Thinking about becoming a plumber in Circleville, Ohio—but unsure where to start? You’re not alone. Many aspiring tradespeople ask, “How do I get a plumbing license in Circleville, Ohio?” The good news: with the right guidance, it’s a clear (and rewarding) path. Whether you’re switching careers or just starting out, this guide walks you through every official step—so you can work legally, earn more, and build trust with clients.
Is a Plumbing License Required in Circleville, Ohio?
Yes—absolutely. In Ohio, including Circleville (located in Pickaway County), you must be licensed to perform plumbing work for compensation. This isn’t just local red tape; it’s state law enforced by the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB).
According to the OCILB, unlicensed plumbing work can result in fines up to $5,000 per violation—plus potential legal liability if something goes wrong. A license protects both you and your customers.
💡 Did You Know? Ohio does not issue city-specific plumbing licenses. Instead, licensing is handled at the state level, meaning your license is valid statewide—including Circleville.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Plumbing License in Ohio (Including Circleville)
To qualify for a Class “A” Plumbing Contractor License (the standard license for independent plumbers), you need:
5 years (60 months) of full-time plumbing experience
At least 3 of those years must be in residential or commercial plumbing installation or repair
Experience must be verified by a licensed plumber or employer using Form PLUM-APP-E
⚠️ Note: Apprenticeships through unions (like UA Local 189 in Columbus) or vocational schools count toward this requirement—if properly documented.
Step 2: Complete the Application
Download and fill out the Plumbing Contractor License Application (Form PLUM-APP) from the OCILB website. You’ll need:
Proof of experience (signed by supervisors)
Business entity documents (if applying as an LLC or corporation)
$250 application fee (non-refundable)
Applications typically take 4–6 weeks to process.
Step 3: Pass the Ohio Plumbing Exam
Once approved to test, you’ll schedule your exam through PSI Exams. The test covers:
Ohio plumbing code (based on the IPC – International Plumbing Code)
Plan reading
System design
Safety and regulations
Exam fee: $75
Passing score: 70%
Format: 100 multiple-choice questions, 4-hour time limit
📚 Study Tip: The OCILB recommends reviewing the International Plumbing Code (2021 edition) and Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 4101:7. Many candidates use prep courses from organizations like Plumbing Exam Academy or Contractor Training Center.
Step 4: Obtain Liability Insurance
Before your license is issued, you must show proof of:
General liability insurance: Minimum $500,000
Worker’s compensation: If you have employees (required by Ohio law)
Your insurance provider will submit an ACORD certificate directly to OCILB.
Step 5: Receive & Renew Your License
Once all steps are complete, you’ll receive your Ohio Class “A” Plumbing Contractor License—valid for 2 years. Renewal costs $200 and requires 8 hours of continuing education, including 1 hour on Ohio laws/rules.
✅ Pro Tip: Set a calendar reminder! Licenses expire on December 31 of even-numbered years. Late renewals incur a $50 penalty.
What’s the Difference Between a Plumber and a Plumbing Contractor?
Many get confused here. In Ohio:
Role
Can Do
License Required?
Apprentice Plumber
Work under supervision
No (but must register with DOL)
Journeyman Plumber
Perform plumbing tasks independently
❌ Not recognized by Ohio state
Class “A” Plumbing Contractor
Pull permits, own a business, supervise others
✅ Yes
🔍 Key Insight: Ohio does not license journeymen. The only state-issued plumbing credential is the Class “A” Contractor License. So if you want to work solo or start a business in Circleville, this is your goal.
Underestimating documentation needs – Every month of experience must be verifiable.
Assuming local permits = license – Circleville may require business registration, but that’s separate from your state plumbing license.
Skipping code updates – The 2021 IPC introduced changes to backflow prevention and water heater venting—know them!
Missing insurance deadlines – No insurance = no license, even if you passed the exam.
How Long Does It Take?
On average:
Experience phase: 5 years (can’t be rushed)
Application + exam: 2–3 months
License issuance: 2–4 weeks after passing
So if you’ve already got the experience, you could be licensed in under 90 days.
FAQs: Getting a Plumbing License in Circleville, Ohio
Q1: Can I get a plumbing license in Ohio with out-of-state experience?
Yes. Ohio accepts plumbing experience from other states, provided it meets their standards. You’ll need detailed affidavits from past employers and may be asked to provide pay stubs or tax records for verification.
Q2: Do I need a license to do small plumbing jobs in Circleville?
Yes—if you’re being paid. Even replacing a faucet or fixing a leak for money requires a license. Homeowners can DIY, but professionals cannot work unlicensed.
Q3: Is there a separate license for gas piping?
No. Ohio’s Class “A” Plumbing Contractor License includes gas piping within its scope—as long as you follow the fuel gas code sections of the IPC.
Q4: Can I work as a plumber while waiting for my license?
Only under direct supervision of a licensed contractor—and you cannot pull permits or invoice clients in your own name. Think of this as “pre-license employment,” not independent work.
Q5: How much does it cost total to get licensed?
Approximate total (as of 2026):
Application: $250
Exam: $75
Study materials: $100–$300
Insurance (annual): $800–$1,500
Total first-year cost: ~$1,200–$2,100
Q6: Where can I take the plumbing exam near Circleville?
PSI testing centers are located in Columbus (about 30 miles north), Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Toledo. Most Circleville applicants choose the Columbus PSI center for convenience.
Conclusion: Start Your Licensed Plumbing Career in Circleville Today
Getting your plumbing license in Circleville, Ohio isn’t just about compliance—it’s about credibility, higher earnings, and career freedom. With median plumber salaries in Ohio exceeding $58,000/year (BLS, 2025), and demand growing due to infrastructure upgrades, now is a great time to get certified.
You’ve got the roadmap. You know the steps. All that’s left is to take action.
👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend or on social media! Help another future plumber avoid confusion—and build a stronger trades community in Pickaway County.
Have more questions? Drop them in the comments below—we’ll answer every one.
Leave a Reply