Dreaming of a stable, hands-on career with strong earning potential? If a person’s ultimate goal is to become a plumber, they’re aiming for one of the most recession-resistant trades in the U.S. With aging infrastructure, growing housing demand, and a nationwide shortage of skilled tradespeople, now is an excellent time to enter the field. This guide walks you through every step—realistically, clearly, and with actionable advice—to turn that goal into a thriving career.
Why Choose Plumbing as a Career?
Before diving into the “how,” it’s worth understanding the “why.” Plumbing isn’t just about fixing leaky faucets—it’s a vital service that keeps homes, hospitals, and businesses running safely.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 53,000 new job openings annually—many due to retirements and workforce gaps.
Plumbers also enjoy:
- High job security: People will always need clean water and functioning drainage.
- Strong income potential: The median annual wage was $60,090 in May 2024, with top earners making over $100,000.
- Entrepreneurial freedom: Many plumbers eventually start their own businesses.
As Mike Rowe, host of Dirty Jobs and advocate for skilled trades, often says: “Opportunity is everywhere—you just have to be willing to get your hands dirty.”
What Does It Take to Become a Plumber?
Becoming a licensed plumber requires a mix of education, hands-on training, and state-specific certification. Here’s the standard path:
1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED
Most apprenticeship programs require at least a high school diploma. Focus on math (especially geometry and algebra), science, and shop classes—they build foundational skills for reading blueprints and calculating pipe angles.
2. Enroll in a Trade School (Optional but Helpful)
While not mandatory, vocational schools offer accelerated plumbing courses (typically 6–24 months). These programs cover:
- Pipefitting and soldering
- Local plumbing codes
- Safety protocols
- Water distribution systems
Average cost: $3,000–$15,000, depending on location and program length.
💡 Pro Tip: Some community colleges partner with local unions to offer tuition assistance or paid apprenticeships upon completion.
3. Complete a Plumbing Apprenticeship
This is the core requirement in nearly every state. Apprenticeships last 4–5 years and combine:
- 2,000 hours/year of paid on-the-job training
- 144–200 hours/year of classroom instruction
You’ll work under a licensed journeyman or master plumber, learning everything from installing water heaters to troubleshooting sewer lines.
Apprentices typically start at 40–50% of a journeyman’s wage, with raises every 6–12 months as skills improve.
Find registered apprenticeships through:
- U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship Finder
- Local plumbers’ unions (e.g., UA – United Association)
- Non-union contractor associations
4. Get Licensed
Licensing requirements vary by state—but all 50 states require some form of licensure to work independently.
Common license types:
| License Level | Requirements | What You Can Do |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | None (work under supervision) | Assist licensed plumbers |
| Journeyman | 4+ years apprenticeship + exam | Work independently, no business ownership |
| Master Plumber | 2+ years as journeyman + advanced exam | Run a plumbing business, pull permits |
Exams test knowledge of:
- International Plumbing Code (IPC)
- Local regulations
- Math calculations (e.g., pipe slope = ¼ inch per foot of run)
📌 Note: Licensing details are managed at the state or municipal level. Always check your local board—Wikipedia’s list of U.S. plumbing regulations offers a helpful starting point.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Plumber?
On average: 4 to 5 years from day one to licensed journeyman.
But timelines can vary:
- Fast track: 2 years (trade school + accelerated apprenticeship)
- Standard path: 4–5 years (apprenticeship only)
- Master plumber: 6–8 years total experience
Unlike a 4-year college degree that may leave you with debt and no job guarantee, plumbing offers earn-while-you-learn opportunities with clear ROI.
Pros and Cons of a Plumbing Career
✅ Advantages
- No student debt: Most apprenticeships pay you to learn.
- Physical & mental challenge: Solve real-world problems daily.
- Flexible work options: Residential, commercial, industrial, or emergency services.
- Respect and autonomy: Skilled plumbers are highly valued by clients.
❌ Challenges
- Physically demanding: Crawling in tight spaces, lifting heavy materials.
- Unpredictable hours: Emergency calls (burst pipes, gas leaks) can happen nights/weekends.
- Licensing complexity: Rules differ across cities and states.
Still, 87% of tradespeople report high job satisfaction, according to a 2025 National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) survey.
How Much Can You Earn as a Plumber?
Earnings scale dramatically with experience and location.
| Experience Level | Avg. Annual Salary (U.S.) |
|---|---|
| Apprentice (Year 1) | $35,000 – $40,000 |
| Journeyman | $55,000 – $75,000 |
| Master Plumber | $80,000 – $110,000+ |
| Business Owner | $100,000 – $200,000+ |
Top-paying states (BLS 2024):
- Illinois ($82,450)
- Alaska ($79,880)
- New Jersey ($78,210)
Specializing in areas like medical gas piping, green plumbing, or commercial high-rises can boost income further.
FAQ Section
Q1: Do I need a college degree to become a plumber?
No. A high school diploma or GED is sufficient. Most training happens through apprenticeships or trade schools—not universities.
Q2: Can I become a plumber if I’m not good at math?
Basic math (fractions, decimals, geometry) is essential—for measuring pipe lengths, calculating slopes, and reading schematics. But you don’t need calculus! Many programs include math refreshers.
Q3: How much does plumbing school cost?
Trade school programs range from $3,000 to $15,000. However, many apprenticeships are free or low-cost, especially union-sponsored ones.
Q4: Is plumbing a dangerous job?
Like any trade, there are risks (exposure to sewage, hot pipes, confined spaces). But OSHA-compliant employers provide safety gear and training. Serious injuries are rare with proper protocols.
Q5: Can women succeed as plumbers?
Absolutely. While only ~2% of plumbers are women, that number is rising. Organizations like Women in Trades and Nontraditional Employment for Women (NEW) offer mentorship and support.
Q6: What’s the difference between a plumber and a pipefitter?
Plumbers focus on water supply, drainage, and fixtures in buildings. Pipefitters work with high-pressure systems (steam, gas, chemicals) in factories or power plants. Training paths overlap but diverge in specialization.
Conclusion
If a person’s ultimate goal is to become a plumber, they’re choosing a future-proof career built on skill, reliability, and service. With clear steps—from apprenticeship to licensing—and strong demand across the country, the path is both achievable and rewarding.
Whether you’re a recent high school grad, a career changer, or someone seeking financial independence, plumbing offers dignity, income, and impact.
👉 Ready to turn the wrench on your future? Share this guide with someone who’s considering the trades—and take your first step toward becoming a licensed plumber today!
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