How to Become a Licensed Plumber
Anyone can be a plumber. However, taking it a step further by becoming a licensed plumber provides access to more lucrative job opportunities. In fact, most areas require you to have a plumbing license before you install, repair, or design plumbing systems.
Licensed plumbers enjoy steady demand, competitive pay, and the ability to specialize in areas like residential repair, commercial systems, and green technologies. This guide explains exactly how to become a licensed plumber, from training requirements to timelines, costs, and potential earnings.
What Does a Licensed Plumber Do?
A licensed plumber is trained and certified to install, maintain, and repair water, gas, and sewage systems. Depending on the level of licensure, plumbers may work on:
- New construction
- Remodels
- Emergency repairs
- Complex industrial systems
A big part of getting a plumber’s license is learning local codes and safety regulations to make sure every repair and installation goes smoothly.
Plumbing is a smart career path for many people, and getting a plumbing license is the final step in the process.
Do All Plumbers Need a License?
It’s a simple question — do plumbers have to be licensed? And the answer, in most states, is yes. However, licensing requirements vary by state and even by municipality.
Some areas require only a basic journeyman license, while others have multiple licensing levels, including apprentice, journeyman, and master plumber certifications. Check your state’s plumbing board or licensing agency for specific details.
How Do You Get a Plumbing License?
Now that you know you need a plumbing license, you might be wondering — how do you become a licensed plumber? The licensing process typically includes the following steps:
- Earn a high school diploma or GED. You’ll need to know basic math and science to understand plumbing systems.
- Complete a plumbing apprenticeship or trade school program. Apprenticeships combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training under a licensed plumber. These programs often last four to five years and may be offered through unions, employers, or vocational schools.
- Log required work hours. Most states require thousands of documented work hours (often between 6,000-8,000) before you can apply for a journeyman license.
- Pass the licensing exam. Once eligible, you’ll need to pass a state exam that covers plumbing codes, safety standards, system design, and troubleshooting.
- Submit the application and pay the fees. After passing your exam, submit your licensing application and background check and pay any associated fees to your local licensing board. You can now say you’ve become a plumber!
How Long Does It Take to Become a Licensed Plumber?
On average, it takes four to five years to complete an apprenticeship and qualify for a journeyman license. That’s for a basic plumbing license.
Want to know how to become a master plumber? This adds on another one to two years of work experience, and you’ll have to pass a more advanced licensing exam.
Some states allow fast-tracking through trade school programs, but most require extensive hands-on training to ensure you're fully prepared for the job.
How Much Do Licensed Plumbers Make?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a plumber, pipefitter, or steamfitter is $62,970 or $30.27 per hour. However, your salary as a licensed plumber will depend on your experience, location, and specialization.
Union membership, overtime, and specialty certifications can all impact your earning potential.
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Licensed Plumber?
The cost to become a licensed plumber can vary widely depending on the path you choose. Generally, an apprenticeship program is the cheapest way to become a licensed plumber. These programs are free and often pay you an hourly wage while you’re working. If you go to a trade school or community college, expect to pay a few thousand dollars in tuition.
No matter which route you take for your training, everyone has to pay the licensing exam and application fee. Again, this varies depending on where you live, but expect to spend a few hundred dollars on these fees.
Overall, compared to four-year degrees, the cost of becoming a licensed plumber is relatively low.
Is It Worth It to Become a Licensed Plumber?
Becoming a licensed plumber opens the door to better pay, more job security, and increased career flexibility. While the training takes time and effort, there are many long-term benefits you’ll enjoy, including:
- High demand across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors
- Good pay with potential for six-figure earnings
- Minimal student debt, especially with paid apprenticeships
- Flexibility to work for a company or run your own business
Some of the downsides of pursuing a plumbing license include:
- Several years of training and study are required
- May need to complete continuing education every year
- Licensing and registration fees
Even with these cons, becoming a licensed plumber is a smart long-term investment.
Ready to Get Licensed? Let Roto-Rooter Help You Start Strong
If you're serious about a career in plumbing, getting licensed is a crucial step — and one that pays off. With hands-on training, real-world experience, and proper certification, you’ll be well on your way to a reliable and rewarding trade.
A big part of obtaining a plumbing license is on-the-job training, and Roto-Rooter is setting the standard by offering training and apprenticeship programs for future plumbers. To learn more about plumbing as a career, contact Roto-Rooter today.