Plumbing Licenses and Certifications: What You Need to Start a Business

You’re ready to start your own plumbing business after saving up some cash and sketching out a plan. But there’s one big question: Do you have the right plumbing license?

In some states, you can’t even bid on a job without a license. In others, you need a Master Plumber license to legally operate as a contractor. The rules vary, and getting it wrong could mean fines or lost work.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about plumbing licenses in each U.S. state, with a focus on top states for plumbing businesses, like Texas, Florida, California, New York, and Illinois. 

What Is a Plumbing License?

A plumbing license allows you to legally work as a plumber, bid on jobs, and run your own business. It’s also proof that you’ve got the skills, training, and experience to do the work safely and up to code.

Types of Plumbing Licenses

1. Apprentice Plumber License

• An entry-level license for those learning the trade under a licensed plumber.
• Allows you to work on basic tasks while gaining hands-on experience.
• Required in states like Illinois and Texas before moving up to journeyman.
  

2. Journeyman Plumber License

• For those who’ve completed an apprenticeship and passed a state exam.
• Allows you to work independently but not as a contractor.
• Common in states like California, New York, and Florida.
  

3. Master Plumber License

• The top level. You can pull permits, run your own business, and supervise other plumbers.
• Requires years of experience as a journeyman and passing a rigorous exam.
• Essential in states like Texas, where you can’t start a business without it.
  

Why Licensing Matters

• Legality and Compliance: Without a license, you can’t legally perform plumbing work or bid on projects in most states. Some states, like Utah, don’t even allow you to open a business without a plumbing contractor license.
  
• Customer Trust and Business Credibility: A license tells customers you’re trained, certified, and accountable. This can mean the difference between landing a big job and getting passed over for someone with credentials.
  
• Insurance and Liability Protection: Most states require licensed plumbers to carry liability insurance. This protects both you and your clients if something goes wrong on a job.

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How to Get a Plumbing License: Step-by-Step Guide

The process of obtaining a plumbing license varies by state. While every state has its own requirements, the general steps look like this:

1. Meet the Prerequisites

Before you can apply for a plumbing license, you need to check off a few boxes:

a. Age and Education Requirements

• Most states require you to be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
  
• Some states, like Texas, also require proof of completion of a trade program or apprenticeship.
  

b. Work Experience Hours

• Apprentice: Must work under a licensed plumber. Typical requirements: 2,000 to 8,000 hours (about 1-4 years).
  
• Journeyman: Must complete the apprentice hours and pass a state exam. Usually 4 years of work experience.
  
• Master Plumber: Must work as a journeyman for several years (e.g., 2-4 years) and pass a tougher exam.
  

2. Get the Right Training

There are two main paths to becoming a licensed plumber:

a. Trade School or Community College

• Offers formal courses in plumbing systems, safety, and codes.
  
• Programs typically last 1-2 years and include hands-on training.
  

b. On-the-Job Training (Apprenticeship)

• Learn directly from experienced plumbers while earning a paycheck.
  
• Apprenticeships last 2-5 years and often cover areas like pipefitting, blueprint reading, and backflow prevention.
  
• Some programs, like those in New York, include OSHA certification as part of the training.
  

3. Apply for the License

Once you meet the prerequisites, it’s time to start the application process:

a. Gather Required Documents

• Proof of education (diploma, GED, or trade school certificate).
  
• Documentation of work hours (signed by your employer or training program).
  
• Application form and state fees (varies by state).
  

b. Prepare for the Exam

• Most states require a written exam that tests your knowledge of plumbing codes, safety regulations, and trade practices.
  
• Some states, like Florida, also require a business and law exam if you’re applying for a contractor license.
  

c. Contact the Licensing Board

Check your state’s plumbing board for specific instructions.

Examples:

• Texas: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners
  
• Florida: Department of Business and Professional Regulation
  
• California: Contractors State License Board 

Plumbing Licenses by State

In this section, we’ll break down what it takes to get a plumbing license in the five key states for plumbers and offer a quick look at what to expect in other states. Whether you’re aiming to work as a journeyman or run your own contracting business, knowing the state-specific requirements is essential.

Texas Plumbing License

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) sets strict requirements for anyone wanting to work in the plumbing trade or run a plumbing business. Here’s what you need to know:

Types of Plumbing Licenses in Texas

1. Tradesman Plumber-Limited:

• Allows you to work on one- and two-family dwellings under the supervision of a Responsible Master Plumber (RMP).
• Requires passing an exam and at least 4,000 hours of work experience under the direct supervision of a journeyman or master plumber as an apprentice.
  

2. Journeyman Plumber:

• Can perform plumbing work independently, but still under the supervision of a master plumber.
• Requires 8,000 hours of work experience and passing the journeyman exam.
  

3. Master Plumber:

• The highest level of plumbing license in Texas.
• Must have at least 4 years of journeyman experience and pass the master plumber exam.
• Master plumbers can pull permits, run their own businesses, and supervise other plumbers.
  

4. Plumbing Inspector:

• Inspects plumbing work to ensure it meets state and local codes.
• Requires experience as a licensed journeyman or master plumber.
  

Licensing Authority

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) regulates all plumbing licenses in the state. They handle exams, renewals, and enforcement of plumbing laws. 

Fees, Exams, and Continuing Education

• Fees: Application and exam fees vary based on the license level. For example, the Tradesman Plumber-Limited exam costs $35, while the Master Plumber exam costs $175.
  
• Exams: All exams are state-specific and cover plumbing codes, trade practices, and safety regulations.
  
• Continuing Education: Texas requires annual continuing education to maintain a license. This includes 6 hours of approved coursework, covering updates to plumbing codes and industry practices.
  

Key Takeaway

In Texas, every plumbing business must have a Responsible Master Plumber (RMP) on record. This person is legally accountable for the work done under their supervision, making it a crucial role for any aspiring business owner.

​​Florida Plumbing License

In Florida, you can’t run a plumbing business without a license. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) oversees plumbing licenses and offers two main types: Certified and Registered. Here’s how it works:

Types of Plumbing Licenses in Florida

1. Certified Plumbing Contractor

The Certified Plumbing Contractor license allows you to work anywhere in the state.

Requirements include: 

• Must be at least 18 years old.
  
• 4 years of plumbing experience or a combination of college and work experience.
  
• Pass the state contractor exam.
  
• Show proof of financial stability (credit score check).
  
• Complete a fingerprint/background check.
  

2. Registered Plumbing Contractor

• For plumbers who hold a local “certificate of competency.”
  
• Only valid in the specific local jurisdiction.
  
• No state exam required, but applicants must still complete fingerprinting, insurance verification, and credit checks
  

Licensing Authority

The DBPR is the regulatory authority for all plumbing licenses in Florida. They handle applications, exams, and license renewals for both Certified and Registered Plumbing Contractors.

Fees, Exams, and Continuing Education

a. Fees

Registered Plumbing Contractor Fee:

• $309 if applying between May 1 (odd year) – August 31 (even year)
  
• $209 if applying between September 1 (even year) – April 30 (odd year)
  

Certified Plumbing Contractor Fee:

• $249 if applying between May 1 (even year) – August 31 (odd year)
  
• $149 if applying between September 1 (odd year) – April 30 (even year)

Exam Fees:

• Registration Fee: $135
  
• Business and Finance Exam: $80
  
• Trade Knowledge Exam: $80
  
• The exams are administered by Professional Testing Inc. and cover state codes, business management, and trade knowledge.

b. Exams

• Certified contractors must pass both a trade exam and a business and law exam.
  
• The exams cover plumbing codes, trade practices, and financial management.
  

c. Continuing Education

• Florida requires 14 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain a plumbing license.
  
• Topics include building codes, workplace safety, and business practices.
  

Key Takeaway

In Florida, if you qualify a business with your license, you’re responsible for overseeing all work and managing the company’s finances. This makes the license holder personally accountable for the work done by every employee under that license.

California Plumbing License

In California, plumbing work valued at $500 or more requires a C-36 Plumbing Contractor license. The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) regulates this license, and it’s a must-have for anyone looking to legally run a plumbing business in the state.

Type/s of Plumbing Licenses in California

C-36 Plumbing Contractor License:

• Allows you to perform plumbing work on residential, commercial, and public projects valued at $500 or more.
• Requires 4 years of journey-level experience to qualify for the exam.

Licensing Authority

The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) oversees all contractor licenses, including the C-36 Plumbing Contractor license. They handle applications, exams, and license renewals

Fees, Exams, and Continuing Education

• Fees: The initial application fee is $450. Once you pass, the license activation fee is $200.
  
• Exams: The CSLB administers two exams. The Law & Business Exam covers California business laws, contracts, and financial management. Meanwhile, the Plumbing Exam covers questions on plumbing codes, systems, and installations. Each part consists of 115 questions.
  
• Continuing Education: California does not require continuing education to maintain a C-36 license. However, contractors must renew their licenses every two years and update their bonding and insurance information.
  

Key Takeaway

In California, a C-36 license not only allows you to operate legally but also gives you the authority to pull permits, bid on projects, and take on higher-value work.

New York Plumbing License

There’s no statewide plumbing license in New York. Instead, each city or county sets its own rules. 

In major cities like New York City, you must go through the Department of Buildings (DOB) to get a plumbing license. If you want to run a plumbing business, you’ll need a Master Plumber License.

Types of Plumbing Licenses in New York

1. Journeyman Plumber

• Allows you to perform plumbing work under the supervision of a master plumber.
• Must have worked as an apprentice for at least 2 years.
  

2. Master Plumber License (NYC):

a. Required to supervise plumbing work, pull permits, and run a business.

b. Must meet one of the following experience paths:

• 7 years of plumbing work with at least 2 years as a registered journeyman in NYC.
• Engineering degree plus 5 years of plumbing experience, with at least 2 years in NYC.
  

Licensing Authority

In New York City, the Department of Buildings (DOB) is the main authority for issuing plumbing licenses. Outside NYC, applicants must check with local licensing boards for specific requirements.

Fees, Exams, and Continuing Education

• Fees: Master Plumber applicants in New York City must pay a $585 written exam fee, $530 practical exam fee, $500 background investigation fee, $200 license issuance fee, and $50 seal fee, all payable through the DOB NOW Portal. For background investigation inquiries, applicants can email lbackgrounds@buildings.nyc.gov.
  
• Exams: NYC requires Master Plumber applicants to pass both a written exam (covering plumbing codes and business practices) and a practical exam (testing hands-on skills).
  
• Continuing Education: NYC requires Master Plumbers to complete 7 hours of continuing education annually to renew their license. Requirements outside NYC vary based on local jurisdiction.
  

Key Takeaway

New York’s decentralized licensing system means requirements can differ drastically from one county to another. But if you plan to work in NYC, expect strict guidelines and a tough exam to get your Master Plumber License.

Illinois Plumbing License

To run a plumbing business in Illinois, you must first obtain a Plumbing Contractor License, but before that, you need to be a licensed plumber. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) handles all plumbing licenses statewide.

Types of Plumbing Licenses in Illinois

1. Apprentice Plumber:

• Entry-level license for those training under a licensed plumber.
• Must complete 4-6 years of apprenticeship and meet education requirements (two years of high school or equivalent).
  

2. Journeyman Plumber:

• Must complete a registered apprenticeship and pass the state journeyman exam.
• Can work independently but not as a contractor.
• Requires 48–72 months of apprentice work experience.
  

3. Plumbing Contractor License:

• Required to run a plumbing business or employ other plumbers.
• Must carry liability insurance and workers’ comp coverage.
• Application requires documentation of plumbing experience and proof of insurance.
  

Licensing Authority

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) oversees all plumbing licenses, including apprenticeships, journeyman, and contractor licenses.

Fees, Exams, and Continuing Education

• Fees: The apprentice plumber application fee is $175, while the fee for plumbers licensed in Chicago or outside Illinois is $225. Application fees for Illinois plumbing licenses are non-refundable.
  
• Exams: Applicants must pass a written and practical exam that tests plumbing knowledge, safety practices, and local codes.
  
• Continuing Education: Licensed plumbers and contractors must complete 4 hours of continuing education annually to keep their licenses active.
  

Key Takeaway

Illinois takes plumbing regulations seriously, requiring substantial training and insurance coverage to ensure public safety. This is especially true in cities like Chicago, where additional local requirements may apply.

Other States: Plumbing License Overview

While some states have strict plumbing license requirements, others leave it up to local jurisdictions to set the rules. Here’s a quick look at the requirements in several states:

1. Alabama:

• Must have a Master Plumber license to run a plumbing business.
• The Principal Master Plumber must supervise all work performed under the business (PGFB).
  

2. Alaska:

• Requires a contractor license to work independently or run a business.
• Must complete 8,000 hours of experience and pass the state exam (Alaska DOL).
  

3. Arizona:

• Plumbing contractors must hold a C-37 or R-37 license.
• Requires 4 years of plumbing experience and passing both business and trade exams (Arizona ROC).
  

4. Arkansas:

• Must obtain a Master Plumber license to operate a plumbing business.
• Applicants need 5 years of experience, including 1 year as a journeyman (Arkansas DOH).
  

5. Colorado:

• Only Master Plumbers can operate plumbing businesses.
• Requires 5 years (8,500 hours) of work experience and passing the Master exam (DORA).
  

6. Connecticut:

• Plumbing contractors need a Plumbing & Pipefitter – Contractor license.
• Must hold a journeyman license for at least 2 years before applying (CT DCP).
  

7. Delaware:

• Contractors must hold a Master Plumber license.
• Requires 7 years of experience under a Master Plumber (DPR).
  

8. Georgia:

• Businesses must have a Master Plumber on record.
• Requires 5 years of experience (3 years as an apprentice, 2 as a journeyman) and passing the Master exam (GA SOS).
  

9. Hawaii:

• Plumbing contractors must hold a C-37 license.
• Must first be a licensed Master Plumber and show proof of general liability insurance (Hawaii DCCA).
  

10. Idaho:

• Contractors must hold a Plumbing Contractor license.
• Must have a journeyman license and submit a $2,000 surety bond (Idaho DWR).
  

11. Indiana:

• Plumbing contractors need a Plumbing Contractor license.
• Must have 4 years of experience and maintain liability insurance (Indiana PLA).
  

12. Iowa:

• Must hold a Contractor license with a designated Master Plumber as the “Master of Record.”
• Requires a $5,000 surety bond and $500,000 liability insurance (Iowa DIAL).
  

13. Kansas:

• No state license. Contractors must check with local jurisdictions for specific requirements.
  

14. Kentucky:

• Requires a Master Plumber license.
• Must have 5 years of experience and carry $250,000 in liability insurance (Kentucky HBC).
  

15. Louisiana:

• Contractors need a Master Plumber certification from the Plumbing Board, then a contractor license from the LA Contractors Board (LSLBC).
  

16. Maine:

• Requires a Master Plumber license to operate independently.
• Must have 2,000 hours as a journeyman and pass the Master exam (Maine Plumbers’ Examining Board).
  

17. Maryland:

• Plumbing businesses must have a Master Plumber license.
• Requires 3,750 hours of experience and $300,000 in liability insurance (MD DLLR).
  

18. Massachusetts:

• Companies must name a Master Plumber on their business license.
• Master applicants need 3 years as a journeyman (MA Board of State Examiners of Plumbers & Gas Fitters).
  

19. Michigan:

• Must hold a plumbing contractor license.
• Requires 4,000 hours of experience and liability insurance (Michigan LARA).
  

20. Minnesota:

• Contractors need a Plumbing Contractor license (Population >5,000) or a Restricted Contractor license (rural), with a licensed Master Plumber as the Responsible Individual.
• Requires $500,000 in liability insurance (Minnesota DLI).
  

21. Mississippi:

• Contractors must hold a Plumbing Contractor license and submit proof of financial stability (MSBOC).
  

22. Missouri:

• No state license. Local jurisdictions set requirements, often requiring a Master Plumber license.
  

23. Montana:

• Must hold a Master Plumber license to run a business.
• Requires 4 years as a journeyman (Montana DLI).
  

24. Nebraska:

• No state license. Contractors must check with local jurisdictions for specific requirements.
  

25. Nevada:

• Must hold a C-1 Plumbing & Fixtures license.
• Requires a journeyman license and meeting bonding/insurance requirements (NV Contractors Board).
  

26. New Hampshire:

• Requires a Master Plumber license to run a business.
• Must complete 4,000 hours as a journeyman (NH OPLC).
  

27. New Jersey:

• Contractors must be licensed as a Master Plumber.
• Must be a journeyman for at least 2 years and pass the Master exam (NJ DCA).
  

28. New Mexico:

• Must hold a Plumbing Contractor license.
• Must complete 4,000 hours as a journeyman (NM RLD).
  

29. North Carolina:

• Requires a plumbing contractor license.
• Must pass the trade exam and business exam (NC Licensing Board).
  

30. North Dakota:

• Requires a general contractor’s license to start a plumbing business (ND Plumbing Board).
  

31. Ohio:

• Must hold a Commercial Contractor license with plumbing specialty.
• Requires at least $500,000 in liability insurance (OCILB).
  

32. Oklahoma:

• Contractors need a Plumbing Contractor license with a journeyman license as a prerequisite (Oklahoma CIB).
  

33. Oregon:

• Must hold a Plumbing Contractor license and provide proof of liability insurance (Oregon BCD).
  

34. Pennsylvania:

• No state license. Contractors must comply with local jurisdiction requirements.
  

35. Rhode Island:

• Contractors must have a Master Plumber as a qualifying agent (RI DLT).
  

36. South Carolina:

• Must hold a Plumbing Contractor license and complete business and trade exams (SC LLR).
  

37. South Dakota:

• Requires a Plumbing Contractor license with 6 years of experience (SD DLR).
  

38. Tennessee:

• Must obtain a CMC license with plumbing specialty for projects over $25,000 (TN Board for Licensing Contractors).
  

39. Utah:

• Contractors need a Plumbing Contractor license and $300K liability insurance (Utah DOPL).
  

40. Vermont:

• Must hold a Master Plumber license to run a plumbing business.
• Requires 4 years of plumbing experience and passing the state master exam (VT Dept. of Public Safety).
• Liability insurance is required for both master and journeyman plumbers.

41. Virginia:

• Must obtain a Class A/B/C contractor’s license with plumbing as a specialty.
• The Qualifying Individual must be a master plumber with 5 years of experience, including apprenticeship (DPOR).
• Minimum $500K liability insurance and a state business license are required.

42. Washington:

• Must hold a Plumbing Contractor license to advertise or perform plumbing work.
• Applicants must already be certified as a Master Plumber and pass a business exam (WA L&I).

43. West Virginia:

• All plumbers must hold one of three certifications: Apprentice, Journeyman, or Master Plumber, regardless of job size or company affiliation (WV Div. of Labor).
• A Contractor License is required for residential projects of $5,000 or more or commercial projects of $25,000 or more.

44. Wisconsin:

• A Master Plumber may work for a plumbing business but is not required to own a share of the company (WI DSPS).
• Plumbing businesses must obtain a Building Contractor Registration to legally operate.
• Must employ a licensed journeyman or master plumber to oversee plumbing installations.

45. Wyoming:

• No statewide plumbing license for contractors or master plumbers. Licensing requirements vary by city or county.

Common Challenges and Pitfalls in the Licensing Process

When obtaining a plumbing license, you might face potential roadblocks that can trip up even the most experienced plumbers. Here are three common challenges and how to handle them:

1. Failing the Exam

Failing the plumbing license exam isn’t uncommon. Some states require exams that cover plumbing codes, safety practices, and business law, and they can be tough.

How to Prepare:

• Study the State Code: Focus on the specific plumbing codes used in your state. Some states, like California, use the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while others have their own modifications.
  
• Take Practice Exams: Websites like RocketCert and Exam Prep platforms offer practice tests that mimic state exams.
  
• Join Study Groups: Network with other apprentices or journeymen who are preparing for the same exam.
  
• Consider a Prep Course: Exam prep courses can walk you through code questions, calculations, and business law.
  

If You Fail:

• Check the Retake Policy: Some states require a waiting period before you can retake the exam.
  
• Pay the Re-Exam Fee: This can range from $50 to $150, depending on the state.
  
• Focus on Weak Areas: Get your exam report to identify where you fell short and focus on those topics in your study plan.
  

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2. Insufficient Work Hours

Some plumbers hit a wall when they don’t have enough work hours to qualify for a journeyman or master plumber license. For instance, in Texas, you need 8,000 hours of work experience to sit for the journeyman exam.

How to Gain Experience:

• Join an Approved Apprenticeship Program: Some states offer state-approved apprenticeships that count toward required hours.
  
• Work Under a Licensed Master Plumber: In states like Florida, working under a master plumber is mandatory to qualify for the journeyman exam.
  
• Document Every Hour: Keep detailed records of your work hours and the types of tasks you perform. Some states, like New York, require signed affidavits from your supervising plumber.
  
• Look for Temporary Jobs: In some states, you can work under a licensed contractor on large projects to accumulate hours faster.
  

3. State-Specific Restrictions 

Every state has its own rules, and missing a critical requirement can cost you time and money. Here are some examples:

• Texas: You must register as an apprentice before work hours count toward a journeyman license (TSBPE).
  
• California: You can’t take the C-36 Plumbing Contractor exam unless you have 4 years of documented experience at the journey-level (CSLB).
  
• Florida: In addition to work experience, Florida requires a financial stability check and credit report for contractor license applicants (DBPR).
  
• New York: In NYC, the Master Plumber exam includes a hands-on practical test, which isn’t required in most other states (NYC DOB).
  

What To Do Next

Getting a plumbing license is your key to running a legitimate business, charging higher rates, and bidding on bigger projects. Each state has its own set of rules, but the basic path is the same: gain experience, pass the exam, and stay insured.

But running a plumbing business isn’t just about licenses. It’s also about managing jobs, tracking hours, and keeping your crew organized. 

That’s where Workyard’s plumbing software stands apart. With features like GPS time tracking, job scheduling, and project cost tracking, Workyard’s plumbing business software makes it easy to run your business smoothly, so you can focus on what you do best.

Try Workyard free for 14 days and see how it can simplify your business.