Do You Need a College Degree to Become a Plumber?

When you think of essential careers that keep homes and businesses running smoothly, plumbers are high on the list. From fixing leaky faucets to installing complex gas lines, plumbers play a crucial role in our communities. But one question many people have is: Do you need a college degree to become a plumber?

The short answer is no—you don’t need a college degree. But you do need proper training, hands-on experience, and a state license. Let’s take a closer look at what it takes to start a plumbing career and how Shamrock Plumbing supports those looking to enter the trade.

Where Do Plumbers Learn Their Skills?

Plumbing is a highly skilled trade that combines technical knowledge with practical problem-solving. Most plumbers receive their training through a combination of trade school education and on-the-job apprenticeships.

In Utah, for example, aspiring plumbers must complete 8,000 hours of training, which includes both classroom instruction and field experience. This ensures every licensed plumber understands plumbing systems inside and out—from water lines and gas piping to advanced installations and repairs.

Trade Schools: The First Step Toward a Plumbing Career

While you don’t need a college degree, most states require completion of a technical plumbing course from an accredited trade school.

Trade school programs are designed to give you a strong foundation in both the theory and practice of plumbing.

Benefits of attending a plumbing trade school include:

• Shorter completion time: Most programs take around two years.
• Flexible scheduling: Many offer day and evening classes to fit your lifestyle.
• Comprehensive curriculum: Includes both residential and commercial plumbing.
• Business training: Learn the basics of customer service, safety codes, and administrative work.

Trade schools are a great alternative to traditional college programs because they get you working in your chosen field faster—and at a fraction of the cost.

Before enrolling, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED, and it’s smart to research trade schools near you to find the right fit based on your schedule and location.

Apprenticeships: Learn While You Earn

After or alongside your classroom training, you’ll need to complete a plumbing apprenticeship under a licensed professional or plumbing company. Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to gain hands-on experience while earning a paycheck.

Many plumbing companies (like us here at Shamrock Plumbing!) also help sponsor apprentices through their schooling.

Benefits of a plumbing apprenticeship include:

• On-the-job training with experienced professionals
• Paid classroom education
• Simultaneous completion of field and class hours
• A steady income while learning

Apprenticeships typically last four to five years, during which you’ll gain experience in all aspects of plumbing—from installations and repairs to customer service. On average, plumbing apprentices earn around $31,000 per year while learning.

For more on this topic, check out our blog: “From Plumbing Apprentice Padawan to Master.”

Becoming a Licensed Plumber

Completing your training is just one step—next, you’ll need to earn your plumbing license.

Licensure ensures that you’ve met your state’s education and experience requirements, and it demonstrates to customers that you’re qualified to perform plumbing work safely and effectively.

In most states, you’ll need to pass a licensing exam that tests your knowledge in areas such as:

• Reading comprehension
• Communication and safety protocols
• Basic math and calculations
• General plumbing codes and practices

Once you pass the test, you’ll become a licensed journeyman plumber, which allows you to work independently or for a plumbing company.

Journeyman vs. Master Plumber

After becoming a journeyman plumber, you may choose to continue your education and become a master plumber—the highest level of plumbing certification.

Here’s how they differ:

• Journeyman Plumber: 
  • Has completed training and licensing requirements.
  • Can work independently or under a plumbing contractor. 
• Master Plumber: 
  • Has additional years of experience and advanced education.
  • Must pass a more rigorous state exam.
  • Often oversees teams, manages large projects, or runs their own business.

Whether you remain a journeyman or pursue master status, both career paths offer stability, advancement, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in your community.

Benefits of a Plumbing Career

Becoming a plumber offers far more than just a paycheck—it’s a career with strong growth, job satisfaction, and long-term stability.

Top benefits of a plumbing career include:

• Competitive salary: The average plumber earns between $53,000 and $71,000 per year.
• Career advancement: Opportunities to move from apprentice to master plumber.
• Affordable education: Trade school and apprenticeship programs are more cost-effective than traditional college degrees.
• Job security: Skilled trades are always in demand.
• Great benefits: Many plumbing companies offer paid time off, retirement plans, and health insurance.

If you enjoy working with your hands, solving problems, and seeing tangible results, plumbing could be the perfect career for you.

Already a Licensed Apprentice? Join the Shamrock Plumbing Team!

If you’re an apprentice plumber looking to grow your career, Shamrock Plumbing is hiring!

Our team of experienced professionals provides hands-on training in both residential and commercial plumbing, covering everything from drain cleaning to full-scale installations.

When you join the Shamrock team, you’ll enjoy:

• Paid schooling
• Advancement opportunities
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid vacations
• Job stability
• Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance

We’re proud of our team and the reputation we’ve built as one of Northern Utah’s most trusted plumbing contractors. Join us and take the next step in your plumbing career with Shamrock Plumbing.

Need a Plumber? Call Shamrock Plumbing Today!

Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, a broken water heater, or need a full plumbing installation, our licensed professionals are here to help.

At Shamrock Plumbing, we’re dedicated to providing fast, reliable service and lasting results. Call us today to schedule your plumbing service and experience the Shamrock difference!