Certified Plumber
A plumber is a professional who deals with the installation and repair of pipes that carry water or gas to fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and showers. Many states require that plumbers be certified in order to work legally. Certification usually requires some combination of education, on-the-job training, and passing a state licensing exam. Some cities and counties may also have licensing requirements.
A high school diploma or GED certificate is typically the minimum educational requirement to become a plumber. Several vocational schools and trade colleges offer courses that teach the technical aspects of plumbing as well as business skills necessary to manage a plumbing company. Depending on the type of plumbing job, some states allow plumbers to take an apprenticeship program where they work with a journeyman or master plumber for two to five years to learn the trade. These programs often include classes in Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, blueprint reading, and state plumbing codes.
After completing an apprenticeship, plumbers can apply to take their state’s licensing exam. The test content varies by state, but most use the International Plumbing Code (IPC) to set standards for safe plumbing installations. The IPC includes topics such as sewage disposal, water supply and distribution, and backflow prevention. Many states also have a practical exam that requires the plumber to install pipe and fixtures under simulated job conditions. The passing score for the plumbing exam varies by state, but is generally around seventy percent.
What Is a Certified Plumber?
In addition to passing the license exam, some plumbers choose to pursue specialty licensing. For example, a master plumber can specialize in commercial or residential plumbing. In some cases, this can help the plumber stand out to potential clients and increase their earning power. The certification process can be lengthy, and the additional credentials add to the plumber’s resume.
Plumbing is a dangerous career, but the risks are minimized when plumbers follow proper safety practices. Common hazards include contact with toxins, eye injuries, electric shocks and burns, and slips and falls. In order to protect against these dangers, plumbers should wear protective clothing and follow all applicable Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety regulations.
Many people mistakenly assume that all plumbers must be licensed in order to work in their industry. However, the reality is that the majority of plumbing jobs are performed by unlicensed plumbers. This can be risky for homeowners, as unlicensed plumbers may not have the training and experience to properly perform certain jobs. For example, if an unlicensed plumber incorrectly installs or repairs a backflow preventer, it could lead to contamination of the drinking water and even illness in consumers.
New York City is the largest city in the country and one of the few that require a license to be a plumber. Other cities and counties in the country have similar licensing processes, but they may not be as rigorous. Getting licensed as a plumber in New York City involves meeting education, work experience, and testing requirements and paying a license fee. Some cities and counties also have requirements for bonding and insurance.
