Plumbing is an essential and high-paying trade that offers job stability, excellent career growth, and competitive salaries. With an increasing demand for skilled tradespeople, becoming a licensed plumber in 2025 can be a lucrative and rewarding career choice.
Whether starting from scratch or transitioning from another field, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about becoming a plumber, including education, apprenticeships, licensing, and career advancement opportunities.
Table of Contents
What Does a Plumber Do?
Plumbers install, repair, and maintain piping systems that supply water and gas and remove waste in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Some specialized areas within plumbing include:
- Residential Plumbing: Home plumbing systems, faucets, sinks, toilets, and drain cleaning.
- Commercial Plumbing: Large-scale plumbing systems in businesses, schools, and hospitals.
- Pipefitting & Steamfitting: Work with high-pressure pipes in industrial settings.
- Green Plumbing: Water-saving systems and eco-friendly installations.
- Gas Line Installation: Installing gas pipes for stoves, heating, and commercial use.
How to Become a Plumber: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Meet the Educational Requirements
- Do you need a diploma? Most states require a high school diploma or GED.
- Recommended high school subjects:
- Mathematics (Algebra & Geometry for pipe measurements)
- Science (Physics & Chemistry for water systems)
- Technical & Mechanical Skills (Blueprint reading, shop classes)
Step 2: Enroll in a Plumbing Training Program (Optional but Recommended)
- Attending trade school can accelerate your training.
- Program duration: 6 months – 2 years.
- Cost: $1,000 – $10,000 (varies by location and program).
- Benefits: Hands-on training, fewer required apprenticeship hours, and networking opportunities.
- Top Plumbing Trade Schools in the U.S.:
- PHCC Academy of Plumbing
- Penn Foster Plumbing Program (Online)
- Local community colleges & trade schools
Step 3: Apply for a Plumbing Apprenticeship
- An apprenticeship provides paid on-the-job training under licensed plumbers.
- Typical Duration: 4-5 years (8,000 – 10,000 work hours).
- Starting Salary: $15 – $25 per hour.
- Where to Find Apprenticeships:
- Union Programs: United Association (UA) Local Trade Unions.
- Non-Union Employers: Private plumbing companies.
- Community Colleges: Many offer state-approved apprenticeship programs.
- Online Job Boards: Apprenticeship.gov, Indeed, LinkedIn.
Step 4: Gain Hands-On Experience
- Apprentices work under supervision, learning:
- Pipe installation and repair
- Reading blueprints and plumbing codes
- Safety procedures and troubleshooting skills
- Most states require 4,000 to 10,000 work hours before licensing.
Step 5: Get Your Plumbing License
- Why is a plumbing license important?
- State-by-state plumbing license requirements.
- How to apply for a plumbing license exam.
- What to expect on the plumbing license test.
- Cost and renewal process.
Step 6: Work as a Journeyman Plumber
- What is a journeyman plumber?
- Responsibilities and job opportunities.
- How long do you need to work before getting a master plumber license?
Step 7: Become a Master Plumber or Start Your Own Business
- Requirements to become a master plumber.
- How to start a plumbing business.
- Business licensing, marketing, and customer acquisition tips.
How to Get a Plumbing License
- Plumbing license requirements by state.
- Licensing exam overview (common topics and study tips).
- How much does a plumbing license cost?
- How often do you need to renew a plumbing license?
- What happens if you work as a plumber without a license?
How Long Does It Take to Become a Plumber?
- How trade school vs. apprenticeships impact the timeline.
- Factors that can shorten or extend the process.
- Fastest way to become a plumber.
Salary & Career Outlook for Plumbers
- Entry-Level (Apprentice): $35,000 – $50,000 per year.
- Journeyman Plumber: $50,000 – $75,000 per year.
- Master Plumber/Contractor: $90,000 – $120,000+ per year.
- Self-employed plumbers can earn over $150,000 annually, depending on location and clientele.
- Best-paying states for plumbers.
- Plumbing industry job outlook for 2025 and beyond.
Alternative Career Paths in Plumbing
- Other jobs in the plumbing industry:
- Pipefitter
- Steamfitter
- Water treatment specialist
- Gas line installer
- How to transition from plumbing to HVAC, electrical, or construction management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a license to work as a plumber?
Most states require plumbers to be licensed to perform plumbing work legally.
Can I become a plumber without going to trade school?
Yes! Trade school is optional, but an apprenticeship is required in most states.
How much does it cost to become a plumber?
The cost varies but can range from $1,000 – $10,000 for training and licensing.
What’s the fastest way to become a plumber?
Apprenticeship is the quickest route, and attending trade school can shorten the process.
Do plumbers make good money?
Yes, plumbers earn between $50,000 to $120,000+ per year based on experience and location.
Is plumbing a physically demanding job?
Plumbing involves physical labor, including lifting, bending, and working in tight spaces.
Becoming a licensed plumber in 2025 offers job stability, excellent earnings, and career growth opportunities. The process involves education, apprenticeships, licensing exams, and gaining hands-on experience.
If you’re ready to start your career, apply for apprenticeship programs or check your state’s licensing board for requirements.
