How Hard Is The Plumbing Test? (My Experience)

If you’re hoping to become a plumber, it can be difficult to know where to start. The process includes many steps and requirements. 

In this article, we’ll cover all of them so that you can understand what needs to be done before taking your plumbing test.

The SECRET to PASSING the Plumbing Exam
Tips for Passing the Journeyman Plumber Test
Follow a structured study plan
Practice using sample exams
Understand applicable plumbing codes
Develop knowledge and skills in key areas
Get plenty of rest and stay focused during the test

How Hard Is The Plumbing Test?

You might be thinking, “How hard is the Plumbing Test?” or “Do I need to know calculus for it?” The answer is no. You just need to pass the test!

The plumbing test is designed to make sure you can do the job and know how to do it safely. It will cover things like how much water pressure should be used in a faucet, where you should place your shutoff valve, and which pipe should go where during installation.

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How Do I Pass My Plumbing Test?

There are a few ways you can prepare for your plumbing test. The first thing to do is find out which state you will be taking the test in and then go online to look at the state’s requirements. 

You will have to take an exam and sometimes get some additional training if you are not already qualified. 

You also have to have a license before you can become a plumber, so it is important that you check with your state board of examiners before going through with this career change!

Tips for Passing the Plumbing Test

TipDescription
Know Your State’s RequirementsEach state may have different requirements for plumbing exams. Research your state’s guidelines to learn what will be tested and what kind of preparation you will need.
Study Plumbing CodesUnderstanding plumbing codes is crucial for passing a plumbing exam. Find out which codes are used in your state and study them in detail.
Take Practice TestsPracticing with sample tests is one of the best ways to prepare for plumbing exams. Look for online resources or purchase study materials that include practice tests.
Get Familiar with Plumbing ToolsKnowing how to properly use various plumbing tools is important for a plumber. Make sure you are comfortable with the tools you’ll be using on the test before exam day.
Join a Study GroupStudying with peers who are also preparing for the plumbing test can be valuable. Joining a study group can help you stay motivated, learn from others, and practice your skills in a group setting.

What Does A Plumbing Test Include?

The test is broken down into two parts: a written exam and a hands-on test. The written exam is multiple choice and has about 50 questions on it. The questions cover basic math, science, and reading comprehension topics.

The hands-on test takes about eight hours to complete and includes two parts the first part is called “scenario based,” where you’re given an incomplete plumbing problem to solve; the second part involves working with various tools and equipment in order to fix leaks under pressure (this can be pretty exciting!).

You may also be asked to undergo a physical exam prior to taking your test so that the instructor can ensure that you are physically fit enough for this line of work. 

Finally, because plumbers often work with chemicals such as lead or asbestos while they’re repairing pipes in older homes, it’s mandatory that you pass a drug screening before being admitted into any apprenticeship program or certification course

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How Do I Pass My Plumbing Test In Virginia?

To pass your Virginia plumbing test, you’ll need to be at least 18 years old. You must also be a United States citizen or permanent resident of the United States, and have either a high school diploma or GED. You’ll need to have a valid driver’s license in order to get your plumbing license in Virginia.

You will also undergo a criminal background check during the application process for your Virginia plumber’s license. If convicted of any felony charges or traffic violations that resulted in injury, you’ll most likely be denied by the board of examiners.

If you’re physically fit enough, it’s possible that you could take the physical portion of your gas piping examination while standing on one foot!

Tips for Passing the Virginia Plumbing Test

TipDescription
Check Virginia’s Plumbing Exam RequirementsVirginia has specific requirements for plumbing exams, including amount of time as an apprentice. Review your state’s guidelines to learn what material will be tested and how that material will be graded.
Study Virginia’s Plumbing CodesUnderstanding the plumbing codes used in Virginia is crucial for passing your exam. Study these codes and their applications in detail.
Take Virginia Plumbing Exam Practice TestsTaking practice tests will help you pinpoint where you need improvement in your knowledge of plumbing codes and regulations specific to Virginia.
Get Familiar with Virginia Plumbing ToolsKnowing how to use Virginia-specific plumbing tools is important for Virginia plumbers. Become familiar with these tools and how they are used in VA.
Join a Virginia Plumbing Exam Study GroupWith fellow Virginians who also hope to pass their plumbing exam, join a study group. A study group can lend different insights about the test or share different ways to recall key bits of information.

How Do You Pass The Plumber’s Apprentice Test?

The plumber’s apprentice test is a grueling test that people take to get jobs as plumbers. It’s made up of three parts:

The written test. You’ll have to answer questions about plumbing and related topics in this portion of the exam.

The hands-on portion. You’ll have to demonstrate your knowledge by fixing different types of plumbing problems and completing other tasks related to plumbing work.

A final interview with a panel of experts from the National Plumbing Association (NPA). This will be your chance to show off everything you’ve learned, as well as prove that you have what it takes emotionally and mentally for this job.

There are many different potential plumbing issues you might encounter over the course of owning a home, from leaks to clogs and beyond. Our pro guide on fixing your plumbing offers tips and strategies for troubleshooting and solving these common problems.

A Physical Exam Can Be Required By Employers.

A physical exam can be required by employers. This is not the same thing as a drug test, but it may include one. The physical exam is usually a drug test and may also include a background check.

A Drug Screening May Be Mandatory If You’re Applying For A Job

To pass the drug screening, you will be given a urine test. The sample will be used to test your urine for traces of one or more drugs. 

Urine tests are often required when applying for jobs as well as before and after employment commences. Some companies may require them on an annual basis, while others will only do so every three years.

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You May Also Have To Pass A Background Check For Criminal History

You may also have to pass a background check for criminal history. Background checks can be required for some jobs, but they’re not always required. 

If you do need to take a background check, it’s usually conducted by a third-party company (like the state or county) rather than by your employer directly.

If you are volunteering in an organization where there is no salary involved and don’t plan on earning money from that job, the chances of having to undergo one of these procedures will be slim—but it’s still worth checking before you apply! 

It’s worth noting that most people don’t realize how much information is actually given out during these screenings: everything from social media activity and driving records to public arrest records and court cases can get included in your report. 

These checks can cost anywhere between $30-$200 depending on where they are being done and what information needs to be accessed.

The Background Check Is Often More Extensive Than What You Would Expect With Other Occupations

The background check is often more extensive than what you would expect with other occupations. The hiring agency will fingerprint you, take a criminal history, drug screen you and make sure that your physical health is good enough to be on the job. You will also have to prove that you are eligible to work in the United States.

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It’s Possible That Fingerprinting Will Be Required As Part Of Your Application And Background Check

If you’re concerned about whether or not fingerprinting will be required, it’s best to check with the recruitment office at each training school. 

If they do require fingerprinting, it’s possible that they will have a list of local police stations or other government agencies where it can be done. If so, you’ll need to contact one of these organizations and make an appointment for yourself. This may take several weeks depending on their availability.

In addition to verifying your identity, fingerprints may also be used to help verify your employment history during the background check process (see below). 

Fingerprints may also be used as evidence if someone else claims that you are using their Social Security number or name without permission (for example: someone who has stolen another person’s ID).

If you are required to submit your fingerprints electronically through an online portal called Live Scan and/or if they need additional documents such as proof of citizenship or legal residency status then please bring these items with you when going in person for fingerprinting services because these things can take longer than expected when submitting electronically through LiveScan portals due delays caused by server crashes etcetera; this is especially true if submitting multiple documents at once!

The Plumbing Test Isn’t Difficult But You Have To Meet Specific Requirements First

The plumbing test isn’t difficult, but you have to meet specific requirements first. For starters, you have to be at least 18 years old and have either a high school diploma or GED. 

You’ll also need to pass a drug screening and background check by the state where you plan on taking your test. Additionally, there are some restrictions depending on what state you’re in:

In some states (like New York), if your driver’s license has been revoked within the last three years due to driving under the influence or other related offenses then it will be voided during your application process for this test as well.

Other states require their applicants to have a clean criminal record—meaning no felonies or misdemeanors within three years prior to applying for this test but there are still exceptions made in certain circumstances such as self-defense or mental health issues that weren’t reported immediately after taking place but were later discovered during investigations into an applicant’s background after applying for their license with another business entity such as ExxonMobil Oil Company Incorporated.”

Conclusion

Remember that even though the plumbing test isn’t difficult, you still have to meet certain requirements before taking it. 

You also need to make sure that you’re prepared for what comes after passing this test because it might take some time before you land a job as a plumber’s apprentice.

Further Reading

If you’re interested in learning more about plumbing tests and exams, you may find the following resources helpful:

How Hard Is the Journeyman Plumber Test? – provides insights into what you can expect when taking the journeyman plumber test, along with tips on preparation and study.

Journeyman Plumbers Exam – offers a comprehensive review of the competencies and skills required for success on the journeyman plumber exam.

Passing the Plumbers Test: What You Need to Know – shares key insights into what plumbers should know when preparing for the test, including how to study, what to expect on test day, and tips for success.

FAQs

What is a journeyman plumber?

A journeyman plumber is a skilled plumbing professional who has completed an apprenticeship and demonstrated competency in the installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing systems and equipment.

What is the journeyman plumber test?

The journeyman plumber test is a comprehensive exam that assesses a candidate’s knowledge and skills in the plumbing trade. It typically covers areas such as plumbing codes, pipe fitting, safety, and more.

How hard is the journeyman plumber test?

The difficulty of the journeyman plumber test can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the candidate’s level of experience and training, how well they have prepared, and the specific content covered on the exam.

How can I prepare for the journeyman plumber test?

There are many different resources available to help plumbers prepare for the journeyman plumber test, including study guides, practice exams, and review courses. It’s important to take advantage of these resources and dedicate ample time to studying and preparation in order to perform well on the exam.

What happens if I don’t pass the journeyman plumber test?

If you don’t pass the journeyman plumber test on your first attempt, you may have additional opportunities to retake the exam. It’s important to review your areas of weakness and continue studying in order to improve your performance on future attempts.