How to Become a Plumber in Minnesota

Plumbing licenses are only good for one year, expiring on Dec. 31 of each year.

Minnesota is one of the few states that requires most plumbers to be licensed in order to practice their trade. In fact, anyone doing plumbing work in a city with more than 5,000 residents must have a license from the state Department of Health. In addition to filling out an application and passing an exam, first-time applicants must provide three notarized references. There is also a reciprocity licensing program between Minnesota and the Dakotas. Before beginning work, plumbers must also secure a $25,000 code compliance bond.

Instructions

1. Graduate from high school with a degree or GED. Register with the Construction Codes and Licensing Division or the Apprenticeship Training Program with the Department of Labor and Industry. Pay registration fee of $30.

2. Enroll in a local apprenticeship program after passing an assessment test and taking part in an interview process. Pass a state-mandated drug test.

3. Complete an apprenticeship with a local unions or an independent contractor. The apprenticeship generally lasts four to five years and includes a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training.

4. Continue to gain experience in the field. As you progress through the on-the-job train you will learn to identify various grades and types of pipe and fixture installation. Familiarize yourself with the guidelines established by the Minnesota Plumbing Code and Minnesota Rules.

5. Pay the nonrefundable $50 application fee to take the plumber license exam. Pass the test to receive your journeyman plumber license. The license itself costs $55. You must have at least 7,000 hours of practical experience under your belt, with no one year of experience exceeding 1,750 hours. You must also meet the following minimum requirements to qualify, according to the Minnesota Department of Labor website:
   -2,000 hours of water distribution system installation
   -2,000 hours of drain, waste and vent system installation
   -1,000 hours of fixture installation
   -and 2,000 hours in any aspect of plumbing work.

6. Earn your master license by passing the licensing exam. Plumbers must have at least five years of practical experience and possess a journeyman plumber license to qualify. An out-of-state master license will also suffice. The master license costs $120. Supply proof of having secured a $25,000 code compliance bond.

7. Research the local job market online and by speaking with plumbers in the area. Look into learning Spanish language skills and attaining a green plumbing certification to make yourself more marketable. Some plumbers go to work for contractors, while others open their own businesses.

Tips & Warnings

• While most would-be plumbers learn their trade through an apprenticeship, it is possible to pick up the necessary skills by taking classes or through on-the-job training.

References

• Plumbers and Gasfitters Local 34: The Local 34 Apprenticeship Program
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Plumbers, Pipelayers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
• Contractor's License Reference Site: Plumber's Licenses
• Minnesota Office of the Revisor of Statutes: 2009 Minnesota Statutes
• Minnesota Department of Labor: Minnesota Plumber's Apprentice Guide

Resources

• Minnesota Department of Labor: Plumbing Contractor Code Compliance Bond Registration Checklist