Thinking about becoming a journeyman plumber but unsure how long it takes? You’re not alone. Many aspiring tradespeople ask, “How many hours to be a journeyman plumber?” because time, training, and licensing are critical steps in this rewarding career path. The good news? With clear guidelines, hands-on experience, and the right mindset, you can confidently reach journeyman status—and start earning more while doing meaningful work.
What Exactly Is a Journeyman Plumber?
Before diving into hours and timelines, let’s clarify what a journeyman plumber actually is. In the U.S., a journeyman plumber is a licensed professional who has completed an apprenticeship and passed a state or local licensing exam. Unlike apprentices, journeymen can work independently (though not run their own plumbing business—that’s a master plumber’s role).
Becoming a journeyman signifies you’ve mastered core plumbing skills: installing pipes, troubleshooting drainage issues, reading blueprints, and adhering to local and national plumbing codes like the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) or International Plumbing Code (IPC).
How Many Hours To Be a Journeyman Plumber? The Standard Requirement
Across most U.S. states, the standard requirement is:
4,000 to 8,000 hours of hands-on apprenticeship experience.
But why such a wide range? It depends on your state licensing board. For example:
California
8,000 hours
4–5 years
Texas
8,000 hours
4 years
Florida
4,000 hours
2–3 years
New York
7,500 hours
4 years
Colorado
6,000 hours
3–4 years
Most apprentices work 35–40 hours per week, so 8,000 hours typically equals 4 to 5 years of full-time work.
💡 Pro Tip: You usually earn while you learn—apprentices often start at 40–50% of a journeyman’s wage and see regular pay increases as they gain experience.
What Does the Apprenticeship Include?
Your journeyman hours aren’t just about turning wrenches. A quality plumbing apprenticeship blends on-the-job training (OJT) with classroom instruction:
On-the-Job Training (90% of hours): Working under a licensed plumber on residential, commercial, or industrial projects.
Classroom Learning (10% of hours): Studying plumbing theory, safety protocols, blueprint reading, and code compliance (typically 144–500+ classroom hours over the program).
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship partners with trade unions (like UA – United Association) and private employers to standardize these programs. You can find registered apprenticeships through Apprenticeship.gov .
State-by-State Variations: Why Location Matters
There’s no federal standard for plumbing licensure—it’s regulated at the state or even city level. That’s why the answer to “how many hours to be a journeyman plumber?” varies.
For instance:
Alabama requires just 4,000 hours.
Illinois demands 8,000 hours plus 240 classroom hours.
Hawaii requires 6,000 hours, but also a criminal background check.
Always check with your state’s plumbing licensing board before enrolling in a program. A mismatch in hours could delay your licensing.
Pass a basic math and reading assessment (some programs require this).
Enroll in a Registered Apprenticeship
Apply through a union (e.g., UA Local 125), trade school, or employer-sponsored program.
Programs are often free or low-cost—employers typically cover training expenses.
Complete Required Hours
Work full-time under a licensed plumber.
Log your hours meticulously—many states require signed time sheets.
Attend Classroom Sessions
Usually one night per week or online modules.
Topics include pipefitting, water supply systems, and local code updates.
Apply for the Journeyman Exam
Submit proof of hours, pay an application fee ($50–$200), and schedule your test.
Pass the Licensing Exam
Covers practical knowledge and code compliance.
Most exams are multiple-choice; some include a hands-on component.
Get Licensed & Start Working Independently
Once licensed, you can take on jobs without direct supervision.
Journeyman vs. Apprentice vs. Master Plumber: Key Differences
Apprentice
Yes
No
$35,000–$50,000
Journeyman
No
No
$55,000–$75,000
Master Plumber
No
Yes
$75,000–$100,000+
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024 data)
Becoming a journeyman is a major milestone—it unlocks higher pay, job flexibility, and the foundation to eventually become a master plumber.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Not tracking hours properly: Lost paperwork = delayed licensing.
❌ Skipping classroom hours: Even if your state doesn’t enforce them, they help you pass the exam.
❌ Assuming reciprocity: Your license may not transfer if you move states.
❌ Rushing the exam: Study with practice tests—many fail on code questions.
FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered
Q: Can I become a journeyman plumber without an apprenticeship?
A: In most states, no. Formal apprenticeship hours are mandatory. A few states (like Kansas) allow experience-based pathways, but they still require proof of thousands of work hours under a licensed plumber.
Q: How much does the journeyman plumber exam cost?
A: Typically $50 to $200, depending on the state. Some include a separate application fee.
Q: Do online plumbing courses count toward journeyman hours?
A: Generally, no. Hands-on, supervised fieldwork is required. However, online courses can fulfill classroom instruction requirements if approved by your state board.
Q: How long does it take to get licensed after completing hours?
A: Processing takes 2–8 weeks, plus exam scheduling. Apply early to avoid delays.
Q: Are journeyman plumber hours the same for gas fitting or pipefitting?
A: Not always. Specializations like gas plumbing or medical gas installation may require additional certifications or hours.
Q: What’s the fastest way to become a journeyman plumber?
A: Enroll in a full-time, state-registered apprenticeship and work consistently. Avoid gaps in employment—every missed week adds time to your journey.
Final Thoughts: Your Plumbing Career Starts Now
Answering “how many hours to be a journeyman plumber?” isn’t just about numbers—it’s about commitment, skill-building, and opening doors to a stable, high-demand career. With median wages rising (BLS projects 5% job growth through 2032) and low student debt compared to college degrees, plumbing offers real financial and personal rewards.
If you’re ready to turn wrenches into a livelihood, start researching apprenticeships in your area today. And if this guide helped you, share it with someone who’s considering a trade career—your next apprentice might be a friend!
🔧 Got questions? Drop them in the comments or share this article on LinkedIn, Facebook, or X (Twitter) to help others in the trades!
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