Online Master Plumber Courses and Training
Learn the requirements to obtain master plumber status, including training and licensure options. Find out about career advancement options and responsibilities.
What You Need to Know
To become a master plumber you must complete didactic training and then work your way up from apprentice to journeyman and finally to the master level of your career. You are required to be licensed for every step of your career. Some online courses are available through diploma and apprenticeship programs, but most of your education in this field will be hands on.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Online</b></td><td>Online programs are available, but do not train you completely for licensure</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Training</b></td><td>Diploma and apprenticeship programs are available</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Courses</b></td><td>Plumbing system installation and design, plumbing repair, construction blueprints, water heater and clean wastewater system installation, basic plumbing, storm and sewer drain systems, ventilation, safety methods and the Uniform Plumbing Code</td></tr>
</table><h3 id="section---CanIStudyOnlineToBecomeAMasterPlumber">Can I Study Online to Become a Master Plumber?</h3><p>In order to become a master plumber, you can start with an online program to learn the trade. Online programs are usually available through for-profit schools that confer a career diploma. These programs introduce you to the different types of pipes you could use, such as PVC, lead or copper. Online courses teach you about the following areas of interest:
</p><ul><li>Plumbing system design and installation
</li><li>Troubleshooting techniques
</li><li>Leaks
</li><li>Corrosion
</li><li>Breakages
</li><li>Construction blueprint reading
</li><li>Installation of water heaters
</li><li>Cleanup of wastewater systems
</li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatAboutLicensingRequirements">What About Licensing Requirements?</h3><p>In order to become licensed, you might also be required to complete an apprenticeship. Some schools, unions and state agencies offer plumbing apprenticeships online and through correspondence courses. You might need to meet certain criteria to be eligible for these programs, such as living a great distance from the school or being employed in the plumbing profession. In an online or distance learning apprenticeship program, you'll learn about the following topics:
</p><ul><li>Basic plumbing
</li><li>Storm and sewer drain systems
</li><li>Ventilation
</li><li>Safety methods
</li><li>Uniform Plumbing Code
</li></ul><h3 id="section---AreOnlineProgramsSufficientForLicensure">Are Online Programs Sufficient for Licensure?</h3><p>State regulations vary, though you'll usually need to have experience in the plumbing trade to qualify for licensure. Online career programs generally expose you to the field, but you'll need to provide proof of employment to meet state requirements. Online and correspondence apprenticeships approved by the state are sufficient for licensing if you complete the requisite number of verifiable hours on the job. At this stage, you'll test for an apprenticeship license with the state.
</p><h3 id="section---HowDoIAdvanceMyCareer">How Do I Advance My Career?</h3><p>In order to become a master plumber, you'll need to gain practical experience as a plumber. Most states confer different licensing levels, depending on your skill and expertise, as well as the types of jobs you perform. You'll typically advance from an apprentice to a journeyman plumber, and finally, to a master plumber. Each level requires a specific length of time on the job and progressive licensure testing. If you already hold a valid master plumber license, some states offer reciprocity that could simply require you pay a fee rather than take another state exam.
</p><p>To renew your master plumber license, some states offer online renewal forms. You'll need to log on to your state's licensing website and provide your personal information, such as your license or registration number and your social security number, to verify your eligibility. If your license has expired, some states offer a grace period. However, if the grace period has lapsed, you might need to reapply and retake the state examination.</p>