Thinking about a career in plumbing but not sure how long the journey takes? You’re in the right place. Plumbing is one of the most in-demand trades in the U.S., offering strong job security, hands-on work, and solid pay.
So, lets start!
My name is Connor Jimenez, and I’m the Operations Manager at Elite Rooter. With over a decade of experience in the plumbing industry, I’ve worked my way up from the ground level literally. I’ve seen firsthand what it takes to succeed in this field, and in this article, I’m going to walk you through exactly how you can start your own plumbing journey here in the U.S.
The best part? You don’t need a college degree to get started and you can begin earning while you learn. Whether you’re considering trade school, an apprenticeship, or looking to get licensed, this guide breaks down every step so you know exactly what to expect and how long it’ll take.
What Does a Plumber Actually Do?
A plumber is a skilled tradesperson responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining systems that involve water, gas, drainage, and sewage in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
While the day-to-day work may vary based on the project or specialization, the core responsibilities typically include:
- Installing pipes and fixtures for water supply, gas, and waste disposal systems.
- Repairing leaks and blockages in sinks, toilets, bathtubs, water heaters, and appliances like dishwashers and washing machines.
- Reading and interpreting blueprints and building codes to plan piping layouts in new construction.
- Inspecting plumbing systems to identify issues and recommend repairs or upgrades.
- Testing systems for leaks using pressure gauges or specialized equipment to ensure safety and functionality.
- Collaborating with other tradespeople such as electricians, HVAC technicians, and general contractors on construction or renovation projects.
In essence, plumbers are essential to making sure buildings have safe, efficient, and reliable water and waste systems. Their work impacts public health, hygiene, and comfort on a daily basis.
5 Steps For Becoming a Licensed Plumber
If you’re wondering how to become a licensed plumber, you’ll be glad to know there’s more than one path to get there. Some people go straight into a plumbing apprenticeship, while others start with vocational training or attend a trade school to learn the basics first.
Each pathway has its pros and cons, and the one you choose may depend on how fast you want to start working, your location, or your personal learning style.
Before jumping into plumbing school or applying for an apprenticeship, there are a couple of basic boxes to tick.
1. High School Diploma or GED
Most plumbing training programs and apprenticeships require at least a high school diploma or GED. This shows you’ve got the basic math, reading, and problem solving skills needed to understand measurements, read blueprints, and follow building codes.
Taking shop class, math, or science courses in high school can give you a small head start, but they’re not a must. Some people also take plumbing pre apprenticeship programs to strengthen their foundation.
2. Vocational Training or Trade School (Optional)
While it is not required, attending a plumbing trade school or completing a vocational plumbing program can give you a major head start before starting an apprenticeship.
Most plumbing certification courses or trade school programs take between 6 months to 2 years to complete. They usually combine classroom learning with basic hands-on practice. Going to school first can make you more competitive when applying for plumber apprenticeships. It shows you’re serious about the trade and already understand the basics. In some states, time spent in school can even count toward your required hours for licensing.
In the trade school you’ll learn about:
- Plumbing tools and systems
- Pipe fitting and fixture installation
- Reading blueprints and following plumbing codes
- Safety procedures and troubleshooting techniques
3. Plumbing Apprenticeship
A plumbing apprenticeship is where the real learning happens. It’s a paid, hands on program where you work under a licensed plumber, learning the trade on actual job sites. Most apprenticeships are run through plumbing unions, local trade associations, or directly by plumbing companies.
You’ll continue to learn the technical skills taught in the classroom, but now you’ll be applying them in real situations. This is also the stage where you rack up the hours required to qualify for your plumbing license exam.
4. Licensing and Certification
To work as a plumber in the U.S., you’ll need a license and the steps to get one depend on where you live. Most states follow a basic path: you start as an apprentice, become a journeyman, and later, if you want, a master plumber.
In California, you must register as a plumbing trainee, complete an approved apprenticeship, and then pass the journeyman exam.
In Texas, you’ll begin as a Plumber’s Apprentice, accumulate 8,000 hours of supervised work, and pass the Journeyman Plumber License Exam. Texas also offers a Tradesman Plumber-Limited license for those with 4,000 hours of residential-only experience.
These exams usually include both written and hands-on parts, testing your knowledge of plumbing systems, codes, and safety. Prep time can range from a few weeks to a few months.
To move beyond the journeyman level, many states require you to apply for a Master Plumber License. States like Illinois and Georgia offer a Master Plumber License, but you’ll need a few years of journeyman experience first.
Plumbing License Timeline Snapshot
| Training Stage | Time Frame |
| High School Diploma or GED | 4 years (standard high school) |
| Vocational/Trade School (optional) | 6 months to 2 years |
| Plumbing Apprenticeship | 2 to 5 years |
| Journeyman License Preparation & Exam | A few weeks to a few months |
| Master Plumber License (after journeyman) | 1 to 5 additional years (varies by state) |
Is It Worth It?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, plumbing jobs are expected to grow steadily through 2032. Entry-level licensed plumbers can earn between $45,000 and $55,000 per year, with the potential for much more as you gain experience or start your own business.
How and Where to Apply for a Plumbing License in the U.S.?
To apply for a plumbing license in the U.S., you’ll typically need to register with your state’s licensing board or department of labor. The application process usually involves submitting proof of completed apprenticeship hours, passing the Journeyman Plumber Exam, and paying a licensing fee.
You can apply online through state portals like the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, California Contractors State License Board, or New York City Department of Buildings.
The cost to apply varies by state, but most plumbing license applications range from $75 to $300, with additional fees for exams and renewals.
Ready to Start Your Plumbing Career?
Becoming a licensed plumber in the U.S. takes time, effort, and the right training, but it’s a career path that pays off. Whether you choose to attend a plumbing trade school or go straight into an apprenticeship, each step brings you closer to your goal. Once you pass the journeyman plumber license exam and get certified, you’re officially ready to start working.
On average, a newly licensed plumber in the U.S. can earn around $45,000 to $55,000 per year, with opportunities to grow as you gain more experience. If you’re serious about a hands on, stable, and in demand career, the path to becoming a certified plumber is definitely worth the journey.
