---
title: "Plumbing Tools List: Starter Kit for Apprentices"
description: "The plumbing tools list for new apprentices: pipe wrenches, cutters, pliers and gear to bring on day one, and the tools to buy as you advance."
url: https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/plumber/
updated: 2026-10-11
site: ShapeMyCareer
---

Tools · Plumber

# Plumber tools list

Day-one kit, then the upgrades.

Starter kit

Plumbing apprentices need a few heavy hitters right away. Here is a realistic starter kit.

In short

New plumbers usually need two pipe wrenches in different sizes, tongue-and-groove pliers, a tubing cutter, a hacksaw, a tape measure, a level, a utility knife, a flashlight or headlamp, Teflon tape and pipe dope, and safety glasses, gloves and boots. Employers usually supply power tools, press tools, drain machines and soldering or brazing equipment. Ask your shop which items it expects you to own.

**Sources checked October 11, 2026** Pay, training and outlook come from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay is the middle (median) figure nationally; your first paycheck in the trade will usually be lower.

## Day one

- Two pipe wrenches (for example 14 and 18 inch)
- Tongue-and-groove pliers
- Tubing cutter
- Hacksaw
- Tape measure
- Torpedo level
- Utility knife
- Headlamp
- Thread tape and pipe dope
- Safety glasses, gloves, knee pads, boots

## Buy later

- Basin wrench
- PEX crimp or expansion tools
- Inspection mirror
- Small drain auger
- Torch kit if your shop expects one

### Get trained on the real tools

Tell us your ZIP and we will send plumber programs nearby.

[Find training near me](#smc-form)

## Straight answers

### What tools does a plumbing apprentice need?

Pipe wrenches, pliers, cutters, a level and safety gear to start.

### Do plumbers buy their own power tools?

Usually not at first. Employers supply most power and press tools.

### Why knee pads?

Plumbers spend a lot of time kneeling under sinks and in crawlspaces.

## Where this comes from

- [BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025 to 2035)](https://www.bls.gov/emp/tables/occupational-projections-and-characteristics.htm)
- [Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/plumbers-pipefitters-and-steamfitters.htm)
- [BLS OOH: Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/plumbers-pipefitters-and-steamfitters.htm)

## Keep looking

- [Plumbing apprenticeship](https://shapemycareer.com/apprenticeships/plumbing/)
- [Trade math](https://shapemycareer.com/test-prep/trade-math/)
- [Plumber salary](https://shapemycareer.com/salary/plumber/)
- [Tools of the trade](https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/)
- [Electrician tools](https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/electrician/)
- [HVAC tools](https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/hvac/)
- [Welder tools](https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/welder/)

---
Canonical page: https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/plumber/