Plumber

5 stops · self-paced · a common path, not the only one

1. 📍

   You are here

   Today — wherever you're starting from

2. 🤝
   Get experienceNext stop →

   Apply for a plumbing apprenticeship through the UA (United Association) or a local contractor

   The UA (union) and local contractors both run apprenticeships — apply to several, it's competitive. This is a hired job, not a school you pay for.

   ⏱ 4–5 years (paid) · 💵 you earn while you learn

3. 🤝
   Get experience

   Apprenticeships are fully paid — you earn a wage while learning over 4–5 years

   You earn a real wage from day one with raises as you progress. Zero tuition, zero debt — paid to learn a trade that's always in demand.

   ⏱ 4–5 years (paid) · 💵 you earn while you learn

4. 🔨
   Build skills

   Complete required classroom instruction alongside hands-on job training

   Required classroom hours (code, theory, safety) run alongside job-site work — built into the apprenticeship, not extra school.

5. 📜
   Get certified

   Pass your state's journeyman plumber exam

   Passing your state's journeyman exam lets you work unsupervised and brings a solid pay bump.

   ⏱ weeks–months of prep · 💵 exam & license fees

6. 📜
   Get certified

   Master plumber license is available after additional experience and another exam

   A master plumber license (more experience + another exam) lets you pull permits, run jobs, and start your own business — where the money is.

   ⏱ weeks–months of prep · 💵 exam & license fees

7. 🏁

   Plumber

   Your destination