Becoming a licensed plumber isn’t an easy task. There’s so much to learn before you’re eligible to even apply for your license. Beginning as an apprentice is considered the best way to go to put knowledge into action. This is how you’ll develop your skills and get the needed experience. You’re getting ready to take the biggest step of all by becoming a licensed plumber that can possibly have your own business.

To start, you must be at least 18 years old and able to meet certain requirements. Even after these requirements are met, you need to take and pass a written examination before being granted a certification to be a licensed plumber. Therefore, when you’re at least 18 years old and KNOW that plumbing is the career for you, it’ll be time to find a way to complete your apprenticeship.

Before you can even apply for your plumber’s license you’re required to have at least 3 years of experience working as an apprentice plumber. This working experience also includes having worked under a master plumber and logging at least 300 hours of theory work. When you have done this, you’re eligible to apply to take the exam to get your plumber’s license.

There are some other things that you’ll need to learn in order to pass the test. You must be able to read and understand documentation. Technical diagrams will need to be read and understood. You’ll need the ability to accurately estimate the cost of jobs for potential customers. Offering a fair rate and being able to assess that rate accurately is important to your business. This means that basic mathematical skills are essential. Drawing up paperwork is a necessary part of a plumber’s job and you need to be able to do that so the customer will see what work was done and materials used. Clear and professional communication is vital in dealing with customers.

Being in decent physical shape is also important. Good dexterity, the ability to lift moderately heavy weight, being able to move around easily, and comfort in working with hand and power tool are all needed skills.

While this may sound involved, don’t let that discourage you. If you have the motivation, the skills can be learned for lifelong job security.