Thinking about becoming a plumber but worried about spending years in school? You’re not alone. Many Americans are drawn to skilled trades like plumbing because they offer strong job security, good pay, and faster entry than traditional four-year degrees. If you’ve searched “how long to go to school to be a plumber,” you’re likely looking for a clear, realistic roadmap—without the fluff. Good news: you can start earning while you learn, often in under 2 years. Let’s break it down step by step.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Plumber in the U.S.?
The short answer: 1 to 5 years, depending on your path. But here’s the key—most of that time isn’t spent in a classroom. In fact, hands-on training through apprenticeships is the gold standard in the plumbing industry.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most plumbers learn their trade through a 4- to 5-year apprenticeship program. However, you can begin working (and earning) from day one of that apprenticeship—no college degree required.
💡 Did you know? The median annual wage for plumbers was $60,090 in 2023, with top earners making over $100,000—especially in states like California, New York, and Alaska (BLS, May 2023).
Do You Need to Go to “School” to Be a Plumber?
Technically, no formal college degree is required. But “school” in the plumbing world usually means one of two things:
Many aspiring plumbers choose a hybrid approach: complete a short certificate program (6–12 months) to build foundational knowledge, then apply for an apprenticeship to gain field experience.
📌 Pro Tip: Completing a plumbing program at a technical school can make you a more competitive candidate for top apprenticeships—especially union programs like those offered by UA Plumbers & Pipefitters.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Licensed Plumber
Here’s the typical journey, broken into actionable steps:
Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements (1–2 Weeks)
Be at least 18 years old
Have a high school diploma or GED
Pass a basic math and reading test (some programs require this)
Step 2: Choose Your Training Path (Start Immediately)
Option A: Enroll in a plumbing certificate program (6–12 months). Courses cover pipefitting, blueprint reading, safety codes, and local regulations.
Option B: Apply directly to an apprenticeship (no prior training needed in many states).
⚠️ Note: Some states (like Florida and Texas) require pre-apprenticeship coursework before you can register.
Step 3: Complete a Registered Apprenticeship (4–5 Years)
Work 2,000 hours per year under a licensed master plumber
Attend 144–200 hours per year of classroom instruction (often nights or weekends)
Learn OSHA safety, plumbing codes (IPC or UPC), drainage systems, and gas fitting
Apprentices typically start at 40–50% of a journeyman’s wage and get raises every 6–12 months as skills improve.
Step 4: Pass the Journeyman Plumber Exam
After 4+ years, take your state or local licensing exam
Covers code knowledge, math, and practical problem-solving
Once passed, you’re a licensed journeyman plumber
Step 5 (Optional): Become a Master Plumber
Requires 2+ additional years of experience
Pass a more advanced exam
Allows you to pull permits, run your own business, and supervise others
Costs vary widely—but far less than a 4-year degree:
Community College Certificate: $1,000–$5,000
Private Trade School: $5,000–$15,000
Apprenticeship: Often $0 tuition (sponsored by unions or contractors)
Many apprenticeships even cover the cost of tools, books, and exam fees. Plus, you’re paid from day one—average starting wage: $18–$25/hour.
📊 ROI Insight: According to Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce, trade careers like plumbing offer higher lifetime earnings than 40% of bachelor’s degrees—with zero student debt.
Advantages of Choosing Plumbing Over College
Still on the fence? Consider these benefits:
✅ No student loans ✅ Job demand is growing (BLS projects 2% growth through 2032, with ~48,000 openings yearly due to retirements) ✅ Recession-resistant career (people always need running water and working toilets!) ✅ Entrepreneurial opportunities (many plumbers start their own businesses by age 30)
And unlike many office jobs, plumbing offers physical activity, problem-solving variety, and customer interaction—ideal for hands-on learners.
FAQ: How Long to Go to School to Be a Plumber?
Q1: Can I become a plumber without going to school?
Yes. While formal schooling helps, the core requirement is completing a state-approved apprenticeship (4–5 years). Many successful plumbers never attended trade school.
Q2: How long is plumbing school if I only do classroom training?
Most certificate programs last 6 to 24 months. But remember: classroom-only training does not qualify you for licensure—you’ll still need field hours.
Q3: Is there a fast-track way to become a plumber?
Some states offer accelerated apprenticeships (as short as 3 years) for military veterans or those with construction experience. Check with your state’s plumbing board.
Q4: Do I need a license to work as a plumber?
Yes, in all 50 states. You must be at least a journeyman-level licensed plumber to work independently. Unlicensed work can result in fines or legal action.
Q5: How much can I earn as a first-year plumbing apprentice?
Typically $15–$22/hour, with regular raises. By year 4, many earn $30–$40/hour plus overtime.
Q6: Can I work while training?
Absolutely—and you’re expected to! Apprenticeships are paid, full-time jobs combined with part-time classroom learning.
Conclusion: Your Future in Plumbing Starts Sooner Than You Think
So, how long to go to school to be a plumber? If you take the standard route, you’ll spend 4–5 years in a paid apprenticeship—earning income while mastering a vital, respected trade. Add a short certificate program if you want a head start, but it’s not mandatory.
With strong wages, job stability, and the chance to be your own boss, plumbing is a smart career move in today’s economy. And the best part? You don’t need a mountain of debt or a decade of study to get there.
👉 Ready to turn wrenches into wages? Share this guide with someone considering a trade career—and explore local apprenticeship opportunities through MyNextMove.org or your state’s workforce agency.
Your future self will thank you for choosing a path that’s practical, profitable, and purposeful.
Leave a Reply