How Long Does It Take to Become a Plumber?

 

Well, that depends. One can become a journeyman plumber by completing one or two years of apprenticeship and an additional 12-24 months of plumbing experience. To be eligible for a master plumber examination, it is a requirement to have 12-60 months of professional experience in plumbing work. In this article you'll find out what education is needed to become a plumber!

The duration varies by state. During plumbing training, individuals learn subjects such as safe use of tools and equipment, household piping, reading blueprints, welding, designing piping systems, and plumbing codes. 

Most professions require hard work and dedication to studying. The plumbing industry is a multi-billion dollar industry and as such is no exception: education, experience, and professionalism are important for success in this field. 

Determination is a characteristic of success in a career as a plumber. In order to have impeccable control of plumbing work and acquire the various skills associated with it, it is necessary for someone to successfully enroll in and complete a plumbing work program. Such programs are offered at public schools and vocational training centers. 

Another option is to apply for an apprenticeship program in plumbing work. There are no shortcuts, to advance in this career and achieve high professional titles, one must be willing to go through the formal structure.

Future plumbers have exciting opportunities and solid growth ahead of them. Therefore, it is important to have a clear career roadmap as they navigate through the journey of becoming a plumber. A career as a plumber has few options, which means that setting individual goals determines which path you follow. The length of time it takes to complete plumbing training varies.

A typical trade school plumbing program lasts about two years. Completing a trade school program gives you flexibility upon successful completion. This is because there are numerous places to work afterwards. However, successfully completing plumbing training usually takes two to five years. In most cases, plumbing work is sponsored by companies and unions. While participating in an apprenticeship program may be less flexible in terms of job opportunities, it has the advantage of receiving a salary while undergoing training.

The two types of plumbers are discussed in detail below.

Journeyman Plumber

To become a journeyman program, it is a requirement that they complete a 5-year training program. In these 5 years, they are expected to have completed 246 hours of training. After meeting the experience requirements of your state, which may also include paid training hours, you become eligible for a plumber's exam. You receive a license after passing a journeyman's license exam. There are states that require individuals to complete continuing education to renew their license. Some people choose to work as a plumber throughout their entire career. However, to become a master plumber, they will need to continue their education.

Master Plumber

People who want to take on supervisory roles and earn a master plumber status should learn more about the designation of master plumber. They must score adequately in practical and written exams. It is a requirement that they have at least two years of work experience as a plumber. While becoming a master plumber has lucrative and good career opportunities, things like liability insurance will be among increased responsibilities.

The costs of plumbing programs depend on your area of concentration. While an associate degree in plumbing technology will cost you around $3000-$23000, a certificate program of the same will cost $1250-$3000.