Plumber Training & Apprenticeship Guide

Updated October 29, 2025 Table of Contents

Keep homes, businesses, and cities running smoothly.
Plumbers install, maintain, and repair piping systems that carry water, gas, and waste. This 2025 guide explains how to become a licensed plumber through accredited programs and paid apprenticeships.

What Does a Plumber Do?

Plumbers ensure the safe flow of water and gas by assembling, repairing, and testing piping systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

Typical responsibilities include:

Reading blueprints and interpreting plumbing layouts
Installing and connecting pipes, valves, and fixtures
Inspecting and repairing leaks, clogs, and drainage issues
Maintaining water heaters, pumps, and filtration systems
Following building codes and safety standards
Collaborating with contractors, electricians, and HVAC specialists

Plumbers work in new construction, renovation, and maintenance environments, often with opportunities for overtime or self-employment.

What You’ll Learn in Plumber School

Plumbing programs teach mechanical, technical, and safety skills to prepare students for certification and on-the-job performance.

Core topics include:

Pipefitting & Blueprint Reading: Layouts for water, gas, and drainage systems
Tools & Materials: Proper use of plumbing tools, adhesives, and piping materials
Drainage & Vent Systems: Installation and troubleshooting of waste lines
Water Supply Systems: Pressure, flow, and backflow prevention
Building Codes & Regulations: National and local plumbing codes (UPC/IPC)
Safety & Soldering Techniques: OSHA compliance and material joining methods

Most programs include lab sessions and supervised fieldwork for hands-on experience.

Education & Apprenticeship Options

Plumbing careers typically begin with technical training followed by a registered apprenticeship.

Training pathways include:

Certificate or Diploma Programs (6–12 months): Basic plumbing systems and code preparation
Associate Degree (2 years): Combines trade skills with project management and design courses
Apprenticeship Programs (4–5 years): Paid, structured training combining classroom instruction and job-site experience
Online or Hybrid Courses: For working professionals or continuing education

Many states require completion of an approved apprenticeship before licensing.

Skills You’ll Need to Succeed

Plumbers must combine physical skill with technical understanding and problem-solving.

Top skills include:

Mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity
Knowledge of codes, safety, and building systems
Problem-solving and spatial awareness
Physical stamina for working in tight or elevated spaces
Customer service and communication skills

Reliability and precision are essential in both residential and commercial work.

Certification & Licensing

All states require plumbers to be licensed, with specific requirements depending on location.

Typical steps:

Complete an accredited training program or apprenticeship
Accumulate supervised work experience (usually 4–5 years)
Pass a state journeyman plumber exam covering codes and safety
Renew your license periodically with continuing education

Optional credentials:

Master Plumber License: For supervising or owning a plumbing business
OSHA Safety Certification: Workplace and construction safety training
Backflow Prevention Certification: Specialized credential for water systems
Green Plumber USA Certification: Focused on eco-friendly plumbing practices

Licensing ensures plumbers meet state safety and technical standards.

How to Become a Plumber

Earn a high school diploma or GED with math and science coursework
Complete plumbing trade school or pre-apprenticeship training
Apply for a state-approved apprenticeship
Gain supervised work experience while earning wages
Pass the journeyman licensing exam
Advance to master plumber or contractor status

Plumbers can also specialize in pipefitting, steamfitting, or gas line installation.

Median Pay (2024) $62,970 $30.27 per hour

Job Outlook (2024–2034) 4.5% +22,700 jobs (2024–2034) • 44,000 annual openings

Mean Pay (2024)

$69,940 per year $33.63 per hour

Wage Percentiles

10th Percentile $40,670

$19.55 per hour

25th Percentile $48,860

$23.49 per hour

75th Percentile $81,900

$39.37 per hour

90th Percentile $105,150

$50.55 per hour

Employment Outlook

2024 504,500

2034 527,200

Employment: 504,500 → 527,200 jobs by 2034 (4.5%)

44,000 projected openings each year

Additional Details

Share of U.S. Employment: 0.3%
Employment per 1,000 Jobs: 2.96
Employment RSE: 1.2%
Projected Annual Openings: 44,000

Plumbing remains one of the most stable and well-paid trades due to ongoing demand for new construction, repairs, and infrastructure upgrades. Licensed plumbers often enjoy steady work and opportunities for self-employment.

Professional Associations & Resources

Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC): Apprenticeship and training resources
United Association (UA): Union apprenticeship programs and certifications
National Inspection Testing and Certification (NITC): Plumbing and gas testing credentials
American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE): Professional development and networking

Career Paths

Experienced plumbers may specialize or advance into:

Journeyman or Master Plumber
Pipefitter or Steamfitter
Plumbing Contractor or Business Owner
Project Supervisor or Building Inspector
Plumbing Design Engineer (with additional education)

With experience, many plumbers transition into leadership or start their own contracting firms.

Find Plumber Training & Apprenticeship Programs Near You

Ready to start your plumbing career?
Compare accredited plumbing trade schools and apprenticeship programs near you to begin training for this essential and high-demand trade.

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