Best Plumbing Schools in Texas

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to become a licensed plumber in Texas, your first step is to get the right training. Good plumbing programs teach safety, tools, codes, and the skills you'll use on the job. The school you choose can shape your career and help you meet state licensing requirements.

In Texas, plumbers must complete a state-approved apprenticeship or training program, pass an exam, and get licensed through the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE). That means choosing the right school is about more than convenience-it's about getting qualified.

How to Become a Plumber in Texas

The licensing process in Texas usually involves these steps:

  1. Start as a Plumber's Apprentice
    You must register with the TSBPE before you can begin working in the trade.

  2. Get On-the-Job Experience
    Work under a licensed plumber to learn the trade. Most licenses require at least 4,000 hours for a Tradesman Plumber-Limited License and 8,000 hours for a Journeyman.

  3. Complete Classroom Training
    Classroom work covers plumbing codes, safety rules, math, blueprint reading, and installation practices.

  4. Apply for Your License
    Submit your application, proof of hours, and required fees to the TSBPE.

  5. Pass the Exam
    Take the written and practical tests for your license type.

Texas State Law: Apprentices must be registered before performing any plumbing-related work for pay.

Top Plumbing Schools in Texas

Here are some respected plumbing training programs and apprenticeships in Texas. Contact each program directly for enrollment details and schedules.

1. PHCC Texas Apprenticeship Program

  • Location: Austin and multiple training sites statewide
  • Type: Apprenticeship with classroom learning
  • Program Length: 4 years (8,000 hours on-the-job + classroom)
  • Website: phcc-tx.org

The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of Texas offer a recognized program combining paid work and evening/weekend classes. It's designed for people working for a licensed contractor.

2. Central Texas College - Plumbing Trades

  • Location: Killeen, TX
  • Type: Certificate program
  • Program Length: Approx. 1 year
  • Website: ctcd.edu

Central Texas College offers a hands-on program focused on entry-level skills. This is a good option if you want to learn the basics before starting an apprenticeship.

3. UA Local 68 - Houston Area Joint Apprenticeship Committee

  • Location: Houston, TX
  • Type: Union apprenticeship
  • Program Length: 5 years
  • Website: ualocal68.com

This program offers extensive on-the-job training with union benefits, classroom instruction, and industry-standard certifications.

4. Texas State Technical College - Plumbing and Pipefitting Technology

  • Location: Multiple campuses
  • Type: Certificate or Associate program
  • Program Length: Varies (Certificate: months; Associate: 2 years)
  • Website: tstc.edu

TSTC offers flexible scheduling and focuses on both residential and commercial plumbing work.

5. UA Local 100 - Dallas Area Apprenticeship

  • Location: Mesquite, TX
  • Type: Apprenticeship
  • Program Length: 5 years
  • Website: ualocal100.org

This union-based training blends paid work with advanced technical training.

Comparing Training Program Types

Type of Program Example Schools Typical Length Benefit
Certificate Central Texas College, TSTC 6-12 months Fast entry into entry-level positions
Apprenticeship PHCC Texas, UA Local 68, UA 100 4-5 years Earn while you learn; required hours for license
Associate Degree TSTC 2 years Broader education; can advance to management later

What to Look for in a Texas Plumbing School

When choosing a school, focus on:

  • TSBPE approval for classroom training
  • Hands-on lab facilities with up-to-date equipment
  • Options to earn industry certifications
  • Job placement assistance and employer connections
  • Flexible schedules if you are working

Tips for Success as an Apprentice

  • Keep accurate records of your work hours and types of jobs you complete
  • Ask questions and learn from experienced journeymen
  • Review plumbing codes regularly
  • Take safety training seriously, especially OSHA courses
  • Be reliable-contractors notice dependable apprentices

Next Steps

If you're ready to start in the plumbing trade in Texas:

  1. Decide if you want to begin with full-time school or go straight into an apprenticeship.
  2. Contact one or more of the schools above to ask about start dates, costs, and scheduling.
  3. Register with the TSBPE as a plumbing apprentice.
  4. Start building your on-the-job experience while completing required classroom hours.

Choosing the right plumbing school in Texas sets the foundation for your career. Good training will help you pass licensing exams, work safely, and move up in the trade. Take the time to find a program that fits your goals and schedule, then commit to putting in the hours. The sooner you start, the sooner you'll be ready to apply for your license.

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