How to Become a Plumber Apprentice in Ontario (Step-by-Step Guide)

Dreaming of a stable, hands-on career with strong earning potential? You’re not alone. Many Ontarians are turning to skilled trades like plumbing—and it all starts with becoming a plumber apprentice in Ontario. But where do you begin? How do you meet requirements, find a sponsor, and navigate the certification process? This guide breaks it all down clearly, step by step, so you can launch your plumbing career with confidence.

What Is a Plumber Apprentice in Ontario?

A plumber apprentice is someone learning the trade through a combination of on-the-job training (typically 80% of the program) and classroom instruction (20%). In Ontario, plumbing is a compulsory certified trade, meaning you must be registered as an apprentice or hold a Certificate of Qualification to work legally.

According to Skilled Trades Ontario (STO), the province’s regulatory body for skilled trades since 2021, apprenticeship is the official pathway to becoming a licensed plumber. You’ll earn while you learn—often starting at $18–$22/hour—and gain real-world experience under the supervision of a certified journeyperson.

💡 Did You Know? The Government of Ontario projects over 11,000 new plumbing jobs between 2023 and 2028 due to retirements and infrastructure growth (Ontario Labour Market Outlook).

Step-by-Step: How to Become a Plumber Apprentice in Ontario

Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, ensure you meet these minimum criteria:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Have a Canadian Social Insurance Number (SIN)
• Hold an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent (Grade 12 with English and math recommended)
• Be legally eligible to work in Canada

While a high school diploma isn’t always mandatory, employers strongly prefer candidates with Grade 12 English, math, and science—especially if you’ve taken courses in drafting or construction technology.

Step 2: Find an Employer Willing to Sponsor You

This is the most crucial step—and often the hardest for newcomers. You need a licensed plumbing contractor or company to hire and sponsor you as an apprentice.

Tips to land a sponsorship:

• Apply to plumbing companies directly (check websites or call)
• Use job boards like Indeed, Workopolis, or Skilled Trades Ontario’s job portal
• Attend career fairs or trade expos (e.g., Skills Ontario)
• Consider enrolling in a pre-apprenticeship program (e.g., at a college like George Brown or Fanshawe) to build skills and network

⚠️ Note: You cannot register as an apprentice without an employer. Unlike some provinces, Ontario does not allow “open registration.”

Step 3: Register with Skilled Trades Ontario (STO)

Once hired, you and your employer must jointly apply to register your apprenticeship with STO. This is done online via the Skilled Trades Ontario portal.

You’ll need:

• Your employer’s Certificate of Qualification number
• Proof of identity
• SIN and contact details

Registration is free, and once approved, you’ll receive an Apprentice Training Agreement outlining your training schedule.

Step 4: Complete the 5,000-Hour Apprenticeship

Ontario’s plumbing apprenticeship requires 5,000 hours of on-the-job training over 4–5 years, divided into three levels:

You’ll attend technical training (usually at a community college) between work periods. These sessions cover pipefitting, drainage systems, blueprint reading, and Ontario’s Plumbing Code.

Step 5: Pass the Certificate of Qualification Exam

After completing all hours and classes, you’re eligible to write the Plumbing Certificate of Qualification (C of Q) exam, administered by STO.

• The exam is written, multiple-choice, and based on the Ontario College of Trades standards
• Passing score: 70%
• Cost: $150–$200 (as of 2025)
• If you pass, you become a Certified Journeyperson Plumber—qualified to work independently anywhere in Ontario

📌 Pro Tip: Use STO’s official study guide and practice exams. Many colleges also offer exam prep courses.

Plumbing Apprentice Salary in Ontario (2025 Data)

Apprentices earn progressive wages based on experience and training level:

Fully certified plumbers in Ontario earn $35–$50/hour, with many making $70,000–$90,000/year—and self-employed plumbers often exceed $100,000.

Advantages vs. Challenges of Plumbing Apprenticeship

For more on the history and global role of plumbing, see the Wikipedia entry on plumbing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting too long to apply: Start networking early—even before finishing high school.
• Skipping math or shop classes: Employers look for foundational technical skills.
• Not keeping accurate hour logs: You must document all on-the-job hours for STO.
• Ignoring safety training: WHMIS and Working at Heights certification are often required.

FAQ: How to Become a Plumber Apprentice in Ontario

Q1: Do I need prior experience to become a plumbing apprentice in Ontario?

No. Most apprentices start with zero experience. Employers look for reliability, willingness to learn, and basic mechanical aptitude.

Q2: Can I become an apprentice if I’m an immigrant or international student?

Yes—if you have legal work status and a SIN. Many newcomers enter plumbing through pre-apprenticeship programs or bridging initiatives.

Q3: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in Ontario?

Typically 4 to 5 years, including 5,000 work hours and three levels of in-class training.

Q4: Is plumbing a Red Seal trade in Ontario?

Yes. Once you earn your Ontario C of Q, you can apply for the Interprovincial Red Seal endorsement, allowing you to work in other provinces without retesting.

Q5: What if I can’t find an employer?

Consider enrolling in a Pre-Apprenticeship Plumbing Program (offered at colleges like Humber, Algonquin, or Mohawk). These programs include job placement support and often lead directly to sponsorship.

Q6: Are there financial supports for apprentices?

Yes! The Ontario government offers apprenticeship grants, tool allowances, and EI top-ups during in-class training. Check the STO financial supports page for details.

Conclusion

Becoming a plumber apprentice in Ontario is one of the smartest career moves you can make—offering job security, solid income, and a clear path to independence. With over 11,000 plumbing jobs expected to open in the next few years, now is the perfect time to start.

You don’t need a degree—just drive, reliability, and a willingness to learn. Follow the steps above, stay persistent in your job search, and soon you’ll be fixing pipes, solving problems, and building a future that’s anything but ordinary.

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