How to Become a Licensed Plumber in Utah

Becoming a licensed plumber in Utah requires completing an apprenticeship program or gaining work experience under a licensed plumber, passing exams, and applying for a license from the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).

This guide provides a step-by-step overview of Utah’s licensing process for apprentice, journeyman, master, and contractor plumbers. It also covers license renewal, reciprocity, training programs, exam details, fees, and insurance and bond requirements.

Types of Plumbing Licenses in Utah

Utah issues seven different types of plumbing licenses:

  • Apprentice Plumber
  • Journeyman Plumber (JP)
  • Residential Journeyman Plumber (RJP)
  • Master Plumber (MP)
  • Residential Master Plumber (RMP)
  • General Plumbing Contractor (P-200)
  • Residential Plumbing Contractor (P-201)

Each license has specific requirements in terms of education, experience, exams, and fees.

Steps to Get a Plumber’s License in Utah

Follow these main steps to become a licensed plumber in Utah:

1. Gain the Required Experience

You must complete an apprenticeship program or work under a licensed plumber to gain hands-on experience before applying for a journeyman or master plumber license.

  • Apprentice: At least 18 years old and high school graduate. Register with DOPL and work under supervision of a licensed plumber.
  • Journeyman: 4 years as apprentice including classroom training (576 hours minimum) OR 8 years experience.
  • Residential Journeyman: 3 years apprenticeship including classroom training (432 hours minimum) OR 6 years experience.
  • Master: 2 years experience as licensed journeyman including 1 year supervision OR Associate’s degree and 1 year supervision as journeyman.
  • Residential Master: Same as Master but with Residential Journeyman experience.

2. Pass the Licensing Exams

You must pass a written exam and a practical skills exam to be licensed as a journeyman or master plumber in Utah. Exams are administered by Prov.

  • Written: 120 questions, 4 hours, 70% minimum score
  • Practical: 2.5 hours, must complete two plumbing projects

3. Submit a License Application

After passing the exams, submit a completed application and fee to DOPL. Applications can be submitted by mail or in person. Allow 4-6 weeks for processing.

  • Application fee: $116
  • License fees:
    • Written exam: $68
    • Practical exam: $100

4. Consider Becoming a Contractor

To own and operate your own plumbing business in Utah, you must become a licensed plumbing contractor. This involves additional steps:

  • Complete a 30-hour pre-licensure course
  • Pass the Utah Business and Law exam
  • Carry general liability insurance
  • Register your business
  • Meet experience requirements

Contractor license fees:

  • Application fee: $225
  • Exam fee: $68

License Renewal and Continuing Education

All plumbing licenses must be renewed every 2 years by November 30 of even-numbered years. Renewal fee is $69.

Plumbers must complete 12 hours of DOPL-approved continuing education each renewal period, with at least 8 hours as core education.

Reciprocity with Other States

Utah does not have full reciprocity for plumbing licenses with other states, but does allow licensure by endorsement for specific license types if issued by an approved state. See DOPL’s plumbing licensing maps for details.

Plumbing Apprenticeships and Training Programs

Utah has several technical colleges that offer plumbing apprenticeship programs, including:

There are also formal apprenticeship programs through the Utah Department of Workforce Services and the UA Local 140 Plumbers & Pipefitters Joint Apprenticeship Committee.

Plumbing License Bond Requirements in Utah

Licensed plumbing contractors in Utah must obtain a surety bond based on their license classification:

  • General contractor bond: $15,000 to $500,000 based on classification
  • Residential contractor bond: $25,000

Some cities also require additional plumbing bonds for right-of-way and excavation work, such as:

  • Midvale: $5,000 right-of-way encroachment bond
  • Provo: $10,000 excavation bond

Bonds can be obtained instantly online through surety bond brokers. Typical bond term is 1-2 years.

Insurance Requirements for Plumbers in Utah

As a minimum, licensed plumbing contractors in Utah must carry:

  • General liability insurance – $100,000 per incident, $300,000 aggregate
  • Workers’ compensation insurance (if have employees)

Higher insurance limits may be needed for larger plumbing jobs. Consult with your insurance broker. Learn more about the intricacies and costs of Utah Plumbing Insurance in our comprehensive article.

Contact Information

Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL)

160 E 300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111

Phone: (801) 530-6628

Website: dopl.utah.gov

Prov Exams – Plumbing Licensing Exams

9980 S 300 W, Ste 200, Sandy, UT 84070

Phone: (877) 228-3926

Website: utahboi.provexam.com