What Do You Need To Do To Be a Plumber? (Step-by-Step Guide)

Thinking about a hands-on, in-demand career that pays well and offers job security? You’re not alone. Many Americans are turning to skilled trades like plumbing as a smart alternative to traditional four-year degrees. But what do you need to do to be a plumber? Whether you’re a high school graduate, a career changer, or just curious, this guide breaks down every step—clearly, honestly, and with real-world insights.

What Exactly Does a Plumber Do?

Before diving into the “how,” it helps to understand the “what.” Plumbers install, repair, and maintain piping systems for water, gas, sewage, and drainage in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Their work ensures clean water flows in and waste flows out—safely and efficiently.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of plumbers is projected to grow 2% from 2024 to 2034, with about 48,000 openings each year due to retirements and new construction demand.

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 subjects like:

• Math (especially geometry and algebra for measuring pipes and calculating flow rates)
• Science (physics and chemistry help understand water pressure and material properties)
• Shop or vocational classes (if available)

These foundational skills make technical training much easier later on.

Step 2: Enroll in a Plumbing Trade School or Vocational Program

While not always mandatory, attending a plumbing trade school significantly boosts your chances of landing an apprenticeship and mastering core concepts faster.

Typical program length: 6 months to 2 years
Average cost: $1,000–$15,000 (varies by state and institution)

Courses often cover:

• Pipefitting and blueprint reading
• Local plumbing codes and safety regulations
• Water supply and drainage systems
• Basic electrical knowledge (for modern fixtures like tankless water heaters)

💡 Pro Tip: Look for programs accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) or your state’s licensing board.

Step 3: Complete a Plumbing Apprenticeship

This is the most critical step. In the U.S., nearly all professional plumbers start with a 4- to 5-year paid apprenticeship. You’ll work under a licensed master plumber while earning a wage (starting around $18–$25/hour, increasing as you gain skills).

What to expect during your apprenticeship:

• 2,000+ hours of on-the-job training per year
• 144+ hours of classroom instruction annually
• Hands-on experience with tools, pipe materials (PVC, copper, PEX), and troubleshooting

Apprenticeships are often sponsored by:

• Local plumbers’ unions (e.g., UA Plumbers & Pipefitters)
• Non-union contractor associations
• Community colleges

📌 Fun Fact: The U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship.gov lists registered plumbing programs by state.

Step 4: Get Licensed (State Requirements Vary)

Licensing is mandatory in all 50 states—but rules differ widely. Most require:

• Completion of an approved apprenticeship
• Passing a written exam on plumbing codes, math, and safety
• Proof of work experience (typically 2–4 years)

For example:

Check your state’s plumbing board website for exact details.

🔗 For a general overview of U.S. plumbing regulations, see the Wikipedia page on plumbing .

Step 5: Consider Specialization or Master Plumber Status

Once licensed as a journeyman plumber, you can:

• Work independently (in most states)
• Pursue master plumber certification (requires 2–5 more years of experience + advanced exam)
• Specialize in areas like:
  • Commercial plumbing
  • Green plumbing (water-efficient systems)
  • Medical gas piping (requires additional certification)

Master plumbers often earn $70,000–$100,000+ annually, especially if they start their own business.

Pros and Cons of Becoming a Plumber

Despite the challenges, 87% of plumbers report high job satisfaction (according to a 2023 trade industry survey by Indeed).

Tools & Skills Every Aspiring Plumber Needs

You don’t need expensive gear to start—but these basics help:

• Pipe wrench
• Tubing cutter
• Plunger & drain snake
• Level and tape measure
• Safety goggles and gloves

Soft skills matter too:

• Problem-solving (e.g., diagnosing a hidden leak)
• Customer service (you’ll interact with homeowners daily)
• Attention to detail (a 1/8-inch misalignment can cause leaks)

How Long Does It Take to Become a Plumber?

On average:

• 4–5 years to become a licensed journeyman
• 6–10 years to reach master plumber status

But you start earning money from Day 1 of your apprenticeship—unlike many college grads who graduate with debt and no work experience.

FAQ: What Do You Need To Do To Be a Plumber?

Q1: Do I need a college degree to become a plumber?

A: No. A high school diploma or GED is sufficient. Most training happens through trade school and apprenticeships—not universities.

Q2: How much does plumbing school cost?

A: Costs range from $1,000 (community college) to $15,000 (private trade schools). Many apprenticeships include free or subsidized classroom training.

Q3: Can I become a plumber at 30, 40, or older?

A: Absolutely! Plumbing welcomes career changers. Physical fitness matters more than age—and many successful plumbers start in their 30s or 40s.

Q4: Is plumbing a good career for women?

A: Yes! While only ~2% of plumbers are women, the industry actively encourages diversity. Organizations like Women in Trades offer support and mentorship.

Q5: Do plumbers make good money?

A: The median annual wage is $60,090 (BLS, 2024). Top earners—especially business owners—can make $90,000–$120,000+.

Q6: Can I work as a plumber in multiple states?

A: Not automatically. Plumbing licenses are state-specific. However, some states have reciprocity agreements (e.g., between Texas and Louisiana). Always verify with the new state’s licensing board.

Conclusion

So, what do you need to do to be a plumber? Earn your diploma, join an apprenticeship, get licensed, and keep learning. It’s a path that rewards hard work with stability, independence, and solid pay—without the burden of student debt.

If this guide helped you see plumbing as a real career option, share it with someone who’s looking for a practical, future-proof job! 💧🔧

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