What Do You Have To Do To Become a Plumber?

Dreaming of a hands-on, in-demand career with strong earning potential? You’re not alone. Many Americans are turning to skilled trades like plumbing for job security, flexibility, and the satisfaction of solving real-world problems. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What do you have to do to become a plumber?”—you’re in the right place. This guide walks you through every essential step, from education to licensing, so you can confidently launch your plumbing career.

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 valuable than ever.

Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED

The first official step toward becoming a plumber is completing high school or earning your GED. Focus on courses like:

• Math (especially algebra and geometry)
• Science (particularly physics)
• Shop or mechanical drawing
• Computer applications

These subjects build foundational skills for reading blueprints, calculating pipe angles, and understanding water pressure systems.

💡 Pro Tip: Join a high school vocational program if available. Many offer introductory plumbing or construction courses that give you a head start.

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

While not always required, attending a plumbing trade school or community college program can significantly boost your knowledge and job prospects. Programs typically last 6 months to 2 years and cover:

• Pipefitting and soldering
• Local plumbing codes
• Safety protocols
• Drain-waste-vent (DWV) systems
• Blueprint reading

Average tuition ranges from $1,000 to $15,000, depending on location and program length. Many schools partner with local unions or contractors for job placement.

📊 Stat Insight: Graduates of accredited trade programs are 30% more likely to complete apprenticeships successfully, per the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

Step 3: Complete a Plumbing Apprenticeship

This is the core requirement in nearly every U.S. state. A plumbing apprenticeship combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction over 4 to 5 years.

What to Expect:

• 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job experience per year
• 144–200 hours of technical classroom training annually
• Mentorship under a licensed journeyman or master plumber

Apprenticeships are offered through:

• Unions (e.g., United Association – UA)
• Non-union contractor associations
• State or local plumbing boards

You’ll learn everything from installing water heaters to troubleshooting sewer line blockages—all while earning a wage that increases with your skill level.

🔗 For more on apprenticeship structures, see the U.S. Department of Labor’s overview on plumbing apprenticeships .

Step 4: Get Licensed (State Requirements Vary)

After completing your apprenticeship, you’ll need to pass a licensing exam to work independently. Licensing rules differ by state, but most follow this pattern:

For example:

• Texas: Requires 4 years of experience + exam for journeyman license.
• California: Mandates separate exams for residential and commercial plumbing.
• New York: Requires 7 years of combined experience and training.

Always check your state’s plumbing board website for exact rules. You can find links via the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) .

Step 5: Consider Specializations & Certifications

Once licensed, you can boost your income and marketability with certifications in high-demand niches:

• Green Plumbing: Focus on water conservation and sustainable systems (certified by GreenPlumber USA )
• Medical Gas Installation: Requires specialized training and certification (NFPA 99 compliant)
• Pipefitting or Welding: Opens doors in industrial settings
• Backflow Prevention: Required in many municipalities for cross-connection control

These credentials often lead to 10–25% higher hourly rates, according to industry surveys.

Pros and Cons of a Plumbing Career

To help you decide if plumbing is right for you, here’s a quick comparison:

💬 Real Story: Marcus T., a master plumber in Ohio, started as an apprentice at 19. By 30, he owned his own plumbing company with 12 employees. “It’s hard work, but you control your future,” he says.

Tools & Skills Every Aspiring Plumber Needs

Success in plumbing isn’t just about wrenches—it’s about mindset and aptitude. Key traits include:

• Problem-solving ability
• Attention to detail (a 1/8-inch pipe misalignment can cause leaks)
• Physical stamina (crawling in tight spaces, lifting heavy materials)
• Customer service skills (you’re often in people’s homes)

Essential starter tools:

• Pipe wrench
• Tubing cutter
• Plunger & drain snake
• Pipe threader
• Level and tape measure

Most apprentices receive tool allowances or discounts through their programs.

FAQ: Common Questions About Becoming a Plumber

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

A: Typically 4 to 5 years, including apprenticeship and passing your journeyman exam. Some states allow accelerated paths if you have prior military or trade experience.

Q: Do I need a college degree to become a plumber?

A: No. A high school diploma or GED is sufficient. Trade schools and apprenticeships provide all necessary training.

Q: Can I become a plumber if I’m older or changing careers?

A: Absolutely. Many plumbing apprentices are in their 30s, 40s, or beyond. Employers value reliability and work ethic over age.

Q: How much do plumbers earn?

A: The median annual wage was $59,880 in 2023 (BLS). Top 10% earn over $100,000, especially in urban areas or with specializations.

Q: Is plumbing a dangerous job?

A: It carries risks (sharp tools, confined spaces, exposure to sewage), but proper training and PPE (personal protective equipment) minimize hazards. OSHA guidelines are strictly followed in reputable programs.

Q: Can I start my own plumbing business?

A: Yes—once you hold a master plumber license in most states. You’ll also need business insurance, bonding, and possibly a contractor’s license.

Conclusion

So, what do you have to do to become a plumber? It starts with curiosity—and ends with a rewarding, recession-proof career. From trade school to apprenticeship to licensing, each step builds your expertise and independence. With strong demand, solid pay, and the chance to be your own boss, plumbing offers a future-proof path for hands-on learners.

If this guide helped you, share it with someone exploring a trade career! Whether on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Reddit’s r/Trades, your share could inspire the next generation of skilled professionals.

🛠️ Ready to take the first step? Contact your local union hall or state plumbing board today—and turn your ambition into action.