Plumbing license takes roughly 4 to 5 years to acquire depending on whether you are going for part-time or full-time study. When you are done with your plumbing apprenticeship, you will be ready to take on state examination and get licensed. Getting licensed is very important because some states require it for one to perform plumbing duties.
Besides that, licensed plumbers can issue a compliance certificate and cannot be subjected to close supervision. This is because you will have gotten a higher level of education, knowledge, and required experience. Isn’t that amazing?
If you are not licensed or registered, but you continue to perform plumbing duties, you will likely face significant charges and penalties from your specific state authority or VBA. So, it is good to get licensed. Even though it takes time to get licensed, it’s worth it.
Steps To Follow For One To Get Licensed In Plumbing Career:
| Steps | Work To Be Done |
| 1 | Have prerequisite education |
| 2 | Get plumber’s apprenticeship |
| 3 | Take on the state examination |
| 4 | Get licensed |
Getting A Prerequisite Education
Before joining an apprenticeship, you are required to show your basic educational foundation. Your GED will suffice or high school diploma. If you desire to attend an apprentice program or specifically competitive technical college, it’s a brilliant idea to acquire additional experience via the community college coursework. This shows how committed you’re to pursue a plumbing career.
Getting Plumber’s Apprenticeship
You can’t qualify to take on state examination without involvement in an apprenticeship program that runs for around 4 to 5 years, depending on the state. The great news? You still make money as an apprentice plumber. The worst news? You are required to wind up your apprenticeship together with a full schedule of trade school classes at the same time. You have to put on more effort.
Your trade school can decide to help you in finding an apprenticeship, while for others, it’s the opposite. Whichever the way, it’s good to be under the supervision of a master plumber whom your trust, respect, and get along with. Apprenticeship is learning on the work, and some master plumbers will be better at coaching you than others. So, it’s great to seek recommendations.
Your state might need you to register as an apprentice plumber. If that’s the case, then you have to comply with it. Ask your state’s professional agency for the way to go.
Qualifying For The Plumber’s License Exam
Every state differs in terms of license requirements for plumbers. This means you have to think about where you would like to live and work as a plumber before doing anything else. Check the need for sitting for your selected state’s plumber’s license and ensure you look up all the boxes.
For instance, some states need character testimonies, proof of insurance, and professional recommendations together with school transcripts. You will be required to submit a fee for the test administration and processing as well.
Taking The State License Exam
Apply to partake in the state plumber’s license exam. Once the state verifies that you are eligible for exams, you will be contacted and invited to take your exams. Exams are usually scheduled on a monthly or bi-monthly basis in various locations in the state. Sign up for one that is suitable for you.
If you are well prepared for an exam, you will find the test very straightforward. You will have a limited amount of time to wind up your exams, don’t rush. Take your time and answer the questions accordingly.
After Passing The Exam
After you have passed the exam, you will be issued with a unique license ID. You are now free to enjoy all the lucrative opportunities that come along with your career. However, you should know that the licensing requirement doesn’t end there. You are required to renew your license annually.
Is Plumbing Hard To Learn?
Yap, it is hard to learn. Plumbing is not as simple or straightforward as people may think. There are several rules and regulations to learn, and it is prone to dynamics. Therefore, plumbers are required to put more efforts to emerge victoriously. Otherwise, it is a great trade to learn.
What States Do Not Require A Plumbing License?
Following states do not require a plumbing license:
1. Kansas
2. Wyoming
3. New York
4. Nebraska
5. Missouri
6. Pennsylvania
Is Plumbing A Dying Trade?
Plumbing is never a dying trade. There is a huge demand for plumbers, given that new buildings are constructed now and then. Besides, there is continued repair and maintenance of plumbing system to ensure proper sanitation and clean water in homes.
Final Word
Getting a plumbing license will take you roughly five years. You have to follow the laid down steps to get it. However, all will be worth it as you will get to advance your career without any legal challenges.
