Do You Have To Be Licensed To Be a Plumber?

Thinking about becoming a plumber—or hiring one for a home repair? You might be wondering: Do you have to be licensed to be a plumber? The short answer is yes, in most cases—but the details matter. Licensing rules vary by state, job scope, and even city ordinances. Getting this wrong could mean legal trouble, safety hazards, or costly re-dos. Let’s break it down clearly, so you’re informed and protected.

Why Do States Require Plumbing Licenses?

Plumbing isn’t just about fixing leaky faucets. It involves gas lines, sewage systems, potable water, and complex building codes. A mistake can lead to health risks, property damage, or even explosions.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 480,000 plumbers were employed nationwide in 2023—and nearly all worked under state-mandated licensing. Licensing ensures professionals understand:

• Local and national plumbing codes (like the IPC or UPC)
• Safe handling of water and gas systems
• Backflow prevention and sanitation standards
• Proper installation techniques that meet building safety requirements

As plumbing expert Mark Johnson of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) states:

“Licensing isn’t bureaucracy—it’s a public safety net. Unlicensed work often fails inspection and puts homeowners at risk.”

For more on plumbing standards, see the International Plumbing Code overview on Wikipedia .

Is a Plumbing License Required in Every State?

No—but almost. As of 2025, 47 U.S. states require some form of plumbing license for professionals performing residential or commercial work. Only Kansas, Missouri, and Wyoming do not have statewide licensing—but many cities or counties within them still do.

Here’s a quick reference:

💡 Pro Tip: Always check with your city or county building department—even in “unlicensed” states. Many require permits for plumbing work, which often mandate a licensed plumber’s signature.

What Happens If You Hire (or Work as) an Unlicensed Plumber?

The consequences can be serious—for both homeowners and workers.

For Homeowners:

• Voided insurance claims: If a flood or gas leak occurs due to unlicensed work, your homeowner’s insurance may deny coverage.
• Failed inspections: Remodels or additions won’t pass building inspections without licensed plumbing sign-offs.
• Costly repairs: The National Association of Home Builders estimates that 30% of DIY or unlicensed plumbing jobs require rework within 2 years.

For Plumbers:

• Fines: Penalties range from $500 to $10,000+, depending on the state.
• Legal liability: You can be sued if your work causes damage.
• Inability to pull permits: Most jurisdictions won’t issue plumbing permits to unlicensed individuals.

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

Becoming a licensed plumber typically takes 2–5 years, depending on your state. Here’s the general path:

Step 1: Complete a High School Diploma or GED

Most states require this as a minimum education level.

Step 2: Enroll in a Plumbing Apprenticeship

• Duration: 4–5 years
• Includes 2,000+ hours of on-the-job training per year
• Plus 144+ classroom hours annually on codes, safety, and math
• Sponsored by unions (like UA) or trade schools

Step 3: Gain Journeyman Status

After your apprenticeship, you can apply for a Journeyman Plumber License. Requirements usually include:

• Proof of completed apprenticeship
• Passing a written exam (often 100+ questions on local codes)
• Background check

Step 4: Become a Master Plumber (Optional but Recommended)

After 2–4 more years of experience, you can test for a Master Plumber License, which allows you to:

• Pull permits independently
• Start your own plumbing business
• Supervise other plumbers

📌 Example: In Illinois, the journeyman exam costs $125 and covers drainage, venting, fixtures, and cross-connection control. You must score 70% or higher to pass.

Licensed vs. Unlicensed Plumbers: Key Differences

While unlicensed handymen might fix a dripping tap, anything involving pipes behind walls, gas lines, or sewer connections almost always requires a license.

Common Exceptions: When Licensing Might Not Apply

Some minor plumbing tasks don’t require a license, even in strict states:

• Replacing a faucet aerator or showerhead
• Installing a new toilet (in some jurisdictions)
• Unclogging a drain with a hand snake
• Repairing a garbage disposal (if no pipe modifications)

However—if you cut into a pipe, reroute lines, or connect to main systems, a license is almost always required.

Always verify with your local building authority before starting work.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I do plumbing work on my own home without a license?

A: In many states, yes—but with limits. Homeowners can often perform plumbing on their primary residence without a license, but they still need to pull permits and pass inspections. However, you usually can’t do plumbing on rental properties or for others without a license.

Q2: How much does a plumbing license cost?

A: Costs vary widely. Expect to pay:

• $100–$300 for the exam
• $50–$200/year for renewal
• Plus apprenticeship program fees (often covered by employer)

Q3: Do plumbers need continuing education?

A: Yes—in over 30 states, licensed plumbers must complete 4–8 hours of continuing education every 1–2 years to renew their license, focusing on code updates and safety.

Q4: What’s the difference between a journeyman and master plumber?

A: A journeyman can work independently but can’t pull permits or run a business in most states. A master plumber has advanced experience, can supervise others, and is authorized to manage full plumbing projects.

Q5: Can I verify if a plumber is licensed?

A: Absolutely. Most states offer online license lookup tools (e.g., California’s CSLB website or Texas’s TSBPE portal). Always verify before hiring.

Q6: Are online plumbing certifications valid?

A: Not for licensing. While online courses can help with exam prep, hands-on apprenticeship hours are mandatory in every licensing state. Beware of “instant certification” scams.

Conclusion

So—do you have to be licensed to be a plumber? In nearly every practical scenario across the U.S., yes. Licensing protects public health, ensures quality work, and gives you legal standing to operate. Whether you’re pursuing a plumbing career or hiring someone for your home, never skip the license check.

Licensing isn’t red tape—it’s your guarantee of safety, skill, and accountability.

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