A plumbing license is a certification that grants a technician the ability to repair, install, or maintain various plumbing systems. A licensed plumber has met the qualifications and testing required to work legally in their city or county.
The different types of plumbing certifications available vary based on state and regional requirements. Most states offer 3 different levels of plumbing licenses: apprentice, journeyman, and master. These license levels dictate the type of work you’re allowed to complete.
1. Apprentice: able to perform limited duties under the supervision of a journeyman or master plumber 2. Journeyman: an entry-level license that allows individuals to work independently under the supervision of a master 3. Master: highest license level that allows individuals to supervise journeymen, pull permits for projects, or run their plumbing businesses
Is it illegal to do plumbing without a license? Not all states are the same when it comes to license requirements. Some regions allow individuals to complete plumbing work unlicensed, while others have penalties for working without a license. For example, you don’t need to earn a license to work on plumbing systems in Kansas. In Michigan, however, working on plumbing systems without a license can result in a $5,000 fine and possible jail time.
For specific details on the penalties for conducting work without a license, check with your local jurisdiction for their regulations on unlicensed work.
How long does it take to become a licensed plumber? Becoming a licensed plumber takes four to five years on average, depending on what state or province you’ll be working in and the level of certification you’ll need. Check with your state, city, or county governing body to see what requirements you’ll need to become a licensed plumber.
A basic plumbing certification covers these plumbing skills:
1. Demonstrate general safety practices in relation to Plumbing 2. Read and interpret basic building and plumbing codes 3. Recognize and name common tools used by plumbers 4. Measure and calculate pipe offsets often used in plumbing 5. Identify plumbing symbols and abbreviations used in architectural drawings 6. Demonstrate the processes for soldering and brazing copper pipe 7. Demonstrate the processes for welding plastic pipe and fittings 8. Identify various fixture types 9. Recognize and properly name various fittings and pipes 10. Recognize and name the different types of valves and meters 11. Describe how the controls and heating elements of water heating systems work 12. Describe techniques for working with pipe and fittings made from PVC, CPVC, PEX, and copper 13. Describe the proper installation procedures for installing fixtures, faucets, water supply and DWV connections for each type fixture and appliances 14. Explain the operation of a simple septic system
Things you will learn about: 1. Plumbing Tools 2. Leveling Instruments 3. Soldering, Brazing, and Welding 4. Piping Materials and Fittings 5. Valves and meters 6. Soft soldering 7. Hydraulic and Pneumatics 8. Rigging and Hoisting 9. Water Supply Systems 10. Plumbing Fixtures 11. Water Heaters 12. Designing Plumbing Systems 13. Preparing for Plumbing System Installation 14. DWV Pipe and Fitting Installation 15. Installing Water Supply Piping 16. Supporting and Testing Pipe 17. Installing Fixtures, Faucets, and Appliances 18. Septic Systems 19. Storm Water and Sumps 20. Repairing DWV Systems 21. Repairing Water Supply Systems
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