Public and private plumbing jobs in the United States require licensed plumbing technicians to ensure the safety of their customers. In some cases, a license is essential even for private plumbing jobs because the local government might regulate all plumbing work in the area if it has a population under a certain number. If you’re interested in working as a plumber, you need to understand the path to becoming certified and licensed. Working as a plumber requires hard work and dedication. It’s not easy but if you love plumbing, then this is the best job for you. A plumber has to be very careful and cautious when working on plumbing systems. A licensed and certified plumber should have all the knowledge about plumbing systems and how they function so that they can help clients with their plumbing issues. Here’s how you can become a licensed plumber in the U.S. if you are interested in this career path:
WHAT IS REQUIRED TO BECOME A CERTIFIED PLUMBER?
There are two types of plumbing technicians you can become if you are interested in working as a plumber. The first one is a commercial plumbing technician. This type of license is for working on large-scale systems such as hospitals, hotels, schools, and more. The other option is a residential plumbing technician’s license. This license is for working on residential plumbing systems only. In order to get certified, you must complete a plumbing apprenticeship program, pass the state’s licensing exam, and obtain certification from the National Plumbing Trade Association (NPTA). The plumbing apprenticeship program consists of several years of on-the-job training and education. You can find an apprenticeship program near you by searching online.
WHAT IS REQUIRED TO BECOME A LICENSED RESIDENTIAL PLUMBER?
To become a licensed residential plumber, you must meet the following requirements: - Age 18 or older - High school or GED equivalent - Interview with licensing board - Completion of approved apprenticeship program - Successful completion of state-approved plumbing course - Successful passing of state exam - Be a U.S. citizen - Live in state where you are applying for license - Have clean criminal record
STEPS TO BECOME A LICENSED PLUMBER IN THE U.S.
- Select your location - - Be over 18 years old - - Be high school graduate or equivalent - - Interview with licensing board - - Completion of approved apprenticeship program - - Successful completion of state-approved plumbing course - - Successful passing of state exam - - Be a U.S. citizen - - Live in state where you are applying for license - - Have clean criminal record - Apply for plumbing apprenticeship - - Interview for apprenticeship position - - Apply for state plumbing exam - - Completion of state plumbing course - - Successful passing of state plumbing exam - - Become a certified plumbing apprentice - - Successful passing of NPTA exam - Become a certified licensed plumber - - Interview with licensing board - - Successful passing of state plumbing exam
AFTER BECOMING A LICENSED PLUMBER IN THE U.S., WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
Being a Licensed Plumber in the U.S. gives you the power to work on any plumbing issue without worrying about any safety issues. - You can also work as an independent contractor for multiple clients if you work as a Licensed Plumber in the U.S.
SUMMING UP
Working as a Licensed Plumber in the U.S. is a challenging career, but the job comes with many benefits. It is important to complete an apprenticeship program to become certified in order to be able to work as a Licensed Plumber in the U.S. If you are interested in this career path, it is important to start early to complete your apprenticeship program and become certified as soon as possible.