In the United States, there are two ways to become a plumber: as an apprentice or by attending trade school. Each state has its own rules for licensing plumbers, with some requiring a license for all types of plumbers and others requiring a license only for residential and commercial plumbers. Plumbers can work for themselves, for a plumbing service company, for the government, or for construction companies.
You must be at least 16 years old, physically fit, and have high school math and English credits to become a plumbing apprentice. Once you’ve completed your education, contact your local plumbers’ trade union to see if any employers are looking for apprentices. Make certain you’ll be working under the supervision of a licensed plumber.
Meet with potential employers and explain your level of experience as well as your position in the apprenticeship program. State regulations vary, but all apprentice programs require a certain number of hours of experience and the completion of plumbing and business courses before becoming a plumber. To become a plumber in this manner, it takes an average of six years of full-time work and part-time schooling.
A formal education program is combined with work experience terms to provide the required practical experience in a trade school. A trade school program will require more education, but it will allow you to become a licensed plumber in two to three years.
Because the number of privately arranged apprentice opportunities is limited, the vast majority of plumbers qualify by attending a trade school. If you want to be a plumber, inquire at your local plumbing union about “job shadowing” a plumber to learn more about what they do. Keep in mind that there are various types of plumbers, so do your research ahead of time.
The requirement for plumber licensing varies by state, with some requiring all plumbers to be licensed while others do not. Read your state’s licensing requirements before becoming a plumber. In some states, such as Minnesota, all plumbers are required to pass a plumbing licensing exam.
The applicants’ knowledge of the state plumbing code, basic plumbing knowledge, technical math, and safety is tested on the written exam. These requirements are intended to protect consumers while also raising the overall quality of plumbing contractors’ abilities. A plumber can be anyone with technical aptitude, manual dexterity, and a desire to learn.
Plumbing can lead to a well-paying and in-demand job. Continue to expand your skills and experience in different areas of plumbing once you’ve become a plumber. To improve your skills, enroll in drafting, blueprint reading, and business courses.