Plumber Career Guide in Delaware
Explore plumber salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Delaware.
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How to Become a Plumber in Delaware
Most plumbers complete a registered apprenticeship combining paid supervised work with related technical instruction before applying for journeyperson licensure.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Plumber Salary in Delaware
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Delaware median wage for plumber workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $62,970, the median wage in Delaware is approximately $1,330 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Plumbers in Delaware
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONPlumber Training Requirements in Delaware
Delaware plumbers must follow the state’s apprenticeship and professional-licensing requirements for their intended level of work.
- Register as an apprentice and enter a Delaware-approved apprenticeship or equivalent qualifying pathway.
- Complete supervised employment and related instruction in plumbing code, mathematics, drainage, venting, water supply, gas piping, and safety.
- Document the education and experience required for the applicable license.
- Pass the journeyperson, master plumber, or restricted master plumber examination.
- Renew the license and complete any continuing education established by the licensing board.
Plumber Training Providers in Delaware
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Technical Community College — Stanton Campus | Newark | View Program |
| Delaware Skills Center | Wilmington | View Program |
| POLYTECH Adult Education | Woodside | View Program |
| Sussex Technical Adult Education | Georgetown | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESPlumber Apprenticeship Programs in Delaware
Delaware Registered Apprenticeship Program
Organization: Delaware Department of Labor
Plumber Licensing Requirements in Delaware
Delaware requires plumbing professionals to hold the appropriate apprentice registration, journeyperson license, master plumber license, or master plumber restricted license.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSPlumber Job Outlook in Delaware
Delaware’s latest available long-term projection shows continued demand for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters, driven by construction, renovation, commercial systems, maintenance, and replacement needs.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the plumber salary in Delaware?
The statewide median wage for plumbers in Delaware is approximately $64,300 per year, or $30.90 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Delaware require plumber licensing?
Yes. Delaware requires individuals performing regulated, non-exempt plumber work to hold the appropriate license or credential. Applicants should verify the current license category, experience, examination, and renewal requirements with Delaware Division of Professional Regulation — Board of Plumbing, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Examiners.
How long does it take to become a plumber in Delaware?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 4–5 Years Apprenticeship, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are plumbers in demand in Delaware?
Delaware projects plumber employment to grow by approximately 10% from 2022 to 2032. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Delaware Wages for Plumber (SOC 47-2152) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Delaware Plumber Wages
- Delaware Plumber Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Delaware Plumber Employment Trends
- Delaware Division of Professional Regulation — Board of Plumbing, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Examiners — Licensing authority. Delaware Division of Professional Regulation — Board of Plumbing, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Examiners