How long does it take to become a plumber

How long does it take to become a plumber?

Well, it depends. One can become a journeyman plumber after completing one or two years of apprenticeship and another 12-24 months of gained plumbing experience. For one to be eligible to sit for a master plumber exam, it is a requirement that they have a plumbing experience of 12-60 months of professional participation in plumbing.

However, the time span varies from state to state. During a plumbing apprenticeship program, one studies subjects such as safe use of tools and equipment, domestic piping, blueprint reading, welding, pipe system design and plumbing code.

Most trade occupations require hard work and commitment to study. The plumbing industry is a multi-billion dollar industry, and as such is no exemption in that education, experience and professionalism are important to find success in this industry.

Determination is the hallmark of success in a plumbing career. For one to have an impeccable mastery of plumbing and gain the various skills related to it, it is a requirement that such a person has to successfully enroll and go through a program in plumbing technology. Such programs are offered in community colleges and vocational schools. Another option is applying for an apprenticeship program in plumbing. There are no shortcuts, for one to advance in this career and rank up to high professional titles, one has to be prepared to go through its formal structure.

Prospective plumbers have exciting opportunities and solid growth ahead of them. As such, it is important to have a clear career roadmap if they want to finesse through the plumbing journey. A plumbing career has few options. This means that individual goals will dictate which path you follow. The completion time of plumbing training varies.

A typical trade school plumbing program takes about two years. Going through a trade school program will offer you flexibility after successful completion. The reason for this is because there are numerous places one can work afterward. However, successful completion of plumbing apprenticeship programs takes around two to five years. In most cases, plumbing apprenticeship is sponsored by businesses and unions. While joining an apprenticeship program may be less flexible when it comes to jobs, it has the advantage of getting a pay while undergoing training.

As we have said, there are few options for a plumbing career. One can either become a journeyman plumber or a master plumber. The main question is, “how long does it take to become a plumber?”

The two types of plumbers are discussed in detail below.

Becoming a Journeyman Plumber

For one to become a journeyman program, it is a requirement that they complete a 5-year training program. During these 5 years, they are expected to have gone through 246 classroom hours. After meeting the experience requirements of your state which may also include paid job training hours, one is eligible to apply for a journeyman plumber exam. You will get a license after passing a journeyman licensing exam. There are states that will require one to finish continuing education for them to have their license renewed. Some people choose to work as journeymen plumbers throughout their careers. However, for one to become a master plumber, they will have to further their education.

Master Plumber

People that wish to take on supervisory roles and earn a master plumber status must learn about master plumber designation. They should have passing scores in practical and written exams. It is a requirement that they have at least two years of work experience as journeymen plumbers. While becoming a master plumber has lucrative and good career options, things like liability insurance will be an increased responsibility among others.

The cost of plumbing programs depends on your area of concentration. While a plumbing technology associate degree will cost you around $3000-$23000, a certificate program of the same costs $1250-$3000.

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