
🔧 Your future in plumbing starts now—not after four years of debt, but with real skills, real pay, and real impact.
Leave a Reply