Plumber Responsibilties:
Assemble, install, alter, and repair pipelines or pipe systems that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases. May install heating and cooling equipment and mechanical control systems. Includes sprinkler fitters.
Plumber Benefits:
Plumbers, Pipefitters, & Steamfitters install and repair pipes that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases
In Delaware, it is a requirement to obtain a license in order to become a professional plumber.
Plumbing licenses in Delaware are granted by the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation – Board of Plumbing, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Examiners. The state offers a master plumber license.
Prior to applying for a license, you must hold a journeyman certificate. This certificate can be obtained from the Delaware Department of Labor or an approved plumbing apprenticeship program. To be eligible, you must be enrolled in an apprenticeship program for a minimum of 7 years.
As a journeyman plumber, you will have the opportunity to work under the supervision of a master plumber. Your responsibilities will include pipe repairs, fixture installation, and pipe modifications.
To acquire a Delaware plumbing license, you must possess a Delaware journeyman certificate at the time of application. If you already hold a master plumber license in another state, you will not be required to take the master plumber examination.
When you become a master plumber, you will have the ability to install, construct, design, alter, and modify fixtures and pipes. Additionally, master plumbers are authorized to connect and install gas pipes.
The average pay rate for Delaware journeyman plumbers is $25.75 per hour. For Delaware master plumbers, the average pay rate is $40.32 per hour. On average, plumbers work in the industry for 15 years. For more information, you can check out the average pay rate for plumbers in Delaware.
Plumbing Licensing and Education in Delaware
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a plumber in Delaware, here is some helpful information on licensing requirements and educational opportunities:
Plumbers in Delaware start their careers as apprentices. However, apprenticeship programs are not mandatory to sit for the Delaware master plumber examination. To become an apprentice, you must enroll in an approved apprenticeship program and receive your journeyman certificate.
After completing 7 years of journeyman work, you can apply for your master plumber license. If you hold a master license from another state, excluding Pennsylvania, you can apply for a license without taking the exam. Otherwise, you must pass the examination. The fee for a master plumber license is $141.
Possessing a criminal background does not automatically prevent you from obtaining a Delaware license. Each application is reviewed thoroughly by the licensing board to determine eligibility.
Ashworth College offers an online plumbing certificate program. The curriculum covers topics such as plumbing codes, plumbing math, and pipefitting. To enroll, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. The four-year program requires you to purchase your own plumbing tools. The total cost is $4,500, and financial aid is not available. However, a tuition payment plan is offered.
The Adult Education Division of the New Castle County School District provides plumbing courses. The curriculum includes pipe testing, plumbing drawings, plumbing mathematics, roof installation, water supply testing, and fixture installation. To enroll, you must be a high school graduate or have a GED and be at least 18 years old. Each plumbing course costs $440.00, and financial aid is not available. Please note that these classes cannot be taken online.
To register for the Delaware master plumber examination, you must sign up and pay the exam fee to Prometric. To pass the test, you must achieve a minimum score of 70%.
For more detailed information and specific requirements, please visit the Delaware licensing board website or contact them directly.
Joining a plumbing union in Delaware not only offers financial advantages but also provides a support system and the opportunity to actively participate in shaping decisions affecting plumbers in the state.
When seeking employment as a plumber in Delaware, it is important to meet the following insurance requirements:
Ensuring you have the appropriate insurance coverage is essential for your protection and compliance with state regulations.
The Plumber and Steamfitters Apprenticeship Program in Delaware offers a 5-year training program and 1,250 hours of classroom instruction. In this program, you will learn basic plumbing math, pipe layout, plumbing fixtures, and plumbing codes. The best part is, there is no cost to enroll in this program.
If you're interested in apprenticeship opportunities, UA Local 74 Plumbers and Pipefitters also offers a 5-year training program in Delaware. During this program, you will have the chance to work under the supervision of a master plumber. And just like the previous program, there is no cost to enroll in this one either.
When preparing for an interview for a Delaware apprenticeship, it is recommended to wear business casual attire. Additionally, make sure to bring copies of your resume and proof of education.
Unfortunately, Delaware does not have a reciprocal plumber license agreement with any other state.
Helpful Resources for Delaware Plumbing Codes:
Here are some resources that can help you prepare for a career in the plumbing industry:
Delaware Plumbing License Renewal:
As a plumber in Delaware, it is important to renew your license every 2 years. This ensures that you can continue practicing legally and maintain your professional status. The license renewal fee for plumbers in Delaware is $141.
By renewing your license on time, you demonstrate your commitment to the plumbing industry and uphold the standards set by the state. Regular renewal also allows you to stay updated with any changes or advancements in plumbing regulations, ensuring your skills remain relevant and valuable.
Don't forget to mark your calendar and budget for the license renewal fee accordingly. Keeping your license current is not just a legal requirement, but it also helps you maintain a strong reputation and build trust among your clients and peers.
If you have any questions or need further information regarding the Delaware plumbing license renewal process, reach out to the appropriate licensing authorities or trade organizations in your area. They will be well-equipped to assist you and provide guidance throughout the renewal procedure.
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