Online Plumbing Certification and Licensing Facts
One option to begin your plumbing career is to enroll in an online diploma program. Keep reading to find out how you can gain information on certification and licensing and how you can obtain practical experience.
What You Need to Know
Online plumbing certification and licensing programs are rare. However, individual classes, certification-prep programs and diploma programs are available. In addition to teaching a number of plumbing-related skills through distance education, the diploma program provides the training necessary to complete state licensing exams.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Online</b></td><td>Diploma programs are completely online</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Certification</b></td><td>Voluntary GreenPlumbers certification is available</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Licensing</b></td><td>Most states require plumbers to be licensed</td></tr>
</table><h3 id="section---WhatTypesOfCertificationProgramsCanIEnrollInOnline">What Types of Certification Programs Can I Enroll in Online?</h3><p>One education option is to enroll in online courses and take a GreenPlumbers certification exam. The purpose of the GreenPlumbers program is to train and certify plumbers on water-saving and energy efficiency technologies. This program also covers the benefits of conserving water and reducing GHG emissions.
</p><p>Another option is to enroll in an online plumbing career diploma program. While these programs don't focus on licensure and certification, they do offer courses in plumbing codes, regulations, and other topics that you need to know in order to pass the state licensing exam.
</p><h3 id="section---DoPlumbersHaveToBeLicensed">Do Plumbers Have to be Licensed?</h3><p>According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most states require plumbers to be licensed in order to be employed professionally as a plumber. As a plumber, you may be required to have two to five years of work experience and pass an exam covering local plumbing codes and knowledge of the plumbing trade before you can be licensed to work.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatElseWillIStudyInACareerDiplomaProgram">What Else Will I Study in a Career Diploma Program?</h3><p>Courses in the program teach you how to:
</p><ul><li>Read blueprints
</li><li>Plan and design water supply systems
</li><li>Install pipes and fittings
</li><li>Operate septic systems
</li><li>Install HVAC systems
</li></ul><p>You might also take a math class for plumbers, which will typically cover measurements. Additionally, you could take a course in plumbing history and a course in career development.
</p><h3 id="section---WillIGetAnyHandsOnTraining">Will I Get Any Hands-On Training?</h3><p>In the career diploma programs, you learn how to assemble, install, test, repair, and maintain water heating and plumbing systems, dishwashers, and other water-based appliances. Opportunities are available for you to practice at home on your own appliances, as there will not be any field work or appliances supplied by the school. The program provides step-by-step guides, textbooks, and instructional videos to help you learn and progress in your studies.
</p><p>Depending on the program, you could also engage in video chat sessions with industry professionals. They are going to be demonstrating the tasks you'll be performing as a plumber, and you can ask them any questions that may arise. Additionally, your instructors will be available via phone, e-mail, or some other method to assist you with any concerns you may have about your coursework.</p>