If you want a steady career that relies on skill and hands-on work, plumbing is a smart choice. In Washington State, the demand for trained plumbers remains high, and the path to becoming licensed is straightforward if you follow the right steps. The first step is getting proper training at a reputable plumbing trade school or apprenticeship program.
This guide will walk you through the best plumbing schools in Washington, licensing requirements, and what to expect from the training.
How Plumbing licensing works in Washington
Before you pick a school, you need to understand how the state handles plumber licensing. Washington requires you to complete a formal apprenticeship before you can become a certified journeyman plumber.
From the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries: All plumber trainees must register with L&I and work under the supervision of a certified plumber while logging required hours toward certification.
Here’s the basic process:
Register as a Plumber Trainee with the Washington Department of Labor & Industries (L&I).
Complete an Approved Apprenticeship - requires 8,000 hours of documented plumbing work and classroom instruction.
Pass the Washington State Plumber Exam for your certification type.
Maintain Your License by following continuing education requirements.
Training paths for Washington plumbers
There are two main ways to get the education and training you need:
Union or Non-union Apprenticeship. Programs Combine paid work experience with classroom training.
Trade School Plumbing. Programs Provide classroom instruction and may help place you into an apprenticeship.
Most aspiring plumbers in Washington use a combination of trade school training and on-the-job apprenticeship hours.
Best Plumbing schools and training programs in Washington
Below are some of the most trusted options for plumbing education in the state.
1. UA Local 26 Plumbers & Pipefitters Apprenticeship (Western Washington)
UA Local 26 offers one of the most established plumber apprenticeship programs in Washington. Students earn while they learn, working with licensed plumbers in the field while completing classroom training on pipe systems, codes, and safety.
shows:
Paid on-the-job training
Program length: 5 years
Covers residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing
2. Seattle area pipe trades education center (renton, WA)
This center partners with the UA Local 32 union to train apprentices and process-level plumbers. The facility includes hands-on labs, welding shops, and code-compliant installations for practice.
shows:
Strong career services
Covers plumbing, pipefitting, and HVAC specializations
Located in Tacoma, WA Bates Technical College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology.
Located in Renton, WA Renton Technical College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Aviation Maintenance Technology, Appliance Repair, and Auto Body and Collision Repair.
Located in Spokane, WA Spokane Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Aviation Maintenance Technology, Auto Body and Collision Repair, and Automotive Technician.
Check State Approval. Make sure the program is approved by Washington L&I.
Ask About career services A strong network helps you. Start an apprenticeship faster.
Consider Location Travel time can add up with night classes and work.
Look at Program Costs Apprenticeships are paid; pre-apprenticeships may not be.
Safety and code training are key
Plumbing requires strict adherence to building codes and safety practices.
OSHA reminder: Proper training in confined space safety, PPE use, and ladder safety is required for plumbers.
Programs that integrate OSHA safety certifications can give you a competitive edge when applying for jobs.
Next steps
If you live in Washington and want to become a plumber, your first step is finding a program listed on the Washington L&I approved provider list. From there, you can start as a registered trainee, work under licensed plumbers, and complete your apprenticeship.
