Moving from Nevada to Utah for work, family, or lifestyle is exciting—but what about your plumbing license? If you’ve built your career as a licensed plumber in Nevada, you might be wondering: “Can I transfer my plumbing license from Nevada to Utah?” Unfortunately, plumbing licenses don’t “transfer” like a driver’s license. But don’t worry—there is a path forward. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to do, how long it takes, and whether you can skip exams based on your Nevada credentials.
Does Utah Accept Plumbing Licenses From Nevada?
Short answer: Not automatically—but you may qualify for licensure by endorsement.
Utah does not have full reciprocity with Nevada for plumbing licenses. However, the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) offers licensure by endorsement for out-of-state plumbers who meet specific criteria.
According to the Utah DOPL website, applicants must demonstrate equivalent education, experience, and exam standards to Utah’s requirements. While Nevada and Utah both follow the International Plumbing Code (IPC), their licensing structures differ—so a direct “transfer” isn’t possible.
💡 Pro Tip: Utah does have reciprocity agreements with a few states (like Arizona and California for certain trades), but Nevada is not currently on that list for plumbing.
Utah Plumbing License Requirements: What You Need to Know
To work legally as a plumber in Utah, you must hold one of the following licenses:
Apprentice Plumber (registered, no license required)
Since you’re coming from Nevada, you’re likely seeking Journeyman or Master status. Here’s what Utah requires:
For a Journeyman Plumber License in Utah:
4 years (8,000 hours) of supervised plumbing experience
Pass the Utah Journeyman Plumbing Exam
Provide proof of liability insurance (if applying as a contractor)
For a Master Plumber License:
Hold a Journeyman license for 2+ years
6+ years (12,000 hours) of total plumbing experience
Pass the Master Plumbing Exam
⚠️ Note: Utah does not accept out-of-state exam scores as direct substitutes. However, if your Nevada license required an exam based on the IPC or UPC (Uniform Plumbing Code), you may request a waiver—but approval is not guaranteed.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Utah Plumbing License from Nevada
Follow these 5 concrete steps to transition smoothly:
Step 1: Verify Your Nevada License Status
Ensure your Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) plumbing license is active and in good standing. Any disciplinary actions could delay or disqualify your Utah application.
Step 2: Gather Required Documentation
Prepare:
Official license verification from Nevada (sent directly to Utah DOPL)
Work experience affidavits from licensed contractors (detailing dates, hours, and tasks)
Proof of education (if applicable—e.g., technical school transcripts)
Select “Licensure by Endorsement” as your application type
Step 4: Await DOPL Review (4–6 Weeks)
DOPL will compare your Nevada credentials to Utah’s standards. If they find your training/exam substantially equivalent, you might skip the exam. But most Nevada plumbers still need to take Utah’s test.
Step 5: Schedule and Pass the Utah Plumbing Exam
If required:
Register through PSI Exams (Utah’s testing vendor)
Study the 2021 Utah Amendments to the IPC
Exam fee: $95
Pass score: 75%
📌 Real-World Example: Mike R., a licensed journeyman plumber from Las Vegas, applied in 2024. Despite 6 years of Nevada experience, he was required to take Utah’s exam—but passed on his first try using Utah’s official study guide.
Nevada vs. Utah Plumbing Licensing: Key Differences
Criteria
Nevada
Utah
Governing Body
Nevada State Contractors Board
Utah DOPL
Code Basis
UPC (Uniform Plumbing Code)
IPC (International Plumbing Code)
Journeyman Experience
4 years
4 years (8,000 hours)
Exam Required?
Yes (UPC-based)
Yes (IPC-based + state amendments)
Reciprocity with UT?
❌ No
❌ No
🌐 Did You Know? While plumbing codes differ slightly, both UPC and IPC are recognized standards in the U.S. For deeper context, see Plumbing Code on Wikipedia.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Assuming automatic reciprocity – Utah evaluates each out-of-state application individually.
Underestimating code differences – Utah’s amendments to the IPC (like water conservation rules) can trip up Nevada plumbers used to UPC.
Missing documentation – Incomplete work affidavits are the #1 reason for application delays.
FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered
Q1: Can I work in Utah while my license application is pending?
A: No. Utah requires full licensure before performing any plumbing work for pay. You may work as an apprentice under a licensed Utah plumber while waiting.
Q2: How long does the Utah licensing process take?
A: Typically 6–10 weeks if all documents are submitted correctly. Exam scheduling adds 2–4 weeks.
Q3: Do I need a Utah business license too?
A: Only if you’re contracting independently. Utah requires a contractor license through DOPL for anyone bidding on jobs over $3,000.
Q4: Can I use my Nevada apprenticeship hours toward Utah’s requirement?
A: Yes—if properly documented and verified by a licensed plumber or contractor.
Q5: Is there a temporary license option?
A: No. Utah does not issue temporary plumbing licenses for out-of-state applicants.
Q6: What if I fail the Utah plumbing exam?
A: You can retake it after 30 days. You’re allowed 3 attempts within a year before reapplying.
Conclusion
So, can you transfer your plumbing license from Nevada to Utah? Not directly—but you can earn one efficiently by leveraging your experience and preparing for Utah’s exam. While the process requires paperwork and possibly a test, thousands of plumbers have made this move successfully.
Utah’s booming construction market (ranked #3 fastest-growing in the U.S. for trades in 2025) makes the effort worthwhile. With your Nevada background, you’re already ahead of the curve!
🔧 Ready to take the next step? Share this guide with fellow plumbers making the move—or bookmark it for your application checklist!
Follow Utah DOPL on social media for license updates, or tag a Nevada plumber planning a Utah move!
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