How to Become a Plumber:
The Definitive Guide

What is a Plumber?

Plumbers install and repair pipes that carry liquids such as water, or gases into and out of homes and businesses.

Plumbers also install and repair sinks, toilets, water heaters, and so much more.

The job will take you inside and outdoors, so being comfortable in both atmospheres is a plus.

This is a job where you’ll get dirty, so if you’re worried about germs, maybe you want to steer clear of a career as a plumber.

Duties

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Salary

In the United States, the average plumbers salary is around $55,000.

When you first start out, you can make roughly $48,000, but when you get more experience you can make up to $63,000.

Salary ranges depend on education, certifications, specific skill sets, and the number of years you’ve worked as a plumber.

• Annually
• Monthly
• Hourly

*Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey.
Conducted by: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Department of Labor.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

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How to Become a Plumber

Step 1Get an Education

The first step that you are going to want to take in order to become a plumber is to get your high school diploma or GED.

You’ll want to have basic knowledge of reading, science, math, and writing.

This job requires you to make accurate measurements, so a proficiency in algebra, metric units of measure, and geometry will suit you well.

Other factors that may hinder you from becoming a plumber are hits on your record.

So, try and steer clear of DUI’s, reckless driving convictions, misdemeanors, felonies and failed drug tests.

Step 2Find a Technical Program

After you graduate or get your GED, finding a technical school will help you toward your career of choice.

Many states require that you put in a certain number of hours in the classroom in order to become a licensed plumber.

You can find programs at community colleges, trade institutes, and even the Professional Plumbing Association.

Each state may have different requirements for what type of classes you’ll need to take.

Typically, you’ll take classes like:

• Draining and venting
• Local plumbing codes
• Water heating systems
• Pipe cutting

Step 3Become an Apprentice

Most states also require that you start out as an apprentice before you can be a licensed plumber.

Some apprenticeships can take two years, while others can take up to five.

One of the good things about doing an apprenticeship, is that you can start while you are still in school.

To find where you can go for an apprenticeship, check out your trade school or organization, they can lead you in the right direction.

You can also check with local plumbing businesses to see if they are hiring apprentices.

Step 4Get Licensed

After you finish those long years of job shadowing, you’ll finally be able to get your license.

Except, you’ll have to take a test.

Most places expect you to take a written exam and a practical exam, before you can become licensed.

Once you pass the test, you are now a licensed plumber!

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Education

You need to enroll in a technical program to become a plumber.

After a year in school, you’ll be required to do an apprenticeship for on the job training.

This can take you around five years to complete, depending on where you want to work.

It’s possible to begin your apprenticeship while you’re still in school.

Video About The Career

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Licensing

After you complete your apprenticeship, you’ll be required to take a test before getting your plumbing license.

This exam will include written and practical tests that show your strengths and knowledge about the field.

Once you pass the test, you will be a licensed plumber!

Certification Example:

Average Training Program Duration: 4+ Years

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Job Outlook

The job outlook for plumbers is great.

The career is on the rise, and in the next ten years will climb 16%.

New homes and new businesses will increase the need for plumbers.

Employment Growth Projection: 5%

That's a higher than average projected growth of 23,300 jobs.

Plumber: Interest Over Time

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Should You Become a Plumber?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How much does a plumber make?

Typically, a plumber makes around $48,000 a year. Those that have more experience and education can make more.

Q. How to become a licensed plumber?

You must do an apprenticeship for up to five years, and once you have completed your training, you’ll be required to take an exam.

This exam will allow you to become a licensed plumber if you pass it.

Q. How long does it take to become a plumber?

It can take up to five years to become a plumber.

Q. What does a plumber do?

A plumber fixes pipes, installs new fixtures, repairs appliances, and makes sure everything is up to code.

Q. How much does it cost to become a plumber?

An online training program can cost between $800 and $1,000.

An associate’s degree in plumbing, which can take up to two years, costs around $3,000.

Apprenticeships cost between $0 and $500, depending on where you go.

State licensing can cost between $75, and $300, and need to be renewed every two years.

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Plumber Information by State

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