If you’re pursuing a career in plumbing or starting your plumbing business across state lines, understanding the requirements for a plumbing license in each state is essential. It’s worth noting that each state has its own rules, fees, and timelines for getting a plumbing license. Navigating it all on your own can feel overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down what you need to know about plumbing licenses to help you better understand the licensing landscape.
What Are the Differences Between Plumbing License and Certification?
Before getting straight into state-specific requirements, it’s important to understand the distinction between a plumbing license and plumbing certification. A plumbing license is a legal requirement issued by state or local governments that permits you to perform plumbing work professionally. Without this license, you cannot legally operate as a plumber in most jurisdictions.
Plumbing certification, on the other hand, is typically a voluntary credential that demonstrates specialized knowledge or skills in specific areas of plumbing. While plumbing certification can improve your credibility and may be required by certain employers, it doesn’t replace the legal requirements of a license. Think of licensing as your permission to work, while certification is your proof of expertise in particular specialties.
Requirements for Plumbing License Across States
The requirements for a plumbing license vary significantly by state, but most follow a similar framework. Below is a summary of the licensing requirements of each state. Keep in mind these are high-level summaries and the requirements are subject to change. Check each state’s latest requirements on their website for accuracy.
Alabama
To work as a licensed plumber in Alabama, you’ll need to complete an apprenticeship program and pass the state exam through the Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board. Journeyman applicants need at least 3 years of on-hand experience, while master plumber candidates need 5 years.
Alaska
Alaska requires a combination of education and work experience. You’ll need to complete 8,000 hours of plumbing work experience (classroom training can count for up to 1,000 hours), along with passing the exam through the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development.
Arizona
If you’re a plumber who’s held an active license in certain states for four years or more, the State Contractors Board may waive your trade exam requirements. For everyone else, you’ll need to complete an apprenticeship and pass the required exams through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
Arkansas
In Arkansas, becoming a Master Plumber requires completing a full apprenticeship and passing exams through the Arkansas Department of Health, Plumbing and Natural Gas Division. Before you apply for your Master Plumber license, you need to hold a Journeyman Plumber license for at least one year and submit the required application. If you have held a Journeyman license for two years or more, you may qualify for reciprocal licenses in certain states.
California
California requires contractors performing plumbing work exceeding $500 to obtain a C-36 license from the Contractors State License Board. The state has higher costs overall due to elevated living expenses and stricter regulatory requirements. You’re expecting initial plumbing license cost fees to be around $450-$500.
Colorado
If you’re looking to start your career in Colorado, the Department of Regulatory Agencies handles all the plumbing licenses. Journeyman plumbers candidates need four years of apprenticeship experience. License fees range from $150-$250 depending on the license type.
Connecticut
Before becoming a journeyman plumber in Connecticut, you’ll complete 8,200 hours of training. To keep your license active, the state also requires continuing education during the period. Application and examination fees total approximately $300-$350. Once you pass the exam, you’ll get your license through the Connecticut State Department of Consumer Protection.
Delaware
To get license through the Delaware’s Board of Plumbing, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, you’ll need to have four years of apprenticeship. The good news is that the state participates in reciprocity agreements with several neighboring states. If you’re planning to relocate, reciprocity can save you time and money on licensing.
Florida
To become a plumber in Florida, you’ll need to meet a few requirements. The state requires four years of apprenticeship or formal training plus passing scores on both state and local examinations. Expect to pay approximately $249 for exam application fees and $209 for licensing fees. Once passed you will receive your plumber license through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
Georgia
In Georgia, plumbing licenses are issued by the Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board. Journeyman applicants need three years of experience as a plumber’s apprentice. Master applicants need five years of plumbing experience, with at least two years as a licensed Journeyman Plumber or in an equivalent role. Expect the plumbing license cost to be $35 for a journeyman license and $75 for a master license.
Hawaii
Hawaii requires journeyman plumbers to complete four years of apprenticeship training before submitting your application to Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Professional and Vocational Licensing Division. The island state’s plumbing licensing cost ranges from $200-$300, with additional costs for required continuing education.
Idaho
Idaho’s Division of Building Safety manages plumbing licenses. The requirements for plumbing licenses are straightforward: journeyman applicants need 8,000 hours of supervised work experience. License costs range from $100-$175.
Illinois
The state of Illinois requires 8,000 hours of apprenticeship training. Illinois doesn’t offer statewide reciprocity, though Chicago-licensed plumbers may apply for state licensure in other districts through a special reciprocity application.
Indiana
Indiana has clear requirements for plumbers. You will need to be at least 18, complete the online application, finish an approved apprenticeship program or satisfy out-of-state plumber experience requirements, and pass the Plumbing Contractor exam. Plumbing license costs average typically $150-$200. Once passed, you’ll get your plumbing license through the Indiana Plumbing Commission.
Iowa
Iowa’s Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board requires 8,000 hours of training. It’s worth noting that the state recognizes licenses from states with equivalent requirements through reciprocity agreements.
Kansas
Kansas has no statewide requirement for plumbing license, though individual cities and counties may maintain their own regulations. Always check local requirements before beginning work.
Kentucky
Kentucky requires four years of apprenticeship for journeyman licensure. You’ll also need to pass the state exam through the Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC). Master plumber candidates need an additional two years of journeyman experience. License fees range from $100-$175.
Louisiana
Louisiana’s State Plumbing Board requires 8,000 hours of training. Plumbing license costs are breaking down this way: apprentice registration is $20 and journeyman exam application is $135, while Master exam application is $110. The state has reciprocity agreements with Arkansas and Texas for plumbers maintaining at least two years of active licensure.
Maine
To become a licensed plumber in Maine, you must pass the appropriate exam (Journeyman or Master) and apply through forms provided by the Plumbers’ Examining Board. All applicants must meet the experience or education requirements as outlined in Board rules. The initial license fee for journeyman plumber or master plumber is the same for $221.
Maryland
To become a journeyman plumber, you’ll need to hold an apprentice license for four years, complete 7,500 hours of supervised work, finish 32 hours of training, and pass the required exam provided by Maryland Board of Plumbing. To become a master plumber, you’ll need a journeyman license held for at least two years, 3,750 hours of supervised work experience, and a passing exam score. The state participates in reciprocity agreements with numerous states, making license transfer relatively straightforward for qualified candidates.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts maintains stringent plumbing license requirements with higher associated costs due to elevated living expenses. Plumbing license costs and fees can exceed $300-$400 when including examination and application costs.
Michigan
Michigan requires 8,000 hours of apprenticeship training for journeyman licensure. The state recognizes licenses from states with comparable requirements through reciprocity agreements.
Minnesota
Minnesota’s Department of Labor and Industry oversees plumbing licenses. The state waives examination requirements for plumbers from North Dakota and South Dakota who have maintained licensure for at least one year.
Mississippi
Missouri has no statewide plumbing licensing requirement, though major cities like St. Louis and Kansas City maintain their own comprehensive licensing programs. Always verify local requirements.
Missouri
Missouri has no statewide plumbing licensing requirement, though major cities like St. Louis and Kansas City maintain their own comprehensive licensing programs. Always verify local requirements.
Montana
To become a journeyman plumber in Montana, applicants need five years of plumbing experience or a completed registered apprenticeship program, plus passing scores on written and practical exams. Master plumber applicants need an active journeyman license held for four years, three years of supervisory experience, and a passing score on the master exam. The state participates in reciprocity agreements with several western states, facilitating license transfers.
Nebraska
Nebraska doesn’t require statewide plumbing licensure, but local jurisdictions may have specific plumbing licensing requirements. Check with your city or county building department before starting work.
Nevada
To qualify as a journeyman plumber in Nevada, you need 4 years in a registered apprenticeship or 8,000 hours of plumbing experience. For master qualification, hold a Nevada Journeyman Plumber certificate for at least one year or 2,000 hours and pass the Master exam. Nevada’s State Contractors Board may waive trade examination requirements for plumbers from Arizona, California, Florida, and Tennessee who have maintained active licensure for at least four years.
New Hampshire
To get started, you’ll need to complete your application packet from the OPLC Mechanical Safety page. You’ll need to meet the experience and certification requirements and submit all necessary forms and documents. Expect the plumbing license cost to be $190 for a journeyman plumber and $310 for a master plumber. The good news is that New Hampshire recognizes journeyman plumber reciprocity with over 30 states. These include Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wyoming, among others. That makes New Hampshire one of the most reciprocity-friendly states.
New Jersey
New Jersey’s State Board of Examiners of Master Plumbers requires 9,200 hours of apprenticeship training, which is slightly more than most other states. Plumbing license fees range from $200-$300, and the state participates in regional reciprocity agreements.
New Mexico
New Mexico’s Construction Industries Division requires four years of apprenticeship experience. Once you pass the state exam, you’ll get your plumbing license issues by New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department. The state also maintains reciprocity agreements with several southwestern states.
New York
New York has no statewide plumbing license requirement, but New York City maintains one of the nation’s most rigorous licensing programs. NYC plumbers face extensive examination requirements and higher fees.
North Carolina
North Carolina requires 8,000 hours of training for journeyman licensure. The State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors oversees all licensing activities.
North Dakota
Here’s what it takes to qualify for a journeyman plumber license in North Dokota: four years of apprenticeship training (7,600 hours total) working under a licensed master plumber. The plumbing license cost varies depending on the level of experience. Both journeyman and master plumber exams and licenses cost $50 while renewal fees are different, with $100 for journeyman plumbers and $200 for master plumbers. It’s worth noting that North Dakota participates in reciprocity agreements with neighboring states, South Dakota and Minnesota.
Ohio
The Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board requires three to five years of apprenticeship depending on the license type sought. Plumbing license fees range from $150-$250, and the state recognizes licenses from states with equivalent requirements.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma requires journeyman plumbers to complete 8,000 hours of training. The state maintains reciprocity agreements with several neighboring states, including Texas and Arkansas.
Oregon
Oregon requires 8,000 hours of apprenticeship training. The Building Codes Division oversees licensing, and fees typically range from $175-$250.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has no statewide plumbing license requirement, though Philadelphia and Pittsburgh maintain comprehensive local licensing programs with their own examination and fee structures.
Rhode Island
Getting your Journeyman license in Rhode Island requires five years of plumbing experience plus 576 hours of approved classroom training. Ready for your Master Plumber license? You’ll need at least five years of experience and one year as a licensed Journeyman before you can take the Master test. It’s worth noting that the state participates in regional reciprocity agreements with several New England states, facilitating license transfers.
South Carolina
South Carolina participates in the Neighbor State Licensing Recognition Act, offering reciprocity with Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Standard applicants need 8,000 hours of training to get a plumbing license with the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.
South Dakota
South Dakota maintains reciprocity agreements with neighboring states, North Dakota and Minnesota. The state requires four years of apprenticeship for journeyman licensure, to be applied through the South Dakota Plumbing Commission.
Tennessee
Tennessee requires 8,000 hours of training for journeyman plumbers. The state has reciprocity agreements with neighboring states through the Neighbor State Licensing Recognition Act.
Texas
The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners requires four years of apprenticeship experience. The state has reciprocity agreements with Arkansas and Louisiana for plumbers maintaining at least two years of active licensure.
Utah
To become a journeyman plumber in Utah, you need to complete an apprenticeship program, log 8,000 work hours, and pass both the Theory and Practical exams. Residential Master Plumbers work 4,000 hours as a Journeyman, then pass the Master Plumber Law and Rule Exam. The Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing oversees the process, with plumbing licensing costs ranging from $150-$225.
Vermont
Vermont requires all the journeyman plumber applicants to document their completed apprenticeship and pass the required exam. To advance to master plumbers, you’ll need at least one year with your journeyman license, plus you’ll take another exam provided by Division of Fire Safety. The state participates in regional reciprocity agreements with several New England states.
Virginia
Journeyman plumbers in Virginia need documented proof of their apprenticeship and must pass an exam. Master Plumbers take it a step further. They need to hold their Journeyman license for a minimum of one year before passing the Master-level exam through the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). Plumbing license costs range from $175-$250 depending on the classification sought.
Washington
Washington requires four years of apprenticeship experience. The state maintains reciprocity agreements with numerous western states, making license transfers relatively straightforward.
West Virginia
Plumber licenses are issued by the West Virginia Division of Labor. West Virginia participates in the Neighbor State Licensing Recognition Act. Standard applicants need 8,000 hours of supervised training experience.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s Department of Safety and Professional Services requires apprentices to work under master plumber supervision. The exam costs $20 through DSPS, or $180 through Pearson VUE, with an additional $180 license fee.
Wyoming
Wyoming has no statewide requirement for plumbing licenses, though some municipalities maintain local licensing programs. The state is recognized in New Hampshire’s reciprocity agreements.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Plumber’s License?
The timeline depends on your chosen career path and how quickly you accumulate required hours. If you attend a two-year trade school program followed by a four- to five-year apprenticeship, you’re looking at six to seven years total before obtaining your journeyman plumber license.
However, some accelerated paths exist. Apprenticeships that don’t require prior trade school can still take four to five years to complete the necessary 8,000 work hours. Once you’ve met the experience requirements, you’ll need additional time to prepare for and pass your licensing exam. Most jurisdictions schedule exams periodically throughout the year, so be sure to factor in potential wait times.
For those advancing to master plumber status, you’re expecting to work as a journeyman for several additional years. Most states require significant journeyman experience before you’re eligible to test for a master license.
How to Get a Plumbing License: Step-by-Step
Here’s a practical roadmap for obtaining your plumbing license:
- Research your state’s specific requirements through your state licensing board or department of labor
- Complete required education through a trade school or community college plumbing program
- Enroll in an approved apprenticeship program and begin accumulating work hours under a licensed plumber
- Document your hours meticulously as you’ll need proof of experience when applying for your license
- Complete any mandatory classroom training hours alongside your apprenticeship
- Submit your license application with required documentation and fees
- Prepare for and pass your state’s licensing examination
- Obtain necessary insurance and bonding if applying for a contractor license
- Maintain your license through continuing education and timely renewals
Keep in mind that licensing is required by law in most states to legally perform plumbing work. Operating without proper licensing can result in penalties, legal liability, and damage to your professional reputation.
Managing Your Plumbing Business with WEX FSM
Once you’ve invested the time and money to obtain your plumbing license, running an efficient, compliant business becomes your next priority. This is where field service management software makes a big difference. WEX FSM’s plumbing business software helps licensed professionals manage their operations more effectively, from scheduling and dispatching to compliance tracking and customer management.
For plumbing technicians juggling multiple licenses across different states, keeping track of renewal dates, continuing education credits, and varying state requirements can become an administrative burden. WEX FSM provides tools to help you stay organized and compliant, so you can focus on delivering quality plumbing services rather than drowning in paperwork. Our field service management platform helps you manage your licensed technicians, track certifications, and ensure your team meets all regulatory requirements as you grow your plumbing business.
Plumbing License FAQs
The plumbing license cost can also include education, application fees, and exam fees. Trade school programs range from $1,000 to $20,000. Application and licensing fees typically run between $50 and $200, though this varies by state. You’ll also need to budget for insurance and bonding, which can cost several thousand dollars annually for contractors.
It depends on reciprocity agreements between your state and others. Some states have agreements that allow license transfers with minimal additional requirements, while others require you to complete their full licensing process. Always verify requirements with the destination state’s licensing board before assuming your license will transfer.
Plumbing license reciprocity allows licensed plumbers to transfer their credentials from one state to another without completing the entire licensing process again. This is particularly valuable for plumbers who relocate or contractors who work across state lines.
However, reciprocity agreements are limited and specific. Some states have broader recognition programs, while many states have no reciprocity agreements at all. That means you’ll still need to meet their full requirements for a plumbing license regardless of your credentials elsewhere.
Understanding plumbing licensing requirements can be your first step toward a successful career in the trades. While the process requires significant time and investment, a plumbing license opens doors to stable employment, business ownership opportunities, and the satisfaction of working in an essential trade that’s always in demand.
The information in this blog post is for educational purposes only. It is not legal or tax advice. For legal or tax advice, you should consult your own counsel.
Copyright ©2026 WEX Inc. All rights reserved. The information in this document is subject to change without notice.
