Plumbing Merit Badge Requirements

7 Requirements Updated January 21, 2026 View Official Page ↗ Download Free Pamphlet ↓

Learn essential plumbing skills including using key tools, understanding home water systems, and mastering pipe fitting techniques to earn this merit badge.

Requirements

  1. Copy link to requirement 1
    Do the following:
    1. Copy link to requirement 1.a
      Describe how a properly working plumbing system protects your family’s health and safety.
    2. Copy link to requirement 1.b
      List five important local health regulations related to plumbing and tell how they protect health and safety.
    3. Copy link to requirement 1.c
      Describe the safety precautions you must take when making home plumbing repairs.
  2. Copy link to requirement 2
    Do the following:
    1. Copy link to requirement 2.a
      Make a drawing and explain how a home hot- and cold-water supply system works. Tell how you would make it safe from freezing.
    2. Copy link to requirement 2.b
      Make a drawing and explain the drainage system of the plumbing in a house. Show and explain the use of drains and vents.
  3. Copy link to requirement 3
    Show how to use five important plumber’s tools.
  4. Copy link to requirement 4
    Identify and explain the following terms: washer, retaining nut, plunger (rubber force cup), solder, flux, elbow, tee, nipple, coupling, plug, union, trap, drainpipe, and water meter.
  5. Copy link to requirement 5
    Name the kinds of pipe that are used most often in a plumbing system. Explain why these pipes are used.
  6. Copy link to requirement 6
    Do FOUR of the following, each under the supervision of a knowledgeable adult:
    1. Copy link to requirement 6.a
      Visit the plumbing section of a hardware store or home center and identify:
      1. Copy link to requirement 6.a.1
        PVC pipe and fittings
      2. Copy link to requirement 6.a.2
        CPVC pipe and fittings
      3. Copy link to requirement 6.a.3
        PEX pipe and fittings
      4. Copy link to requirement 6.a.4
        Copper pipe and fittings
      5. Copy link to requirement 6.a.5
        Steel pipe and fittings
      6. Copy link to requirement 6.a.6
        Specialty plumbing tools.
    2. Copy link to requirement 6.b
      Cut, clean (debur), PVC or CPVC pipe; solvent weld at least three connections to include a coupling, tee, and elbow.
    3. Copy link to requirement 6.c
      Cut PEX pipe; make at least one connection using either a quick-connect fitting or a crimp fitting (using specialized tools).
    4. Copy link to requirement 6.d
      Solder a copper connection using a gas torch.
    5. Copy link to requirement 6.e
      Replace a kitchen or lavatory faucet.
    6. Copy link to requirement 6.f
      Remove, clean or replace, and reinstall a sink or lavatory drain trap.
    7. Copy link to requirement 6.g
      Properly apply pipe thread tape to a pipe or a plumbing connector.
  7. Copy link to requirement 7
    Identify three career opportunities that would use skills and knowledge in plumbing. Pick one and research the training, education, certification requirements, experience, and expenses associated with entering the field. Research the prospects for employment, starting salary, advancement opportunities and career goals associated with this career. Discuss what you learned with your counselor and whether you might be interested in this career.