How to Become a Plumber in Kansas

If you want to work as a plumber in Kansas, you first need to learn more about the industry.

Kansas requires plumbers to become licensed, and the process also entails training.

So, have a look at the article below in order to find out more info.

Plumber Job Description and Requirements

In Kansas, plumbers can perform work in residential homes and other buildings.

The level of work performed depends on their specialty and training.

The duties a plumber has on a day to day basis include the following:

• 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 Kansas, a plumber can get the following licenses:

• Apprentice license,
• Journeyman license,
• Master license

How to become an Apprentice in Kansas

The first step in starting a plumbing career is getting an apprenticeship license.

To get one, you will need to first register with the board in the state.

You can become an apprentice by joining a training program through a technical college.

When looking for a program, keep in mind it needs to be approved by the board in the state.

In Kansas, an apprentice needs to train for about 5 years.

You will attend both theory and practice hours that will help you develop your skills.

Some of the classes you will be attending include:

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

There are also some requirements you need to fulfill to attend a program.

To be received by a trade school. you have to:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Show proof of a high-school diploma or a GED
• Class C driver’s license
• A birth certificate copy
• Be a US citizen
• Proof of school transcripts from your high-school
• Take a drug test
• Take a Workkeys test
• Submit an application form

To take this test, you should make an appointment beforehand.

You should also know the test has a duration of 2 hours.

Apprentices must be supervised by a journeyman or a master plumber while doing plumbing work.

You can attend a program in person but also online if you already have another job.

How to Get a Journeyman License in Kansas

Once you finish your training program, you can apply for the journeyman license.

If you get this license, you will be able to work without supervision.

In Kansas, the journeyman license varies based on the city you live in.

Journeyman License in Topeka and Shawnee County

To get a journeyman license in these areas you’ll need to:

• Submit an application form
• Submit a $53 fee along with the application
• Pass the journeyman exam with a score of at least $75
• If you are certified by the International Code Council (ICC), you have to take an exam and show proof of certification

Journeyman License in Wichita

If you live in the Wichita region, the requirements are:

• One year of education and one year of work experience
• 2 years of work experience
• A score of at least 75% in the ICC or IAPMO test.

You should also:

• Submit an application form
• Submit a $35 application fee
• Proof of exam results
• A copy of trade school transcripts
• Show proof of experience in the industry

How to get a Class D plumbing Contractor License in Kansas

The next step as a plumber in Kansas is getting a class D contractor license.

First of all, you have to submit an application to the Board of County Commissioners Johnson County.

Then, you have to pay a $100 application fee and a $225 license fee.

You will need to show proof of General Liability and Worker’s Compensation insurance.

Candidates are asked to pass a background check and have 4 years of experience in the field.

You will need to show a copy of your driver’s license and show you are a US citizen.

Have someone hired that fulfills the following criteria:

• Bachelor of Science Degree in architecture, engineering, construction science from an accredited school
• Get a score of at least 75% in the exam provided by the Contractor License Review Board
• Show proof of experience in the field
• Submit proof of good standing

Plumber Employment and Salary Information

Generally, the prospects for plumbers in Kansas are good.

Bigger areas like Wichita, Johnson County, Topeka, and Shawnee County provide higher salaries.

The salary you will learn varies based on the experience you have in the industry.

As an apprentice, your salary will be about half of what a licensed plumber makes.

However, as you gain experience, your salary will increase accordingly.

You will also have higher chances of earning more if you join a union.

Regional Salary in Kansas

Additional Information

Kansas does not offer reciprocity licenses with any other state.

So, if you have a plumbing license in another state, you have to apply for certification again in Kansas.

Schools Offering Plumbing Programs in Kansas

Plumbing License by City

Plumbing License by State