How to become a plumber in Kentucky

Most plumbers in Kentucky start in an apprenticeship or a helper job and learn on the job. The contractor license comes later, if you run your own business.

8registered apprenticeship programs $30.84median an hour in Kentucky

How do you start as a plumber in Kentucky?

There are three ways in: a registered apprenticeship (8 programs in Kentucky), trade school (7 schools with plumber programs), or a helper or trainee job with a licensed plumbing contractor.

Apprenticeship

Earn while you learn

A program hires you, pays you on the job and runs your classes.

Pay: From day one
In KY: 8 registered programs

Find a program near you

Trade school

Classroom first

Learn the basics, then find work to log your hours.

Pay: You pay tuition
In KY: 7 schools with programs

Compare 7 schools

Helper

Start on a crew

Get hired as a helper by a licensed plumbing contractor and log hours on the job.

Pay: Paid on the job
Start: No experience needed

How to get started

Do you need a license to work as a plumber in Kentucky?

Most plumbers in Kentucky learn on the job; a contractor license comes later, if you run your own business.

Get hired or start training
Join a registered apprenticeship, take a trade school program, or work as a helper for a licensed contractor.
Compare the ways in
Work as a plumber
Median pay in Kentucky is $30.84 an hour.
Plumber pay in Kentucky
Run your own shop
To bid and contract on your own you need a plumbing contractor license or registration.
Issued by
DHBC - Plumbing
Kentucky contractor license