Trade Career Guide
How to Become a Plumber
Plumbers install and repair the pipes, fixtures, and appliances that carry water, gas, and waste in homes and businesses, working to the IPC or UPC plumbing codes.
Median salary
$62,970
per year · BLS May 2024
Typical range
$40,670–$105,150
~10th–90th percentile
Job outlook
+4%
2024–2034 · About as fast as average
Time to qualify
About 4–5 years through an apprenticeship
Step-by-step: becoming a Plumber
- 1
Be at least 18 with a high school diploma or GED.
- 2
Enter a plumbing apprenticeship (union or non-union) or a trade-school program.
- 3
Complete roughly 8,000 hours of on-the-job training plus code classroom work.
- 4
Pass your state or local Journeyman Plumber licensing exam.
- 5
Apply for your journeyman license.
- 6
Advance to a Master Plumber license with more experience and a further exam.
Typical entry path: Apprenticeship (4–5 years); high school diploma or equivalent; license required in most states.
Ready to pass the Journeyman Plumber exam?
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Salary and job-outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters, SOC 47-2152; OEWS wages May 2024; Occupational Outlook Handbook projections 2024–2034). National medians; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. Verify current figures at bls.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Plumber make?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), the median annual wage for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters is $62,970. Most earn between about $40,670 and $105,150 depending on experience, location, and specialization.
How do you become a Plumber?
Be at least 18 with a high school diploma or GED. Enter a plumbing apprenticeship (union or non-union) or a trade-school program. Complete roughly 8,000 hours of on-the-job training plus code classroom work. Pass your state or local Journeyman Plumber licensing exam. Apply for your journeyman license. Advance to a Master Plumber license with more experience and a further exam.
What is the job outlook for a Plumber?
The BLS projects 4% employment growth for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters over 2024–2034 — about as fast as average for all occupations.
What exam or license does a Plumber need?
Most plumber roles require passing the Journeyman Plumber exam. Typical entry path: Apprenticeship (4–5 years); high school diploma or equivalent; license required in most states.