How to Become a Plumber in Florida
When you’re looking at how to become a plumber in Florida, it’s important to understand the different licenses and certifications required by state law.
In addition, you’ll want to know what training programs are available and where you can take your exam.
First, you will need to become an apprentice.
Apprenticeship Training & Education
You can become an apprentice by enrolling in a training program such as the ones below:
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
How Much Does the Exam Cost?
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.
Salary
How Much Does a Journeyman Plumber Make?
According to Salary.com, the average annual salary for plumbers in Florida is $56,851 and $23 per hour. However, this range might change depending on the location, type of work, and certification among other factors.
The following list shows average annual salaries by city:
- Miami: $55,000
- Tampa: $52,000
- Orlando: $52,000
- Jacksonville: $45,000
- Sarasota: $43,000
- Fort Lauderdale: $43,000
Career Outlook
The plumbing industry has a long history of growth and expansion in the state of Florida. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters will grow by 5 percent through 2022. This is faster than the average for all careers combined.
The job outlook for plumbers in Florida is excellent. In fact, there are more than 51,000 projected job openings each year, on average. If you have experience as a plumber or want to get into this field, you’ll have no problem finding work.
Plumbing can be a rewarding career choice for many people who like working with their hands, fixing things, and being part of a team that makes sure homes are safe and comfortable for families to live in. Plumbing is also an industry with lots of opportunities for self-employment because there are so many small businesses that need skilled tradespeople to help them run their operations.