How Do You Find Out If a Plumber Is Licensed?

Hiring a plumber for a leaky faucet or a burst pipe can feel urgent—and stressful. But before you hand over your keys (or your cash), it’s crucial to ask: how do you find out if a plumber is licensed? Unlicensed plumbers may cut corners, lack insurance, or even disappear after taking your deposit. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to verify a plumber’s license quickly, safely, and confidently—so you protect your home and your wallet.

Why Does a Plumbing License Matter?

A plumbing license isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s proof that a professional has met state-specific education, experience, and safety requirements. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 480,000 plumbers are employed nationwide, but not all operate legally.

Hiring an unlicensed plumber can lead to:

• Poor workmanship that violates building codes
• No recourse if something goes wrong
• Denied insurance claims due to unpermitted work
• Fines for the homeowner in some jurisdictions

As the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) notes: “Licensed contractors are held accountable by state boards—unlicensed ones answer to no one.”

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

1. Ask for Their License Number Upfront

Never assume a plumber is licensed—always ask. A legitimate professional will readily provide their license number, often printed on their business card, truck, or invoice. If they hesitate or say “we don’t need one,” walk away.

💡 Pro Tip: In 44 U.S. states, plumbers must be licensed at the state or local level. Only a few states (like Kansas and Missouri) allow limited plumbing work without a license—but even then, local municipalities often require one.

2. Check the State Licensing Board Website

Each state maintains a public database of licensed contractors. Here’s how to use it:

1. Go to your state’s Department of Consumer Affairs or Contractor Licensing Board website.
2. Search by the plumber’s name or license number.
3. Verify the license is active (not expired, suspended, or revoked).
4. Check for disciplinary actions or complaints.

For example:

• California: Use the CSLB License Check
• Texas: Visit the TDLR License Verification
• New York: Use the NY DOS License Search

🌐 Authoritative Source: For a full list of state licensing authorities, see the Wikipedia page on U.S. occupational licensing .

3. Confirm Insurance and Bonding

A license ≠ insurance. Always ask for proof of:

• General liability insurance (covers property damage)
• Workers’ compensation (covers injuries on your property)

Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and call the insurer to verify it’s current. If they’re uninsured, you could be liable for accidents.

4. Read Online Reviews & Complaints

Check platforms like:

• BBB (Better Business Bureau)
• Google Reviews
• Angi (formerly Angie’s List)
• Yelp

Look for patterns: multiple complaints about unfinished work or hidden fees? Red flag.

5. Call Your Local Building Department

For major jobs (like repiping or installing a water heater), permits are often required—and only licensed plumbers can pull permits. Call your city’s building department to confirm:

• Whether a permit is needed
• If the plumber has pulled one for your job

This adds a layer of official oversight.

What If the Plumber Isn’t Licensed?

In some rural areas or for minor repairs (like unclogging a drain), unlicensed handymen may legally operate. But proceed with caution:

⚠️ Stat Alert: A 2023 HomeAdvisor survey found that 22% of homeowners who hired unlicensed contractors faced repair costs exceeding $2,000 due to shoddy work.

Common Red Flags of an Unlicensed Plumber

Watch out for these warning signs:

• Cash-only payments with no written contract
• No physical business address (only a P.O. box or vague location)
• Pressure to pay upfront (more than 10–30% deposit is risky)
• Vague answers about licensing or insurance
• Unmarked vehicles with no company branding

If something feels “off,” trust your gut.

FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered

Q1: Is a plumbing license required in every U.S. state?

No. While most states require licenses for plumbing contractors, a few (like Wyoming and Idaho) have no statewide requirement—but local cities or counties often do. Always check your municipality’s rules.

Q2: Can I verify a plumber’s license over the phone?

Yes, but it’s slower. Most state boards prefer online verification for speed and accuracy. If calling, have the plumber’s full name and license number ready.

Q3: What’s the difference between a licensed plumber and a certified plumber?

“Licensed” means state-approved to work legally. “Certified” usually refers to voluntary training (e.g., in green plumbing or gas lines). License = legal requirement. Certification = extra skill.

Q4: How long does a plumbing license last?

Typically 1–2 years, depending on the state. Plumbers must renew it with continuing education and fees. Always confirm the expiration date during verification.

Q5: What if I already hired someone and just found out they’re unlicensed?

Stop work immediately. Contact your local licensing board to report them. You may also file a complaint with the BBB or your state attorney general. In some cases, you can dispute charges with your credit card company.

Q6: Do handymen need a plumbing license for small jobs?

It depends on your state and job scope. In California, for example, handymen can’t perform plumbing work over $500 without a license. When in doubt, assume a license is required.

Conclusion: Protect Your Home—Verify Before You Hire

Knowing how do you find out if a plumber is licensed isn’t just smart—it’s essential. A few minutes of verification can save you thousands in repairs, legal headaches, or safety hazards. Always: ✅ Ask for the license number
✅ Check it online with your state board
✅ Confirm insurance and bonding
✅ Trust verified reviews

Don’t gamble with your home’s plumbing. Share this guide with friends and family on Facebook or Pinterest—because everyone deserves a safe, licensed pro when pipes burst or toilets overflow! 💧🔧

Stay informed. Stay protected. And never skip the license check.