Disclaimer: This article is for education only, not professional advice. Always verify details with official sources.
Some links, forms, or listings are sponsored or paid, which may affect their placement. We may earn from them. Read our full Disclaimer.
If you plan to become a licensed plumber in Massachusetts, the first step is proper training from a state-approved program. Plumbing is a hands-on trade that requires both classroom knowledge and field experience. Picking the right school can help you meet licensing requirements quickly and start working on real job sites.
This guide covers the best plumbing schools in Massachusetts, what to expect from training, and the steps to get licensed.
Massachusetts Plumbing License Basics
In Massachusetts, all plumbers must be licensed by the Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters. The licensing process is structured in two main stages:
- Journeyman License - Requires an apprenticeship and formal plumbing education hours.
- Master License - Requires additional years of experience as a journeyman.
The state sets required classroom hours and supervised work experience for each stage.
Licensing Requirement
According to the Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters, journeyman applicants must log 550 hours of classroom training and 8,500 hours of practical work experience under a licensed master plumber.
Steps to Become a Licensed Plumber in Massachusetts
- Enroll in an Approved Plumbing Program
Training must be from a school recognized by the state board. - Register as an Apprentice
Apply for an apprentice license before starting work in the field. - Complete Required Hours
550 hours of plumbing theory and 8,500 work hours are required for journeyman eligibility. - Apply for the Journeyman Exam
Submit proof of education and work hours to the board. - Pass the Journeyman Exam
Successfully complete both written and practical testing. - Work as a Journeyman
Gather experience to qualify for the master plumber license if desired.
Top Plumbing Schools in Massachusetts
Below are some of the most reputable plumbing programs in the state. All schools listed have programs that help meet the state's licensing requirements.
1. Peterson School - Woburn, MA
- Program Type: Journeyman & Master Plumbing Prep
- Highlights: Hands-on training labs, code-focused classes, flexible scheduling for working apprentices.
- Website: https://www.petersonschool.com
2. Bay State School of Technology - Canton, MA
- Program Type: Plumbing and Heating Technology
- Highlights: Combines plumbing with HVAC basics, designed for entry-level training.
- Website: https://www.baystatetech.org
3. Greater Lowell Technical High School - Adult Education Division
- Program Type: Evening Plumbing Program for Apprentices
- Highlights: State-approved curriculum, taught by licensed masters.
- Website: https://www.gltech.org
4. Quincy College - Workforce Development
- Program Type: Plumbing Technology
- Highlights: Short-term courses that help fulfill state classroom hour requirements.
- Website: https://www.quincycollege.edu
5. Shawsheen Valley Technical High School - Adult Education
- Program Type: Plumbing Theory for Apprentices
- Highlights: Affordable evening classes, ideal for working students.
- Website: https://www.shawsheentech.org
Typical Training Program Structure
Most Massachusetts plumbing programs are designed for working apprentices, so classes are often in the evenings.
| Component | Approx. Time Required |
| Plumbing Code & Theory | 300 hours |
| Gas Fitting Theory | 150 hours |
| Safety & Regulations | 50 hours |
| Specialty Systems | 50 hours |
Tip: Keep detailed records of your class hours and work hours. The board requires documented proof when you apply for your license.
Choosing the Right Plumbing School
When comparing schools, focus on:
- State Approval - The school must be recognized by the Massachusetts licensing board.
- Schedule - If you're working, evening or weekend classes are best.
- Lab Access - Hands-on shop training helps reinforce book learning.
- Instructor Experience - Licensed master plumbers bring practical insight.
- Exam Preparation - Look for programs that include dedicated test prep.
Apprenticeships in Massachusetts
An apprenticeship pairs classroom time with paid on-the-job training. Many schools work directly with local contractors or unions to place students.
Common apprenticeship sponsors include:
- Plumbers & Gasfitters Local 12 - Boston-based union apprenticeship programs.
- Independent Plumbing Contractors - Many non-union shops hire apprentices directly.
- School Partnerships - Some technical schools have employer pipelines.
Work Restriction
Apprentices in Massachusetts can only perform plumbing work under the direct supervision of a licensed journeyman or master plumber.
Safety and Continuing Education
OSHA safety training is often included in plumbing school programs. Massachusetts also requires continuing education for license renewal. For example, journeymen must complete approved courses before their license can be renewed.
Summary and Next Steps
Getting your plumbing license in Massachusetts means combining school and on-the-job training. Start by enrolling in a state-approved plumbing program, then register as an apprentice so you can work legally. Complete your required hours, prepare for your journeyman exam, and keep learning throughout your career.
Here's what to do next:
- Review the schools listed above.
- Contact at least two programs to compare schedules and tuition.
- Apply for your apprentice license with the Massachusetts Board.
- Start logging your classroom and work hours immediately.
The sooner you begin, the sooner you can earn your journeyman license and build a solid plumbing career.
Explore Related Topics:
