How Many Years of College to Be a Plumber?

If you’ve ever searched “how many years of college to be a plumber,” you’re not alone. Many aspiring plumbers assume a traditional four-year degree is required—but that’s a common misconception. The truth? You can launch a well-paying, stable plumbing career without stepping foot in a college classroom. In this guide, we’ll break down the real timeline, training options, and steps to becoming a licensed plumber in the U.S.—all based on current industry standards and expert insights.

Do You Need College to Become a Plumber?

Short answer: No.

Unlike professions like engineering or medicine, plumbing is a skilled trade that prioritizes hands-on experience over academic degrees. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most plumbers learn through apprenticeships, not college. While some may take courses at a community college or trade school, a bachelor’s degree is not required—and often not cost-effective—for this career path.

💡 Fact: Over 80% of plumbers in the U.S. enter the field through registered apprenticeship programs, not college degrees (BLS, 2024 ).

How Long Does It Take to Become a Plumber?

The typical path takes 4 to 5 years, but it’s not spent in college—it’s spent in structured training that blends classroom learning with on-the-job experience.

Step-by-Step Timeline:

1. High School Diploma or GED (0 years if already completed)
   • Required to enroll in most apprenticeships.
   • Helpful courses: math, shop class, physics.
2. Plumbing Apprenticeship (4–5 years)
   • Combines 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training per year.
   • Plus 144–300 hours of classroom instruction annually.
   • Sponsored by unions (like UA – United Association) or non-union contractors.
3. Licensing Exam (After Apprenticeship)
   • Most states require passing a journeyman plumber exam.
   • Some states (e.g., Kansas, Missouri) don’t require state licensing—but local permits may apply.
4. Optional: Master Plumber Certification (1–2 additional years)
   • Requires extra experience and a more advanced exam.
   • Allows you to run your own plumbing business.

📌 Note: Trade schools offer accelerated programs (12–24 months), but these do not replace apprenticeships—they often serve as a supplement or entry point.

College vs. Trade School vs. Apprenticeship: What’s Best?

Key Insight: Apprentices earn while they learn. Starting wages average $18/hour, rising to $30+/hour by the final year (UA data, 2024). Meanwhile, college grads in unrelated fields often graduate with debt and no job guarantee.

For more on skilled trades education models, see Wikipedia’s overview of vocational education .

What Do You Actually Learn as a Plumbing Apprentice?

Apprenticeship curricula are standardized by organizations like the United Association (UA) and include:

• Pipefitting & Installation: Copper, PVC, PEX, cast iron.
• Blueprint Reading: Interpreting plumbing schematics.
• Local & National Codes: IPC (International Plumbing Code) compliance.
• Safety Protocols: OSHA standards, confined space training.
• Math for Plumbers: Calculating pipe offsets, pressure drops, flow rates.

Example task: Installing a residential water heater correctly requires knowledge of:

• Gas line sizing (½” or ¾” pipe based on BTU load),
• Ventilation clearances (minimum 6″ from combustibles),
• Thermal expansion tank requirements (mandated in many states).

This is practical knowledge you won’t get from a general college degree.

How Much Can You Earn as a Plumber?

Plumbing is one of the highest-paid skilled trades in the U.S.:

• Median Annual Wage: $60,090 (BLS, May 2023)
• Top 10% Earn: Over $103,000/year
• Master Plumbers or Business Owners: Can earn $120,000+

In high-demand areas like California, New York, or Texas, emergency plumbers often charge $150–$300/hour for after-hours calls.

💬 “I made more in my third year of apprenticeship than my friend did with a sociology degree—and I had zero student debt.”
— Marcus T., Journeyman Plumber, Chicago

Advantages of Skipping College for Plumbing

✅ No student debt
✅ Start earning immediately
✅ High job security (plumbers can’t be outsourced or automated easily)
✅ Clear advancement path (apprentice → journeyman → master → business owner)

Potential Drawbacks (and How to Overcome Them):

• ❌ Physically demanding work → Build stamina gradually; use ergonomic tools.
• ❌ Irregular hours → Many plumbers work standard shifts; only emergency roles require nights/weekends.
• ❌ Licensing varies by state → Research your state’s requirements early via PHCC or local union.

FAQs: How Many Years of College to Be a Plumber?

Q1: Can I become a plumber without any formal education?

A: You need at least a high school diploma or GED to join most apprenticeships. But no college is required.

Q2: How long is plumbing school if I choose trade school?

A: Most plumbing programs at trade schools last 12 to 24 months. However, you’ll still need an apprenticeship to get licensed in most states.

Q3: Do plumbers need a college degree to advance?

A: No. Advancement comes through experience, certifications, and passing licensing exams—not academic degrees.

Q4: Can I start a plumbing apprenticeship right after high school?

A: Yes! Many unions and contractors accept applicants at age 18 with a diploma and valid driver’s license.

Q5: Are online plumbing courses legitimate?

A: They can supplement learning, but hands-on training is mandatory for licensing. Avoid programs promising “certification” without practical hours.

Q6: What’s the fastest way to become a licensed plumber?

A: Enroll in a union-sponsored apprenticeship (like UA). You’ll get paid, trained, and licensed in 4–5 years—with no debt.

Conclusion

So, how many years of college to be a plumber? Zero.

You don’t need a degree—just dedication, hands-on training, and the right apprenticeship. Plumbing offers high pay, job stability, and a clear career path without the burden of student loans. In a world where college debt exceeds $1.7 trillion, skilled trades like plumbing are a smart, future-proof choice.

If you’re considering this path, take action today:

• Contact your local UA chapter
• Research state licensing requirements
• Talk to a working plumber (most love to share advice!)

Found this helpful? Share it with someone exploring career options—your friend might thank you for changing their life! 🛠️💧