To Be a Plumber: What Qualifications Do I Need?

Thinking about becoming a plumber but unsure where to start? You’re not alone. Many people are drawn to plumbing for its job stability, earning potential, and hands-on work—but they often wonder: to be a plumber what qualifications do I need? The good news is that while formal college degrees aren’t required, specific training, licenses, and soft skills are essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to launch a successful plumbing career in the United States—step by step.

What Does a Plumber Actually Do?

Before diving into qualifications, it helps to understand the role. Plumbers install, repair, and maintain pipes, fixtures, and systems that carry water, gas, sewage, and other fluids in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Tasks include:

• Fixing leaky faucets or burst pipes
• Installing water heaters and dishwashers
• Reading blueprints and building codes
• Diagnosing drainage issues
• Ensuring compliance with local safety regulations

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of plumbers is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations—creating about 51,500 openings annually.

Do You Need a College Degree to Become a Plumber?

No. Unlike many professions, plumbing doesn’t require a four-year college degree. In fact, most plumbers enter the field through apprenticeships or vocational training programs. This makes plumbing an accessible and cost-effective career path with strong ROI.

Instead of student debt, you’ll earn while you learn—often starting at $18–$25 per hour during apprenticeship, with potential to earn $60,000–$100,000+ annually as a licensed journeyman or master plumber.

Step-by-Step: How to Become a Licensed Plumber in the U.S.

Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED

This is the minimum educational requirement. Focus on math (especially geometry and algebra), science (physics), and shop classes—they build foundational skills for pipefitting and system design.

Step 2: Enroll in a Plumbing Trade School (Optional but Helpful)

While not mandatory, trade schools offer accelerated learning. Programs typically last 6 months to 2 years and cover:

• Pipe installation techniques
• Local plumbing codes
• Safety protocols
• Blueprint reading

Average cost: $1,000–$15,000, far less than a traditional degree.

💡 Pro Tip: Look for schools accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) or similar bodies.

Step 3: Complete a Plumbing Apprenticeship

This is the core requirement in nearly every state. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training (4,000–8,000 hours) with classroom instruction (200–600 hours) over 4–5 years.

You’ll work under a licensed plumber while learning real-world skills like:

• Soldering copper pipes
• Installing backflow preventers
• Troubleshooting water pressure issues

Apprenticeships are offered through:

• Unions (e.g., UA Plumbers & Pipefitters)
• Non-union contractors
• State workforce development programs

Find registered programs via the U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship Finder .

Step 4: Pass Licensing Exams

After completing your apprenticeship, you can apply for a Journeyman Plumber License. Requirements vary by state, but most include:

• Proof of completed apprenticeship hours
• Passing a written exam on plumbing codes, safety, and math
• Paying a licensing fee ($50–$300)

Some states (like Texas, Florida, and California) have additional local exams or continuing education requirements.

📌 Example: In New York, you must pass both a practical and written exam administered by the Department of State.

Once licensed, you can work independently. After 2–5 more years of experience, you may pursue a Master Plumber License, which allows you to run your own business and pull permits.

For a full overview of state-specific rules, see the Wikipedia page on plumbing licensing in the United States .

Key Skills Every Successful Plumber Needs

Beyond technical know-how, top plumbers share these traits:

Employers consistently rank reliability, communication, and integrity as highly as technical ability—especially since plumbers often work in customers’ homes.

Plumbing Certifications That Boost Your Career

While licensing is mandatory, optional certifications can increase your income and job opportunities:

• Backflow Prevention Certification: Required in many municipalities
• Green Plumbing Certification (e.g., from IAPMO): For eco-friendly installations
• Medical Gas Piping Certification: Needed for hospital projects
• OSHA 10-Hour Safety Certification: Often required on commercial sites

These credentials signal expertise and trustworthiness—key components of E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness), which Google prioritizes in rankings.

Common Misconceptions About Plumbing Qualifications

❌ “Plumbing is just unclogging toilets.”
✅ Reality: Modern plumbing involves complex systems, smart home tech, and strict code compliance.

❌ “You can start working immediately after high school.”
✅ Reality: Most states require apprenticeship + licensing before independent work.

❌ “Plumbers don’t need math.”
✅ Reality: You’ll calculate pipe slopes (¼ inch per foot), water pressure, and flow rates regularly.

FAQ: To Be a Plumber – What Qualifications Do I Need?

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

A: Typically 4–5 years through an apprenticeship. Some accelerated programs may shorten this to 3 years, but state requirements vary.

Q2: Can I become a plumber without an apprenticeship?

A: In most states, no. Apprenticeships are legally required to qualify for the journeyman exam. A few states allow equivalent experience, but this is rare.

Q3: How much does plumbing school cost?

A: Trade school ranges from $1,000 to $15,000. Apprenticeships often cost nothing—many even pay you while you train.

Q4: Do I need to renew my plumbing license?

A: Yes. Most states require renewal every 1–2 years, often with continuing education credits (e.g., 4–8 hours annually).

Q5: Can felons become plumbers?

A: It depends on the state and nature of the offense. Some states conduct background checks, but minor offenses don’t automatically disqualify you. Check with your state licensing board.

Q6: Is plumbing a good career for women?

A: Absolutely. While historically male-dominated, the industry actively encourages diversity. Organizations like Women in Plumbing offer mentorship and support.

Conclusion: Start Your Plumbing Journey Today

So—to be a plumber what qualifications do I need? You need dedication, hands-on training, a state license, and a commitment to lifelong learning. But the payoff is huge: job security, competitive pay, and the satisfaction of solving real problems every day.

Whether you’re a recent high school grad, a career changer, or someone seeking skilled trade work, plumbing offers a clear, respected, and recession-resistant path forward.

👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter to help others discover this rewarding career!

Got questions about your state’s requirements? Drop them in the comments below—we’re happy to help!