Plumbing apprenticeships: how they work
A plumbing apprenticeship is the most common way into the trade. You work for a plumbing employer, earn a wage from day one and attend classes at night, usually for four to five years. When you finish you are a journey-level plumber with no student loans.
What you do as an apprentice
You spend most of your time on job sites with licensed plumbers, learning to install and repair pipes, fixtures, water heaters and drainage, and to read blueprints and follow code. A typical apprenticeship includes about 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training per year plus several hundred hours of technical instruction.
Union and contractor apprenticeships
Union programs are run by United Association (UA) locals with their contractors and train apprentices over five years. Contractor and association programs, such as those run by plumbing-heating-cooling contractor associations, usually take four to five years. Both are paid and both count toward the experience a plumbing license requires.
How to apply
- Find programs in your state on our state pages and contact the training center.
- Ask when the next application window opens. Many programs accept applications only a few weeks a year.
- Prepare for the aptitude test, which usually covers basic algebra and reading.
- Complete the interview, and bring proof of your age, diploma or GED and driver license.
A college or trade school plumbing course before you apply can strengthen your application. Under 25 and need a start? Job Corps prepares students for apprenticeships.
Common questions
How long is a plumbing apprenticeship?
Most last four to five years. Apprentices complete about 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training a year plus classroom instruction.
Do apprentices get paid?
Yes. Apprentices earn wages from the first day and receive raises as they gain hours and finish classes.
What is the difference between a union and a contractor apprenticeship?
Union apprenticeships are run by a UA local and its contractors and place you with union employers. Contractor apprenticeships are run by employer associations or individual companies. Both are paid, and both count toward a license.
What do I need to apply?
Requirements vary by program. Many ask for a high school diploma or GED, a minimum age, a driver license and a passing score on an aptitude test, followed by an interview.