America needs more tradespeople. You hear it everywhere you go. If you’ve ever called a plumber or the gas man, sometimes they are not available for ages due to the demand on their time. Yet, it seems anyone who does the licensing exam as a plumber or gas fitter finds employment quite easily.
Is the problem that no one is interested in trades anymore? What holds people back from the study of a valued skilled trade that offers pride in craftsmanship, problem-solving, integrity, and commitment, all for a lucrative career?
There are rumors in circulation saying that the licensing tests are DIFFICULT. And then, if you don’t pass, the retake cost is too high. Also, there’s gossip around answer sheets, low pass rates in some trades, while others have high passing rates – the only true thing here is that you can’t stop gossip, nor the myths from circling.
What you CAN do is recognise them and address them. You can put a stop to those that are already out there.
In this article, we’ll try to dispel a couple of myths that are out there and set the record straight – as it should be!
The Myth Busting
Let’s start:
Myth 1: Years in the Field/Lots of Experience = Passing Score
Field experience is invaluable; no one’s denying that. In fact, if someone was looking for a worker, they’d take you – an experienced worker – over someone who’s inexperienced. Of course.
With that being said, even those skilled and experienced tradesmen need to renew their licences at one point (usually it’s every couple of years). And no, their experience doesn’t guarantee an automatic PASS on the exam.
And don’t be fooled that if you’re experienced, you’ll pass the exam with flying colors just like that.
The reason why you won’ tis that the exams aren’t just about the practical know-how of the job, but you also need a comprehensive knowledge of a wide range of topics (e.g., safet codes, regulations, complex math, algebra/geometry, ability tointerpret blueprints correctly, ability to interpret technical drawings, general knowledge on design/isntallation, various protocols for systems such as potable water, drainage, heating, etc.)
Keeping up-to-date and current will pay off in the long run.
A journeyman in Mobile or Birmingham might have years of hands-on work, which is both true and commendable, but passing the state board exam requires dealing with Alabama-specific amendments.
That’s why a lot of professionals supplement their experience with targeted Alabama plumber & gas-fitter continuing-education training courses to bridge the gap between daily work and exam requirements, and to maximize their chances of acing the state exam when they’re acquiring (or renewing) their license.
Myth 2: You Can Just Memorize the Code Book the Night Before
This is absolutely not true.
The amount of material you have to make your way through and to actually know how to apply it in real life is more than knowing how to locate the codes.
Myth 3: The Practical Section is the Hardest Part
Actually, it seems the hardest part is the timed multiple-choice theory exam. Points are lost due to poor time management and overthinking the questions.
Myth 4: All Exam Prep Courses Cover the Same Material
Well, again, this just isn’t true.
The differences in the material could depend on how often the updates of information are done (code changes could be missed), who is teaching the course, and how they are teaching it, and how deep the curriculum goes (some might not be in-depth enough).
Myth 5: If You Failed Once, Your Next Try Should Focus Only on What You Missed
This might work for some, but really, all the information is interconnected, so you might miss the connection between the information you studied and what you already knew.
It’s wiser to study it all.
Myth 6: The Test is Designed to Trick You.
False; there are a lot of multiple-choice questions on tests that give you the right answer and then give you a more correct answer.
Read all the answers before choosing the first right answer you see.
Here’s an example question:
When connecting a horizontal copper drain line in a 2-1/2 story single-family dwelling, which of the following is the most correct action?
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Here’s a quick answer breakdown:
- Option A: “Every 10 feet” is a very specific measurement that isn’t necessarily a ‘universal rule’ for copper drain lines; it might be incorrect depending on the size.
- Option B: A reasonable answer, the 12-foot spacing is commonly used for larger pipes, but NOT specifically for all horizontal copper drain lines; could be a trap/misdirection.
- Option C: This one correctly states the maximum allowable distance between supports for horizontal copper drain lines, the standard for lots of practical applications.
- Option D: A plausible answer, sure, but the 12-foot spacing is only a requirement for certain types of pipes and situations. It’s not a requirement for all copper drain lines.
The ‘most correct’ answer here is the one that’s the most accurate and specific based on (state-imposed) plumbing codes.
In this case, it’s option (C) that’s the most accurate one because it provides the correct maximum spacing for copper drain lines as specified in plumbing codes.
Myth 7: Once You’re Licensed, You Don’t Need to Think About the Exam Again
This is actually – well, let’s just say it – it’s nonsense.
To renew your license, you have to continue your education to stay current and learning about new technology.
Conclusion
Don’t believe everything you hear.
If you aren’t sure, you can always check state requirements, at least when it comes to plumbing and gas-related things.
So, when a friend of yours tells you that it’s ok to do something this way because that’s the most convenient approach, stop and think. What are the rules? If the rules say a different story, think about why these rules are specifically in place.
There must be a reason, right?
Follow a bulletproof study plan, and regardless of the licensing exam being difficult, you’ll pass the challenge, leading you towards a Master Plumber (or Gasfitter) career.
2 Interlinking Opportunities:
From https://www.boredmom.com/creative-home/how-home-plumbing-solutions-keep-families-comfortable-year-round with anchor plumbing concern
From https://www.boredmom.com/creative-living/keep-your-home-safe-why-gas-safe-certificates-matter with anchor Knowing your gas appliances are safe
