Plumbers are skilled professionals who install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings in Birmingham, AL. This includes working on pipes, fixtures, water heaters, drainage systems, and even smart technologies like AI-based leak detection by 2025 5; for resources on modern tools, check VW Plumbing Supply. With aging infrastructure driving steady demand, plumbers in Birmingham play a crucial role in ensuring efficient water distribution and compliance with local regulations, making it a rewarding career with opportunities for specialization in areas like master plumbing.
Yes, a license is required to work unsupervised as a plumber in Birmingham, AL, regulated by the Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board 356. To perform plumbing work, you need at least a journeyman license, which involves completing an apprenticeship and passing a written exam with 70 questions where you need 49 correct to pass within a 3-hour limit 5. For advanced roles, consider pursuing a master plumber license, which requires one year as a licensed journeyman and additional examinations—visit Plumbers Training Institute for more details on these requirements 6.
In Birmingham, AL, a registered apprenticeship typically lasts at least two years and combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction, as offered by programs like the Plumbers & Steamfitters Local Union 91 6. Requirements include being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma or GED, and registering with the board for a fee of $25 plus $10 annually 35. To find an apprenticeship, use Gild to search for openings in Birmingham, AL, or join unions like Local 91 for mentorship and training opportunities 7; additionally, explore programs at Lawson State Community College or Southland Training Solutions.
| Plumbing Role | Term (in Years) | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | 2 | Supervision by licensed plumber, registration fee $25 3 |
| Journeyman | 2 (after apprenticeship) | Pass exam, experience proof, fee $100 + $50 5 |
| Master Plumber | 1 (after journeyman) | Additional exam, supervision duties 6 |
To start, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and prove U.S. citizenship or lawful presence 5. Enroll in programs like the Lawson State Community College's two-semester certificate for foundational skills, which prepares you for apprenticeship and the journeyman exam—access details at Lawson State Community College 3.
While not mandatory, programs at Lawson State Community College or Southland Training Solutions provide essential skills in pipe systems, fixtures, and safety codes 4. These hands-on courses, lasting a few semesters, help you gain the knowledge needed for advancement and are linked to job placement 3.
Register as an apprentice and work under a licensed plumber for at least two years, gaining practical experience in installation and repair 6. Find opportunities via Gild or unions, and upon completion, you're eligible for the journeyman exam 7.
After your apprenticeship, submit proof of experience and pass the exam for a fee of $100 plus $50 for the certificate 5. This license allows independent work, with annual renewals at $50, opening doors to roles with wages up to $40 per hour 3; for licensing guidance, refer to the Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board.
Advance by gaining one year as a journeyman and passing further exams, enabling you to supervise apprentices and take on high-paying projects with earnings up to $49.66 per hour 6. This step boosts your career in Birmingham's evolving market, including smart systems integration by 2025—explore related resources at Plumbers Training Institute 5.
Embarking on a plumbing career in Birmingham, AL, in 2025 offers exciting opportunities with strong demand and competitive salaries. As you gain experience, explore Gild for job listings and apprenticeships to accelerate your journey, and check out Southland Training Solutions for additional training options. Remember, staying updated on technological advancements like smart plumbing will keep you competitive—start today and build a stable, well-paying career in this essential trade 5.
https://www.indeed.com/q-plumber-l-birmingham,-al-jobs.html ↩
https://pgfb.alabama.gov/applicants/how-do-i-become-licensed/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
https://pgfb.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Out-of-State-Exam-Packet.pdf ↩ ↩2
Alabama Plumber FAQ | Plumbers Training Institute ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9
How to Become a Plumber in Alabama - Plumbers Training Institute ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Plumbing/--in-Alabama ↩ ↩2
