Best Plumbing Schools in Michigan

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to become a plumber in Michigan, the first step is finding the right training. Choosing the right school can set you up for success and help you meet the state's licensing requirements.

This guide lists some of the best plumbing schools in Michigan, what to look for in a program, and how to move forward after graduation.

How Plumbing Licensing Works in Michigan

In Michigan, plumbing is a licensed trade. You can't legally work as a plumber without a license from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).

To be licensed, you'll need a mix of classroom instruction and on-the-job training.

State licensing rule:
Michigan requires at least 4 years of plumbing experience (about 8,000 hours) as an apprentice before you can apply for the journeyman exam.
Source: Michigan LARA Plumbing License Requirements

The typical steps are:

  1. Complete a plumbing program through a trade school, community college, or union apprenticeship.
  2. Register as an apprentice with LARA.
  3. Complete the required on-the-job training hours.
  4. Apply for and pass the journeyman plumber exam.
  5. Work as a journeyman or continue training to become a master plumber.

What to Look for in a Michigan Plumbing School

When comparing schools, look at:

  • Accreditation - Choose schools approved by state agencies or industry associations like NCCER.
  • Program length - Short-term programs may focus on the basics, but longer programs offer deeper training.
  • Hands-on training - Plumbing is a practical skill. Labs, workshops, and fieldwork matter.
  • Apprenticeship connections - Some schools partner with unions or contractors.
  • Curriculum - Should cover codes, safety, blueprint reading, and installation methods.
  • Flexible scheduling - Night or weekend classes can help if you work.

Best Plumbing Training Programs in Michigan

Here are some programs worth considering. Contact each school for the most up-to-date details, as offerings can change.

School / Location Program Type Approx. Length Notable Features
Detroit Training Institute of Technology - Detroit, MI Plumbing Technology Diploma 9 months Focus on residential and commercial plumbing, hands-on labs
Lansing Community College - Lansing, MI Plumbing Apprenticeship Training Varies Strong industry connections, apprenticeship coordination
Washtenaw Community College - Ann Arbor, MI Construction Technology (Plumbing focus) 1-2 years Includes building trades fundamentals
UA Local 98 Plumbers Union Apprenticeship - Troy, MI 5-year paid apprenticeship 5 years Earn while you learn, union benefits
Grand Rapids Community College - Grand Rapids, MI Skilled Trades Program Varies Plumbing covered in broader trades curriculum

Tip: If you want the fastest route to a plumbing job, consider an apprenticeship program. You'll work under a licensed plumber and earn a wage while you complete your hours.

Typical Curriculum Topics

Plumbing programs in Michigan usually cover:

  • Michigan plumbing code
  • Blueprint reading
  • Pipefitting and soldering
  • Installing water and drainage systems
  • Fixture installation
  • Safety and OSHA regulations
  • Green plumbing systems

Some also prepare you for related certifications, such as EPA Section 608 if you work with HVAC systems.

Michigan Plumbing License Requirements

Here's a comparison of the main plumbing license types in Michigan:

License Type Experience Required Exam Required Issued By
Apprentice Plumber None No Michigan LARA
Journeyman Plumber 4 years (8,000 hours) as apprentice Yes Michigan LARA
Master Plumber 2 additional years as journeyman Yes Michigan LARA

You must register as an apprentice within 30 days of starting plumbing work in the state.

Safety reminder: All plumbing work must comply with the Michigan Plumbing Code. Work done without a license may result in fines or legal action.

Cost and Financial Aid

Plumbing school tuition in Michigan ranges by program type.

  • Community colleges are often the most affordable, especially for in-district students.
  • Private trade schools may cost more but sometimes offer faster completion times.
  • Union apprenticeships have little or no tuition, since training is funded by the union and employers.

Check if the school participates in federal financial aid or Michigan Works! training programs.

Steps to Get Started

If you're serious about becoming a plumber in Michigan:

  1. Research the schools listed above and request program details.
  2. Compare schedules, tuition, and apprenticeship connections.
  3. Choose a program that meets LARA requirements.
  4. Enroll and start your classroom and lab training.
  5. Register as an apprentice with LARA.
  6. Complete your on-the-job training hours.
  7. Apply for the journeyman license and pass the state exam.

Summary and Next Step

Plumbing is a steady career in Michigan, but getting started the right way is important. The best approach is to combine classroom training with hands-on experience through an apprenticeship. Schools like Lansing Community College, union training centers, and Detroit Training Institute of Technology can help you build those skills.

Here's what you should do next:
Make a shortlist of schools, visit their campuses if possible, and talk to instructors about how they prepare students for Michigan's licensing process. The sooner you start, the sooner you can begin earning hours toward your journeyman license.

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