What plumbing work can be done without a license?

Kansas does not require a license at the state level for anyone who wants to do plumbing work. So, you can do everything from installing plumbing lines and fixtures in new construction to repairing old buildings without having a license. However, you may need a local license.

What are the different types of plumbing licenses available in Kansas?

While you don’t need a Kansas plumbing license, you do need a Class D plumbing contractor license to do any work in Johnson County. Manhattan is another part of the state where you need a local license.

It only takes a few weeks to receive your license after you submit an application with the county or city. The application fee is $100, and the license fee is $225. You also will need to show proof of insurance. Contractors must either have a four-year college degree or a passing score on a contractor examination.

Kansas plumbers report earning an average of $19.64 per hour. More experienced plumbers earn $25 to $30 an hour. Plumbers usually have long careers, lasting up to 20 years.

How to get a plumbing license in Kansas

To obtain a plumbing contractor license in Johnson County and other local areas, you must submit proof of insurance and your application, pay the application fee, and pass a background check. You also must show proof of four years of plumbing experience or a journeyman license from another state.

The local municipality will require a digital photo and a copy of your driver’s license or ID. If you want to get a business license, you must show good standing in the state.

Even though you don’t need a Kansas plumbing license, you can still get experience for working as a plumber. Three schools in Kansas have plumbing programs: North Central Kansas Technical College, Northeast Kansas Technical College, and Wichita Area Technical College.

These schools charge tuition rates of $75 per credit hour. Not only can you get traditional financial aid from the government, but you can get scholarships and grants from the colleges, too. That financial aid covers the cost of the plumbing technology and repair courses.

Most schools also offer online classes, but you’ll need to take classes on the campus to gain some practical training. You can use the mock homes available to practice your skills. You do not need to take any prerequisite classes before beginning a Kansas plumbing program. These schools accept high school graduates. If you do any off-campus work, such as an internship, you’ll typically work a maximum of 10 hours each week. Each class will have quizzes and tests, but you do not need to take a final examination to graduate with your plumbing certificate.

Should I join a union?

UA Local 441 is the main plumbing union in Kansas. Located in Wichita, the union holds monthly meetings and offers support to plumbing contractors. You will need to submit your resume before you can join, but you can then attend those meetings. It’s often helpful to join a union when starting your business.

Insurance for plumbers in Kansas

You need general liability insurance to work as a plumber in Kansas. The state also requires contracting businesses have workers’ compensation insurance. You must pay into the state’s unemployment fund if you hire employees, too.

How to get my first plumbing apprenticeship

The Plumbers and Pipefitters Apprenticeship Training of Kansas (PPAK) is the main organization that offers apprenticeships for future plumbers in Kansas. You can take classes through the organization before doing fieldwork. You must submit an official high school transcript or GED, a driver’s license, and your birth certificate. You also must pass a drug test and take a skills placement test. You do not need to attend an interview to start the program. They will find an apprenticeship for you once you complete the minimum training required.

Does my license work in any other states?

Your local Kansas plumbing license is not valid in any other state.

How do I stay up to date with plumbing codes?

The union is a helpful resource for learning about any code changes. The International Code Council also lists the codes that apply to plumbing work in the state.

What resources are available in the plumbing industry?

Plumbing trade shows and conventions are the best ways to learn about the plumbing industry. Reading top plumbing blogs can help you stay informed. You’ll also want to read about plumbing trends and plumbing specialties.

How often do I need to renew my plumbing license in Kansas?

Most counties and cities in Kansas that require a plumbing license charge an annual renewal fee of $225. You need to visit the office in person and show a copy of your existing license. Once you pay the fee, your local Kansas plumbing license will be valid for another year.