In short
Becoming a licensed journeyman plumber usually takes four to five years of supervised work, most often through a paid apprenticeship with classroom hours each year, followed by a code exam. A trade school program first can take months to two years. Becoming a master plumber typically takes one or more extra years as a journeyman plus another exam, depending on the state.
| Stage | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Optional trade school | A few months to 2 years |
| Apprenticeship | 4 to 5 years |
| Journeyman exam | After required hours |
| Master plumber | Often 1 to 2 more years, varies by state |
| Middle pay | $63,800 a year, roughly $30.67 an hour (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| How most people start | High school or GED to start, then apprenticeship |
| People in the trade | About 510,600 nationwide (2025) |
| Growth to 2035 | BLS expects 6.8% growth |
| Openings a year | Around 42,000, counting retirements |
From the BLS Employment Projections table (2025 to 2035) and May 2025 wage survey. These are U.S. numbers. Local shops may pay above or below them, and apprentices start well under the middle figure.
Things that slow people down
- Not documenting hours
- Changing employers without getting hours signed off
- Waiting for an apprenticeship opening
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Straight answers
Can I become a plumber without an apprenticeship?
In some states you can register as a trainee with a licensed plumber instead. You still need the supervised hours.
Is plumbing school required?
No. Many plumbers go straight into apprenticeships.
How long is the journeyman plumber test?
It is usually a timed exam of several hours. Check your state's testing provider.