How Long Does It Take to Become a Plumber?
If you’ve been considering a career in the skilled trades, plumbing is a stable and rewarding option. Many people wonder how long it takes to become a plumber, especially if their goal is to get licensed and advance to a journeyman plumber, or even higher levels in the trade. The timeline depends on training, education, and meeting specific state requirements, but the good news is that this path offers a clear roadmap for success.
Steps to Becoming a Plumber
Unlike traditional four-year college degrees, construction careers like plumbing rely on hands-on learning. To move from beginner to certified and eventually licensed plumber, you’ll follow a series of steps:
- High School Diploma or GED – Most states require this as the minimum education level.
- Trade School or Apprenticeship – Many start by enrolling in a technical program or joining an apprenticeship with a union or contractor. Apprenticeships typically last 4–5 years and include classroom instruction as well as on-the-job training.
- Hands-On Experience – Apprentices work under supervision, gaining skills in installation, repair, and system design.
- Journeyman Plumber Exam – After completing training, apprentices test to become a journeyman plumber, which makes them eligible for higher pay and independent work opportunities.
Timeline to Becoming a Journeyman Plumber
On average, it takes about 4–5 years to complete an apprenticeship and pass the necessary exams. This includes both classroom hours and thousands of on-the-job training hours. Once you’ve put in this time and passed the exam, you can become a certified and licensed journeyman plumber.
Some states may allow fast-tracking for individuals with prior construction or mechanical experience. However, the majority of candidates still take several years to gain the expertise required for licensing.
Why Licensing Matters
Becoming a licensed plumber opens the door to more job opportunities and higher pay. Without a license, you may be limited to working under supervision. With it, you can take on independent work, supervise apprentices, or even start your own business.
Employers and customers alike value a certified plumber because it guarantees a certain level of skill and professionalism. Licensing also ensures you’re up to date on safety codes and regulations, which are essential in construction and residential work.
Career Growth Beyond Journeyman
After gaining experience as a journeyman plumber, you can continue your construction career journey:
- Master Plumber – With additional years of experience and another exam, you can reach the highest level in the trade.
- Specializations – Many plumbers specialize in areas such as pipefitting, steamfitting, or green plumbing technology.
- Leadership Roles – Experienced plumbers may move into foreman, supervisor, or project manager positions.
Start Your Plumbing Career with NCW
If you’re ready to begin your journey toward becoming a journeyman plumber, NCW can help. Our team connects candidates with apprenticeships, entry-level plumbing jobs, and career advancement opportunities across the country.
👉 Reach out to NCW recruiting services today to find the right construction job and start building your future.