Top 10 Journeyman Plumber Certifications

Certifications are important for a journeyman plumber in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competence and skill that employers look for when hiring. A certification can provide the assurance that an individual has achieved a certain level of knowledge and ability, which is beneficial in a competitive job market. Additionally, certifications can also open up opportunities for advancement and higher wages as employers recognize the value of certifications when considering candidates for positions. Lastly, many local municipalities require certified journeyman plumbers to be able to work in their jurisdiction, so having the proper certification is essential if one wishes to practice plumbing in those areas.

This article reviews some of the most beneficial certifications for Journeyman Plumbers and explains how they can help advance a journeyman plumber's career.

What are Journeyman Plumber Certifications?

Journeyman plumber certification is a professional designation that indicates the holder has achieved an advanced level of knowledge and skill in the plumbing trade. This certification is required for many plumbing jobs, such as those involving the installation or repair of water heaters, drainage systems, and other complex plumbing tasks. It also serves as proof of a journeyman's ability to safely perform these tasks and adhere to industry standards. With this certification, plumbers can demonstrate their competence and reliability to potential employers, which can help them secure better job opportunities and higher salaries. Additionally, it allows them to work independently on certain projects and serve as a mentor to apprentices.

Pro Tip: When seeking journeyman plumber certification, make sure to research the necessary requirements and qualifications in your state. Different states have different regulations, so it is important to be aware of any specific requirements or restrictions that may apply. Additionally, if you are considering taking an online course or program to obtain your certification, make sure the course is accredited and meets all of the necessary criteria for your state.

Related: What does a Journeyman Plumber do?

Top 10 Journeyman Plumber Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Journeyman Plumbers today.

1. National Journeyman Plumber Certification

National Journeyman Plumber Certification is a certification program designed to recognize plumbers who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in the field of plumbing. The certification is awarded by the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) after successful completion of an exam.

To become a certified journeyman plumber, applicants must first complete an apprenticeship program that meets the requirements set forth by NASCLA. Apprenticeships typically last three to four years and include classroom instruction, on-the-job training, and hands-on experience in all aspects of plumbing work. After completing the apprenticeship program, applicants are eligible to take the National Journeyman Plumber Certification Exam.

The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion. The written portion covers topics such as safety regulations, codes, installation procedures, and materials used in plumbing systems. The practical portion requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to install fixtures, repair pipes, and troubleshoot problems with plumbing systems.

The cost for the National Journeyman Plumber Certification Exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, it typically costs between $200-$400 USD. Once applicants pass both portions of the exam they will receive their certification from NASCLA which is valid for five years before needing to be renewed.

2. American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) Certified Journeyman Plumber

The American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) Certified Journeyman Plumber is a professional certification for individuals who have completed a minimum of 5 years of experience in the plumbing trade. This certification recognizes individuals who possess the knowledge and skills necessary to perform journeyman level plumbing tasks.

To become an ASPE Certified Journeyman Plumber, applicants must have at least five years of full-time experience as a journeyman plumber or equivalent, and they must pass an examination administered by the ASPE. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion. The written portion covers topics such as safety regulations, installation procedures, and code requirements; while the practical portion focuses on hands-on skills related to plumbing systems.

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete all the requirements for becoming an ASPE Certified Journeyman Plumber. Applicants should plan on spending time studying for both portions of the exam and gaining experience in the field prior to taking it.

The cost for becoming an ASPE Certified Journeyman Plumber varies depending on where you live and which organization you are applying through. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1000 to take the exam, plus any additional fees associated with your application process (such as background checks).

3. National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) Certified Journeyman Plumber

The National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) Certified Journeyman Plumber is a professional certification that demonstrates a plumber’s knowledge and skills in the plumbing trade. This certification is recognized by many states as an indication of competency, and is often required for licensure and/or registration in many jurisdictions.

In order to obtain the NASCLA Certified Journeyman Plumber certification, applicants must have at least four years of verifiable experience as a journeyman plumber and pass an examination administered by the National Evaluation Services (NES). The exam covers topics such as safety, tools, materials, installation methods, codes, regulations, and other related topics.

The cost for the exam varies depending on the jurisdiction in which it is taken. Generally speaking, it costs between $150-$200 to take the exam. It typically takes two to three hours to complete the exam.

Once an applicant passes the exam they are awarded with a certificate indicating their successful completion of the NASCLA Certified Journeyman Plumber program. They will also receive a wallet card that can be used to show proof of their certification when needed.

4. International Code Council (ICC) Certified Journeyman Plumber

The International Code Council (ICC) Certified Journeyman Plumber is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and experience of individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the plumbing industry. The certification is issued by the ICC and requires individuals to demonstrate their understanding of the National Standard Plumbing Code, as well as local codes and regulations.

To become an ICC Certified Journeyman Plumber, applicants must have at least four years of documented journey-level plumbing experience. This experience must include installation, maintenance, repair and alteration of water supply systems, drainage systems, sanitary systems, gas piping systems, and related fixtures. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by the ICC that covers topics such as safety practices and procedures; installation methods; materials selection; system design; code requirements; inspection procedures; troubleshooting techniques; and more.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it will cost between $100-$200 for the application fee plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with taking the exam. Additionally, some states may require additional fees for licensing or other requirements.

Once you have passed the exam and received your certification card from the ICC, you will be officially recognized as an ICC Certified Journeyman Plumber. This certification is valid for three years before needing to be renewed. Renewal requires proof of continuing education credits obtained through approved courses or seminars related to plumbing codes or standards.

5. American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Journeyman Plumber

The American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Journeyman Plumber is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of plumbing. This certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems.

In order to become an AWS Certified Journeyman Plumber, applicants must first complete a four-year apprenticeship program. During this time, they must complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and pass a written exam administered by the AWS. After completing the apprenticeship program, applicants are eligible to take the certification exam which consists of both written and practical components.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically ranges from $200-$300 USD. Additionally, there may be other costs associated with taking the exam such as travel expenses and study materials.

Once an applicant passes the certification exam, they will receive their AWS Certified Journeyman Plumber credentials which are valid for three years before needing to be renewed. Renewal requires passing an additional written examination as well as completing continuing education courses in order to stay up-to-date on industry standards and practices.

6. Master Plumbers Association (MPA) Certified Journeyman Plumber

The Master Plumbers Association (MPA) Certified Journeyman Plumber is a certification program for experienced plumbers. The program is designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of journeyman plumbers who have worked in the plumbing industry for at least four years. To become certified, a journeyman plumber must pass an exam that covers topics such as plumbing codes, installation techniques, safety practices, and business management.

It typically takes between two and four years to complete the certification process. During this time, a journeyman plumber will need to complete an apprenticeship program or equivalent training and experience in order to gain the necessary knowledge and skills required for the certification exam.

To get MPA Certified Journeyman Plumber status, you must first submit an application to the Master Plumbers Association. Once your application has been approved, you will be given access to study materials and practice tests that can help you prepare for the certification exam. After studying these materials and taking practice tests, you can then register for the actual exam with the MPA.

The cost of obtaining MPA Certified Journeyman Plumber status varies depending on which state or region you live in. In general, however, it usually costs around $200-$400 USD to take the exam and receive your certification. This fee may also include additional costs such as registration fees or study materials.

7. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Journeyman Plumber

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Journeyman Plumber is a certification that demonstrates a plumber’s knowledge and experience in the plumbing industry. This certification is typically sought after by employers looking for experienced, knowledgeable plumbers.

To become an ASME Certified Journeyman Plumber, you must first have at least five years of practical experience in the plumbing field. You must also pass an exam administered by the ASME to demonstrate your knowledge of plumbing codes and regulations. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion.

In order to take the exam, applicants must first register with ASME and pay an application fee. Once registered, applicants can take the exam at their local testing center or online through ASME’s website. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, it typically ranges from $150-$200 for both parts.

Once applicants have passed both parts of the exam, they will be issued an ASME Certified Journeyman Plumber certificate that is valid for three years from the date of issue. After three years, plumbers must renew their certification by taking a refresher course or retaking the entire exam again.

8. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Journeyman Plumber

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Journeyman Plumber is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise and knowledge of experienced plumbers. It is intended to demonstrate that a plumber has achieved a level of proficiency in plumbing installation and repair, as well as safety practices and regulations.

To become an NFPA Certified Journeyman Plumber, an individual must have at least four years of experience in the plumbing trade, including two years as a journeyman or equivalent. Applicants must also successfully complete a written examination administered by the NFPA. The exam consists of questions on topics such as plumbing codes, safety practices, materials selection and installation methods.

The cost for taking the exam varies by jurisdiction but typically ranges from $100 to $200. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official certificate from the NFPA. This certification is valid for three years, after which time it must be renewed by retaking the exam.

In addition to demonstrating expertise in plumbing installation and repair, holding an NFPA Certified Journeyman Plumber designation can open up more career opportunities for plumbers since employers are often looking for professionals with this type of certification when hiring journeymen or master plumbers.

9. American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Certified Journeyman Plumber

The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Certified Journeyman Plumber is a professional certification program that recognizes the skills, knowledge, and experience of journeyman plumbers. This certification is designed to demonstrate a level of expertise in plumbing installation and maintenance.

In order to become an ASTM Certified Journeyman Plumber, individuals must have at least five years of documented experience as a journeyman plumber. They must also pass an exam administered by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). The exam consists of both written and practical components covering topics such as plumbing codes, safety regulations, materials selection, installation techniques, water systems design, and more.

The cost of the ASTM Certified Journeyman Plumber exam varies depending on the location where it is taken. Generally speaking, it costs between $150-$200 to take the exam.

Once individuals have passed the exam, they will receive their ASTM Certified Journeyman Plumber certificate. This certificate is valid for three years from the date of issue and can be renewed by taking an additional test every three years or by completing continuing education credits.

Overall, obtaining an ASTM Certified Journeyman Plumber certification requires a significant amount of time and effort but can provide journeymen plumbers with greater job security and higher wages due to their increased level of expertise in their field.

10. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Certified Journeyman Plumber

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Certified Journeyman Plumber certification is a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates a plumber’s knowledge and skill in the plumbing trade. It is awarded to individuals who have successfully completed an approved program of study and passed a series of exams.

In order to become NICET certified, applicants must first complete an approved plumbing program. This typically includes at least 4,000 hours of on-the-job training as well as classroom instruction in topics such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, safety practices, and local building codes. Once the program is completed, applicants must pass four examinations administered by NICET: Level I (Fundamentals), Level II (Installation & Maintenance), Level III (Design & Analysis), and Level IV (Systems).

The amount of time it takes to become NICET certified depends on the individual’s experience level and the speed at which they complete their studies and exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one to two years to complete all four levels of certification.

To get started on the path towards becoming NICET certified, interested individuals should contact their local community college or technical school for more information about available programs. Additionally, there are online courses available through various providers that can help prepare students for the exams.

The cost of obtaining a NICET certification varies depending on the type of program chosen. Most traditional programs offered by community colleges or technical schools will cost between $1,500-$3,000 depending on location and duration of study; however some online programs may be less expensive. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking each exam which range from $50-$100 per test depending on level.

Do You Really Need a Journeyman Plumber Certificate?

The short answer is yes, you do need a Journeyman Plumber certificate. A Journeyman Plumber certificate is the highest level of plumbing certification that can be achieved in the United States and it indicates that an individual has completed a comprehensive training program and passed a rigorous examination.

Having such a certificate is essential for anyone who wants to work as a professional plumber in the United States. Without it, they will not be able to perform any tasks related to installation and repair of plumbing systems. This includes installing water lines, sewer lines, gas lines, and all other components of plumbing systems. It also ensures that those who are working with these systems have the necessary skills and knowledge to do so safely and effectively.

In addition to being required for any professional plumbing job, having a Journeyman Plumber certificate can help to open up more career opportunities. It demonstrates that an individual has gained the necessary experience and education in order to work as a plumber at the highest level possible. This means that having such certification can make someone eligible for higher paying positions or even supervisory roles within the industry.

Overall, obtaining a Journeyman Plumber certificate is essential if someone wants to pursue a career as a professional plumber in the United States. Not only does it demonstrate competence in this field but it also opens up more opportunities for advancement and better pay rates.

Related: Journeyman Plumber Resume Examples

FAQs About Journeyman Plumber Certifications

Q1: What is a Journeyman Plumber Certification?

A1: A Journeyman Plumber Certification is a professional certification that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and experience in the plumbing trade. This certification is typically obtained after completing a four-year apprenticeship program or equivalent amount of on-the-job training.

Q2: How do I become certified as a Journeyman Plumber?

A2: To become certified as a Journeyman Plumber, you must first complete an approved apprenticeship program or have at least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training in the plumbing trade. You must also pass an examination administered by your state or local licensing agency.

Q3: What are the benefits of being a certified Journeyman Plumber?

A3: With a Journeyman Plumber Certification, you can gain access to higher paying jobs and greater job security. You may also be eligible for continuing education credits, which will help you stay up to date with industry trends and best practices. Additionally, having this certification may increase your credibility with customers and employers.

Q4: What types of tasks do Journeyman Plumbers perform?

A4: As a certified Journeyman Plumber, you will be responsible for installing and repairing water supply lines and drainage systems; inspecting pipes for leaks; replacing worn parts; unblocking drains; fixing faulty fixtures; and more.

Q5: Are there any other certifications I should consider pursuing as a Journeyman Plumber?

A5: Yes! Depending on your career goals, you may want to consider obtaining additional certifications such as Master or Backflow Prevention certifications. These additional certifications will demonstrate your expertise in the field and can help open doors to new opportunities.