Plumbers are essential skilled professionals who install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings in Fort Worth, TX. This includes working on pipes, fixtures, water heaters, and drainage systems, often addressing issues from aging infrastructure and new construction demands. In 2025, with Texas adding 187,700 jobs from January 2024 to 2025, plumbers play a key role in supporting the region's economic growth, especially in high-demand areas like the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex 4.
Yes, you need a license to work as a plumber in Fort Worth, TX, as regulated by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE). Licenses are required for roles like journeyman or master plumber, ensuring compliance with state standards for safety and quality 3. Without proper licensing, you cannot perform unsupervised plumbing work, so registering as an apprentice is the first step—check out TSBPE's apprentice page for detailed requirements and use Gild to find related opportunities.
In Fort Worth, TX, plumbing apprenticeships typically last 4 to 5 years, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction, as per TSBPE guidelines. Here's a breakdown of key requirements:
| Plumbing Role | Minimum Experience (Hours) | Training Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice Plumber | 4,000 | 24-hour course 4 |
| Journeyman Plumber | 8,000 | 48-hour course 1 |
| Master Plumber | Additional post-journeyman | Varies, plus exams 3 |
To find an apprenticeship, search for openings on ZipRecruiter or through programs like those offered by Winn's CE, which provide paid training and hands-on experience. With over 80 apprentice jobs listed in Fort Worth, joining a program can lead to earnings starting at 55% of a journeyman’s wage, increasing with experience 2.
To start, you must be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, and be able to read and understand English. Coursework in math and science is helpful for understanding plumbing concepts—enroll in local programs to build these skills and prepare for the trade's demands 4.
While not always mandatory, completing a TSBPE-approved training program, such as a 24-hour course for apprentices, provides foundational knowledge in plumbing codes, blueprint reading, and safety practices. These are available through community colleges or trade schools in Fort Worth, helping you gain an edge in a competitive market with rising remodeling permits in 2025 2.
Begin by registering with TSBPE for a $15 fee and secure an apprenticeship position, which offers 6,375 hours of on-the-job experience over four years. During this time, you'll work under a licensed plumber, learning practical skills—find openings via Gild or ZipRecruiter to get started and boost your career prospects 3.
After accumulating the required experience, pass the TSBPE certification exam to become a journeyman plumber, which allows independent work. This step typically follows 8,000 hours of experience, and with Fort Worth's average hourly wage of $29.13, it's a pathway to annual earnings up to $73,491 1.
Advance to master plumber status by gaining additional experience and passing a more comprehensive exam, enabling you to oversee projects and potentially start your own business. In 2025, master plumbers in Fort Worth earn an average hourly pay of $36.89, reflecting the high demand and opportunities for specialization in areas like commercial or residential plumbing 5.
Embarking on a plumbing career in Fort Worth, TX, in 2025 offers solid job outlook with growing demand, competitive salaries, and advancement paths—don't wait, explore apprenticeships on Gild today to kickstart your training. As the industry expands, gaining your license and experience will position you for success, with potential earnings and promotions making it a rewarding choice. Take action now by visiting TSBPE for licensing details and searching for roles to build your future in this essential trade.
