If you want a trade that’s widely needed, plumbing is worth considering. In Montana, licensed plumbers are needed in nearly every community. The key to getting started is proper training. Most people begin by choosing a quality plumbing school or apprenticeship program.
This guide covers the best plumbing schools in Montana, what to look for in a program, and the steps to get licensed.
How to become a plumber in Montana
Montana requires plumbers to be licensed by the Montana Board of Plumbers. To qualify, you need the right mix of classroom training and hands-on experience.
The main routes are:
Attend a trade school or community college - Learn the basics in plumbing codes, math, safety, and pipefitting.
Join a registered apprenticeship - Work under a licensed plumber while taking related coursework.
Apply for licensing exams - After enough experience hours, test for a journeyman or master plumber license.
Montana licensing rule: Journeyman applicants must document 4 years (8,000 hours) of practical experience, with at least 3 years under a licensed journeyman or master plumber.
Here are some respected Montana schools and training options that can help you start or advance in plumbing.
#1
Montana State University
📍
Bozeman, MT
•In-state option
Located in Bozeman, MT Montana State University is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Aircraft Mechanic (A&P), Accounting Technology, and Bookkeeper.
Here’s a quick look at the different types of plumbing training available.
Training Path
Length
Earn While Learning
License Prep
Tuition Cost
Trade School Certificate
~1 year
No
Yes
Yes
Associate Degree
2 years
No
Yes
Yes
Apprenticeship
4-5 years
Yes
Yes
Minimal
Union Apprenticeship
5 years
Yes
Yes
Minimal
What to look for in a Plumbing program
When choosing a school or apprenticeship, check for:
State approval or recognition for licensing credit
Hands-on lab work in modern facilities
Experienced instructors with trade backgrounds
career services
Flexible schedules if you’re working while training
Ask if their classroom hours count toward Montana’s licensing requirements.
Steps to get your Montana Plumbing license
Here’s the general process to become licensed.
Choose your training path. Trade school or apprenticeship.
Log the required hours. For journeyman, 8,000 hours of experience plus classroom instruction.
Apply with the Montana Board of Plumbers. Include verified work hours and proof of training.
Pass the state exam. Covers code knowledge, system design, and safety.
Maintain your license. Renew and take continuing education as required.
Why quality training matters
Plumbing is a precision trade. A mistake in installation can damage property or create unsafe living conditions. Quality training builds solid technical skills and teaches you how to follow Montana building codes. It also makes you more employable.
Poor or incomplete training can delay your licensing or limit your career options.
Final Thoughts
Getting into plumbing in Montana starts with choosing the right training. Whether you go through a trade school, community college, or union apprenticeship, make sure the program meets state licensing requirements and provides hands-on practice.
Here’s what to do next:
Visit each school’s website and. Request program details.
Check program. Start dates and application deadlines.
Confirm that coursework counts toward the Montana journeyman license.
Starting with the right school puts you on track for a steady career in one of Montana’s most essential trades.
