You’ve got the drive, the hands-on curiosity, and maybe even a knack for fixing leaky faucets—but now you’re asking, “I want to be a plumber—what do I do?” You’re not alone. With growing demand for skilled trades and the promise of stable, well-paying work, plumbing is a smart career path for many Americans. The good news? Getting started is more straightforward than you think. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step—from education and training to licensing and landing your first job—with real data, expert insights, and actionable advice.
Why Choose a Career in Plumbing?
Before diving into the “how,” it helps to understand the “why.” Plumbing isn’t just about unclogging drains—it’s a vital, recession-resistant trade that keeps homes, hospitals, and businesses running.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 51,500 openings each year—many due to retirements and industry growth.
Plumbers also earn well: the median annual wage was $60,090 in 2023, with top earners making over $100,000, especially in states like Alaska, Illinois, and New York.
“Plumbing offers job security, entrepreneurship opportunities, and the satisfaction of solving real-world problems every day,” says Maria Lopez, a master plumber and instructor at the UA Local 136 training center in Chicago.
Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED
This is your foundation. Most plumbing programs and employers require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Focus on subjects like math (especially geometry and algebra), science, and shop classes—they build skills you’ll use daily, from measuring pipe angles to understanding water pressure.
If you’re still in school, consider joining a vocational program or SkillsUSA chapter, which offers early exposure to trade skills.
Step 2: Enroll in a Plumbing Trade School (Optional but Helpful)
While not always required, attending a trade or technical school can give you a head start. These programs typically last 6 months to 2 years and cover:
Blueprint reading
Safety protocols (OSHA standards)
Pipefitting and fixture installation
Local plumbing codes
Costs range from $1,000 to $15,000, depending on location and program length. Many schools partner with unions or contractors for job placement.
💡 Pro Tip: Look for schools accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) to ensure quality.
Step 3: Join a Plumbing Apprenticeship (The Gold Standard)
Apprenticeships are the most common—and recommended—path into the plumbing trade. They combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction over 4 to 5 years.
How to Find an Apprenticeship:
Union Programs: Through the United Association (UA) – www.ua.org
Non-Union Programs: Offered by local contractors or organizations like the Home Builders Institute (HBI)
State Workforce Agencies: Check your state’s labor department website
During your apprenticeship, you’ll:
Work under a licensed plumber
Earn 50–60% of a journeyman’s wage (starting around $18–$25/hour)
Complete 144–200 hours of classroom learning per year
By the end, you’ll be ready to take your journeyman plumber exam.
Step 4: Get Licensed (State Requirements Vary)
Licensing ensures you meet safety and competency standards. Every state regulates plumbing differently, but most follow this pattern:
License Required(e.g., CA, TX, NY)
Pass written + practical exam after apprenticeship
Registration Only(e.g., KS, MO)
Register with state but no exam
Local Licensing(e.g., some cities in CO, GA)
License issued by city/county, not state
Check your state’s rules via the National Inspection Testing & Certification Corporation (NICET) or your state’s plumbing board.
Become a Master Plumber: Requires 2–5 more years of experience + advanced exam
Start Your Own Business: Over 30% of plumbers are self-employed (BLS)
Specialize: In areas like gas fitting, medical gas systems, or green plumbing (e.g., water-efficient fixtures)
Continuing education is key—many states require 4–8 hours of CE credits annually to renew your license.
Pros and Cons of Being a Plumber
High demand & job security
Physically demanding work
No student debt (vs. 4-year degrees)
Irregular hours (emergencies, weekends)
Earning while you learn (apprenticeship)
Exposure to hazardous materials (e.g., sewage)
Path to entrepreneurship
Requires ongoing licensing & training
Still, most plumbers report high job satisfaction—especially those who value independence and tangible results.
Tools & Skills You’ll Need
You don’t need to buy everything upfront (employers often provide basics), but familiarize yourself with:
Pipe wrenches, tubing cutters, drain snakes
Video inspection cameras (for modern diagnostics)
Basic math and problem-solving skills
Strong communication (you’ll explain issues to homeowners!)
Soft skills like punctuality, honesty, and customer service often determine who gets repeat clients—and referrals.
FAQ: I Want to Be a Plumber—What Do I Do?
Q1: How long does it take to become a plumber?
A: Typically 4–5 years through an apprenticeship. Trade school can shorten classroom time but doesn’t replace hands-on experience.
Q2: Do I need a college degree to be a plumber?
A: No. A high school diploma or GED is sufficient. College isn’t required—though business courses help if you plan to open your own shop.
Q3: How much do plumbers make starting out?
A: Apprentice plumbers earn $18–$25/hour on average. After licensing, journeyman plumbers average $28–$40/hour, depending on location and specialty.
Q4: Can I become a plumber at 30, 40, or older?
A: Absolutely. Plumbing welcomes career changers. Many apprentices are in their 30s or 40s—life experience is an asset, not a barrier.
Q5: Is plumbing a dangerous job?
A: It has risks (cuts, burns, exposure to contaminants), but proper PPE and training minimize danger. OSHA compliance is standard in reputable programs.
Q6: What’s the difference between a journeyman and a master plumber?
A: A journeyman can work independently under a master’s license. A master plumber can pull permits, run a business, and supervise others—requiring extra experience and exams.
Conclusion
So—you want to be a plumber. Now you know exactly what to do: get your diploma, find an apprenticeship, get licensed, and build your skills. It’s a path that rewards hard work with financial stability, flexibility, and pride in craftsmanship.
Plumbing isn’t just a job—it’s a career that literally keeps society flowing. And with a national shortage of skilled tradespeople, your timing couldn’t be better.
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