- A plumbing apprenticeship typically takes four to five years to complete and combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
- You'll work under the supervision of a licensed plumber and learn the trade from the ground up, including:
- Installing, maintaining, and repairing pipes and fixtures
- Reading blueprints
- Troubleshooting plumbing problems
- Journeyman Plumber
- After completing an apprenticeship, you can take the journeyman plumber licensing exam. Once you pass the exam, you'll be able to work as a licensed plumber.
Trade school or community college
- A plumbing certification or associate's degree program typically takes two to three years to complete and provides you with the skills and knowledge you need to work as a plumber.
- Coursework includes:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Blueprint reading
- Plumbing systems design
- Practical training in plumbing techniques
Vocational school
- A vocational school or technical institute can provide you with the training you need to become a plumber.
- Programs typically last six months to one year and cover topics such as:
- Basic plumbing skills
- Pipe fitting
- Soldering
- Water heater repair