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If you want to start a plumbing career in Maryland, the best first step is getting the right training. In this state, you'll need skills, in-class learning, and hands-on experience before you can qualify for licensing. Choosing a strong plumbing school or apprenticeship program will set you up for success.
How Plumbing Licensing Works in Maryland
In Maryland, the Maryland Board of Plumbing regulates licenses for plumbers and gas fitters. There are three main licensing levels: apprentice, journeyman, and master plumber.
According to the Maryland Board of Plumbing, you must complete a registered apprenticeship before applying for a journeyman license.
The typical path to getting licensed:
- Register as an apprentice with the Maryland Board of Plumbing.
- Complete a formal apprenticeship-usually 4 years-in combination with classroom instruction.
- Apply for the journeyman exam after your apprenticeship.
- Work as a journeyman plumber to gain experience.
- Apply for master plumber status when you meet experience and testing requirements.
Note: Some community colleges and trade schools offer pre-apprenticeship or credit-based programs that can count toward your education hours in an apprenticeship.
Best Plumbing Schools and Programs in Maryland
Here's a list of top Maryland plumbing schools and programs with strong reputations and industry ties. Always contact the school directly for current information on tuition, schedules, and enrollment.
1. Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Greater Baltimore
- Location: Baltimore, MD
- Type: Apprenticeship program
- Details: ABC of Greater Baltimore offers a Maryland-registered plumbing apprenticeship. Students work full-time while attending classes two nights a week. Curriculum covers codes, blueprint reading, pipefitting, and safety.
- Website: https://www.abcbaltimore.org/
2. Montgomery College - Plumbing Apprenticeship Program
- Location: Rockville, MD
- Type: Community college apprenticeship-related training
- Details: In partnership with local unions and employers, Montgomery College delivers the classroom instruction portion of the state-registered plumbing apprenticeship. Classes typically run evenings.
- Website: https://www.montgomerycollege.edu/
3. Maryland PHCC Apprenticeship School
- Location: Multiple training locations across Maryland
- Type: Industry association apprenticeship
- Details: Run by the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association of Maryland, this program combines on-the-job training with evening classroom sessions. Prepares apprentices for the journeyman exam.
- Website: https://www.phccmaryland.org/
4. College of Southern Maryland (CSM)
- Location: La Plata, MD (with additional campuses)
- Type: Apprenticeship and continuing education
- Details: CSM partners with the local plumbing industry to offer plumbing-related apprenticeship training. Students can also take code update courses and specialty plumbing classes.
- Website: https://www.csmd.edu/
5. Local Union 5 Plumbers & Gasfitters JATC
- Location: Lanham, MD
- Type: Union apprenticeship program
- Details: The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) of Plumbers Local 5 offers a five-year paid apprenticeship. Includes extensive classroom and lab training, plus industry-leading safety instruction.
- Website: https://www.plumberslocal5.org/
Program Lengths in Maryland
Most apprenticeships combine work and learning over several years. This table shows typical program lengths:
| Program Type | Length | Notes |
| Registered plumbing apprenticeship | 4-5 years | Paid on-the-job training plus classroom learning |
| Pre-apprenticeship course | 3-6 months | Prepares students to enter a full apprenticeship |
| Continuing education for license renewal | 4-8 hours | Required periodically for master plumbers |
What to Look for in a Maryland Plumbing School
When comparing plumbing training programs, look for:
- Maryland Board of Plumbing approval for apprenticeship-related instruction.
- Partnerships with local contractors or unions.
- Evening or weekend class options if you'll be working.
- Hands-on labs and up-to-date training equipment.
- Experienced instructors who hold active Maryland licenses.
Steps to Start Your Plumbing Career in Maryland
If you're ready to move forward, here's what to do:
- Register as an apprentice with the Maryland Board of Plumbing.
- Apply to an approved program-either through a union, independent trade school, or community college.
- Work under a licensed plumber to gain hours toward your journeyman license.
- Keep records of work hours and coursework.
- Prepare for the journeyman exam as you near the end of your apprenticeship.
The Maryland Board of Plumbing requires documented proof of your apprenticeship hours before you can take the exam.
Final Advice
Getting into the plumbing trade in Maryland takes commitment. The four to five years you invest in training will give you the skills to work independently and run complex jobs. Your choice of school matters-pick one with a strong track record, real job placement support, and solid industry connections.
Here's what you need to do next:
Reach out to at least two programs from the list above, ask about their enrollment timeline, and check how they structure work and classroom hours. Once you commit to the training path, you'll be on your way to becoming a licensed plumber in Maryland.
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