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If you want to become a plumber in Arkansas, your first step is proper training. Plumbing is a licensed trade in the state, so you must complete an apprenticeship or attend a recognized trade school before you can test for your license. Choosing the right training program is critical-both for learning the trade and staying within state licensing requirements.
How Plumbing Licensing Works in Arkansas
In Arkansas, plumbers are licensed by the Arkansas Department of Health, Plumbing and Natural Gas Section. You cannot legally work as a plumber without holding an apprentice, journeyman, or master license.
The standard path looks like this:
- Start as an apprentice - Work under a licensed plumber while completing required training hours.
- Pass the journeyman plumber exam - This proves you have the skills to work independently.
- Gain experience - Most plumbers work as journeymen for several years before applying for a master license.
- Pass the master plumber exam - This allows you to run jobs, pull permits, and operate your own contracting business.
Licensing requirement quote from Arkansas code:
"No person shall engage in the business of plumbing in this state unless licensed pursuant to the provisions of this Chapter by the Department of Health." - Arkansas Plumbing Code
Options for Plumbing Training in Arkansas
You can complete your training through:
- Union apprenticeship programs
- Non-union trade associations
- Vocational and technical colleges
- Community colleges with plumbing technology programs
The best choice depends on your location, schedule, and whether you want to earn while you learn.
Top Plumbing Schools and Programs in Arkansas
Below are some of the leading plumbing training options in the state. Always verify current admission requirements and schedules with the school before enrolling.
1. UA Pulaski Tech - Plumbing Technology
- Location: North Little Rock, AR
- Program Type: Certificate program in Plumbing Technology
- Highlights: Hands-on learning in piping systems, installation, and code compliance. Courses designed to prepare students for apprenticeship or entry-level plumbing work.
2. Northwest Technical Institute
- Location: Springdale, AR
- Program Type: Plumbing Technology training
- Highlights: Focuses on residential and commercial systems. Offers night classes for working students.
3. Arkansas Construction Education Foundation (ACEF)
- Location: Little Rock, AR
- Program Type: Plumbing apprenticeship program
- Highlights: NCCER-accredited, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Students earn industry-recognized credentials.
4. Arkansas State University - Mountain Home
- Location: Mountain Home, AR
- Program Type: Technical courses in plumbing within building trades curriculum
- Highlights: Good option for students also considering other building trades alongside plumbing.
- Location: DeWitt, Helena-West Helena, Stuttgart
- Program Type: Plumbing fundamentals offered through short courses and building trades programs
- Highlights: Focus on safety, codes, and tool usage.
Comparing Program Lengths
| School / Program | Type | Typical Length |
| UA Pulaski Tech - Plumbing Technology | Certificate | 1 year or less |
| Northwest Technical Institute | Certificate | 9-12 months |
| Arkansas Construction Education Foundation | Apprenticeship | 4 years (part-time) |
| ASU - Mountain Home | Diploma/Cert. | Varies |
| PCCUA | Short course | Weeks to months |
Steps to Get Licensed After Training
Once you complete a plumbing program or apprenticeship, you'll need to meet state exam requirements.
Arkansas plumber licensing process:
- Finish required classroom and job training hours.
- Submit an application to the Arkansas Department of Health.
- Pay the required exam fees.
- Pass the written and practical state exam.
- Receive your license and maintain it with any continuing education the state requires.
Tips for Choosing the Right Plumbing School
When selecting a plumbing school or program, ask about:
- Accreditation - Programs recognized by industry or state boards.
- Hands-on hours - Time spent practicing installations and repairs.
- Job placement assistance - Connections with local plumbing companies.
- Evening or weekend options - Helpful if you need to work while training.
If you plan to move out of Arkansas later, check if the training meets licensing requirements in other states.
Career Outlook for Plumbers in Arkansas
Plumbing remains in steady demand because buildings always need water, waste, and gas systems maintained or repaired. While completion of training is a serious commitment, it leads to a long-term trade career with opportunities to advance from apprentice to journeyman to master.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , employment for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is expected to grow steadily across the United States due to construction trends and maintenance needs.
Final Advice
If you are serious about starting a plumbing career in Arkansas:
- Pick a program that fits your schedule and budget.
- Make sure it is recognized by the Arkansas Department of Health.
- Be ready to complete both classroom and on-the-job hours.
- Stay focused on safety and code compliance from day one.
Here's what you should do next: Contact two or three of the schools listed above. Ask about program start dates, tuition costs, and apprenticeship opportunities. The sooner you begin training, the sooner you can start working toward your Arkansas plumber's license.
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