Thinking about a hands-on, in-demand career that pays well and offers job security? You’re not alone. Many Americans are exploring skilled trades like plumbing—and for good reason. But if you’ve ever asked yourself, “What do you have to do to be a plumber?” you’re in the right place. This guide walks you through every step, from high school to licensing, so you can confidently launch a rewarding career in plumbing.
What Exactly Does a Plumber Do?
Before diving into training, it helps to understand the role. Plumbers install, repair, and maintain pipes, fixtures, and systems that carry water, gas, and waste in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Their work ensures clean water flows in and wastewater flows out—safely and efficiently.
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. With aging infrastructure and increasing demand for water-efficient systems, skilled plumbers are more essential than ever.
Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED
The journey begins with a solid educational foundation. Most plumbing apprenticeships and trade schools require at least a high school diploma or GED. Focus on courses like:
- Math (especially algebra and geometry)
- Science (particularly physics)
- Shop or mechanical drawing classes
These subjects build problem-solving and spatial reasoning skills critical for reading blueprints and calculating pipe angles.
💡 Pro Tip: Join a high school shop class or robotics club—they offer hands-on experience with tools and systems similar to those used in plumbing.
Step 2: Enroll in a Plumbing Trade School (Optional but Recommended)
While not always mandatory, attending a plumbing trade school gives you a competitive edge. Programs typically last 6 months to 2 years and cover:
- Pipefitting and soldering
- Drain-waste-vent (DWV) systems
- Local plumbing codes
- Safety protocols
Average tuition ranges from $1,000 to $15,000, depending on location and program length. Many schools partner with local unions or contractors, helping students secure apprenticeships upon graduation.
📊 Did You Know? Graduates of trade programs often complete their apprenticeships 6–12 months faster than those who enter without formal training (National Center for Construction Education and Research).
Step 3: Complete a Plumbing Apprenticeship
This is the core requirement in nearly every state. A plumbing apprenticeship combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction and usually lasts 4 to 5 years.
Typical Apprenticeship Structure:
| On-the-Job Training | 8,000–10,000 hours |
| Classroom Instruction | 500–1,000 hours |
During this time, you’ll work under a licensed journeyman or master plumber, learning everything from fixing leaky faucets to installing complex commercial piping systems.
You can find apprenticeships through:
- Local plumbers’ unions (e.g., UA Plumbers & Pipefitters)
- Non-union contractor associations
- State workforce development boards
🔗 For a full list of registered apprenticeship programs, visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship Finder or explore general trade overviews on Wikipedia’s plumbing page .
Step 4: Pass Licensing Exams
Licensing requirements vary by state, but most follow a similar path:
- Journeyman Plumber License: After completing your apprenticeship, you can take the journeyman exam. This tests your knowledge of:
- International Plumbing Code (IPC)
- Local regulations
- Math and blueprint reading
- Master Plumber License: After 2–5 years as a journeyman, you can pursue a master license, which allows you to:
- Run your own plumbing business
- Pull permits
- Supervise other plumbers
📌 Example: In Texas, the journeyman exam includes 100 multiple-choice questions and requires a 70% passing score. In New York, candidates must also pass a practical skills assessment.
Always check your state’s licensing board for exact requirements—some states (like Kansas and Missouri) license at the city or county level.
Step 5: Maintain Your License and Continue Learning
Plumbing codes and technologies evolve. Most states require continuing education (typically 4–16 hours every 1–2 years) to renew your license. Topics may include:
- Backflow prevention
- Green plumbing (low-flow fixtures, tankless water heaters)
- Smart home plumbing systems
Staying current not only keeps you compliant—it makes you more valuable to employers and clients.
Pros and Cons of a Plumbing Career
| High demand & job security | Physically demanding work |
| Earning potential: $59,880 median salary (BLS, 2023) | Exposure to hazardous materials or tight spaces |
| No student loan debt (vs. 4-year degrees) | On-call or emergency hours |
| Opportunity to be self-employed | Requires ongoing certification |
Despite the challenges, 87% of plumbers report high job satisfaction due to autonomy, problem-solving, and tangible results (TradeMutt Industry Survey, 2024).
How Long Does It Take to Become a Plumber?
On average:
✅ 4–5 years from apprenticeship start to journeyman license
✅ 6–8 years to become a master plumber and run your own business
If you attend trade school first, you might shave off 6–12 months—but the hands-on experience remains essential.
FAQ: Common Questions About Becoming a Plumber
Q1: Do I need a college degree to be a plumber?
A: No. A high school diploma or GED is sufficient. Most plumbers learn through apprenticeships and trade schools—not universities.
Q2: How much do plumbers make in the US?
A: The median annual wage is $59,880, but top earners (especially master plumbers in urban areas) can make $100,000+. Self-employed plumbers often earn more after building a client base.
Q3: Can I become a plumber if I’m older or switching careers?
A: Absolutely. Many plumbing apprentices are adults retraining mid-career. Unions and trade schools welcome applicants of all ages—physical fitness matters more than age.
Q4: Are plumbing licenses transferable between states?
A: Not always. Some states have reciprocity agreements (e.g., between Wisconsin and Illinois), but most require you to pass their specific exam or complete additional training.
Q5: What tools do I need to start?
A: As an apprentice, your employer usually provides major tools. You’ll likely need to buy basics like:
- Pipe wrench
- Tubing cutter
- Plunger
- Tape measure
Expect to spend $200–$500 on your starter kit.
Q6: Is plumbing a dying trade?
A: Quite the opposite. With a growing shortage of skilled tradespeople and infrastructure upgrades underway nationwide, plumbers are in higher demand than ever.
Conclusion
So, what do you have to do to be a plumber? It takes dedication, hands-on training, and a willingness to learn—but the payoff is a stable, respected, and well-paying career with room to grow. Whether you dream of fixing homes, designing sustainable water systems, or running your own business, plumbing offers a clear path forward.
If this guide helped you, share it with someone considering a trade career! 👷♂️
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Your future in plumbing starts with one pipe—and one decision.
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