How to Become a Plumber in Idaho

Maybe you want to be a plumber in Idaho.

If you are interested in developing a career in the industry, have a look at the information below.

You will get to learn more about the licensing process as well as the required training.

Plumber Job Description and Requirements

Plumbers install, maintain, and fix water systems and anything related to these.

Some common daily job responsibilities include:

• Reading or drafting blueprints
• Installing the piping system
• Maintaining the water system
• Repairing the system whenever needed
• Ensuring the safety standards
• Meeting building regulations
• Using the appropriate devices to measure or solder

Before you can get hired, you first need to train and get a license.

In Idaho, there are 3 different types of plumbing licenses, which are:

• Apprentice license,
• Journeyman license,
• Master plumber license

How to Become an Apprentice in Idaho

The first step in starting your career is to get trained.

The training is offered through vocational schools, and you will need to enroll in a program.

To be accepted, you have to meet some criteria including:

• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Be at least 16 years old
• A copy of your driver’s license
• Submitting an application
• Pay any required application fees
• The training program will include both theory and practice.

In the theory part, you will get to learn more about subjects such as:

• Drafting,
• Mathematics,
• Science,
• Sprinkler installation,
• Pipefitting
• Reading blueprints

The trading program you choose has to be approved by the state board.

You will also need to register your apprenticeship in order to show proof of experience.

While you are in training, you can only work while being supervised by a journeyman.

How to get a Journeyman Plumber License in Idaho

If you successfully finish your apprentice program, you can then become a journeyman.

This will allow you to perform plumbing work without supervision.

You will also be allowed to supervise other apprentices.

To get certified as a journeyman, you need to:

• Send in an application form
• Pay any fees that apply
• Be an apprentice for at least 4 years
• Take the journeyman exam
• Have completed a training program that lasted for at least 4 years

In this state, you can also become a specialty journeyman plumber.

In order to get this certification, you need experience of 1.5 years in the field of your choice.

The journeyman plumber exam is open book, and you will need to show proof of ID.

As of now, Idaho has 3 centers where you can take this exam.

How to Get a Contractor License in Idaho

If you worked for enough time as a journeyman, you can take the next step and become a contractor.

As a contractor, you will be able to work on any type of plumbing system.

You can install, repair, and maintain water systems in homes, large buildings, and offices.

With this license, you will also be able to start your own plumbing company.

In order to get a contractor plumbing license, you need to:

• Have an experience of 2 years working as a journeyman
• Send in an application form
• Pay the required application fees
• Take the contractor exam

Plumber Employment and Salary Information

Maybe you are wondering what are the potential earnings for plumbers in Idaho.

The salary you will receive depends on the area you live, as well as how much experience you have.

As an apprentice, you will be paid about half of what a licensed plumber receives.

The more experience you get in the industry, the higher your salary will be.

Generally, a plumber in Idaho has a good salary compared to the rest of the nation.

If you are looking for increased job opportunities, you can join a plumbing union.

Being a union member will give you a 20% higher salary and more stable employment.

Regional Salary in Idaho

Additional Information

If you have a plumbing license in another state, you can get one in Idaho if:

• You had a license for a year in Montana
• You were licensed for at least 6 months in Oregon
• You are currently a resident of Washington state

Other than this, Idaho does not offer any reciprocity licenses.

This means you will have to apply for a new license if you worked in another state and relocated.

In case you need more industry resources, you can check out the Division of Building and Safety.

If being a plumber is your dream job, the first step you need to take is to get trained.

Training will provide the experience you need to get licensed and build a solid career in the field.

Schools Offering Plumbing Programs in Idaho

Plumbing License by City

Plumbing License by State