How To Become a Licensed Plumber in Michigan: Step-by-Step Guide

Thinking about a stable, in-demand career with strong earning potential? You’re not alone. Many aspiring tradespeople are asking, “How to become a licensed plumber in Michigan?” — and for good reason. With infrastructure aging and skilled labor shortages nationwide, plumbing is a field with excellent job security, competitive wages, and clear career progression. This guide walks you through every step—from apprenticeship to master plumber—so you can launch your career with confidence.

What Are the Plumbing License Types in Michigan?

Before diving into the process, it’s essential to understand Michigan’s plumbing licensing structure. The state recognizes three primary levels:

1. Apprentice Plumber – Entry-level, works under supervision.
2. Journeyman Plumber – Can work independently on most residential and commercial projects.
3. Master Plumber – Authorized to pull permits, design systems, and supervise others.

You must progress through each level in order; there are no shortcuts. Skipping steps or working without proper licensure can result in fines up to $5,000 per violation (Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, or LARA).

💡 Did You Know?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), plumbers in Michigan earn a median annual wage of $62,840, with top earners making over $90,000—especially those with master licenses in high-demand metro areas like Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Ann Arbor.

Step 1: Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements

To begin your journey, you must meet Michigan’s baseline criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Hold a high school diploma or GED
• Be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
• Pass a background check (no disqualifying criminal history)

There’s no college degree required—making plumbing an accessible path for motivated individuals without student debt.

Step 2: Enroll in a State-Approved Plumbing Apprenticeship

Michigan requires 6,000 hours (about 3–5 years) of on-the-job training under a licensed journeyman or master plumber. You must pair this with at least 144 hours per year of classroom instruction.

Where to Find Apprenticeships:

• Local Unions: United Association (UA) Local 113 in Detroit or Local 190 in Grand Rapids
• Technical Colleges: Schoolcraft College (Livonia), Lansing Community College, or Kalamazoo Valley Community College
• Private Contractors: Many licensed plumbing companies sponsor apprentices

⚠️ Important: Only apprenticeships registered with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) count toward licensure. Verify your program’s status here .

Step 3: Gain Work Experience & Track Your Hours

During your apprenticeship, you’ll learn:

• Pipe installation (copper, PVC, PEX)
• Drain-waste-vent (DWV) systems
• Water supply systems
• Local and state plumbing codes
• Safety protocols (OSHA-compliant)

Keep detailed logs of your hours. LARA may audit your training records. Use the Apprentice Experience Verification Form to get employer signatures monthly or quarterly.

📊 Real-World Insight:
A 2023 LARA audit found that 22% of rejected journeyman applications failed due to insufficient or poorly documented experience. Don’t let paperwork derail your dream!

Step 4: Apply for the Journeyman Plumber Exam

Once you’ve completed 6,000 hours and required schooling, you’re eligible to test.

Application Process:

1. Submit the Journeyman Plumber Application via Michigan’s LARA eLicensing portal
2. Pay the $105 application fee
3. Provide proof of training (transcripts, employer affidavits)
4. Pass a background check

Processing takes 2–4 weeks. If approved, you’ll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) email with instructions to schedule your exam through PSI Services.

Step 5: Pass the Michigan Journeyman Plumber Exam

The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions, covering:

• Michigan Plumbing Code (based on the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code)
• Isometric drawing interpretation
• Math (pipe sizing, pressure calculations)
• Venting and drainage principles

You’ll have 4 hours to complete it. A 70% score (63/90) is passing.

Tips for Success:

• Study the Michigan Administrative Code R 322.701–715
• Use prep courses from PlumbingExamPrep.com or UA Training
• Practice with isometric diagrams—many test-takers stumble here

📚 Pro Resource:
The Uniform Plumbing Code is the foundation for Michigan’s regulations. While not identical, it’s an excellent study reference.

Step 6: Get Licensed & Start Working Independently

After passing the exam:

• LARA issues your Journeyman Plumber License (valid for 3 years)
• You can now work without direct supervision
• You may perform most residential/commercial plumbing—but cannot pull permits or design systems

Renewal requires 3 hours of continuing education every cycle, including 1 hour on code updates.

How to Advance to Master Plumber (Optional but Recommended)

Want to start your own business or manage large projects? Become a Master Plumber:

1. Hold a Journeyman License for at least 2,000 hours (≈1 year)
2. Complete 4,000 additional supervised hours
3. Pass the Master Plumber Exam (100 questions, 5-hour limit, 70% passing score)

Master plumbers earn 20–30% more on average and enjoy greater autonomy.

Journeyman vs. Master Plumber in Michigan: Key Differences

FAQ: How To Become a Licensed Plumber in Michigan

Q1: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in Michigan?

A: Typically 3–5 years—including your 6,000-hour apprenticeship and exam prep. If you pursue a master license, add 1–2 more years.

Q2: Can I get a plumbing license in Michigan with out-of-state experience?

A: Partially. Michigan offers reciprocity with limited states (e.g., Ohio, Wisconsin), but you’ll likely still need to pass the Michigan exam and verify hours. Contact LARA for evaluation.

Q3: Do I need a license to do plumbing work in my own home?

A: Yes, for most work. Michigan law requires a licensed plumber for any installation, alteration, or repair involving water supply, drainage, or gas piping—even in owner-occupied homes, with few exceptions (e.g., minor faucet replacement).

Q4: What if I fail the journeyman exam?

A: You can retake it after 30 days. There’s no limit on attempts, but each retake costs $105.

Q5: Are plumbing apprentices paid?

A: Yes! Most earn $18–$25/hour as first-year apprentices, with raises each year. By year 5, many make $35+/hour.

Q6: Is plumbing school required, or can I learn on the job only?

A: Michigan mandates both—6,000 hours of OJT plus 144 classroom hours/year. You can’t skip the academic component.

Conclusion: Your Future in Plumbing Starts Today

Becoming a licensed plumber in Michigan is a smart, achievable career move with strong ROI: no student debt, hands-on work, and high demand. Whether you aim to be a journeyman or master plumber, each step builds value—both professionally and financially.

Ready to turn wrenches into wages?
✅ Share this guide with someone exploring trade careers
✅ Follow Michigan LARA on social media for license updates
✅ Bookmark the official application portal

The pipes are calling—will you answer?