Best Plumber Schools in California

California Quick Facts

Top Cities for Plumber Training in California

The cities below have the highest concentration of plumber training programs and population centers within California. Click through for school listings near each:

• Los Angeles, California
• San Francisco, California
• San Diego, California
• Riverside, California
• San Jose, California
• Sacramento, California
• Oxnard, California
• Fresno, California
• Bakersfield, California
• Santa Maria, California

Steps to Become a Licensed Plumber in California

1. Choose an accredited training path. Options typically include trade schools, community colleges, and registered apprenticeships.
2. Complete the required classroom instruction in code, safety, and trade theory.
3. Log on-the-job training hours under a licensed or experienced professional.
4. Pass the state or local licensing exam where required.
5. Apply for licensure or certification, then maintain it through continuing education as required.

In California, CareerOneStop reports state-recognized credentials such as the Plumbing Contractor for this trade (CareerOneStop, U.S. Department of Labor).

State Wage and Employment

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports approximately 47,660 plumbers working in California as of May 2025, earning a median annual wage of approximately $72,830 (BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025). California’s location quotient of 0.87 indicates jobs in this trade are less concentrated than the national average (BLS OEWS, May 2025).

Apprenticeships in California

In California, registered apprenticeships are listed through the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards - Registered Apprenticeship (CareerOneStop, U.S. Department of Labor). Apprenticeships combine paid on-the-job training with related classroom instruction, typically over 3 to 5 years. United Association (UA) of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry sponsors registered apprenticeships in nearly every state.

Federal Prevailing Wage in California

Federal Davis-Bacon prevailing wage rates set the minimum hourly compensation on most federally funded construction projects. As of 2026, the active general wage determination for this trade in California lists $70.95/hr total compensation ($44.75 base + $26.20 fringe) (DOL Wage and Hour Division, 2026).

Find Plumber Programs Across California

The cities below have local plumber program directories. Click any city to compare schools nearby:

• Adelanto, California
• Agoura Hills, California
• Alameda, California
• Alhambra, California
• Aliso Viejo, California
• American Canyon, California
• Anaheim, California
• Antioch, California
• Apple Valley, California
• Arcadia, California
• Arroyo Grande, California
• Arvin, California
• Atascadero, California
• Atwater, California
• Azusa, California
• Bakersfield, California
• Baldwin Park, California
• Banning, California
• Barstow, California
• Beaumont, California

Frequently Asked Questions

Do plumbers need a license in California?

Licensing requirements for plumbers vary across California. CareerOneStop and the relevant state agency publish current credential lists; verify scope and exam rules before applying.

How long does plumber training take in California?

Typical certificate programs run 6 to 12 months, associate degrees take about 2 years, and registered apprenticeships generally last 3 to 5 years while paying on-the-job wages.

What is the median wage for plumbers in California?

BLS reports a median annual wage of approximately $72,830 for this occupation in California (BLS OEWS, May 2025). Wages vary by experience, employer, and metro area.