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If you want to become a plumber in New Hampshire, your training matters. This trade requires technical skill, safety knowledge, and an understanding of state plumbing codes. Choosing the right school or training program is the first step toward earning your license.
In New Hampshire, you can either start at a trade school, join an apprenticeship, or combine both. Each path will prepare you to meet state licensing requirements.
How Plumbing Licensing Works in New Hampshire
New Hampshire requires plumbers to be licensed by the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC). You must complete both classroom training and supervised hands-on experience.
According to the New Hampshire Plumber's Licensing Board, you need 8,000 hours (about four years) of practical experience plus 570 hours of related instruction for a journeyman license.
The typical path looks like this:
- Enroll in a plumbing trade program to learn the basics and safety procedures.
- Work as an apprentice under a licensed plumber.
- Complete the required classroom instruction hours.
- Pass the state journeyman plumber exam.
- After more experience, you can apply for a master plumber license.
Best Plumbing Schools and Programs in New Hampshire
Below are some of the most respected schools and apprenticeship programs in the state.
1. Manchester School of Technology - Plumbing Program
- Location: Manchester, NH
- Program Type: High school CTE and adult evening classes
- Focuses on residential and commercial plumbing systems. Adult programs are tailored for those changing careers. Prepares students for entry-level apprenticeship work.
Website: https://mst.mansd.org
2. Seacoast School of Technology - Plumbing and Heating
- Location: Exeter, NH
- Offers training in both plumbing and heating systems. Students gain experience reading blueprints, installing fixtures, and learning code requirements. Open to high school students, but adult programs are available in partnership with local technical education centers.
Website: https://seacoasttech.com
3. Concord Regional Technical Center - Plumbing & Heating Program
- Location: Concord, NH
- Prepares students for entry-level plumbing positions and apprenticeships. Covers safety, tools, and the basics of heating systems. Many graduates continue into a full apprenticeship to complete their licensing requirements.
Website: https://concordregionaltechnicalcenter.com
4. Licensed Apprenticeship through PHCC of New Hampshire
- Organization: Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of New Hampshire (PHCC-NH)
- Type: Registered apprenticeship and related instruction.
- Combines paid, on-the-job training with classroom learning needed for licensure.
Website: https://www.phccnh.org
5. Associated Builders and Contractors NH/VT - Plumbing Apprenticeship
- Location: Concord, NH
- Four-year program meeting state requirements for education hours. Classes are held evenings so apprentices can work full time. Includes OSHA safety training.
Website: https://www.abcnhvt.org
Comparing Program Lengths and Focus
| Program/Provider | Length | Type | Licensure Path Support |
| Manchester School of Technology | Varies | HS and adult evening | Prepares for apprenticeship |
| Seacoast School of Technology | 1-2 years | HS with adult options | Prepares for apprenticeship |
| Concord Regional Technical Center | Varies | CTE | Prepares for apprenticeship |
| PHCC-NH Apprenticeship | 4 years | Work + classroom | Meets state journeyman requirements |
| ABC NH/VT Apprenticeship | 4 years | Work + classroom | Meets state journeyman requirements |
Steps to Start Plumbing Training in New Hampshire
- Research schools and programs near you using the list above.
- Decide whether to start with full-time school training, direct-to-apprenticeship, or both.
- Contact the admissions office for application deadlines and entry requirements.
- Enroll and start your training in safety, piping systems, and plumbing codes.
- Begin your apprenticeship to log on-the-job hours toward your license.
State Exam and Licensing Notes
The OPLC plumbing exam covers New Hampshire plumbing code, system design, and safety. You must show proof of required hours before applying for the test.
Many applicants fail the first attempt due to weak code knowledge. Make sure your school or apprenticeship includes comprehensive code review sessions.
Why Proper Training Matters
Plumbing isn't just about fittings and pipes. A good training program will teach:
- State code compliance to avoid costly mistakes.
- Customer service skills that keep clients satisfied.
- Safety procedures that protect you and others on the job.
- Hands-on troubleshooting to solve problems quickly.
Skipping formal training makes it harder to pass the license exam and can limit job opportunities.
Summary and Next Steps
If you want a plumbing career in New Hampshire, choose a program that clearly supports the licensing requirements. Trade schools like Manchester School of Technology and Seacoast School of Technology are great starting points. If you prefer to earn while you learn, PHCC-NH and ABC NH/VT both offer strong apprenticeship programs.
Here's what to do:
- Pick a school or apprenticeship that meets the 570-hour classroom requirement.
- Make sure you'll get on-the-job hours recorded toward your 8,000-hour goal.
- Study New Hampshire's plumbing code early-it will make the licensing exam much easier.
Your next move is to contact at least two programs today and compare schedules, tuition, and job placement support. The sooner you start, the sooner you can work toward your journeyman license.
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