Are you looking for a hands-on career with a clear path for advancement and steady demand in the job market? Becoming a plumber might be the right choice for you.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for plumbers is projected to grow by 2% from 2022 to 2032, with an average of about 40,000 job openings each year. This indicates a stable and promising career outlook—especially for those who want to enter the workforce by developing practical, in-demand skills.

In the following sections, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of how to become a licensed plumber in the U.S., starting from scratch.

Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED

In the U.S., the first requirement to become a qualified plumber is to have a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. (If you don't have a diploma, an official, stamped copy of your certified high school transcript may be accepted as an alternative.)

💡 Recommended Subjects: Focus on courses like math (especially algebra and geometry), science (such as physics), and computer-aided design (CAD). These subjects will help build a strong foundation for reading blueprints and performing accurate system measurements later on.

If your school offers electives related to heating systems, electrical schematics, or architectural drafting, it's highly recommended to take them. These courses can provide a valuable foundation for further specialized training.

Step 2: Receive Formal Training

After meeting the basic education requirement, the next critical step is to undergo formal, structured training. This phase is essential for building hands-on skills and preparing for future licensing exams and job opportunities.

You can choose one of the two main training paths based on your goals and circumstances:

📘 Trade School

Trade or vocational schools typically offer full-time or evening courses that last from 6 months to 2 years. These programs focus on essential plumbing knowledge and may include:

• Plumbing system fundamentals
  

• Safety codes and construction standards
  

• Reading blueprints and plumbing diagrams
  

• Installation and maintenance of water supply and drainage systems
  

This option is ideal for individuals who want to quickly gain foundational knowledge and enter the workforce in a shorter time frame.

🛠️ Apprenticeship

This path is typically offered by unions, employers, or industry associations and usually lasts 3 to 5 years. You’ll learn on the job under the supervision of an experienced licensed plumber, while also completing several hundred hours of classroom instruction each year.

To apply, you’ll typically need:

• A high school diploma or GED

• Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license, Social Security card)

• Some programs may also require passing a basic math and reading assessment

After completing your apprenticeship, you'll be eligible to take the licensing exam and will have acquired real-world, hands-on experience.

Trade School vs. Apprenticeship: At a Glance

Many aspiring plumbers opt to enter an apprenticeship directly. It’s a great way to earn while you learn, gain practical experience, and start building valuable industry connections—all of which are crucial for passing licensing exams and securing future employment.

Step 3: Get Licensed

After completing your apprenticeship, you’ll meet the basic qualifications to apply for a plumbing license. In the U.S., most states and cities require plumbers to hold a valid license before they can work independently. Earning your license is a key milestone that marks your transition from trainee to professional.

📋 Common License Levels

🛠️ Basic Requirements for Licensing

To apply for a plumbing license, most states require:

1. 2 to 5 years of relevant work experience (typically gained during your apprenticeship)

2. Completion of the required classroom training hours

3. Passing a written and/or practical exam administered by your state or local licensing authority. Exam topics often include:

• Plumbing codes and industry regulations

• Building and health safety standards

• Installation, repair, and system troubleshooting practices
  

📍 License Requirements by State – Examples

💡 Tip: Use the Contractor’s License Lookup to check the exact licensing requirements in your state.

🔄 Reminder: Most states require plumbers to renew their licenses periodically. Some also mandate continuing education hours to ensure that plumbers stay up to date with the latest codes, safety standards, and technologies.

Step 4: Start Working

Once you have completed all your training and obtained your plumbing license, you’re ready to officially begin your career in the plumbing industry.

You can find work in various sectors, such as:

• 🏡 Residential Projects: From using a plumbing camera to diagnose issues, to repairing pipes and installing plumbing systems in new homes.

• 🏢 Commercial Projects: Installing and maintaining plumbing systems in malls, schools, hospitals, and other commercial facilities.
  🏭 Industrial Projects: Handling piping assembly and maintenance in factories, warehouses, energy plants, and other specialized high-pressure systems.

As you gain experience, you can advance your career by becoming:

• A senior plumber or team supervisor

• An independent contractor managing your projects

• A plumbing instructor or safety officer on job sites

📈 Currently, many states across the U.S. are facing a shortage of skilled tradespeople, especially in residential and commercial construction. The demand for technically skilled plumbers continues to grow. For licensed professionals like you, this represents a career with strong growth potential.

Summary

Becoming a qualified plumber is not an overnight achievement, but with dedication and persistence, you can follow a clear and attainable career path—from basic education and apprenticeship training to licensing and full employment.

Whether you’re planning your future or looking to transition into a skilled trade, mastering this practical skill will provide you with stable job prospects and ongoing opportunities for growth.

Start now to lay a solid foundation for your career as a professional plumber.

FAQ

What Tools do Plumbers Typically Use?

Plumbers use a wide variety of tools, ranging from traditional pipe wrenches and pliers to advanced tools such as torches and pressure testers, and a sewer camera (which quickly and efficiently identifies leaks, clogs, and damage).

How Can Sewer Cameras Help with Plumbing Projects?

Sewer cameras allow you to visually inspect the inside of drains and sewers without removing walls or digging trenches. It helps diagnose the exact location and nature of the problem, thus saving time, labor, and guesswork.

Do Only Experienced Plumbers Use Sewer Cameras?

A: Not really. While experienced plumbers may use them more frequently, even apprentices can assist in the operation of a sewer line camera under supervision.