Ever wondered what it takes to become a certified plumber in Texas? It’s not an overnight process, but it’s a career path where hard work really pays off—in job satisfaction, financial stability, and the pride of keeping homes running smoothly.
At Quarter Moon Plumbing, AC & Heating, we know great plumbers do more than fix leaks and clear drains. They help families live comfortably, improve water efficiency, and even boost home value through smart plumbing upgrades. So, let’s break down what it takes to go from rookie to certified pro in the plumbing world.
Step One: Learning the Basics and Getting Started
In Texas, most plumbers start with a high school diploma or GED before moving into an apprenticeship program. This is where things get exciting, you’ll learn the ropes through on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
Apprenticeships typically last four to five years, giving you time to learn everything from pipe installation to water heater maintenance. The best part? You earn while you learn, which means no hefty student loans.
During this time, apprentices begin to understand how plumbing connects to other systems like HVAC, electrical, and construction. Many also discover how plumbing upgrades that boost home value can make a big impact for homeowners, especially when paired with energy efficient HVAC for resale value.
Step Two: Putting in the Hours and Gaining Real Experience
Becoming a certified plumber isn’t just about book knowledge—it’s about hands-on experience. Texas requires about 4,000 hours of supervised on-the-job training to become a Tradesman plumber, which usually takes two years of full-time work.
Those hours go by faster than you think. You’ll get to work on a wide variety of projects, from new home builds to emergency repairs, and you’ll learn to diagnose issues quickly and safely.
It’s also a great time to see the cost savings with a maintained plumbing system in action. A little regular maintenance can go a long way in preventing major breakdowns and avoiding plumbing repairs before selling a house.
By the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll have the confidence to handle almost any plumbing challenge that comes your way.
Step Three: Taking the Exam and Getting Licensed
Once your hours are complete, it’s time to prove what you’ve learned. You’ll need to pass the Texas Journeyman Plumber exam, which tests your technical knowledge, safety practices, and understanding of plumbing codes.
Passing this exam is a huge accomplishment and it officially earns you your license as a Journeyman Plumber. From there, many go on to become Master Plumbers, which requires additional experience and another exam. Master Plumbers can supervise other plumbers, run their own businesses, and take on larger-scale projects.
It’s a long process, but every step builds your expertise and your career potential.
Why Plumbing Is a Smart, Rewarding Career
Plumbing is one of those careers that truly makes a difference. Every day, plumbers help families access clean water, prevent costly damage, and maintain the systems that make modern living possible.
It’s also a field that offers long-term stability and flexibility. Whether you want to specialize in service work, new construction, or residential, there’s always room to grow. Skilled plumbers are in high demand, especially in growing Texas communities like San Antonio, Cibolo, and New Braunfels.
Thinking About a Career in Plumbing?
At Quarter Moon Plumbing, AC & Heating, we’re passionate about training and supporting the next generation of skilled tradespeople. Many of our team members started as apprentices and worked their way up, learning not just the trade but also the value of great customer service.
If you’ve ever thought about joining the plumbing industry—or you’re just curious about what it takes—our team would love to share our experience and advice.
Call Quarter Moon at (210) 651-5899 or visit quartermoonplumbing.com/careers to learn more about plumbing careers or join our team!