How to become a Plumber

You want to know how to become a Plumber? Then you need to know that Becoming a plumber typically involves a combination of education and on-the-job training. Here are the steps you can take to become a plumber:

1. Get a high school diploma or equivalent: To become a plumber, you will need a high school diploma or college degree. You should focus on courses in math, science, and shop to prepare for a career in plumbing. But you could become a self employed plumber after on the job training but liability insurance companies may not insure by using this path.
2. Complete a plumbing training program: Many vocational schools, community colleges, and technical institutes offer plumbing training programs. These programs typically last between six months and two years and include courses on plumbing codes, safety, and installation and repair of plumbing systems.
3. Obtain an apprenticeship: Many plumbers learn the trade through an apprenticeship program. Apprenticeships typically last four to five years and include both classroom training and on-the-job training. You can find apprenticeships through trade organizations, local unions, and plumbing companies.
4. Obtain a license: Most states in America require plumbers to be licensed but not in the UK, However to work on the gas systems you should be ‘Gas Safe registered’. You will also need to meet other requirements, such as completing a certain number of hours of on-the-job training.
5. Gain experience: After you have completed your training and obtained a membership to Gas Safe, you can start working as a plumber. It’s important to gain experience in a variety of plumbing systems and work environments to become a well-rounded plumber.
6. Keep up with industry developments: Plumbing technology and regulations are constantly changing, so it’s important to keep up with industry developments by attending continuing education courses and staying current with plumbing codes and regulations.

In the UK, becoming a qualified plumber typically takes several years of training and experience. Here are the steps and approximate timeline:

1. Complete a Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Heating (6189): This course typically takes around 12 months to complete and provides a foundation in plumbing and heating principles, installation and maintenance of plumbing systems, and safety procedures.
2. Obtain an apprenticeship: After completing a Level 2 diploma, many aspiring plumbers will undertake an apprenticeship to gain practical experience and further their training. Apprenticeships in plumbing typically last between 2-4 years.
3. Gain on-the-job experience: During your apprenticeship and beyond, you will gain on-the-job experience in a variety of plumbing systems and environments. This will help you to develop your skills and prepare you for work as a qualified plumber.
4. Obtain a Level 3 qualification: Once you have completed your apprenticeship and gained experience, you can undertake a Level 3 qualification, such as a City & Guilds Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Plumbing and Heating (6189).
5. Apply for licensure: In the UK, plumbers do not require a license to practice. However, to work as a plumber, you may need to be registered with a professional organization, such as the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), or a government-approved competent person scheme.