Plumbing Schools in South Dakota

One main reason the plumbing field continues to grow in South Dakota is that the state makes it easy for residents to start a career with minimal stringent requirements. Of course, several high-quality training programs that teach students everything they need to know for a successful career also help immensely.

However, even with the straightforward pathway, it is still very helpful for candidates to understand the process and considerations they must make before starting. That is why we have provided the guide below, which touches upon all of the major requirements and steps involved in becoming a thriving plumber in South Dakota.

How to Become a Plumber in South Dakota

Aspiring plumbers in South Dakota must follow the steps below to start their careers correctly.

Meeting the Foundational Requirements

The fundamental requirements to become a successful plumber in South Dakota include being physically fit, having a solid understanding of basic science, mathematics, and technology, and having a high school diploma.

Most training programs will also accept a GED equivalent instead of a high school diploma.

Completing an Apprenticeship Program

A popular approach to becoming a successful plumber in South Dakota is combining theoretical and practical training. For the latter, it is almost universally accepted that attending an apprenticeship program is the best option.

During an apprenticeship program, candidates will also be able to study in the classroom, particularly during the beginning of the program. Still, more than anything, they will be able to build real-world experience. Many apprenticeship programs offered by trade unions and professional organizations are also free of charge, even with the potential to earn a salary during the latter part of training.

Considering Academic Training

Just because apprenticeship programs include classroom training, it only partially precludes the need to attend an academic program. Academic training programs are notable not only because they are the best source of classroom and theoretical education but also because they provide valuable certificates and degrees for graduates.

Consider trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become an electrician in South Dakota

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulations, Plumbing Commission, stipulates the licensing requirements for plumbers in South Dakota. The department offers an online licensing and payment system where candidates can fill out applications, pay for their licenses, and register for examinations, among other things.

Professionals must complete 1,900 hours of training annually and submit an official application. They are expected to pay $205 in licensing fees and provide written statements from previous and current employers. Journeyman plumbers in South Dakota are also expected to renew their licenses annually by paying a $105 renewal fee.

The state offers a contractor license that allows professionals to perform advanced duties and take on large contracts. Candidates must also submit an official application for this license and pay a licensing fee of $375. The license is renewed annually for $275.

Top Plumbing Schools in South Dakota

Candidates may attend any of the top programs below for their plumbing education in South Dakota.

Explore plumbing schools in South Dakota by city:

• Plumbing schools in Sioux Falls

Salary & Career Outlook

According to projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate for plumbers will continue to increase in South Dakota and the rest of the country in the foreseeable future. Currently, employers in the state can expect to earn an annual average salary of $73,592, which will put them among the median earners and in line with the national average.

However, thanks to many factors, a plumber in the state can earn an annual average salary of $55,555, which puts them among the bottom 10 percent, or an annual average salary of $97,485, which puts them among the top 10 percent.

These factors include experience, the nature of the employer, the specialty area, and more. Location also plays a key role.

Currently, the highest-paying destinations for plumbers in South Dakota include Brookings, with an annual average salary of $73,544; Rapid City, with an annual average salary of $61,793; and Sioux Falls, with an annual average salary of $61,538.