How to Become a Plumber

Plumbers install and repair piping systems that carry water, gas, and waste in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. The work includes reading blueprints, cutting and fitting pipes, installing fixtures, and ensuring compliance with plumbing codes. Plumbers also handle drainage systems, water heaters, and gas lines. Specializations within plumbing include residential service, commercial construction, pipefitting, steamfitting, and medical gas installation. Many plumbers advance to supervisory roles or start their own businesses. Licensure is required in most jurisdictions. Plumbing is a recession-resistant trade — people always need functioning water and waste systems. The combination of steady demand, high earning potential, and the ability to work independently makes plumbing one of the most attractive skilled trades.

Two Paths to This Career

Trade School Path

Typical duration: 9-24 months

Plumbing trade school programs cover pipe fitting, soldering, blueprint reading, plumbing codes, and drainage system design. Students gain hands-on experience installing fixtures, water heaters, and piping systems in realistic lab settings. Programs also cover safety procedures, tool usage, and basic business skills. Graduates are prepared for entry-level plumbing positions and can apply classroom hours toward journeyman license requirements in most states.

Apprenticeship Path

Typical duration: 4-5 years

Plumbing apprenticeships provide paid on-the-job training alongside classroom instruction over 4-5 years. Apprentices learn residential and commercial plumbing installation, repair, and maintenance under the supervision of licensed plumbers. The UA (United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters) operates one of the largest apprenticeship programs. Apprentices progress from basic tasks to complex system installations, with wages increasing at regular intervals. Completion qualifies apprentices for journeyman licensure.

Career Progression & Earnings

Typical earning trajectory for a plumber. Wages vary by location, employer, and experience.

Apprentice

Entry level — learning on the job

$15.00/hr

~$31,200/yr

Journeyman

Certified — working independently

$30.46/hr

~$63,357/yr

Master / Senior

Experienced — may supervise others

$43.00/hr

~$89,440/yr

Source: BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, May 2023. Annual estimates based on 2,080 hours/year.

School vs. Apprenticeship

Two paths to becoming a Plumber. Here's how they compare.

Factor	Trade School	Apprenticeship
Cost	Tuition varies by school	$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration	9-24 months	4-5 years
Earnings During Training	No (student)	Yes ($15.00/hr starting)
Credential	Certificate or Associate's	Journeyman certification
Job Placement	Varies by school	Often hired by training sponsor

Source: BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, May 2023

Job Outlook

Plumber employment is projected to grow steadily, driven by new construction, building renovation, and the need to replace aging water infrastructure. Water efficiency regulations and green building standards are creating additional demand for skilled plumbers. The trade consistently ranks among the hardest positions for employers to fill, indicating strong job security.