What is a Plumber?

Plumbers ensure the safe delivery of clean water and the proper removal of waste. They install pipes, fixtures, and appliances such as toilets, sinks, showers, and water heaters. They also troubleshoot leaks, repair systems, and verify that all plumbing work complies with building codes and health regulations. Their expertise is vital in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

Where Does a Plumber Work?

Plumbers in Kentucky work across diverse environments:

• Residential homes – handling repairs, remodels, and new installations
• Commercial buildings – offices, hospitals, and schools
• Industrial facilities – manufacturing plants or processing facilities
• Construction sites – contributing to new builds from the ground up

Many plumbers work for contractors or plumbing companies, while others run their own businesses as independent contractors.

Requirements to Become a Plumber in Kentucky

To work as a licensed plumber in Kentucky, you must meet state requirements set by the Division of Plumbing.

1. Education: A high school diploma or GED is required. Courses in math, science, and technical subjects provide a helpful foundation.

2. Apprenticeship: Complete a state-approved apprenticeship, typically lasting 4–5 years. This combines classroom instruction with supervised, hands-on training.

3. Examinations:

   • Journeyman Exam – After apprenticeship, candidates must pass the Journeyman Plumber Exam.
   • Master Exam – Experienced journeymen can pursue the Master Plumber license after additional work experience.

   Exams cover Kentucky plumbing codes, regulations, and practical knowledge. Applications must be submitted at least three weeks before the exam date.

   • View Master/Journeyman Exam Schedule
   • Plumbing Examination Registration Form (PLB-3)

4. Licensing & Insurance: Once you pass, you must obtain your plumbing license through the Division of Plumbing. Liability insurance is required, and background checks may apply.

For more details, see:

• Kentucky Administrative Regulation – Chapter 20 Plumbing
• Kentucky Revised Statutes – Chapter 318.00
• Contact the Division of Plumbing: [email protected]

How to Become a Plumber in Kentucky?

Here’s a step-by-step pathway:

1. Complete your education
Start with a high school diploma or GED. Strong math and problem-solving skills are especially useful.

2. Enroll in a plumbing apprenticeship
Apply for a state-approved apprenticeship program. Expect 4–5 years of combined classroom and on-the-job training.

3. Take the Journeyman Exam

• Check-in is at 7:30 a.m. in Frankfort.
• Written and practical exam portions are included.
• You’ll have up to 2.5 hours to complete each section.

4. Earn work experience and advance
After earning your Journeyman license, gain additional years of work experience to qualify for the Master Plumber Exam. This exam also lasts up to 2.5 hours.

5. Apply for your Kentucky plumbing license
Submit proof of apprenticeship, work experience, exam results, and insurance. Once approved, you can legally work as a licensed plumber in Kentucky.

Where Can I Find Plumber Classes in Kentucky?

If you’re ready to pursue plumbing, Dreambound is the largest platform for comparing vocational training programs. You can find plumbing classes and apprenticeships near you, filter by program length, and review tuition and payment options.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Plumber

Licensed plumbers in Kentucky can expand their careers into:

• Residential plumbing – working with homeowners on repairs and new installations
• Commercial plumbing – handling large-scale systems in schools, hospitals, and factories
• Service plumbing – focusing on repairs, diagnostics, and emergencies
• Pipefitting – working with high-pressure pipes in industrial environments
• Plumbing inspection – ensuring installations meet building codes
• Business ownership – starting your own plumbing company

Frequently Asked Questions