Start as an Apprentice: The Non-Negotiable First Step
To become a licensed plumber, you must first register as an apprentice under a licensed contractor. This is the universal entry point across all 50 states, including Texas and Colorado. In Texas, you must fill out paperwork, pay fees, and receive an apprentice registration card before working on any job. Without this card, you are not legally allowed to work.
Apprenticeships typically last 4 to 5 years, requiring 6,800 to 8,000 hours of documented work under a licensed plumber. In Washington, you must spend at least 4,000 hours as a plumber trainee, with 2,000 hours in commercial or industrial installations. Some states like Massachusetts demand hundreds of classroom hours in addition to practical experience.
Journeyman License: Prove Your Skills
After completing your apprenticeship, you can apply for a journeyman license. Most states require 4 years (6,800–8,000 hours) of experience and passing a written and practical exam. In Virginia, you can qualify with 4 years of experience plus 240 hours of vocational training, or 5 years with 160 hours. The exam in Virginia is 210 minutes long, costs $100, and requires 60 correct answers out of 80 questions.
In Wisconsin, you must complete an approved apprenticeship program and demonstrate classroom education and work experience before earning a journeyman credential. Some states like Indiana mandate a state-issued license to perform any plumbing work.
Master Plumber: Run Your Own Business
To become a master plumber, you need additional experience—typically 5 years total or 1 year as a journeyman. In Colorado, you can apply after 5 years total; in Virginia, just 1 year as a journeyman qualifies you. The master exam in Virginia costs $125, is also 210 minutes, and requires 60 correct answers out of 80.
Master plumbers must pass trade and business exams, provide proof of bonding, insurance, and financial stability. In Florida, a state-certified license allows you to work anywhere in the state, but you must pass the state licensing exam.
State Variations and Key Requirements
Licensing requirements vary wildly by state. Experience ranges from 4,000 to 8,000 hours (2–4 years). Some states like Massachusetts have stringent classroom hour mandates, while others have no formal education prerequisites. In Indiana, you must be a resident, at least 18 years old, and provide proof of 4 years in an approved apprenticeship or plumbing business.
Continuing education is often required for renewal. In Texas, all licensees must complete 6 hours of continuing professional education annually. Licenses renew annually, and if expired over 2 years, you must reinstate by re-registering as an apprentice.
Wages, Growth, and Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for plumbers is $61,550, with a projected 5% growth from 2022 to 2032. There are approximately 45,000 annual job openings nationwide. OSHA emphasizes safety training, as plumbing work involves exposure to hazardous materials and environments.
Joining a union or apprenticeship board can accelerate your path. Contact local plumbing companies directly to find opportunities, and decide whether you want to be commercial, residential, union, or non-union.