Dreaming of a stable, hands-on career with strong earning potential? You’re not alone. Many people in Washington State are turning to skilled trades like plumbing for job security and personal fulfillment. But if you’re wondering how to become a plumber in Washington State, you’ve come to the right place. This guide breaks down every step—from training and apprenticeships to licensing and salary expectations—so you can launch your plumbing career with confidence.
What Does It Take to Become a Plumber in Washington State?
Becoming a licensed plumber in Washington isn’t just about fixing leaky faucets—it’s a regulated profession that requires formal training, hands-on experience, and state certification. The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) oversees all plumbing licenses to ensure public safety and industry standards.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), plumbers in Washington earn a median annual wage of $72,630 (as of May 2023)—well above the national average. With growing infrastructure needs and housing development across cities like Seattle, Spokane, and Tacoma, demand for skilled plumbers continues to rise.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before you can even apply for an apprenticeship or license, you must meet Washington’s baseline criteria:
- Be at least 16 years old (to start an apprenticeship)
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
- Pass a background check (required for licensing)
Tip: While you can begin training at 16, you must be 18 years or older to hold a journey-level or contractor license.
Step 2: Enroll in a Plumbing Apprenticeship Program
Washington State requires all plumbers to complete a state-approved apprenticeship before becoming licensed. This is non-negotiable—and for good reason. Apprenticeships blend classroom learning with paid, on-the-job training under a licensed plumber.
Approved Apprenticeship Options:
| Union Apprenticeship (e.g., UA Local 32) | 4–5 years | 8,000+ work hours + 576 classroom hours | Paid training, union benefits, job placement |
| Non-Union Apprenticeship (e.g., through trade schools) | 4–5 years | Same hour requirements | Flexible scheduling, private employer sponsorship |
| Military or Veteran Programs | Varies | May qualify for credit | Washington offers veteran apprenticeship pathways |
Most apprentices earn 50–60% of a journey-level plumber’s wage in Year 1, with incremental raises as skills improve. By Year 4 or 5, many earn $25–$35/hour.
💡 Pro Tip: Apply through the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council (WSATC) to find registered programs near you.
Step 3: Complete Required Education and Training Hours
During your apprenticeship, you’ll log:
- 8,000 hours of supervised work experience
- 576 hours of classroom instruction (typically 144 hours per year)
Coursework covers:
- Pipefitting and drainage systems
- Washington State plumbing code (based on the Uniform Plumbing Code)
- Blueprint reading
- Safety protocols (OSHA standards)
- Water conservation and green plumbing practices
All training must be with a L&I-registered training provider. Skipping this step disqualifies you from licensure.
Step 4: Apply for Your Journey-Level Plumber License
Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you’re eligible to take the Journey-Level Plumber Exam administered by L&I.
Exam Details:
- Format: 100 multiple-choice questions
- Time Limit: 4 hours
- Passing Score: 75%
- Fee: $128 (as of 2024)
- Content: 60% Washington State plumbing code, 40% general plumbing knowledge
You can schedule your exam through PSI Services , the state’s testing partner. Study materials, including the official exam content outline, are available on the L&I Plumbing Licensing page .
📌 Note: You must apply for your license within 12 months of completing your apprenticeship, or you’ll need to retake portions of your training.
Step 5: Maintain and Advance Your License
Your journey-level license is valid for two years and must be renewed. Renewal requires:
- $93 fee
- Proof of 16 hours of continuing education (every 2 years)
Want to Advance Further?
- Specialty Licenses: Gas piping, medical gas, or residential-only plumbing
- Plumbing Contractor License: Requires 4+ years of experience and passing a business/management exam
- Master Plumber: Not a formal WA title, but experienced plumbers often use this term after 10+ years in the field
For context, plumbing is a regulated trade in most U.S. states. Learn more about its history and standards on Wikipedia’s Plumbing page .
Pros and Cons of Becoming a Plumber in Washington
| High demand (12% job growth projected by 2030 in WA) | Physically demanding work |
| No student debt (earn while you learn) | On-call or emergency hours possible |
| Strong wages ($60K–$90K+ with experience) | Requires ongoing licensing and education |
| Entrepreneurial opportunities (start your own business) | Exposure to hazardous materials or tight spaces |
Despite the challenges, 89% of plumbing apprentices in Washington complete their programs and secure full-time jobs, according to L&I’s 2023 workforce report.
How Much Do Plumbers Make in Washington State?
Salaries vary by region, experience, and specialization:
| Apprentice (Year 1) | $18–$22 | $37,000–$45,000 |
| Journey-Level | $30–$45 | $62,000–$93,000 |
| Contractor/Owner | $50–$80+ | $100,000–$150,000+ |
Plumbers in King County (Seattle area) typically earn 15–20% more than those in rural counties due to higher cost of living and demand.
FAQ: How to Become a Plumber in Washington State
Q: Do I need a college degree to become a plumber in Washington?
A: No. A high school diploma or GED is sufficient. All technical training happens through your state-approved apprenticeship.
Q: Can I transfer a plumbing license from another state to Washington?
A: Washington has limited reciprocity. You may qualify for exam waivers if you’re licensed in Oregon, Idaho, or Montana—but you’ll still need to pass Washington’s code exam and meet experience requirements.
Q: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in WA?
A: Typically 4 to 5 years, which includes your full apprenticeship and passing the journey-level exam.
Q: Are there plumbing schools in Washington I can attend?
A: Yes—but be cautious. Only L&I-registered apprenticeship programs count toward licensure. Standalone “plumbing schools” that don’t offer registered apprenticeships won’t qualify you for a license.
Q: What’s the difference between a journeyman and a contractor plumber?
A: A journey-level plumber can work independently but can’t pull permits or run a business. A plumbing contractor can hire employees, bid on projects, and manage jobs—requiring additional licensing.
Q: Is plumbing a good career for women or career changers?
A: Absolutely. Washington actively encourages diversity in the trades. Programs like NONTRAD (Nontraditional Employment for Women) help underrepresented groups enter plumbing and other skilled trades.
Conclusion
Learning how to become a plumber in Washington State opens the door to a rewarding, recession-resistant career with real earning power. From your first day as an apprentice to running your own plumbing business, the path is clear, structured, and supported by state resources.
If you’re ready to turn your interest into a profession, start by applying to a registered apprenticeship program today. And if you found this guide helpful, share it with someone who’s considering a trade career—your next apprentice might be a friend, family member, or future business partner!
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