How to Become a Plumber in Iowa

Iowa offers many work opportunities for plumbers.

If you want to work in the industry, you should first get the needed training.

After that, you can get a license and start looking for a job.

So, read on to learn more about the steps you need to take.

Plumber Job Description and Requirements

Plumbers deal with everything related to water systems.

They install toilets, sinks, repair pipes, and also make sure the water system works properly.

Their daily duties 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

In Iowa, you can get either of the 3 available plumber licenses:

• Apprentice license,
• Journeyman license,
• Master license

How to Become an Apprentice in Iowa

To get a job in the industry, you will first need to get some training.

This will allow you to develop your skills in order to get a license.

The easiest way to train is by enrolling in a training program through a technical college.

These are called apprenticeships, and you will need to register with the board once enrolled.

A plumbing apprenticeship in Iowa generally lasts for about 5 years.

During this time, you will attend both theory and practice hours.

The theory hours will include subjects such as:

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

To enroll in a training program, you need to be at least 18 years old.

You should also show proof of a high-school diploma or an equivalent.

In Iowa, the plumbing licenses are managed by The Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board.

You will need to provide a criminal record and pass a background check.

Another requirement is attending a program approved by the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship.

As an apprentice, you must also show proof of being supervised by a licensed plumber.

To register, you need to submit an application form to the Board and pay the required application fees.

How to Get a Journeyman License in Iowa

After you finished your training program, you can move on to becoming a journeyman.

This will allow you to work without being supervised, or while being supervised by a master plumber

To get this license, you should:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Pass a background check
• Have completed a 4 years apprenticeship program that is approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.
• Pass the journeyman exam

In order to be eligible for the exam, you must submit an application form first.

You will also need to pay a $25 application fee.

How to Get a Master Plumber License in Iowa

If you want to become a master plumber, you also need to fit some criteria.

Getting this license will allow you to work alone, without supervision, but also supervise other plumbers.

In addition to performing plumbing work, you will also be able to plan it.

You can work in residential homes, office buildings, and even the city streets.

To get the master plumber license issued to you, you must:

• Be 18 years old or older
• Take a pass a background check
• Take and pass the master plumber licensing exam

Before you take the exam, you need to submit an examination approval application.

You will also need to submit a post-examination application after you pass the test.

Plumber Employment and Salary Information

When it comes to job opportunities, plumbers in Iowa have many options.

Generally, the salaries in Iowa average at around $55,009 per year, and you can earn more the more experience you have.

You will also get paid while you are an apprentice, however, the salary will be lower.

The average salary also depends on the city and area where you live.

The larger the region, the better the chances to get paid well.

Regional Salary in Iowa

Additional Information

If you have a plumbing license in Minnesota, Nebraska, and South Dakota. you can also work in Iowa by reciprocity.

For this, you should submit your license as well as a certificate of good standing.

This certificate should be prepared by the Board in your respective state.

Plumbers have the possibility of joining a union, like many other tradesmen.

By joining a union, you have access to a series of advantages:

• A higher salary
• Healthcare insurance
• Retirement plan
• Other benefits, help, and protection from the union

You should know that union members are expected to pay a yearly fee as well as accept whatever decisions the union takes, regardless of how the member feels about the decision.

Schools Offering Plumbing Programs in Iowa

Plumbing License by City

Plumbing License by State