How to Become a Plumber in California

In California, plumbers are in high demand thanks to a robust construction and maintenance sector. There is great earning potential and opportunity for growth.

Schooling is not required to become a plumber, but those who skip a vocational training program must have completed an apprenticeship with a licensed plumber.

Education & Training

To get started, consider one of the online programs below.

Why Take This Course?

One of the main benefits will be comprehensive knowledge gained for starting a plumbing business or career.

You will also receive a tool kit with over 50 pieces.

What Do You Study?

1. Plumbing Fundamentals:
   • History, codes, and principles of plumbing
   • Basic and applied plumbing mathematics, including geometry and calculations for water pipe sizing
2. Tools and Safety:
   • Common tools used in the plumbing trade
   • First aid, safety concepts, and techniques like hoisting and rigging
3. Materials and Techniques:
   • Types of piping materials and their mechanical properties
   • Pipe joining techniques, including soldering, brazing, and welding
   • Special applications of plastic pipe and fittings
4. Water Systems and Fixtures:
   • Water supply sources, distribution, and waste disposal methods
   • Detailed focus on plumbing fixtures, faucets, valves, and related devices
   • Water heaters and systems for hot water distribution
5. Building and Structural Integration:
   • Protection of building materials and structures
   • Interpretation of building plans, drawings, and scale rulers
   • Rough-in sheets, single-line, and isometric drawings
6. Drainage and Ventilation:
   • Sewage disposal methods, including sewers, sump pumps, and sewage ejectors
   • Venting plumbing drainage systems
   • Plumbing traps and fixture supports
7. Professional Development and Customer Service:
   • Communication skills and professionalism in plumbing
   • Customer service fundamentals, including understanding customer expectations and handling upset customers
   • Strategies for winning customer service and measuring its effectiveness

Program Length

It will take 6 to 12 months, depending on how often you study.  You can control the pace of study because it is an online course.

What is the Cost?

$2,300.  A monthly payment plan can be created if needed.

Other Trade Schools

Salary

Below is most recent salary data by region from the Bureau of Labor Statistics database.

The San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara area leads the list with the highest average hourly rate of $47.87 and an annual salary of $99,570. This is likely due to the high cost of living and competitive job market in the tech-dominated area. The average hourly rate across the state is $34.06, and the average annual salary is $70,843. ​

Area	Per Hour	Per Year
Bakersfield	$31.58	$65,690
Chico	$29.39	$61,130
Eastern Sierra-Mother Lode Region of California	$32.75	$68,110
El Centro	$32.61	$67,820
Fresno	$33.27	$69,200
Hanford-Corcoran	$33.20	$69,050
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim	$35.35	$73,530
Madera	$31.76	$66,050
Merced	$28.80	$59,910
Modesto	$34.13	$71,000
Napa	$41.06	$85,410
North Coast Region of California	$33.65	$69,990
North Valley-Northern Mountains Region of California	$34.60	$71,960
Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura	$32.18	$66,940
Redding	$30.66	$63,770
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario	$31.60	$65,720
Sacramento–Roseville–Arden-Arcade	$34.35	$71,440
Salinas	$32.50	$67,600
San Diego-Carlsbad	$35.04	$72,870
San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward	$43.65	$90,790
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara	$47.87	$99,570
San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles-Arroyo Grande	$33.76	$70,210
Santa Cruz-Watsonville	$37.21	$77,390
Santa Maria-Santa Barbara	$32.56	$67,720
Santa Rosa	$34.86	$72,510
Stockton-Lodi	$32.57	$67,740
Vallejo-Fairfield	$33.15	$68,960
Visalia-Porterville	$32.66	$67,920
Yuba City	$30.98	$64,440

_{Occupation: Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters (SOC Code472152)
Source: data.bls.gov}

Salary Growth

Plumbing apprentices in California can expect starting wages between $16 and $22 per hour, depending on experience and location. Some companies, such as Service Champions, offer salaries between $60,000 and $100,000 per year, while On Point Plumbing Systems Inc. provides annual earnings of $70,000 to $120,000 for skilled laborers.

Apprentices who complete training and gain certification can advance to journeyman and master plumber roles, significantly increasing their earning potential. Many companies offer structured advancement programs, with some plumbers making six-figure salaries within a few years.

More information about paid apprenticeships below.

License Requirements

For a plumber in California to legally perform work on projects totaling $500 or more, they must become a licensed contractor through the California Contractors State License Board.

It’s important to know that the state does not license workers at the apprentice or journeyman level, so pursuing your contractor license is key to establishing and building your career.

During a plumbing degree program, students are often required to work with a licensed plumber, usually for a total of four years, before going out on his or her own. Often plumbing apprentices split their time between a job site and school.

Schooling takes up a few hours a week, and then the apprenticeship is a full thirty to forty hours a week. This leads to long and exhausting days.

CA Plumbing Exam

The Plumbing (C-36) Exam is administered by the Contractor State License Board and consists of five sections that must be completed successfully in order to become a licensed plumber.

The test is easy if a person studies their trade well.

The five parts are:

• Planning and Estimating
• Underground and Rough Systems
• Finish Plumbing Installations
• Service, Repair, and Remodel Plumbing Systems
• Safety

The exam covers everything from how to design the system to installing it and testing it out to ensure it is fault-free.

Building Codes

Memorization plays an important part in any plumber’s life. The State of California requires all new constructions and plumbing projects meet the state’s strict building codes.

A plumber who has to refer to the codes in a book regularly will waste valuable time on the job site. It is important to have the codes memorized in advance. As codes change, the plumber must keep up with the changes.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships can be difficult to get in California, so a number of schools now offer vocational programs to help interested men and women learn Plumbing Technology and enter the field of interest. A typical program includes instruction on reading blueprints, installing pipes, working with gas and water heating systems, and working with septic or sewer systems.

During a plumbing degree program, it is usually required to work with a licensed plumber during schooling, usually for a total of four years before going out on his or her own. Often plumbing apprentices split their time between a job site and school.

Schooling takes up a few hours a week, and then the apprenticeship is a full thirty to forty hours a week. This leads to long and exhausting days.

Read on to learn about employers that train apprentices on the job.

What Employers in California Look for in a Plumber

In California, the demand for skilled plumbers is high, with employers seeking individuals who are not only technically proficient but also professional, customer-oriented, and eager to grow within the industry. Companies such as Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating & Air in Los Angeles, Sherwood Mechanical in San Diego, Power Pro Plumbing in Cerritos, and Barker and Sons Plumbing in Orange are actively hiring plumbers at various levels, from apprentices to seasoned technicians.

Key Qualifications and Skills

Employers in California expect plumbers to have a combination of technical expertise and soft skills. Some of the most sought-after qualifications include:

• Valid Driver’s License – Most plumbing jobs require travel to customer locations, making a clean driving record essential.
• Physical Capability – The job often demands lifting heavy equipment (sometimes over 60 lbs), working in confined spaces, and standing for long periods.
• Mechanical Aptitude – A strong understanding of plumbing systems, tools, and installation techniques is crucial.
• Problem-Solving Skills – Plumbers must be able to diagnose issues and offer multiple repair solutions.
• Customer Service Skills – The ability to communicate clearly with clients, explain technical concepts, and provide excellent service is highly valued.
• Ability to Pass Background and Drug Tests – Many companies require background checks and drug screening to ensure workplace safety.

Career Growth and Training Opportunities

Employers like Works Plumbing in San Jose offer hands-on, on-the-job training for apprentices looking to start a long-term career. Many companies, such as Sherwood Mechanical, also emphasize the importance of continued learning by providing training programs that cover areas like:

• Safe use of hand and power tools
• Installation of piping, fittings, and fixtures
• System diagnostics and troubleshooting
• Compliance with California plumbing codes

Additionally, some employers, such as Barker and Sons Plumbing, support career development through structured training programs aligned with Nexstar Service Professionals and the Orange County PHCC Trade School.

Salary and Benefits

Plumbing salaries in California vary depending on experience, specialization, and the employer. Entry-level apprentices can expect to earn between $18 to $22 per hour, while experienced service and repair technicians at companies like Barker and Sons Plumbing can make anywhere between $95,000 and $200,000 annually.

Many employers offer competitive benefits, including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays
• 401(k) retirement plans with matching contributions
• Company-provided vehicles, fuel cards, and uniforms
• Flexible work schedules and performance-based incentives

Crossover into Other Disciplines

Plumbing skills often translate into other areas of construction and maintenance. Many plumbing professionals gain expertise in:

• HVAC Systems – Companies like Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating & Air also specialize in heating and air conditioning, allowing plumbers to cross-train in HVAC repair and installation.
• Masonry, Drywall, and Stucco – Employers such as Power Pro Plumbing prefer candidates with experience in these areas, as plumbing repairs often require patching and restoring walls.
• Electrical Work – Some advanced plumbing jobs involve working with water heaters and pump systems, requiring knowledge of electrical components.
• Pipefitting and Welding – Commercial and industrial plumbing roles often demand skills in pipe welding and gas line installation.

Conclusion

California employers are looking for dedicated, hardworking individuals who are ready to learn and grow in the plumbing trade. Whether starting as an apprentice or joining as a seasoned technician, plumbers in California can expect strong career opportunities, excellent earning potential, and a chance to diversify their skills into related fields. By meeting the qualifications and embracing professional growth, plumbers can build a fulfilling and lucrative career in the Golden State.

Career Overview

A Promising Future in Plumbing

Employers across California are actively investing in training and apprenticeship programs to address the growing shortage of skilled tradespeople.

With high earning potential, job stability, and opportunities for specialization, plumbing is a lucrative career path for those willing to develop hands-on expertise and technical knowledge.

Whether working in residential services, commercial plumbing, or specialized installations, plumbing apprentices in California have a promising future ahead.

Why Do People Become Plumbers?

Plumbing is a great career option because it is always in demand!

Plumbing is a profitable career that offers the opportunity to become self-employed. Many people dream of being their own boss, and plumbers can easily make that happen. With a proper education and apprenticeship, a student interested in plumbing can become a licensed, self-employed plumber within five years time. The challenges are there, but the knowledge is certainly worthwhile. The world will never stop needing plumbers!

The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a 5% growth in plumbing jobs nationally through 2030. While slightly slower than the average growth for all careers, BLS projects the field will see about 51,000 new openings over the decade.

This increase is due to the need to replace employees who exit the labor force or switch careers, as well as recovery from the COVID-19 recession.

Vocational Variety

Plumbers have a number of options when it comes to work. Most people think of a plumber as one who comes to fix a leaky pipe, faucet, or other water related fixture, but plumbers can do far more.

Plumbers can install or repair boilers on a furnace, hot water tanks, sewer lines, sprinkler systems, water purification systems, and well systems.  Different specialties offer high pay scales, but they may come with more risks. Someone working on boilers has a much higher risk of getting severe burns.

What Does a Plumber Do on Daily Basis?

On a daily basis, those employed in the plumbing field will use blue prints, pipe cutters, Teflon tape, welding torches, hammers, pipe threaders, and pipe bending tools. It is important that any plumber be properly trained to diagnose problems and use the tools to fix the problem quickly and effectively. Plumbers installing new water fixtures often work in new buildings that are not heated. A tolerance to the cold is often necessary, especially in areas of Northern California.

What is the Work Like?

Labor

Plumbing can be very tiring and tedious work. Upper body strength is involved, especially for pipe layers who are hefting copper or PVC piping around all day. Plumbing can be extremely messy, especially for plumbers who work on residential emergencies. Outdoor leaks can mean water pipes need to be unearthed first making for muddy conditions. Sewer issues are also messy and very unpleasant.

Hours & Emergencies

A plumber who deals in residential issues often spends time in an office waiting for emergency situations to arise in between scheduled appointments. People often call plumbers to install dishwashers, new sinks, toilets, shower fixtures, and water purification systems. When pipes leak, plumbers receive calls to repair the cracked/damaged pipe or fixture that is causing the problem. Due to the emergency situations, many plumbers work much later than the average 9am to 5pm worker. Weekend work is also necessary due to emergency situations.

On the Job Risks

Plumbers have a number of options when it comes to work, and different specialties offer high pay scales, but they may come with more physical risks. For instance, while someone working on boilers can charge more for their services, they also have a much higher risk of getting severe burns while on the job. Also, a tolerance to the cold is often necessary, especially in areas of Northern California.

Interview with a Plumber Plumber Q&A

A Q&A session with Marc Lilly, a 44 year-old Master Plumber, who works for his company, Marc Lilly LLC. Marc has been working in the plumbing industry for 25 years and has been a licensed plumber for 13 years. He is also a member of his state’s Plumber Trade Association.

Question: What type of education and training did you need for this job?

Answer: The law requires that you have to be in the business 7 years before you can apply for Masters Plumber license unrestricted. With a Masters Plumbing license, you can do work on all plumbing systems including hospitals, high rises, office buildings, residential, commercial, and industrial. I did not go to school, but learned on the job. I took some preparatory classes to prepare to write my licensing exams. Classes are available at technical schools around the country. Interested students should ensure that the program is approved by the Department of Labor.

Presently, I have an apprentice working with me. I am teaching him the basics of what he needs to know in the field. You cannot learn all you need to know in school, it is a hand on learning job. Tagalongs are not allowed in this field due to the dangers associated with the work. [Note: tagalongs are co-op high school students]

A Journeyman can work on residential systems and do service, an apprentice can work in the capacity of a helper.

Most plumbers start off as apprentices and graduate to Journeyman. An apprentice that is unlicensed and untrained can expect to earn $10-$15/hour and Journeyman that is licensed but with some restrictions can expect to make $35/hour.

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Question: What do you like the most about your job?

Answer: I love interaction with people and love the challenge of solving problems. I love the fact that I work for myself and the money is good.

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Question: What do you dislike most about your job?

Answer: I don’t like being dirty all the time and the hours can be tough 24/7. It is cold in the winter and hot in the summer.

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Question: What happens on a typical day at work?

Answer: I am up at 6 am and start answering phones at 7 am. I am at my first customer’s house by 8:00 am. I do about 5-6 service calls per day and I am home by 6:00 or 7:00 pm to receive calls again for work the next day. Emergency calls are done as they come in. The other day I had emergency call – a two-inch water main burst at an assisted living home. Clogged toilets are not an emergency.

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Question: What do you think your next career step will be?

Answer: Surviving plumbing – I plan to do this until I am unable to do so. I will continue to work as long as I can and past 65 years old if I can.

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Question: What previous job history prepared you for becoming a plumber?

Answer: I came right out of high school and did some general labor jobs until I got a job as a helper with a plumber. I have good mechanical skills.

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Question: What kind of traits does a person need to have to be successful at this job?

Answer: You will need good mechanical skills and be self-motivated. You will need good people skills and the ability to manage paperwork. You also need good problem solving skills and good communication and listening skills.

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Question: Would you recommend the job to someone else?

Answer: I would absolutely recommend this job to someone who had the motivation or the skills to do it. It is a good public service and you can make a good living. People are always going to need a plumber despite the economy. A good reputation is the best advertising you can have. I haven’t advertised in 5 years – I work from mostly referrals.