How long does it take to become a plumber?
Plumbers earn a median of about $61,000 a year (about $29/hour) in the US — from around $40,000 entering the field to $101,000+ at the top. Becoming one usually takes about 4–5 years: Apprenticeship. Like other trades, it's a paid apprenticeship — roughly four to five years.
Plumber salary
| Entry level (10th percentile) | $40,000 |
| Median (typical) | $61,000 |
| Experienced (90th percentile) | $101,000+ |
| Median hourly | $29/hr |
Approximate US figures based on public wage data (BLS OEWS). Actual pay varies by employer, experience and location.
The path to becoming a plumber
- 1Finish high school
- 2Enter a plumbing apprenticeship (4–5 yrs)
- 3Complete on-the-job hours
- 4Pass the journeyman licensing exam
What you need
- Completed apprenticeship
- Journeyman/state license
Plumbing is a licensed trade with strong pay and steady, recession-resistant demand.
Plumber salary by state
Local pay varies with cost of living. See an estimate for your state:
Plumber — frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a plumber?
It usually takes about 4–5 years. The typical path: Finish high school; Enter a plumbing apprenticeship (4–5 yrs); Complete on-the-job hours; Pass the journeyman licensing exam.
How much do plumbers make?
The median pay is about $61,000 a year ($29/hour). Most earn between roughly $40,000 and $101,000, depending on experience, employer and location. See the state pages for local estimates.
Do you need a degree to become a plumber?
Entry requires: Completed apprenticeship; Journeyman/state license. Plumbing is a licensed trade with strong pay and steady, recession-resistant demand.
Related careers
General information to help you plan a career — not career, legal or financial advice. Salary figures are estimates and training times are typical routes; both vary by state, program and individual. Check official sources and accredited programs before making decisions.