Summary:
In Washington State, there are three main ways to become a plumber. The first and most common path is to join a union apprenticeship through UA Local 26, UA Local 32, UA Local 44, or UA Local 598.
A second option is to enter a non-union apprenticeship, often offered by plumbing companies like Harts Plumbing or Olympic Plumbing Technology.
Finally, you can start by training at a trade school such as Clover Park Technical College or Perry Technical College, and then apply for entry-level plumbing jobs.
No matter which path you choose, plumbing is a career that rewards effort, reliability, and skill. If you’re willing to show up and learn, you can build a strong future here.
Why You Should Become a Plumber in Washington State
Washington is one of the best places in the country to become a plumber. Plumbers here earn strong wages, enjoy high job security, and are needed everywhere from Seattle and Tacoma to Spokane, Tri-Cities, Olympia, and smaller communities across the state.
Plumbers keep homes, businesses, hospitals, and entire cities running. That’s meaningful work and in Washington, it pays.
What Plumbers Earn in Washington
- Starting trainee: $23–$25 per hour
- Journey-level plumbers: $40–$65 per hour
- Experienced plumbers with overtime: $100,000+ a year
Seattle-area wages tend to be highest, but good pay is available across the state.
Why Plumbing Is Worth It
- Earn while you learn — instead of taking on student debt
- High demand statewide
- Essential, respected, hands-on work
- Clear path to business ownership if you choose
This is a career where consistency and effort pay off.
The Path to Becoming a Plumber in Washington
Step 1: Get Your Plumber Trainee Card
You must have this to legally work in plumbing.
- Minimum age: 16
- Fee: $56.40
- 8 hours of continuing education per year
Apply here:
https://secure.lni.wa.gov/PlumberLicense/PlumberTrainee
Step 2: Complete Your Apprenticeship Hours
| License Type | Hours Required | Typical Work |
|---|---|---|
| Journey-Level Plumber | 8,000 hours (~4 years) | Commercial + Residential |
| Residential | 6,000 hours (~3 years) | Homes & small apartments |
| Residential Service | 4,000 hours (~2 years) | Repairs + service work |
| Specialty | 1–2 years | Pumps, wells, backflow, etc. |
Think of this like college — except you’re getting paid.
Step 3: Pass the Exam
- Application: $189.80
- Passing score: 70%
- Taken through PSI at locations across Washington
If you’ve put in the work, you’ll be ready.
Step 4: Get Your License
- Certification fee: ~$227.90
At this point, you’re officially a licensed plumber.
Step 5: Work for a Licensed Contractor
Washington requires licensed plumbers to work under a licensed plumbing contractor — unless you start your own business later.
Starting Your Own Plumbing Business
When you’re experienced and ready, business ownership is a real path:
- Register your business
- Carry $250,000 liability insurance
- Get a $6,000 bond
- Pay $139.10 application fee
- Be (or employ) a certified plumber
This is how many plumbers build six-figure careers and beyond.
Where to Get Plumbing Training in Washington
Union Apprenticeships (Recommended)
| Union | Region | Link |
|---|---|---|
| UA Local 26 | SW WA / Olympia / Tacoma | https://ualocal26.org |
| UA Local 32 | Seattle / King County | https://www.local32.org |
| UA Local 44 | Spokane / Eastern WA | https://www.ualocal44.org |
| UA Local 598 | Tri-Cities / Yakima / Central WA | https://ua598.org |
Technical Colleges
| School | Location | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Clover Park Technical College (Residential Plumbing) | Lakewood, WA | https://www.cptc.edu/programs/construction-plumbing |
| Perry Technical Institute | Yakima, WA | https://www.perrytech.edu |
Non-Union Employment Programs
Some companies train new plumbers and help them earn their hours:
- Harts Plumbing
https://www.hartsservices.com/ - Olympic Plumbing Technology
https://olympicplumbing.com/
Tip: Apply to multiple programs — apprenticeship slots are competitive.
What You Need to Get Started
- High school diploma or GED
- Driver’s license
- Background check & drug screen
- Basic math skills
- Willingness to work hard and learn
This trade rewards work ethic more than anything else.
Timeline
Most people earn their license in 2–5 years, depending on the path and they’re earning money the whole way.
Washington Plumbing Fast Facts
- Out-of-state plumbers must take WA exam
- Idaho journey-level exception exists
- Continuing education required
- WA enforces licensing laws
Getting Started Checklist
- Apply for your trainee card
- Apply to apprenticeship programs early
- Learn tool basics and safety
- Track your work hours carefully
- Show up and stay consistent
Final Thoughts
Plumbing in Washington isn’t just a job — it’s a professional trade with real growth, real security, and real earning potential. If you’re ready to work, learn, and stay committed, this career can change your life.
The first step is simple: get your trainee card and start applying.
You can do this.
About the Author
Lester L. Burkes is the Dean of Automotive & Skilled Trades at Clover Park Technical College in Washington State. He leads workforce education programs across multiple trades and is committed to helping students build high-skill, high-wage careers without unnecessary debt. Lester also runs LearnSkilledTrades.com, a resource designed to help people explore trades careers, understand training pathways, and take confident steps toward a better future.r those who follow the process, the state offers one of the best plumbing markets in America.
For detailed requirements, fees, and regulatory information, see our comprehensive plumbing licensing guide.