Plumbing License Requirements by State: Complete 2025 Guide

Because the construction trades fall under states’ police powers, each state—and sometimes each city—sets its own plumbing licensure laws. What qualifies you as a journeyman in Iowa may not be enough in neighboring Illinois, and six U.S. jurisdictions (e.g., Kansas and Wyoming) leave licensing almost entirely to local governments.

Robust licensing exists for one reason: public health and safety. Safe potable-water delivery and sanitary drainage systems protect communities from waterborne disease, property damage, mold, and structural failures. States therefore vet plumbers for competence, require bonding or insurance to protect consumers, and enforce continuing education as codes evolve.

Four Career Stages

Most jurisdictions recognize four career stages:

Stage	Typical Purpose
Apprentice (or Registered Trainee)	Learn on the job under supervision; usually no exam
Journeyman	Perform work unsupervised; hours + exam required
Master	Design/supervise projects and pull permits; higher-level exam
Plumbing Contractor (business license)	Employ at least one Master, meet financial/insurance requirements and, in many states, pass a separate business-law test

Disclaimer: Licensing statutes, codes, fees and reciprocity arrangements change frequently—often after a legislative session or when a newer plumbing code cycle is adopted. The information must be verified with the relevant state or local board before you apply or perform plumbing work.

Once you’ve obtained your plumbing license, protecting your business with proper insurance is essential. Learn more about plumber insurance options and get detailed information on plumber insurance costs to ensure you’re adequately covered as you build your plumbing business.

Nationwide Overview

Common License Types

• Apprentice: Registration only; work under a licensed journeyman/master
• Journeyman: 4,000–8,000 verified hours (two-to-four years) plus a proctored written test on the IPC, UPC or state code; some states also require a hands-on practical
• Master: Journeyman credential plus 2,000–4,000 additional hours and a management/design exam
• Plumbing Contractor: Business structure, liability insurance ($100k–$1M typical), workers’ comp, surety bond ($5k–$25k) and, in roughly one-third of states, a separate law & business exam

Typical Eligibility Elements

• Age: Minimum 18 (a few allow 17 with parental consent)
• Education: High school diploma/GED; credit for approved trade-school courses can offset up to 50% of required hours
• Exams: 70%–75% passing score; open-book in some jurisdictions. Exams shift to the latest code edition within 12 months of its adoption
• Background screening: State and FBI fingerprint check in ~25 states; most boards disqualify only for felony convictions directly related to contracting
• Drug testing: Limited to a handful of boards (e.g., LA, MS) or union apprenticeship programs

Reciprocity / License Portability

• True reciprocity—you send proof of an active license and receive the equivalent credential without exam—is rare (≈10 states)
• Exam waiver or work-experience credit is more common; e.g., California C-36 contractors can obtain an Arizona R-37 license by passing just the AZ business-law test
• A dozen states participate in the NASCLA® Accredited Exam for contractors, which satisfies the trade test in participating jurisdictions

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Quick Reference Table

State	Licensing Authority	State License Required?*	Journeyman Exp. Threshold**	Primary License Types	Reciprocity Highlight***
Alabama	Plumbers & Gas Fitters Examining Board	Yes	4,000 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master, Contractor	—
Alaska	Dept. of Commerce – Mechanical Admin.	Yes	8,000 hrs	Journeyman, Utility, Contractor	—
Arizona	Registrar of Contractors	Contractor only	N/A (no state J card)	R-37, C-37, CR-37	Accepts CA/NV/UT/NM exams
Arkansas	Dept. of Health – Plumbing Section	Yes	8,000 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master	MS, TN, OK
California	Contractors State License Board	Contractor only (C-36)	N/A	C-36 Plumbing, C-4 Boilers	AZ, NV trade waiver
Colorado	Dept. of Regulatory Agencies (DORA)	Yes	6,800 hrs	Residential, Journeyman, Master, Contractor	WY, MT, MN
Connecticut	Dept. of Consumer Protection	Yes	7,200 hrs + 720 class	P-2 Journeyperson, P-1 Contractor	RI J reciprocity
Delaware	Board of Plumbing/HVACR	Yes	8,000 hrs or 7 yrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master	Accepts MD, MI masters
District of Columbia	Board of Industrial Trades	Yes	8,000 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master, Contractor	ICC score transfer only
Florida	DBPR – Construction Board	Contractor only	N/A	Certified or Registered Plumbing Contractor	Exam waiver into county licenses (GA/NC)
Georgia	State Constr. Licensing Board	Yes	5,000 hrs	Journeyman, Master I/II	TX & LA masters
Hawaii	PVL Board of Elec. & Plumbing	Yes	10,000 hrs	Journey Worker, Master, C-37 Contractor	—
Idaho	Division of Building Safety	Yes	8,000 hrs + DOL appr.	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master, Contractor	MT, OR, WA J card
Illinois	Dept. of Public Health	Yes	8,000 hrs	Apprentice, Plumber (J/M combined), Contractor	—
Indiana	Plumbing Commission	Yes	6,400 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Contractor	KY, OH
Iowa	Plumbing & Mechanical Systems Bd.	Yes	8,000 hrs + appr.	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master, Contractor	MN, ND, SD
Kansas	Local building depts.	Local only	Varies	Local J, Master, Contractor	—
Kentucky	Dept. of Housing, Buildings & Constr.	Yes	6,000 hrs	Journeyman, Master, Contractor	OH, WV, IL journeyman
Louisiana	State Plumbing Board of LA	Yes	8,000 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master	GA, MS, TX
Maine	Prof. & Occup. Regulation	Yes	8,000 hrs	Helper, Journeyman-IT, Journeyman, Master	NH, VT
Maryland	MD Board of Plumbing	Yes	7,500 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master, Contractor	DE, VA
Massachusetts	Board of Plumbers & Gas Fitters	Yes	8,500 hrs + 550 class	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master	—
Michigan	Bureau of Construction Codes	Yes	4,000 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master	AL, WI
Minnesota	Dept. of Labor & Industry	Yes	7,000 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master	ND, SD, MT
Mississippi	State Board of Contractors	Contractor only	N/A	Residential/Commercial Plumbing Contractor	AL, LA, TN
Missouri	Local	Local only	Varies	City J, Master, Contractor	—
Montana	Board of Plumbers	Yes	7,500 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master	CO, ND, WY
Nebraska	Local	Local only	Varies	City/County cards	—
Nevada	Board of Plumbing Examiners	Yes (card)	8,000 hrs	Journeyman Card, C-1d Contractor	CA trade waiver
New Hampshire	Mech. Safety & Lic. Board	Yes	6,000 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master	MA, ME, VT
New Jersey	Board of Master Plumbers	Yes	8,000 hrs (4+1)	Apprentice, Journeyman (reg.), Master	—
New Mexico	Construction Industries Division	Yes	8,000 hrs	Journeyman (JP), MM-1-3 Contractor	AZ, CO, TX, UT J card
New York	Local (NYC, counties)	Local only	Varies	Master Plumber (local), Journey helper	—
North Carolina	Board of Examiners P/H/FS	Contractor only	N/A	P-I (unltd), P-II (res.)	SC, TN, GA
North Dakota	ND State Plumbing Board	Yes	7,600 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master	MN, SD, MT, WY
Ohio	Construction Industry Lic. Board	Contractor only	N/A	Plumbing Contractor	KY, LA, TN contractors
Oklahoma	Construction Industries Board	Yes	6,000 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Contractor	TX, AR, AL
Oregon	Building Codes Division	Yes	8,000 hrs + 576 class	JP, Residential, Supervising Plumber	WA, ID JP
Pennsylvania	Local (Phila., Pittsburgh)	Local only	Varies	City J, Master, Contractor	—
Rhode Island	Prof. Regulation Division	Yes	8,000 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master	CT
South Carolina	Contractor’s Licensing Board	Contractor only	N/A	Mechanical “PB” Contractor	GA, NC, TN
South Dakota	Plumbing Commission	Yes	7,600 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Contractor	MN, ND, MT
Tennessee	Board for Licensing Contractors	Contractor only	N/A	CMC-A, LLP (≤ $25k)	AL, SC, MS contractors
Texas	State Board of Plumbing Examiners	Yes	8,000 hrs	Apprentice, Tradesman, Journeyman, Master, RMP	GA, LA, OK
Utah	Division of Occ. & Prof. Lic.	Yes	8,000 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master, S-210 Contractor	AZ, NM, CO
Vermont	Div. of Fire Safety	Yes	12,000 hrs	Specialist, Journeyman, Master	NH, ME
Virginia	Dept. of Prof. & Occ. Regulation	Yes	8,000 hrs	Journeyman, Master, Class A/B/C Contractor	NC, SC, AL
Washington	Dept. of Labor & Industries	Yes	8,000 hrs	Specialty, Journeyman, Contractor	ID, MT, ND, SD
West Virginia	WV Division of Labor	Yes	8,000 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master	OH, KY, NC
Wisconsin	Dept. of Safety & Prof. Services	Yes	8,000 hrs	Apprentice, Journeyman, Master	MN, IA
Wyoming	Local	Local only	8,000 hrs (typ.)	City J, Master, Contractor	MT, CO (some cities)

Notes:

• * State license required? – “Contractor only” = the state issues a business-level plumbing contractor license but leaves journeyman/master to local authorities. “Local only” = no statewide credential; check the city/county.
• ** Journeyman exp. threshold – Minimum verified on-the-job hours before the state journeyman (or equivalent) exam; “N/A” where the state has no journeyman credential.
• *** Reciprocity highlight – The most common inbound agreements or exam waivers; some boards recognize many more.

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State-by-State Requirements

States Without Statewide Plumbing Licenses

Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, Pennsylvania, Wyoming – Licensing handled by cities/counties; always check the local building or health department.

Alabama

• Licensing Authority: Alabama Plumbers & Gas Fitters Examining Board • pgfb.alabama.gov • (205) 945-4857
• License Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master • Contractor
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 4,000 hrs/2 yr + 70% PSI exam
  • Master = +2,000 hrs/1 yr + PSI Master exam
  • Contractor must employ a Master + $300 bond/insurance
• Fees: $110 J-exam | $75 J-cert • $160 M-exam | $125 M-cert • $300 Contractor app
• Renewal/CE: Annual 12/31 • 4 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: None (case-by-case waiver)
• Special Notes: Unified plumbing + gas license • Code basis IPC 2021

Alaska

• Authority: Dept. of Commerce, Mechanical Administrators • commerce.alaska.gov • (907) 465-2050
• Types: Trainee • Journeyman • Gas-only • Utility • Unlimited Contractor
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 8,000 hrs (50% commercial) + PSI exam
  • Contractor needs separate AK business license + $10k bond
• Fees: $150 app | $200 license | $50 exam
• Renewal/CE: Biennial Jan 1 • 16 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: None
• Notes: City of Anchorage still issues its own journeyman test • Code: UPC 2021

Arizona

• Authority: Arizona Registrar of Contractors • roc.az.gov • (602) 542-1525
• Classes: R-37 (res.) • C-37 (comm.) • CR-37 (dual) – contractor only; no state journeyman license
• Requirements: 4 yrs verified plumbing experience • NASCLA business exam + ROC trade exam • min. $4k bond
• Fees: $100-$200 app • $270-$580 license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial
• Reciprocity: Accepts CA, NV, NM, UT exam within 5 yrs
• Notes: Cities such as Phoenix still license journeymen locally • Code: IPC 2021

Arkansas

• Authority: AR Dept. of Health, Plumbing & Nat-Gas • healthy.arkansas.gov • (501) 661-2642
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master • Restricted Residential
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 5 yrs/8,000 hrs + PSI exam
  • Master = 1 yr as J + PSI Master exam
• Fees: $125 J-exam | $25-$50 license • $200 M-exam | $75 license
• Renewal/CE: Annual 12/31 • 6 hrs CE (code update)
• Reciprocity: Limited (MS, TN, OK)
• Special: Homeowner exemption for own ag buildings • Code: IPC 2021

California

• Authority: Contractors State License Board (CSLB) • cslb.ca.gov • (800) 321-CSLB
• License: C-36 Plumbing Contractor (no separate state journeyman)
• Requirements: 4 yrs journeyman-level experience (min 1 yr hands-on) • Law & Trade exams • $25k bond • $2M liability for larger firms
• Fees: $450 app • $200-$350 initial license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; no CE but 5-hr code update strongly recommended
• Reciprocity: AZ & NV recognize C-36 trade exam
• Notes: Medical-gas, backflow & fire-sprinkler require additional CSLB certifications • Code: UPC 2024

Colorado

• Authority: CO Plumbing Board (DORA) • dpo.colorado.gov • (303) 894-7800
• Types: Apprentice • Residential • Journeyman • Master • Contractor
• Requirements:
  • Residential = 2 yrs/3,400 hrs
  • Journeyman = 4 yrs/6,800 hrs
  • Master = Journeyman + 1 yr/2,000 hrs; PSI exams 70% pass
• Fees: $100-$180 exam • $50-$160 license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial Oct 31 • 8 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: WY, MT, MN via exam waiver
• Notes: Separate contractor business registration with Sec. of State • Code: IPC 2021

Connecticut

• Authority: Dept. of Consumer Protection • portal.ct.gov • (860) 713-6000
• Eight license codes: Unlimited P-1/P-2 most common
• Requirements:
  • Journeyperson (P-2) = 7,200 hrs OJT + 720 classroom
  • Contractor (P-1) = 2 yrs licensed J + trade & business exam
• Fees: $90-$150
• Renewal/CE: Annual; 7 hrs CE every code cycle
• Reciprocity: RI J-license recognized; no contractor reciprocity
• Special: CT requires separate gas-fitting license • Code: UPC 2021

Delaware

• Authority: Board of Plumbing/HVACR • dpr.delaware.gov • (302) 744-4500
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master • Contractor
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 2-yr apprenticeship or 7 yrs verified work + Prometric exam
  • Master = 2 yrs J
• Fees: $163 initial • $78 renewal (biennial)
• Renewal/CE: 8 hrs CE each cycle
• Reciprocity: Accepts MD & MI master by endorsement
• Notes: Statewide journeyman card accepted by all counties • Code: IPC 2021

District of Columbia

• Authority: DC Board of Industrial Trades • dcopla.com • (202) 442-4320
• License levels: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master • Contractor (firm)
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 8,000 hrs + ICC exam ≥ 70%
  • Master = 4 yrs J + ICC Master exam
• Fees: $65-$110 application • $120 exam • $155 license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; 4 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: None (exam waiver if ICC passed elsewhere)
• Notes: Must register with DC Dept. of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs before pulling permits • Code: IPC 2021

Florida

• Authority: FL DBPR, Construction Industry Board • myfloridalicense.com • (850) 487-1395
• Types: Certified (statewide) or Registered (county) Plumbing Contractor
• Requirements: 4 yrs exp (1 yr supervisory) or degree equiv • 70% Law & Business + 70% Trade exam • Liability $300k • Workers comp
• Fees: $145-$245 app • $249 exam
• Renewal/CE: Biennial Aug 31 (even yrs) • 14 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: None, but GA & NC exams accepted for Registered licenses in many counties
• Notes: Journeymen licensed only by certain counties (Miami-Dade, Broward, etc.) • Code: IPC 2021 with FL supplement

Georgia

• Authority: State Construction Industry Licensing Board, Division of Master & Journeyman Plumbers • sos.ga.gov • (844) 753-7825
• License classes: Journeyman • Master Class I (res ≤ 10k ft²) • Master Class II (unlimited)
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 3 yrs/5,000 hrs + AMP exam 70%
  • Master = 5 yrs/7,500 hrs (or Eng. degree) + exam
• Fees: $30-$50 app • $133 exam • $75 license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; 4 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: TX & LA masters by endorsement; journeyman none
• Notes: Separate medical-gas credential • Code: IPC 2021

Hawaii

• Authority: HI PVL Board of Electricians & Plumbers • cca.hawaii.gov • (808) 586-3000
• Types: Journey Worker • Master • Contractor (C-37)
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 10,000 hrs/5 yrs + Prometric exam
  • Master = 2 yrs J + exam
• Fees: $40 app • $90 exam • $306 license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial Jun 30 (even yrs); no CE
• Reciprocity: None
• Notes: State wages require licensed journeyman on public works • Code: UPC 2021

Idaho

• Authority: Division of Building Safety • dbs.idaho.gov • (208) 334-3950
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master • Contractor
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 8,000 hrs + 4-yr U.S. Department-of-Labor (DOL) apprenticeship + exam 70%
  • Master = 4 yrs J + exam
• Fees: $22.50-$50 app • $75 exam • $50-$240 license
• Renewal/CE: Annual • 8 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: MT, OR, WA for journeyman card
• Notes: Gas Piping license bundled • Code: UPC 2021

Illinois

• Authority: IL Dept. of Public Health (IDPH) • dph.illinois.gov • (217) 524-0791
• Types: Apprentice • Plumber (state-wide J/M combined) • Contractor (business)
• Requirements:
  • Apprentice = 4-yr indenture
  • Plumber license = 4 yrs apprentice + IL code exam 70% (written & practical)
• Fees: $175 app • $225 exam • $150 license
• Renewal/CE: Annual Apr 30 • 4 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: Chicago license not valid statewide
• Notes: Lead-worker training mandatory for license issue • Code: IPC 2018 with IL amendments

Indiana

• Authority: Indiana Plumbing Commission • in.gov • (317) 232-2980
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Plumbing Contractor
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 4 yrs/6,400 hrs + exam
  • Contractor = 4 yrs J + business-law exam + $5k bond
• Fees: $50 app • $30-$50 exam • $50-$100 license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; 6 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: Accepts KY & OH journeyman
• Notes: Statewide license pre-empts local • Code: IPC 2021

Iowa

• Authority: Plumbing & Mechanical Systems Board • idph.iowa.gov • (515) 725-4253
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master • Contractor
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 4 yrs DOL apprenticeship + exam
  • Master = 2 yrs J + exam
• Fees: $25 app • $50-$240 license • $95 exam
• Renewal/CE: Three-year cycle • 8 hrs CE (incl. Iowa code)
• Reciprocity: MN, ND, SD
• Notes: Must file $5k bond for contractor permit surgery • Code: UPC 2021

Kansas

• Authority: Local building or health departments only; major cities: Wichita, Topeka, Kansas City
• State role: None; county/city journeyman & contractor cards follow IPC/UPC
• Note: Always verify with the city/county where work is performed

Kentucky

• Authority: Dept. of Housing, Buildings & Construction • dhbc.ky.gov • (502) 573-0365
• Types: Journeyman • Master • Contractor
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 4 yrs/6,000 hrs + ICC exam
  • Master = 2 yrs J + ICC Master exam
• Fees: $60 J • $250 M • $250 Contractor + $5k bond
• Renewal/CE: Annual by last day of birth month • 6 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: OH, WV, IL journeyman reciprocity
• Notes: HVAC & Plumbing combo license available • Code: IPC 2021

Louisiana

• Authority: State Plumbing Board of LA • spbla.com • (225) 756-3440
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master • Medical-Gas Endorsement
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 5 yrs/8,000 hrs + SPBLA exam
  • Master = 5 yrs as J + exam
• Fees: $75 app • $135 exam • $160 license
• Renewal/CE: Annual Jan 31 • 6 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: GA, MS, TX
• Notes: State contractor license (LREC) required for jobs > $10k • Code: IPC 2021

Maine

• Authority: Office of Professional & Occupational Regulation • maine.gov • (207) 624-8603
• Types: Journeyman-in-Training • Journeyman • Master • Trainee Helper
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman-IT = 4 yrs (8,000 hrs) or 2-yr tech school
  • Master = 2 yrs J
• Fees: $200 license • $21 CBC
• Renewal/CE: Biennial • 6 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: NH, VT
• Notes: Uniform adoption of UPC statewide • Code: UPC 2021

Maryland

• Authority: MD Board of Plumbing • dllr.maryland.gov • (410) 230-6164
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master • Contractor
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 4 yrs/7,500 hrs + PSI exam
  • Master = 2 yrs J + exam
  • Contractor must hold/employ Master & carry $400k liability
• Fees: $15-$70 app • $65 exam • $70-$150 license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; 8 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: DE, VA
• Notes: Gas-fitters licensed separately • Code: IPC 2018

Massachusetts

• Authority: MA Board of Registration of Plumbers & Gas Fitters • mass.gov • (617) 973-0800
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master • Corporate Master
• Requirements:
  • Apprentice = 550 class hrs + 8,500 hrs OJT
  • Journeyman exam after hours
  • Master = 1 yr J + 170 class hrs + exam
• Fees: $31 exam • $52 license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; 12 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: None
• Notes: State gas license integrated; one of strictest education mandates • Code: 248 CMR 11.00, UPC 2021

Michigan

• Authority: LARA, Bureau of Construction Codes • michigan.gov • (517) 241-9313
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 4,000 hrs/2 yrs + exam 70%
  • Master = 2 yrs J + exam
• Fees: $40 app • $40 license • $100 exam
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; 5 hrs code update
• Reciprocity: AL, WI
• Notes: State pre-empts all local • Code: IPC 2015 with MI amendments

Minnesota

• Authority: MN Dept. of Labor & Industry • dli.mn.gov • (651) 284-5034
• Types: Registered Apprentice • Journeyman • Master • Restricted licenses
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 7,000 hrs/4 yrs + 4-hr practical + 70% written
  • Master = 1 yr J + exam
• Fees: $50 app • $120 exam • $128 license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; 16 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: ND, SD, MT, IA
• Notes: Code update every three years triggers new CE • Code: UPC 2021

Mississippi

• Authority: MS State Board of Contractors • msboc.us • (601) 354-6161
• License: Commercial or Residential Plumbing Contractor (no state journeyman)
• Requirements: 3 yrs experience • NASCLA business & law + trade exam
• Fees: $50-$400
• Renewal/CE: Annual; no CE
• Reciprocity: AL, LA, TN, AR for contractors
• Notes: Journeymen licensed by municipalities • Code: IPC 2021

Missouri

• Authority: Local only (St Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, etc.)
• Note: State maintains voluntary registration but no exam

Montana

• Authority: MT Board of Plumbers • boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov • (406) 841-2300
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 5 yrs/7,500 hrs + exam
  • Master = 4 yrs J + exam
• Fees: $270 license • $80 exam
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; 4 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: CO, ND, SD, WY
• Notes: Online license lookup available • Code: IPC 2021

Nebraska

• Authority: City/County building departments (Omaha, Lincoln)
• Note: State contractor registration (Dept. of Labor) required for insurance proof

Nevada

• Authority: Nevada Board of Plumbing Examiners • nationalitc.com • (702) 794-2711
• Types: Journeyman Card • Master (Clark Co.) • C-1d Plumbing Contractor
• Requirements: Journeyman = 4 yrs/8,000 hrs + ICC exam 75%
• Fees: $125 card • $330 contractor app
• Renewal/CE: Annual; no CE
• Reciprocity: CA C-36 exam accepted
• Notes: Las Vegas Valley Water District backflow tester endorsement separate • Code: UPC 2021

New Hampshire

• Authority: Mechanical Safety & Licensing Board • oplc.nh.gov • (603) 271-2152
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 6,000 hrs OJT + 144 classroom hrs/yr + exam
  • Master = 2,000 hrs as J + exam
• Fees: $90-$310
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; 6 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: MA, ME, VT
• Notes: Gas-fitting combined license available • Code: IPC 2021

New Jersey

• Authority: State Board of Examiners of Master Plumbers • njconsumeraffairs.gov • (973) 504-6420
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman (Registration) • Master Plumber License
• Requirements: 4 yrs apprentice + 1 yr journeyman + 3-part PSI exam
• Fees: $100 app • $124 exam • $160 license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; 5 hrs CE (incl. 1 hr law)
• Reciprocity: None
• Notes: Criminal background check + fingerprinting required • Code: IPC 2021

New Mexico

• Authority: Construction Industries Division • rld.nm.gov • (505) 476-4700
• Types: JP (Journeyman), MM-1/2/3 (Mechanical Contractor classifications)
• Requirements:
  • JP = 4 yrs/8,000 hrs + exam 75%
  • Contractor = 4 yrs JP + business/law exam + $10k bond
• Fees: $60 app • $75 exam • $150 license
• Renewal/CE: Triennial; 16 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: AZ, CO, TX, UT for JP
• Notes: CID processes all tests through PSI • Code: UPC 2021

New York

• Authority: NYC Dept. of Buildings, Nassau Co., Westchester Co., etc.
• Note: State building code references IPC 2021 but licensing totally local

North Carolina

• Authority: State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating & Fire-Sprinkler Contractors • nclicensing.org • (919) 875-3612
• Classes: P-I (unlimited) • P-II (res. & fewer than 15 fixtures) • Restricted/LPG
• Requirements: 4,000 hrs (2,000 in categories) + 70% exam • $2k bond
• Fees: $150 P-I • $100 P-II • $100 exam
• Renewal/CE: Annual; 6 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: SC, TN, GA for P-I
• Notes: State journeyman card issued only for exam eligibility • Code: IPC 2021

North Dakota

• Authority: ND State Plumbing Board • ndplumbingboard.com • (701) 328-9977
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master
• Requirements:
  • Apprentice = 4 yrs
  • Journeyman exam (70%) after 7,600 hrs
  • Master = 2 yrs J + exam
• Fees: $25-$150 license • $90-$100 exam
• Renewal/CE: Annual • 4 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: MN, SD, MT, WY
• Notes: Must submit notarized affidavits of hours • Code: UPC 2021

Ohio

• Authority: Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board • com.ohio.gov • (614) 644-3493
• License: Plumbing Contractor only
• Requirements: 5 yrs exp (3 yrs as foreman) • 70% trade & business exams • $500k liability
• Fees: $50 app • $69 exam • $60 license
• Renewal/CE: Annual; 10 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: KY, LA, TN
• Notes: Cities license journeymen • Code: IPC 2021

Oklahoma

• Authority: Construction Industries Board • cib.ok.gov • (405) 521-6550
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Contractor
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 3 yrs/6,000 hrs + ICC exam
  • Contractor = 1 yr J + business exam
• Fees: $330 contractor • $75 exam
• Renewal/CE: Annual; 6 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: TX, AR, MS, AL for journeyman
• Notes: Medical-gas endorsement available • Code: IPC 2021

Oregon

• Authority: Building Codes Division • oregon.gov • (503) 373-1268
• Types: Journeyman Plumber (JP) • Residential (JRT) • Water-Treatment • Solar Heating; plus Supervising Plumber (SP)
• Requirements:
  • JP = 8,000 hrs + 576 classroom
  • SP = 4 yrs JP + Oregon law exam
• Fees: $100 app • $85 exam • $100 license
• Renewal/CE: Three-yr cycle • 24 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: WA, ID (JP)
• Notes: Photo ID card must be worn on jobsite • Code: UPC 2021

Pennsylvania

• Authority: Major cities: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Allentown
• Note: State UCC adopts IPC but leaves licensing local

Rhode Island

• Authority: Division of Professional Regulation • ri.gov • (401) 462-8580
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 4 yrs/8,000 hrs + 576 school hrs + exam
  • Master = 1 yr J + exam
• Fees: $72 J • $240 M
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; 2 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: CT J & M recognized
• Notes: Separate medical-gas license • Code: IPC 2021

South Carolina

• Authority: SC Contractor’s Licensing Board • llr.sc.gov • (803) 896-4686
• Classes: Mechanical Contractor Classification “PB” (Plumbing)
• Requirements: 2 yrs experience + 70% PSI PB exam; $15k surety bond if project > $5k
• Fees: $350 license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; no CE
• Reciprocity: GA, MS, NC, TN
• Notes: Specialty registration for projects < $5k issued by Residential Builders Commission • Code: IPC 2021

South Dakota

• Authority: SD Plumbing Commission • dlr.sd.gov • (605) 773-3429
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Contractor
• Requirements:
  • Apprentice = 4 yrs/7,600 hrs
  • Journeyman exam 70%
  • Contractor = 2 yrs J + exam
• Fees: $10-$375
• Renewal/CE: Annual Jun 30; 4 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: MN, ND, MT
• Notes: Medical-gas license endorsement • Code: UPC 2021

Tennessee

• Authority: Dept. of Commerce & Insurance • tn.gov • (615) 741-8307
• License: CMC-A (plumbing/mech) or LLP (Limited Licensed Plumber ≤ $25k jobs)
• Requirements: Contractor = 3 yrs experience + trade & business exams + $300k liability
• Fees: $75 app • $250 license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; no CE
• Reciprocity: MS, AL, SC
• Notes: State journeyman license eliminated (local) • Code: IPC 2021

Texas

• Authority: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners • tsbpe.texas.gov • (512) 936-5200
• Types: Apprentice • Tradesman-Limited • Journeyman • Master • Plumbing Contractor (RMP)
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 8,000 hrs + 48-hr TSBPE course + 75% written & practical
  • Master = 4,000 hrs J + exam
  • RMP must hold Master + $300k liability
• Fees: $40 exam • $35-$75 license
• Renewal/CE: Annual birthday • 6 hrs CE (2 hrs code)
• Reciprocity: GA, LA, OK for J & M
• Special: Separate endorsements: Medical-Gas, Backflow, Fire-Sprinkler • Code: UPC 2021

Utah

• Authority: DOPL • dopl.utah.gov • (801) 530-6628
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master • Contractor (S-210 classification)
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 8,000 hrs + 576 class + Prov exam
  • Master = 4 yrs J or Engr degree
• Fees: $116 app • $110 exam • $69 license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial • 12 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: AZ, NM, CO, MT
• Notes: NASCLA contractor exam accepted • Code: IPC 2021

Vermont

• Authority: Dept. of Public Safety, Div. of Fire Safety • firesafety.vermont.gov • (802) 479-7561
• Types: Specialist licenses + Journeyman • Master
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 12,000 hrs or apprenticeship + exam
  • Master = 1 yr J + exam
• Fees: $50-$120
• Renewal/CE: Biennial • 8 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: NH, ME
• Notes: Specialty: Water Treatment, Solar Heating, Piping • Code: IPC 2021

Virginia

• Authority: Dept. of Professional & Occupational Regulation • dpor.virginia.gov • (804) 367-8511
• License levels: Journeyman • Master • Contractor, Class A/B/C
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 4 yrs/8,000 hrs + 240 class OR combinations
  • Master = 1 yr J + exam
• Fees: $130 license
• Renewal/CE: Biennial; 3 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: NC, SC, WV, AL
• Notes: Backflow worker cert integrated • Code: IPC 2021

Washington

• Authority: WA Dept. of Labor & Industries • lni.wa.gov • (360) 902-5226
• Types: Specialty Residential (6,000 hrs) • Journeyman (8,000 hrs) • Medical-Gas • Contractor
• Requirements: ≥ 4,000 hrs commercial for J • 70% exam • Contractor separate registration & bond
• Fees: $189.80 exam • $227.90 cert
• Renewal/CE: Every 2 yrs; 16 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: ID, MT, ND, SD
• Notes: Photo certification card carried on site • Code: UPC 2021

West Virginia

• Authority: WV Division of Labor • labor.wv.gov • (304) 558-7890
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 8,000 hrs + exam 70%
  • Master = 12,000 hrs + exam
• Fees: $25-$75
• Renewal/CE: Annual; 6 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: OH, KY, NC
• Notes: Must register apprenticeship with DOL • Code: IPC 2021

Wisconsin

• Authority: Dept. of Safety & Professional Services • dsps.wi.gov • (608) 266-2112
• Types: Apprentice • Journeyman • Master • Utility
• Requirements:
  • Journeyman = 5-yr/8,000 hr apprenticeship + exam
  • Master = 1,000 hrs J + exam
• Fees: $180 license • $30 app • $20 exam
• Renewal/CE: Quadrennial; 24 hrs CE
• Reciprocity: MN, IA
• Notes: Must carry state ID card while working • Code: UPC 2021

Wyoming

• Authority: City/County (Cheyenne, Casper, Gillette, etc.)
• Note: Most municipalities use ICC exams and require 8,000 hrs journeyman experience

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Comparison Tables & Charts

Highest Hour Requirements

State	License Level	Total Hours Required
Colorado	Master	8,000 journeyman + 2,000 master
Washington	Journeyman	8,000
Texas	Master	8,000 journeyman + 4,000 master
Vermont	Journeyman	12,000
Hawaii	Journeyman	10,000

States by Licensing Structure

States Requiring State License	States Requiring Only Local License
44 jurisdictions (AL, AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MT, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI)	KS, MO, NE, NY, PA, WY

States Requiring Backflow Certification

CA, FL, IA, LA, MA, NC, TX, VA, WA

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Tips for Passing the Licensing Process

1. Document Hours Weekly

Use foreman-signed logs or payroll records—boards routinely reject affidavits lacking job addresses.

2. Match Code Edition to Exam

Order the IPC/UPC year listed on your candidate bulletin; open-book exams are void if you bring the wrong edition.

3. Schedule Fingerprinting Early

Results can delay issuance in states like Florida and New Jersey by 2-3 weeks.

4. Allow a 6- to 9-Month Timeline

• Application prep: 2-4 weeks
• Board review: 4-8 weeks
• Exam windows: 2-6 weeks
• License printing/number: 1-2 weeks

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Unreadable experience affidavits
• Expired driver’s license ID
• Missing insurance certificates
• CE completed after renewal cutoff

6. Study Resources

• PHCC state chapters’ exam prep
• NCCER Plumbing Level 1-4 texts
• PSI/Prov practice tests
• IPC Illustrated Commentary

7. Military & Apprentice Mobility

Many states (e.g., CT, UT) expedite licensing for veterans and military spouses—submit DD-214 with your application.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work as a plumber without a license? Only as a registered apprentice/trainee under supervision, or in the six states that leave licensing local—then you must meet city rules.

How long does licensing take? Four to six years from apprenticeship start to Master/Contractor in most states (experience + testing + business paperwork).

What if I move? Use reciprocity or exam-waiver provisions where available; otherwise you must meet the new state’s criteria. Keep every W-2 and apprenticeship affidavit to prove hours.

What are the typical costs?

• Application: $25-$450
• Exam: $80-$250
• Initial license: $40-$580
• Bond: $5k-$25k
• CE: $40-$200 annually

State vs. county vs. city licenses? A state license lets you pull permits statewide; local licenses are valid only in that jurisdiction and may have additional insurance or testing.

Are there separate residential/commercial credentials? Yes—AZ, GA, SC and others issue “restricted” residential licenses with lower bonding and experience thresholds.

What about specialty licenses? Medical-gas installer (NFPA 99), backflow prevention tester (ASSE 5110), and water-treatment specialties often require extra exams even for Masters.

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Conclusion & Further Resources

Proper licensing protects customers, jobsites, and your livelihood. Map out the hours, education, exams and paperwork early; keep impeccable records; and monitor code adoptions or legislative changes each renewal cycle.

Quick Links

• International Plumbing Code (ICC): iccsafe.org
• Uniform Plumbing Code (IAPMO): iapmo.org
• Exam prep: PSI Candidate Bulletins, Prov Testing Guides
• Associations: PHCC, UA Local Unions, ASPE
• Backflow tester training: ASSE 5110 accredited providers
• State Licensing Directory: See each state heading above for board website and phone