What you need to become a licensed plumber
A plumber's license is issued by your state or local jurisdiction, not a single national body. The path involves completing an apprenticeship (usually 4 to 5 years), passing a written exam, and paying a licensing fee. The exact requirements — how many hours of work experience, what the exam covers, how much the license costs — vary significantly by state and sometimes by city.
Most states require you to work under a licensed plumber during your apprenticeship before you can test for your own license. Some states let you sit for the exam after a certain number of hours; others require you to complete a formal apprenticeship program first. You will need to research your specific state's requirements before you start, because the path is not the same everywhere.
Key Takeaways
- Plumber licensing is controlled by your state or local jurisdiction, so you must contact your state's plumbing board or licensing division to learn the exact requirements where you live.
- Most paths require 4 to 5 years of paid work experience under a licensed plumber, often combined with classroom hours in a trade school or apprenticeship program.
- You will need to pass a written exam covering plumbing code, safety, and practical knowledge before your license is issued.
- License fees, renewal periods, and continuing education requirements all differ by state — some require annual renewal, others every three years.
Finding your state's plumbing board and requirements
Start by contacting your state's plumbing board or licensing division directly. You can find this office by searching "[your state] plumbing board" or "[your state] plumbing license requirements" online. Most states have a dedicated website listing the exact hours, exam details, and fees. Some states call this office the "Department of Licensing," others call it the "Board of Plumbing Examiners" or similar.
When you contact them, ask for the current requirements in writing or as a downloadable document. Requirements change, and what you find on an old forum post may no longer be accurate. The official state office will tell you how many hours of work experience are required, whether you need to complete a formal apprenticeship program or can learn on the job, what the exam covers, and what the license costs.
If your state has multiple licensing levels — journeyman plumber, master plumber, apprentice plumber — ask which one you should pursue first. Most people start as an apprentice, move to journeyman after meeting the hours and passing the exam, and then pursue master status later if they want to run their own business.
Completing an apprenticeship or work experience
You will need to work under a licensed plumber for a set number of hours — typically 8,000 to 10,000 hours over 4 to 5 years — before you can test for your license. This is paid work, not volunteer work. You earn a wage while you learn, though apprentice wages are usually lower than a fully licensed plumber's wage.
Some states require you to enroll in a formal apprenticeship program through a trade union or vocational school. Others let you work directly for a plumbing company and log your hours yourself, as long as you work under a licensed plumber's supervision. A few states require a combination: work experience plus classroom hours at a trade school.
To find apprenticeships, contact local plumbing companies, union halls (if your state has union plumbing), or vocational schools that offer plumbing programs. The apprenticeship coordinator or your employer will help you track your hours and may support they count toward your license. Keep detailed records of your work hours, the tasks you performed, and the licensed plumber who supervised you — you will need to document this when you explore for the exam.
Preparing for and taking the licensing exam
Once you have completed the required hours, you will need to pass a written exam. The exam tests your knowledge of plumbing code (the rules that govern how plumbing systems must be installed), safety practices, and practical plumbing skills. Most states use a standardized exam, though some write their own.
To prepare, study the plumbing code for your state — your state's plumbing board will tell you which version of the code the exam covers. Many people take a prep course offered by a trade school or online provider. These courses walk you through the code and practice exam questions. Some states require you to take a prep course; others recommend it but do not require it.
Register for the exam through your state's licensing office. You will pay an exam fee (usually $100 to $300) and choose a test date. The exam is typically offered multiple times per year at testing centers. You will have a set amount of time — usually 4 to 6 hours — to complete it. Bring a photo ID and any materials your state allows (some states let you bring the plumbing code; others do not).
Paying the license fee and receiving your license
After you pass the exam, you will pay a license fee to your state's plumbing board. This fee covers the cost of issuing your license and is separate from the exam fee. License fees typically range from $50 to $300, depending on the state and the type of license.
Your state will issue you a license number and a physical license card or certificate. Some states mail this to you; others let you print it from their website. You are now a licensed plumber in your state. You can work independently, start your own business, or continue working for a plumbing company.
Keep your license in a safe place. You will need to show it to customers, building inspectors, and your employer. Your state will also require you to renew it periodically — usually every 1 to 3 years — and may require you to complete continuing education hours to keep it active.
License renewal and continuing education
Plumber licenses do not last forever. Your state will require you to renew your license on a set schedule — some states require annual renewal, others every two or three years. You will receive a renewal notice from your state's plumbing board before your license expires.
To renew, you will typically pay a renewal fee (similar to the original license fee) and provide proof that you have completed any required continuing education hours. Many states require 8 to 24 hours of continuing education per renewal period. These hours cover updates to plumbing code, new safety practices, and other topics relevant to the trade.
Continuing education can be completed through trade schools, online courses, or workshops offered by plumbing associations. Your state's plumbing board will list approved providers. If you do not renew on time, your license will expire and you will not be able to work as a licensed plumber until you renew it.
Moving to a different state with your license
A plumber's license from one state does not automatically work in another state. If you move or want to work in a different state, you will need to get a license in that state. Some states have reciprocity agreements, meaning they recognize licenses from certain other states and let you skip some requirements — but this is not common, and the rules vary widely.
Contact the new state's plumbing board and ask whether they recognize your current license. If they do not, you may be able to take their exam without repeating the full apprenticeship, or you may need to complete additional work hours or education. Some states require you to pass their exam even if you are already licensed elsewhere.
Plan ahead if you know you will be moving. Starting the licensing process in your new state before you relocate can save time and keep you working without a gap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I become a plumber without a formal apprenticeship program?
It depends on your state. Some states let you work directly for a plumbing company and log your hours without enrolling in a formal program, as long as you work under a licensed plumber. Others require you to complete an apprenticeship through a union or trade school. Contact your state's plumbing board to learn what is required where you live.
How much does it cost to get a plumber's license?
The total cost varies by state but typically includes exam fees ($100 to $300), the license fee ($50 to $300), and any trade school or apprenticeship tuition if you choose to enroll in a program. Some apprenticeships are free or low-cost if you join a union. Budget several hundred dollars for licensing alone, plus any education costs.
What if I fail the licensing exam?
You can retake the exam. Most states let you register for the next available test date and pay the exam fee again. Some states limit how many times you can retake it in a year, but you are not permanently barred from trying again. Review the areas where you struggled and consider taking a prep course before your next attempt.
Do I need a plumber's license to work as a plumber?
It depends on the type of work and your location. In most states, you can work as an apprentice or helper without a license as long as you work under a licensed plumber. To work independently, run your own business, or pull permits in your own name, you need a license. Some cities require a license for any plumbing work; others do not. Check your local rules.
How long does it take to get a plumber's license?
Most paths take 4 to 5 years from start to finish. This includes the apprenticeship or work experience (the bulk of the time), plus time to study for and take the exam. If you already have plumbing experience from another state or job, some states may let you test sooner. The exact timeline depends on your state's requirements and how quickly you complete the hours.