How to become a plumber
Water in, waste out — the trade that protects public health.
The roadmap
- 1
Graduate HS or GED
Required by virtually every UA local and state board.
- 2
OSHA 10
Standard construction safety card.
- 3
Apply to an apprenticeship
UA Local (union) or PHCC / open-shop contractor (non-union).
- 4
Aptitude test + interview
Math, mechanical reasoning, and an in-person panel.
- 5
Apprentice (5 years)
10,000 hours OJT + ~1,700 classroom hours. Paid the whole time.
- 6
Journeyman
Pass the state journeyman plumber exam.
- 7
Master plumber
2–5 more years, then sit the master exam to pull your own permits.
Salary progression
| Level | Average pay |
|---|---|
| Apprentice Year 1 | $17–24/hr |
| Apprentice Year 5 | $32–42/hr |
| Journeyman | $42–65/hr |
| Foreman | $60–85/hr |
| Master / Contractor | $90k–170k+/yr |
Ranges vary by region, union vs non-union, and overtime. Union pay packages include benefits worth 30–50% on top.
Find an apprenticeship
We send you to the federal apprenticeship.gov database — official, free, and updated weekly.
Tools you'll need on day one
Ridgid heavy-duty. The matched pair handles 95% of threaded work.
Tongue-and-groove pliers — fittings, traps, supplies.
Ridgid 151 for copper. Smooth cuts, no burrs.
Milwaukee M18 ForceLogic — copper without solder. Expensive but standard now.
Bernzomatic TS8000 for sweating copper on service work.
Ridgid K-3 hand auger for clearing residential lines.
Drains need pitch; venting needs plumb. Always.
Some apprenticeships supply the heavy stuff. Always ask your local what's expected before you spend.
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