How to Become a Plumber in California
Updated April 13, 2025 | Brad Fishbein
Thinking about becoming a plumber in California? It’s a smart choice. With growing housing demand, strict water regulations, and an aging infrastructure, licensed plumbers are in high demand across the Golden State.
Whether you’re right out of high school or switching careers, this guide walks you through how to become a licensed plumber in California — backed by info from the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB)1, U.S. Department of Labor2, and state-approved apprenticeship programs.
🧰 Do Plumbers Need a License in California?
Yes. To legally perform plumbing work valued at $500 or more (labor + materials), you must hold a C-36 plumbing contractor license issued by the CSLB1.
| License Type | Description | Issued By |
|---|---|---|
| C-36 Plumbing Contractor | Allows you to bid, contract, and work on plumbing projects in California | CSLB1 |
“Anyone performing plumbing work in California for $500 or more must be licensed by the CSLB.” — California Contractors State License Board1
If you're working under a licensed contractor (like during an apprenticeship), you don’t need your own license right away.
🪜 Step-by-Step: How to Become a Plumber in California
1. Meet Basic Requirements
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or GED
- Legal right to work in the U.S.
- Able to pass a background check3
2. Enroll in a Plumbing Apprenticeship or Trade School
Most new plumbers start by enrolling in a state-registered apprenticeship or plumbing trade school. Apprenticeships are the most common route.
| Pathway | Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 4–5 years | Earn while you learn; union or non-union |
| Trade School | 9–24 months | Shorter, classroom-focused alternative |
“California apprenticeships combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, preparing you for long-term success.” — California Division of Apprenticeship Standards4
Where to Apply:
3. Log Required Work Experience
To apply for your own CSLB license, you must prove at least 4 years (8,000 hours) of journey-level experience in plumbing within the last 10 years1.
- Work experience must be verified by an employer or union representative
- Time spent in an approved apprenticeship counts toward this
4. Apply for the C-36 Plumbing Contractor License
Once you meet the experience requirement, you’re eligible to apply for the C-36 license through the CSLB.
| Step | Notes |
|---|---|
| Apply online or by mail | www.cslb.ca.gov |
| Submit Application + $450 fee | Includes fingerprinting, experience forms, ID1 |
| Obtain contractor bond | ~$15,000 minimum required by law5 |
| Pass licensing exams | Law & Business + Plumbing Trade (see below) |
5. Pass the California Plumbing License Exams
| Exam Section | Covers |
|---|---|
| Law & Business | Contracts, employment law, business operations |
| Trade (C-36) | Pipe systems, water heaters, drainage, code |
Exams are administered by CSLB and PSI. You must pass both sections to be licensed.
💰 Estimated Cost Breakdown
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Trade School or Apprenticeship | $0–$15,000 |
| CSLB Application & Exam Fees | ~$500 |
| Contractor Bond | ~$100–$300/year |
| Tools, Uniforms, & PPE | $300–$1,500 |
| Study Materials (Optional) | $50–$200 |
| Total Startup Cost Range | $950–$17,500+ |
💵 Plumber Salary & Job Outlook in California
| Role | Avg. Salary2 | Job Demand |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice Plumber | $40,000–$50,000 | High |
| Journeyman Plumber | $60,000–$75,000 | Very High |
| Licensed Contractor | $85,000–$120,000+ | Excellent |
“California ranks among the top-paying states for plumbers, with strong union support and statewide demand.” — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics2
🔗 Explore More California Trades
- Electrician in California
- HVAC Technician in California
- Welder in California
- Solar Installer in California
- Carpenter in California
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions
Do plumbers need to be licensed in California?
Yes — if you perform plumbing jobs worth $500 or more, a CSLB license is required.
How long does it take to become a plumber in California?
It typically takes 4–5 years through an apprenticeship to become licensed.
Do I need a license to work as a plumbing apprentice?
No. You can work under a licensed contractor while training.
Can I get financial aid for plumbing school?
Yes. Many California trade schools accept federal aid, GI Bill benefits, or WIOA grants.
📚 Citations
-
California Contractors State License Board – Plumbing Licensing: https://www.cslb.ca.gov ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩
-
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/plumbers-pipefitters-and-steamfitters.htm ↩ ↩ ↩
-
California Department of Justice – Background Checks: https://oag.ca.gov/fingerprints ↩
-
California Division of Apprenticeship Standards: https://www.dir.ca.gov/das ↩
-
CSLB Surety Bond Info: https://www.cslb.ca.gov/Contractors/Surety_Bonds ↩
Explore Related Topics:
Notice an update we should make?
We strive for accuracy. Contact us here if you see incorrect or outdated info on this page.
Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.
.svg){kind=logo}