How Do I Find Out If a Plumber Is Licensed? (Quick Guide)

Hiring a plumber can feel stressful—especially when you’re dealing with a leaky faucet at 2 a.m. or a flooded basement. But before you hand over your hard-earned money, you need to know: How do I find out if a plumber is licensed? A licensed plumber isn’t just a legal requirement in most states—it’s your best protection against shoddy work, hidden fees, and potential safety hazards. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple, foolproof ways to verify a plumber’s license quickly and confidently.

Why Does a Plumbing License Matter?

A plumbing license proves that a professional has met state-specific standards for training, experience, and knowledge of local building codes. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 80% of states require plumbers to be licensed to work independently.

Unlicensed plumbers may:

• Lack proper insurance (leaving you liable for injuries or damages)
• Use substandard materials that violate code
• Disappear after taking your deposit

“Hiring an unlicensed plumber is like flying without a pilot’s license—it might seem cheaper upfront, but the risks far outweigh any savings,” says Michael Rodriguez, a master plumber with 22 years of experience in California.

Step-by-Step: How to Verify a Plumber’s License

1. Ask for Their License Number Upfront

Before scheduling any work, ask the plumber directly: “Are you licensed, and can I see your license number?” Legitimate professionals will provide this without hesitation—often on their business card, truck, or website.

2. Check Your State’s Licensing Board Website

Every state with plumbing licensing maintains a public database. Here’s how to use it:

• Go to your state’s official contractor or plumbing licensing board (e.g., California Contractors State License Board or Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation).
• Enter the plumber’s license number or business name.
• Confirm the license is active, in good standing, and covers the type of work needed (e.g., residential, commercial, gas lines).

💡 Tip: Use the U.S. Department of Labor’s directory to find your state’s licensing authority.

3. Verify Insurance Coverage

A license doesn’t guarantee insurance. Ask for proof of:

• General liability insurance (covers property damage)
• Workers’ compensation (covers injuries to their team)

Request a certificate of insurance (COI) and call the insurer to confirm it’s valid.

4. Cross-Check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)

While not a licensing body, the BBB provides complaint history, accreditation status, and customer reviews. Search the plumber’s business name at bbb.org .

5. Look for Red Flags

Be cautious if the plumber:

• Refuses to show a license
• Demands full payment upfront
• Has no physical business address
• Uses a generic email (e.g., Gmail or Yahoo instead of a company domain)

State-by-State Licensing Requirements (Quick Reference)

Note: Licensing rules change frequently. Always confirm with your local authority.

For a broader understanding of occupational licensing in the U.S., see Wikipedia’s overview on professional licensure .

Real-Life Example: A Costly Mistake Avoided

In 2023, Sarah from Phoenix hired a “plumber” who quoted $300 to fix a clogged drain. He showed no license, took a $150 deposit, and vanished. When she reported it, the Arizona Registrar of Contractors confirmed no such license existed.

Had she checked the ROC database first, she’d have saved time, money, and stress. Today, she always verifies licenses—and shares this tip with neighbors.

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make

• Assuming “licensed” means “insured” → They’re separate!
• Trusting online reviews alone → Fake reviews are common. Always verify credentials.
• Skipping the license check for “small jobs” → Even minor plumbing work can cause major damage if done incorrectly.

FAQ Section

Q: Is it illegal to hire an unlicensed plumber?
A: In most states, yes—especially for jobs over a certain dollar amount (e.g., $500 in California). You could be fined or denied insurance claims if damage occurs.

Q: Can a plumber be licensed in multiple states?
A: Yes, but they must apply separately in each state. Some states have reciprocity agreements (e.g., between Texas and Louisiana), but not all.

Q: What if the plumber is licensed but their employee isn’t?
A: As long as the licensed plumber supervises the work and pulls permits, it’s usually acceptable. However, the licensed contractor remains legally responsible.

Q: How long does a plumbing license last?
A: Typically 1–2 years. Most states require continuing education for renewal. Always check the expiration date in the license lookup.

Q: Do handymen need a plumbing license?
A: Only if they perform plumbing work beyond minor tasks (e.g., replacing a faucet washer). Installing pipes, water heaters, or sewer lines almost always requires a license.

Q: What should I do if I find an unlicensed plumber working?
A: Report them to your state licensing board. Many offer anonymous reporting and investigate violations promptly.

Conclusion

Knowing how do I find out if a plumber is licensed isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your home, your wallet, and your peace of mind. With just 5–10 minutes of verification using your state’s online tools, you can avoid scams, ensure quality work, and hire with confidence.

✅ Take action today: Before your next plumbing job, verify that license!
🔁 Found this helpful? Share it with a friend or neighbor on Facebook or Nextdoor—they’ll thank you later!

Stay safe, stay informed, and never skip the license check.