You already know the many financial and non-financial benefits of becoming a licensed plumber. But how do you become a licensed plumber in Illinois? Here we leak (pun intended) the process.
Step 1 – Become an Apprentice
Before becoming a licensed plumber in Illinois, you must serve an apprenticeship. Here are the requirements.
- You must be a U.S. citizen or if not be in the process of becoming one.
- You must be at least 16 years old (although some places require you to be 18).
- You need to be sponsored by a licensed plumber.
- You need at least two years of high school education, although being a high school graduate or having a GED is preferable. This gives you required knowledge of:
- Computers – especially for drafting
- Physics and thermodynamics
- Units of measurement
- Algebra and geometry
If you meet these requirements you can apply for a Plumber’s Apprenticeship License. The application fee is $100, or $225 in the city of Chicago or out of state.
So, what is involved with an apprenticeship? Two things:
1. Work experience. You will need to serve from four to six years under the supervision of your sponsoring licensed plumber. Illinois requires a minimum of 1,400 hours a year, for a total minimum of 5,600 hours. Your duties may include, but may not be limited to, some or all of the below:
a. Assembling, cutting and repairing pipe systems
b. Cleaning disposal systems
c. Cleaning water supply systems
d. Installing plumbing fixtures such as faucets, toilets and showerheads
e. Repairing existing fixtures
f. Unclogging drains and sewers
g. Answering customer questions on any of the above
2. Education. You will need 144 hours of classroom instruction through a trade school, college or university program approved by the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training.
The cost of this education can range from $3,500 to $7,000 per semester. Still less expensive than most four-year colleges. Also, your sponsoring plumber or union may pay for this, or perhaps your apprenticeship is a paid apprenticeship and you can use that money to defray the costs.
You have up to seven years to complete your apprenticeship.
Step 2 – Become a Licensed Plumber
Upon completing your apprenticeship, you can apply to be a licensed plumber. Prerequisites: you must have a valid driver’s license and not be delinquent on child support payments,
With those conditions met, you can apply to take the test for $175 ($225 in Chicago or outside Illinois). You will then need to pass the exam, which has two parts:
- A practical portion. You will have to fabricate assemblies of water and wastewater piping. The assemblies will be evaluated on their ability to hold pressure and dimensional correctness.
- A written portion to test your knowledge of the plumbing code.
If you do not pass the first time, don’t worry. Most people don’t. You can retake the test until you pass, paying the $175 fee each time. You have seven years from the time you start your apprenticeship.
Once you do pass and get your license, you will need to renew it every year and pay a renewal fee of $100. You will also need to complete four hours of continuing education each year.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing for Plumbing Career Opportunities
Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric is always looking for both licensed plumbers and apprentices. We offer excellent compensation, opportunities for advancement, and interesting and rewarding work. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 98 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we are the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicago’s North Shore and Northwest suburbs. Contact us today or visit RaviniaPlumbing.com/careers.