Texas is an excellent place to become a plumber: according to the Dept of Labor, it has the 2nd highest employment rate for plumbers in the nation!
Education & Training
Beginners without experience need to enroll in a foundational program, like the ones below:
How Does the Course Benefit Students?
These goal of the course is to impart comprehensive knowledge of the trade to its student. Grads will know everything required to get an entry level plumbing job.
A free toolkit is also included in the cost.
Enroll at anytime.
What Do You Study?
Classes will address the following:
- Practices for plumbing safety and cautionary procedures for hazardous materials and equipment use.
- The mechanisms and components of standard piping and water supply systems and their construction.
- Reading specialty drawings and symbols concerning construction diagrams.
- Identifying piping materials and fixture types in plumbing and appropriately installing standard plumbing fixtures.
- Essential mathematical skills, geometric concepts, and prerequisite knowledge for completing standard services.
- Plumbing codes required for various services, and customer service communication skills.
Program Length & Cost
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. If you want to pay on a monthly basis, financing is available.
Other Local Trade School Programs
- Dallas
- Houston, Missouri City, Stafford
- Houston
- Arlington
Dallas College (Rating: 2.4 out 5)
The Plumbing Technology program offers a stackable credential pathway, allowing students to earn industry-recognized certificates and an associate degree in as little as four semesters. With hands-on lab training, students develop practical skills in fixtures, piping, and safety, preparing them for entry-level positions as plumber’s helpers. The program is available at Cedar Valley, Eastfield, and North Lake campuses, with certification options ranging from a one-semester Occupational Skills Award to a full A.A.S. degree.
Houston Community College (Rating: 3.8 out 5)
The Plumbing Technician OSA program provides 160 hours of hands-on training, equipping students with entry-level skills in plumbing installation, maintenance, and repair. Through courses on piping standards, materials, and safety practices, students learn to measure, cut, and join various pipe types, as well as work with fixtures, valves, and drainage systems. Upon completion, graduates are prepared for basic employment in the plumbing industry.
National Technical Institute (Rating: 4.9 out 5)
National Technical Institute’s Plumbing Technician Training Program offers flexible, hands-on courses designed to fast-track students into a plumbing career. With schedules that include weekends, weekdays, and evening options, the program allows students to learn both online and in-person through their unique Fusion Training Program. Over 12 or 16 weeks, students gain expertise in plumbing fundamentals, blueprint reading, water systems, and professional development, preparing them for a variety of roles in residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing. The program offers strong job security and high earning potential in a growing industry.
University of Texas Continuing Education (Rating: 3.8 out 5)
The Foundations of Plumbing program offers 145 hours of self-paced, online training over 12 months, equipping students with job-ready skills for residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing. The course covers safety protocols, piping systems, fixture installation, and plumbing code interpretation, with a focus on practical math and geometry. Graduates receive a 55-piece professional tool kit, preparing them for entry-level positions in the high-demand plumbing industry.
Salary Range
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average plumber salary in Texas is $56,890.
Below are some numbers from major jobs sites, for comparison sake.
- Indeed: $58,653
- Salary.com: $63,101
- Talent.com: $56,571
Here are average salaries and wages for other parts of the state, per BLS data.
| Area | Per Hour | Per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Abilene | $24.09 | $50,110 |
| Amarillo | $25.17 | $52,350 |
| Austin-Round Rock | $28.81 | $59,910 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $32.58 | $67,770 |
| Big Thicket Region of Texas | $21.79 | $45,310 |
| Border Region of Texas | $19.87 | $41,330 |
| Brownsville-Harlingen | $21.05 | $43,780 |
| Coastal Plains Region of Texas | $24.83 | $51,650 |
| College Station-Bryan | $25.23 | $52,470 |
| Corpus Christi | $28.47 | $59,210 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $28.56 | $59,400 |
| El Paso | $24.30 | $50,550 |
| Hill Country Region of Texas | $23.07 | $47,990 |
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land | $28.66 | $59,610 |
| Killeen-Temple | $24.64 | $51,260 |
| Laredo | $20.07 | $41,750 |
| Longview | $25.29 | $52,600 |
| Lubbock | $24.56 | $51,070 |
| McAllen-Edinburg-Mission | $22.23 | $46,230 |
| Midland | $27.16 | $56,490 |
| North Texas Region of Texas | $21.27 | $44,250 |
| Odessa | $27.27 | $56,730 |
| San Angelo | $23.91 | $49,730 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $25.63 | $53,310 |
| Sherman-Denison | $23.48 | $48,840 |
| Texarkana | $23.99 | $49,900 |
| Tyler | $23.75 | $49,400 |
| Victoria | $25.27 | $52,570 |
| Waco | $26.18 | $54,450 |
| West Texas Region of Texas | $22.08 | $45,930 |
| Wichita Falls | $24.34 | $50,640 |
Occupation: Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters (SOC Code472152)
source: data.bls.gov
Obviously, the average salary of a plumber depends on many factors: location, experience, education, certification level, etc.
Texas Requirements
The first step to becoming a plumber in Texas is to get an apprentice license. The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) governs the licensing process for this occupation.
Apprenticeship
To become licensed, you must complete an approved apprenticeship program with a master plumber or journeyman who holds a valid TSBPE certificate. The apprenticeship must be completed within four years, but it can take longer if you are working full-time while completing your training.
Exam
The next step is to pass the Texas Journeyman Plumbing Exam. You can register for this exam at the TSBPE website or through Prometric Testing Centers.
Once you pass the exam, you will be eligible to apply for a master plumber license through TSBPE. This requires proof of two years of experience as a journeyman in Texas as well as passing another exam that covers safety rules and regulations set down by TSBPE.
Journeyman
The state of Texas requires plumbers to be licensed by the state if they are practicing as a journeyman plumber or master plumber.
Journeyman Requirements
The first step is to meet the state’s journeyman requirements:
• You must be at least 18 years of age or older
• You must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent
• You must complete an apprenticeship program, which can take between 4 and 7 years depending on which union you join (more on this below).
Once you’ve obtained your license, you’ll need to get more training if you want to further your career by becoming a master plumber or starting your own business. This license is good for two years before it needs to be renewed by taking additional classes and exams.
Master Plumber
To become a master plumber in Texas, you’ll need to complete a four-year apprenticeship program and pass an exam. The apprenticeship program is offered through the state’s Department of Labor and Industry, and it’s open only to people who have graduated from high school or earned their GED.
You’ll also need at least one year of experience as a journeyman plumber before you can take your exam.
The exam covers topics such as plumbing codes, safety regulations, and water conservation techniques.
After taking your exam and passing it, your certificate will be good for five years; after that, you’ll have to repeat the process all over again if you want to continue practicing as a master plumber in Texas.
Are There Any Official Associations?
There are actually a couple of different organizations that can help you get your start as a plumber in Texas.
Associated Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of Texas ( PHCC) and The American Society of Plumbing Engineers(ASPE) are both great resources for new plumbers looking to find out more about the industry. Each association has its benefits.
For example, ASPE offers various discounts on products and services for members, whereas the PHCC provides networking opportunities and training programs for new members to help them get started in their careers.
Both associations have their own websites where you can find more information about becoming a member or gaining access to resources like manuals and books on plumbing techniques.
Does My Texas Plumbers License Work in Any Other State?
The answer to this question depends heavily on your current work status. I
If you’re a plumber who is just starting out and looking for a job, then your Texas plumbers license won’t be of much use outside of the state.
However, if you’ve already been working as a plumber in Texas for some time, then you may be able to find work with your current license—but it depends on where you want to work.
This is because every state has its own regulations and requirements for those who want to become plumbers.
If you decide that you want to become a plumber in another state, then you should contact the plumbing licensing agency there and find out what they have to say about getting licensed. You may even have to take an exam before they will permit you to work as a plumber in that state.
What Texas Employers Look for in a Plumber
Employers across Texas are seeking skilled and dedicated plumbers to meet the growing demands of both residential and commercial projects. From apprentices to experienced professionals, companies such as Belknap Plumbing Systems, JC Plumbing & Construction, South Texas Commercial Plumbing Systems, Polk Mechanical Company, and CCS Construction Staffing are hiring plumbers who exhibit strong technical skills, reliability, and a commitment to safety and customer satisfaction.
Key Skills and Qualifications
Texas employers prioritize candidates with experience in assembling, installing, and repairing plumbing systems. Hands-on experience in handling pipes, fittings, and fixtures, as well as a working knowledge of heating, water, and drainage systems, is essential. Many positions, like those at Polk Mechanical Company, also seek candidates with experience in HVAC and mechanical systems, demonstrating the crossover between these disciplines.
Employers such as CCS Construction Staffing emphasize the ability to read blueprints, install plumbing systems accurately, and use essential tools like pipe cutters and threading equipment. Additionally, possessing a valid Plumbing Apprentice License or other relevant certifications can provide candidates with a competitive edge.
Work Environment and Expectations
Plumbers in Texas can expect to work on various job sites, from commercial buildings and corporate offices to dining establishments and educational institutions. Companies like JC Plumbing & Construction and South Texas Commercial Plumbing Systems require professionals who can work on-site, follow instructions, and cooperate with teams effectively.
Schedules may vary, with many positions requiring availability for an 8-hour shift, weekend work, and on-call responsibilities. CCS Construction Staffing also offers long-term employment opportunities, emphasizing job stability and growth potential.
Benefits and Career Growth
Texas plumbing employers understand the importance of work-life balance and professional development. Many offer attractive benefits such as health insurance, 401(k) plans, profit-sharing, paid time off, and career advancement opportunities. Companies like Polk Mechanical Company and Belknap Plumbing Systems also provide additional training and education, ensuring that employees can continue growing in their field.
Conclusion
Plumbing professionals in Texas have ample opportunities to build a successful career, whether they are apprentices or seasoned plumbers. With competitive pay, long-term employment potential, and crossover opportunities into related fields such as HVAC and mechanical systems, the plumbing industry offers a rewarding path for those willing to develop their skills and meet the expectations of top employers.