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If you want a steady trade career in Utah, plumbing is one of the most reliable paths. Good plumbers are in demand across the state, from Salt Lake City to St. George. The work is steady and the skills you learn will last a lifetime. But before you can work on your own, Utah requires the right training and state licensing.
Here's what you need to know about the best plumbing schools in Utah and how to get started.
Steps to Become a Plumber in Utah
Before choosing a school, it helps to know the path to licensing. In Utah, plumbers are licensed through the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).
These are the basic steps:
- Finish high school or get a GED - This is required for trade school admission and apprenticeships.
- Enroll in an approved apprenticeship program - Most take 4 years and combine classroom training with on-the-job experience.
- Register with DOPL as an apprentice - You must be registered before logging apprentice hours.
- Complete required work hours and classroom training - Utah requires 8,000 hours of work and 576 hours of related instruction for Journeyman licensing.
- Pass the state Journeyman plumber exam - This includes both a written and practical test.
- Apply for licensing - After passing the exam, submit your application to DOPL.
Utah Licensing Rule: You cannot work as a plumber in Utah without a state license unless you are a registered apprentice supervised by a licensed plumber.
Source: Utah DOPL - Utah Administrative Code R156-55c
Top Plumbing Trade Schools and Programs in Utah
Utah offers both independent trade schools and programs connected to technical colleges or unions. Each has different schedules, costs, and locations. Here are some of the most recognized:
1. Mountainland Technical College (MTECH) - Lehi, Orem, Spanish Fork
- Offers a Plumbing Apprentice Night Program
- Classes are held in the evenings to fit around work schedules.
- Curriculum includes piping systems, plumbing code, water supply, and gas systems.
- Approved by DOPL as related training for apprentices.
Website: https://mtec.edu
2. Davis Technical College - Kaysville
- Offers state-approved plumber apprenticeship classes.
- Designed to be paired with employment under a licensed plumber.
- Four-year program covering both residential and commercial systems.
Website: https://www.davistech.edu
3. Ogden-Weber Technical College - Ogden
- DOPL-approved plumbing apprenticeship courses.
- Classroom training two nights a week.
- Focuses on code knowledge, installation skills, and safety.
Website: https://www.owatc.edu
- Offers plumbing apprenticeship courses through its School of Applied Technology.
- Flexible scheduling options.
- Strong connections with local contractors.
Website: https://www.slcc.edu
5. UA Local 140 Plumbers, Pipefitters & HVAC&R Technicians - Salt Lake City
- Union apprenticeship program with strong benefits and hands-on training.
- Requires an application and interview process.
- Five-year training program combining wages with education.
- Excellent networking opportunities within the trade.
Website: https://ualocal140.org
Comparison of Utah Plumbing Programs
| School / Program | Location(s) | Length | Schedule | Approval |
| MTECH | Lehi, Orem, Spanish Fork | 4 years | Evenings | DOPL approved |
| Davis Technical College | Kaysville | 4 years | Evenings | DOPL approved |
| Ogden-Weber Technical College | Ogden | 4 years | Evenings | DOPL approved |
| SLCC | Salt Lake City | 4 years | Flexible | DOPL approved |
| UA Local 140 | Salt Lake City | 5 years | Day + Evening | DOPL approved |
How to Choose the Best School for You
When comparing plumbing schools in Utah, focus on:
- Location - You'll attend classes for several years. Choose a location you can reach easily.
- Schedule - Many programs are at night so you can work during the day.
- Program approval - Always confirm the program is DOPL-approved for apprentice training.
- Cost - Tuition varies widely. Some apprenticeship programs are paid through employment or unions.
- Job connections - Schools with strong contractor networks can help you find work faster.
Utah Plumbing License Types
In Utah, plumbing licenses include:
- Apprentice Plumber - Entry level, must work under supervision.
- Journeyman Plumber - Requires 8,000 hours of work and passing the exam.
- Master Plumber - Requires journeyman license, further experience, and a separate exam.
Exam Tip: The Journeyman exam covers the Uniform Plumbing Code used in Utah. Study the current code book before your test.
Next Steps
If you're ready to start, pick a school from the list above and:
- Contact them for enrollment dates.
- Apply for an apprentice position with a licensed contractor.
- Register with DOPL as an apprentice.
- Start logging your hours and completing classroom training.
The sooner you enroll, the sooner you can start earning while you learn.
References
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