Florida has the 3rd highest employment for plumbers in the nation. Its a great place to learn a trade that offers growth and stability.
Training & Education
You can start the journey to apprenticeship by enrolling in a training program such as the ones below:
What Do You Study?
Core Plumbing Knowledge:
- Plumbing codes
- Plumbing math
- Tools of the trade
Safety Practices:
- Plumber safety
- Hoisting & rigging
- Welding for plumbers
- Soldering & brazing
Materials and Components:
- Piping materials
- Plastic fittings
- Valves
- Faucets
- Heaters
- Fixtures
Systems and Infrastructure:
- Water sources
- Waste & sewage disposal
- Water pipe systems
- Hot water flow
- Sewers
- Drainage systems
- Building drains
- Stacks
- Venting systems
- Pumps
- Traps
Construction and Installation Techniques:
- Joining methods
- Pipe joining techniques
- Supports
Design and Documentation:
- Building structures
- Building plans
- Sketching
- Detailed drawings
Professional Development:
- Communication skills
- Customer service
How Long & How Much?
It takes about 12 months. It can be completed even faster if you study more often (its a self paced online course).
The total price is $2,300 which is as low as $146 per month if you want to finance it.
Other Local Trade School Programs
- Daytona Beach
- Tampa
- Fort Myers
- Tampa, Plant City, Ruskin, Tampa Bay, MacDill Air Force Base
- Clearwater, St. Petersburg
- Sarasota
Daytona College (Rating: 3.8 out 5)
The Plumbers and Pipefitters - Union program at Daytona State College is a rigorous, state-subsidized apprenticeship that spans five years, blending extensive classroom instruction with practical on-the-job experience. Operated in partnership with Local Union #295, the curriculum mandates an initial OSHA safety course where students earn at least an OSHA 10 card while mastering diverse skills such as welding, rigging, and job-site layout. This limited-access program requires applicants to be at least 18 years old with a high school algebra credit, ultimately preparing them for specialized careers as licensed journeyman plumbers, pipefitters, or steamfitters.
Florida Trade Academy (Rating: 4.8 out 5)
The Plumbing Program provides students with hands-on training and technical knowledge in plumbing systems, fixtures, pipefitting, drainage, and blueprint interpretation. Through real-world scenarios, students build the skills needed to confidently handle plumbing challenges. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles in the trade with a strong foundation in both practical and theoretical plumbing expertise.
Fort Myers Tech (Rating: 4.3 out 5)
The 10-month program at FMTC prepares students for NCCER Core and Plumbing Level 1 certifications through a blend of classroom instruction and practical shop experiences, focusing on the skills necessary for residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing.
Hillsborough Community College (Rating: 3.3 out 5)
The Plumber Apprenticeship is a 4–5 year federally structured program combining 720 classroom hours with 8,000 hours of paid, on-the-job training through a sponsoring employer. Offered at HCC’s Dale Mabry and Plant City campuses, this tuition-free program prepares apprentices for careers in residential, commercial, and specialized plumbing systems. Graduates are equipped with the skills needed for licensure and long-term employment in a high-demand trade.
Pinellas Technical College (Rating: 3.8 out 5)
The Plumbing program at Pinellas Technical College - St. Petersburg is a comprehensive 1,080-hour clock-hour course designed to prepare students for immediate employment as plumbing technicians or apprentices. This full-time program spans four distinct course segments—covering helper fundamentals, residential installation, commercial applications, and advanced system troubleshooting—and culminates in the opportunity to earn NCCER Core and Plumbing industry certifications. Students can also leverage articulation agreements toward an Associate degree or transition into available campus-based apprenticeships upon completion.
Sun Coast Technical College (Rating: 4.1 out 5)
Suncoast Technical College’s Plumbing program is an intensive 1,080-hour clock-hour course designed to be completed within the "Career in a Year" timeframe. The curriculum follows a four-part sequence—moving from helper fundamentals to residential and commercial applications—where students master technical skills like pipe threading, soldering, and blueprint interpretation in accordance with state codes. Graduates emerge prepared for immediate employment, having gained hands-on experience with diverse systems including septic tanks, pumps, and water heaters, supported by industry insights from local guest lecturers.
Salary Range
Average Salary Survey for FL
- $61,232 per Salary.com
- $53,456 per Indeed.com
- $53,644 per Talent.com
- $48,160 per CareerOneStop.org (Bureau of Labor)
Below is Bureau of Labor data for specific locations of the state.
| Area | Per Hour | Per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $24.58 | $51,130 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin | $24.63 | $51,220 |
| Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach | $21.57 | $44,870 |
| Gainesville | $24.11 | $50,160 |
| Homosassa Springs | $22.89 | $47,610 |
| Jacksonville | $25.55 | $53,140 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $24.06 | $50,040 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $26.75 | $55,640 |
| Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island | $25.72 | $53,490 |
| North Florida | $22.96 | $47,750 |
| North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton | $25.71 | $53,470 |
| Ocala | $23.38 | $48,630 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $25.35 | $52,720 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | $25.67 | $53,400 |
| Panama City | $23.70 | $49,290 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent | $23.91 | $49,740 |
| Port St. Lucie | $24.72 | $51,410 |
| Punta Gorda | $25.22 | $52,460 |
| Sebastian-Vero Beach | $24.56 | $51,070 |
| Sebring | $23.13 | $48,100 |
| South Florida | $25.35 | $52,720 |
| Tallahassee | $22.96 | $47,760 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $24.81 | $51,600 |
| The Villages | $24.70 | $51,370 |
Occupation: Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters (SOC Code472152)
source: data.bls.gov
Florida Requirements
Becoming a Licensed Plumber
Florida requires plumbers to be licensed by the state. After completing an apprenticeship program, you can apply for your license through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
Here is what the application looks like: Form # DBPR CILB 2.
Plumbing Exam
If you’ve already taken an apprenticeship program or have an associate degree in plumbing technology from an accredited institution, then you’re eligible for an exemption from taking the exam.
However, you will still need to submit proof of your education with your application.
Whats on the Plumbing Exam?
If you haven’t completed either of those programs or received an exemption, then there are two parts of the exam that you’ll need to undergo.
The first part is a written test that covers the following:
- materials used in piping systems
- water supply systems
- drainage systems
- construction standards for different types of buildings
The second part of the exam includes an oral interview with DBPR staff members.
Fees
The application fees vary depending on when your application is submitted, but expect to pay between $205 to $305.
Plumbing License Requirements For Florida
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- Have a High School Degree (or Equivalent)
- You need to pass a criminal background check.
- You need proof of completing a four-year apprenticeship program or paying for a training course.
- You’ll need to pass an exam with the state board of plumbing.
- Pay fees to register with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, DBPR.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Licensed Plumber?
It takes a least 4 years to complete your required apprenticeship training. During this time, an entry level plumber (apprentice) can make between $35,000 and $45,000 per year. That is an hourly rate between $17 to $19 per hour.
What Happens Next?
There are two types of licenses that require different amounts of experience and education. After completing your apprenticeship, you may apply for licensure as a certified journeyman or master plumber.
Journeyman Plumber
What is the Definition of a Journeyman Plumber?
A Journeyman Plumber is a plumber who has completed an apprenticeship program and has passed the plumbing test administered by the state.
A journeyman plumber is the second rank of a plumbing technician, after a master plumber. A journeyman is qualified to work on his own and needs supervision only from a master plumber or another journeyman.
How Do You Become Journeyman Plumber?
To become a Journeyman Plumber, you must have at least 4 years of experience as an apprentice. Your experience can be gained while still in school or by working with another licensed plumber. You also need to pass an exam administered by the state’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), and complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years.
Master Plumber
What is the Definition of a Master Plumber?
A Master Plumber is a plumber with advanced knowledge of the different types of plumbing systems used in homes, businesses, and other buildings. They also have more advanced skills than journeymen and can perform duties such as designing plumbing systems for new construction projects.
How Do You Become a Master Plumber?
The master’s license requires at least 7 years of experience working as a Journeyman plumber before applying for it. After passing yet another state-administered exam (which covers more advanced topics such as water chemistry), you will finally be able to call yourself a master plumber.
Most states require that a person hold this license before he can advertise himself as a master plumber.
You can find more information about these requirements on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website or by contacting them directly at 850-487-1395 or through their contact form.
Professional Associations?
You should also know that there are many different associations that offer training programs for people who want careers as plumbers in Florida. These organizations include:
- Florida Association of PHCC – This is an organization designed to promote professionalism and best practices among Florida’s plumbers.
- The National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (NAPHC) – Offers certification.
- The Department of Business and Professional Regulation – Offers certifications.
- The American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE) – Provides national and local codes used throughout the country.
These groups provide training for plumbers and other professionals in their field. You should check out their websites for more information about becoming members or attending classes or seminars offered by these organizations.
Verifying a Plumbing License in Florida
The DBPR requires all applicants to verify their license information before they can take the exam. You can verify your license online or by phone at 850-487-1395.
If you’ve been licensed in another state, you may be able to transfer your license to Florida if you meet certain requirements. Contact the DBPR for more information about transferring your license.
What Employers in Florida Are Looking for in a Plumber
Florida employers in the plumbing industry seek highly skilled and dedicated professionals who can efficiently install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The state’s diverse job market presents opportunities ranging from entry-level plumbing assistants to master plumbers managing large-scale projects. Here’s what hiring managers across Florida expect from plumbing professionals:
Key Skills and Responsibilities
- Installation and Repair Expertise
- Employers such as Nash Plumbing and Mechanical (Ocala, FL) prioritize candidates with experience in underground plumbing, above-ground installations, fixture setting, and trim work for commercial buildings.
- Companies like CoolToday (Naples, FL) seek service plumbers with strong troubleshooting skills to diagnose plumbing emergencies and repair or replace water heaters, faucets, tubs, toilets, and sewer systems.
- Technical Proficiency in Plumbing Materials
- Plumbers must be proficient in working with various piping materials, including copper, steel, cast iron, PVC, CPVC, and PEX.
- Understanding and applying industry best practices for leak detection, drainage systems, and water distribution is crucial.
- Ability to Read Blueprints and Follow Codes
- Many roles, such as those offered by PG Plumbing (Riviera Beach, FL), require reading blueprints and interpreting drawings to install plumbing systems accurately.
- Employers emphasize compliance with local building codes and safety regulations.
- Use of Tools and Equipment
- Proficiency in using power tools, hand tools, and diagnostic equipment is essential.
- Experience with sewer machines and drain cleaning equipment is a plus, as seen in CoolToday’s job descriptions for drain technicians.
- Crossover into Other Trades
- Many plumbing roles require familiarity with HVAC systems, water treatment equipment, and general construction principles.
- Companies like Vape Daddy (Fort Lauderdale, FL) value candidates with experience in remodeling and maintenance work, which often involves plumbing in conjunction with electrical and mechanical systems.
- Customer Service and Communication Skills
- Florida’s plumbing industry values professionals who can interact with customers effectively, explain issues, and provide solutions.
- CoolToday highlights customer service as a key aspect of their hiring criteria, expecting plumbers to educate clients on maintenance requirements and cost-effective solutions.
Educational and Certification Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED (Preferred but not always required)
- Some employers, such as PG Plumbing, look for candidates with a diploma or equivalent education.
- Plumbing Certifications and Licensing
- Holding a Master Plumber License can lead to higher pay and more advanced roles, as seen with American Plumbing of Ocala.
- Many companies encourage or provide opportunities for apprentices to obtain state certifications.
- Driver’s License and Clean Record
- Since many roles require travel to job sites, a valid driver’s license is necessary.
- American Plumbing Professionals explicitly requires a clean driving history for at least five years for their traveling apprentice positions.
Job Benefits and Career Growth
- Competitive Pay and Benefits
- Salary ranges vary, with entry-level positions starting at around $25 per hour and experienced professionals earning up to $150,000 per year, depending on expertise and location.
- Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as 401(k) plans with employer matching.
- Career Advancement Opportunities
- Many Florida employers provide structured apprenticeship programs leading to full-time technician roles.
- Companies like American Plumbing Professionals offer on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction to prepare apprentices for career growth.
- Travel and Job Flexibility
- Certain employers, such as American Plumbing of Ocala, offer full-time travel positions that require working across multiple states, providing extensive hands-on experience.
- Schedules vary, with opportunities for part-time, contract, and full-time positions, accommodating different career needs.
Conclusion
The Florida plumbing industry offers a wide range of opportunities for both new and experienced professionals. Employers seek individuals with strong technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to grow within the trade. Whether working on large-scale commercial projects or residential service calls, plumbers in Florida can find rewarding careers with excellent pay, benefits, and advancement potential.