Best Plumber Schools in New York

New York Quick Facts

Top Cities for Plumber Training in New York

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

• New York, New York
• Albany, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Buffalo, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Kiryas Joel, New York
• Binghamton, New York
• Kingston, New York
• Elmira, New York
• Utica, New York

Steps to Become a Licensed Plumber in New York

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 New York, CareerOneStop reports state-recognized credentials such as the Certified Clinical Laboratory Technician for this trade (CareerOneStop, U.S. Department of Labor).

State Wage and Employment

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports approximately 23,210 plumbers working in New York as of May 2025, earning a median annual wage of approximately $77,490 (BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025). New York’s location quotient of 0.80 indicates jobs in this trade are less concentrated than the national average (BLS OEWS, May 2025).

Apprenticeships in New York

In New York, registered apprenticeships are listed through the New York Office of 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 New York

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 New York lists $70.56/hr total compensation ($42.68 base + $27.88 fringe) (DOL Wage and Hour Division, 2026).

Find Plumber Programs Across New York

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

• Albany, New York
• Amsterdam, New York
• Auburn, New York
• Binghamton, New York
• Brockport, New York
• Bronx, New York
• Brooklyn, New York
• Buffalo, New York
• Cortland, New York
• Dunkirk, New York
• Elmira, New York
• Freeport, New York
• Garden City, New York
• Geneva, New York
• Glen Cove, New York
• Glens Falls, New York
• Gloversville, New York
• Harrison, New York
• Hempstead, New York
• Ilion, New York

Frequently Asked Questions

Do plumbers need a license in New York?

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

How long does plumber training take in New York?

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 New York?

BLS reports a median annual wage of approximately $77,490 for this occupation in New York (BLS OEWS, May 2025). Wages vary by experience, employer, and metro area.