How to Become a Plumber
Learn how to become a plumber with this step-by-step guide, covering education, apprenticeships, certifications, salaries, and career opportunities.
If you’ve ever wondered how to become a plumber, you’re not alone. Plumbing is a career that offers stability, hands-on problem-solving, and high earning potential without requiring a four-year degree. With homes and businesses always needing repairs and new installations, licensed plumbers are in constant demand. Whether you’re a high school graduate exploring trade schools or a career changer seeking a stable path, plumbing could be your ticket to financial security. This guide walks you through the education, training, licensing, and salary expectations so you’ll know exactly what it takes to succeed in this growing trade.
Education and Training Requirements
Imagine being fresh out of high school and unsure whether college is the right path. One option many overlook is pursuing plumbing through vocational programs or trade schools. To become a plumber, you typically need at least a high school diploma or GED. Courses in algebra, geometry, and physics can provide a strong foundation since plumbers often work with measurements, pressure systems, and technical diagrams. From there, aspiring plumbers often enroll in a technical college or trade school to learn the basics of pipe systems, water supply, and safety codes. While classroom education is important, much of the training is hands-on. Programs usually last 6 months to 2 years depending on specialization. Apprenticeships, however, are where most plumbers learn the trade. These paid positions combine on-the-job experience with classroom instruction, usually lasting four to five years.
| Pathway | Typical Duration | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Trade School/College | 6–24 months | Foundation knowledge, faster entry |
| Apprenticeship | 4–5 years | Paid training, industry experience |
Licensing and Certification
What if you’ve completed training—what’s next? To legally work as a plumber in most states, you must earn a license. Requirements vary, but they often involve completing a certain number of apprenticeship hours, passing an exam, and sometimes undergoing a background check. The licensing exam typically covers plumbing codes, state laws, and hands-on troubleshooting. Specialized certifications can also boost career opportunities. For example, certifications in green plumbing or medical gas systems can make you more attractive to employers or allow you to command higher rates as an independent contractor. Continuing education may be required to keep licenses active, ensuring plumbers stay updated with changes in building codes and safety regulations.
Warning: Working without a proper license can lead to hefty fines, loss of clients, and even legal consequences. Always verify your state’s specific requirements before practicing.
FAQ: Can I transfer my plumbing license to another state? In most cases, licenses do not transfer directly, but some states have reciprocity agreements. You may need to retake exams or provide proof of prior training.
Salary and Career Outlook
Have you ever wondered how much plumbers actually make? Salaries vary by location, experience, and specialization, but the earning potential is strong. According to labor statistics, the median salary for plumbers in the United States is around $60,000 per year, with top earners exceeding $90,000 annually. Independent contractors or business owners can earn even more, sometimes into six figures, by managing their own teams and contracts. The career outlook is also promising. As infrastructure ages and new construction continues, demand for skilled plumbers is expected to grow by about 2%–5% over the next decade. Specialized fields like pipefitting for commercial projects or installing eco-friendly systems may see faster growth.
| Experience Level | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Apprentice | $30,000–$40,000 |
| Licensed Plumber | $50,000–$70,000 |
| Master Plumber | $75,000–$100,000+ |
Steps to Building a Long-Term Plumbing Career
Picture yourself 10 years into your plumbing career—how do you keep growing? The first step is completing your apprenticeship and passing your licensing exam. From there, plumbers can decide whether to specialize, work for a company, or start their own business. Many plumbers pursue additional certifications, opening doors to high-paying niches like industrial systems, gas fitting, or eco-friendly water technologies. Networking and joining professional organizations such as the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) can provide mentorship and job leads. As your reputation builds, opportunities for advancement expand. Some move into supervisory or inspector roles, while others take the entrepreneurial route and open plumbing businesses, hiring apprentices of their own.
Warning: Running your own plumbing business can be lucrative but requires knowledge of accounting, marketing, and business law in addition to plumbing expertise.
FAQ: Can plumbers eventually transition into teaching or inspection roles? Yes, experienced plumbers often become vocational instructors or building inspectors, offering steady work and less physically demanding responsibilities.
Learning how to become a plumber is more than just understanding pipes and water systems—it’s about education, licensing, hands-on experience, and building a career that can grow with you. With high salaries, steady demand, and opportunities for specialization, plumbing offers a reliable career path for those ready to commit to the training. Whether you aim to join a company or run your own business, the plumbing trade provides both financial security and personal satisfaction.