What is a licensed plumber?

A regular licensed plumber is also known as a journeyperson. A licensed plumber is a tradesperson who has been trained to install, maintain and repair pipes, fixtures and other appliances around the home.

Some of the duties a plumber must be able to perform include:

• Installing, maintaining and repairing pipes and fixtures
• Inspecting and testing equipment, such as pressure gauges, to determine the source of issues
• Clearing blocked toilets, sinks and pipes
• Estimating the cost of repairs, installations and maintenance services
• Presenting customers with professional recommendations for their plumbing problems

Plumbers need to obtain a license to perform their duties in most states. Additionally, even if a plumber operates in a state that doesn’t mandate licensing, they may be required to get a license through the local government. Most states require some combination of schooling, apprenticeship training and a state-approved board exam for an individual to become a licensed plumber.

What is a master plumber?

A master plumber is someone who has sought additional training in more specialized areas of plumbing. These individuals are more skilled than regular plumbers and are often called on for especially complicated or unique plumbing issues and projects.

What is the difference between plumbers and master plumbers?

The journey to becoming a plumber is relatively straightforward no matter what state you operate in. Everyone starts with some schooling, becomes an apprentice and then graduates to the journeyperson level. A journeyperson is an industry term for a standard plumber. Some choose to pursue further training to become master plumbers.

It’s not mandatory for plumbers to move from journeyperson to master plumber. In fact, many choose not to. Master plumbers have the opportunity to earn a lot more but will also need to dedicate several more years to their training.

The typical career path for a plumber is:

• Trade school (2 years)
• Apprenticeship (4-5 years)
• Journeyperson (2-5 years)
• Master plumber (7-10 years)

You receive a certificate once you achieve master plumber status, and this is the highest professional ranking that you can earn as a plumber.

Master plumber specialties

A master plumber typically specializes in one area, making them an expert in that niche. Master plumber specialties include:

• General plumber: This type of master plumber works on all general plumbing issues, including fixing, repairing and installing pipes, fixtures and appliances.
• Pipefitter: These plumbers maintain and install pressurized pipes in water tanks, pump systems, boilers and furnaces.
• Steamfitter: This type of plumber installs pipes that are used to transport liquids and high-pressure gas safely.
• Pipelayer: These professionals dig trenches and prepare materials for laying underground pipes.
• Sprinkler fitters: This type of plumber installs, repairs and inspects fire sprinkler systems.

The career path to becoming a master plumber

After three to four years of ongoing experience as a journeyperson plumber, a master plumber can take their state’s master plumbing licensing exam. Every state except for Pennsylvania requires the individual to take an exam to get their master plumber license.

Each state has different requirements for qualifying for this exam, potentially including a statement of relevant industry experience, an application and proof of passing required state courses. You’ll also need to provide a declaration of lawful presence, meaning that you’re an American citizen or a resident alien.

The master plumber state exam test includes questions on:

• The International Plumbing Code (IPC)
• The International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)
• The Examining Board of Plumbers regulations
• Basic repair, maintenance and installation of plumbing systems, fixtures and appliances
• Advanced repair, maintenance and installation of plumbing systems, fixtures and appliances
• Water supply systems
• Management of plumbing jobs
• Plumbing terminology
• Fire suppression systems
• Storm drainage systems
• Plumbing-related laws and rules

Master plumber vs. Regular plumber: Costs

A master plumber charges significantly more than a journeyperson plumber, as they are more experienced and qualified. Depending on where you live, a regular plumber may charge an hourly rate between $45 and $150. In comparison, a master plumber may charge $100 to $200 per hour. The exact cost will depend on your location, the type of job, travel costs (if applicable), equipment, parts and more.

Should I hire a master plumber or a regular plumber?

You can expect that hiring a master plumber will be more expensive than a regular plumber. So, is it worth it? And if so, when should you opt for a master plumber?

A master plumber is much more qualified and skilled in their trade, so you’re paying for this extra level of expertise. If you can afford it, hiring a master plumber can bring peace of mind, knowing that you’re working with one of the best people in the field.

Another option is to save splurging on a master plumber for when you have large or technically challenging jobs. Small, minor repairs, such as a drain obstruction, can easily be handled by a regular plumber. However, more intricate work like installing a new bathroom or moving gas lines might be best saved for a master plumber.

How much does a master plumber make?

The average national hourly rate for a plumber is $22.50 ($43,875 annually). In comparison, the average for a master plumber is $29.39 ($58,780 annually). Of course, the actual salary can depend on how much the person works, where they work, what they charge, their specialty, their experience and more.

Master plumbers are at the top

Plumbers who have completed their courses and apprenticeships are skilled in what they do. However, master plumbers are those who decided to take things a little further and seek out extra training in their field. They have received the highest possible certification in their industry and are well qualified.