If you’re a licensed journeyman plumber in Texas—or planning to become one—you’re probably wondering: “How long does a journeyman plumbing license last in Texas?” It’s a smart question. Letting your license expire can mean fines, work stoppages, or even starting the application process all over again. The good news? With the right info and a little planning, staying compliant is straightforward. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about license duration, renewal steps, and avoiding common pitfalls—so you can keep your wrench turning and your business running smoothly.
How Long Is a Journeyman Plumbing License Valid in Texas?
In Texas, a journeyman plumber license is valid for one year from the date of issuance. Unlike some states that offer multi-year licenses, Texas requires annual renewal to ensure plumbers stay up to date with current codes, safety standards, and continuing education requirements.
According to the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE)—the governing body overseeing plumbing licenses—the renewal cycle runs on a fixed calendar schedule. Even if you received your license mid-year, your renewal deadline aligns with the state’s annual cycle (typically by the end of February).
💡 Pro Tip: Mark your renewal date in your phone and on your shop calendar. A 30-day grace period exists after expiration, but working with an expired license—even during grace—is illegal and risks penalties.
When Does My Texas Journeyman Plumbing License Expire?
Your exact expiration date depends on when your license was first issued, but all journeyman plumbing licenses in Texas expire on the last day of February each year, regardless of issue date. This standardization simplifies tracking for both plumbers and regulators.
For example:
- If you got licensed on July 15, 2025 → Your first renewal is due February 28, 2026.
- If you renewed on time in 2026 → Next renewal: February 28, 2027.
The TSBPE sends email reminders (if you’ve provided a valid address), but don’t rely solely on them. System errors happen. Stay proactive.
What Happens If I Miss the Renewal Deadline?
Missing the February 28 deadline triggers a tiered penalty system:
| Days Past Expiration | Status | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| 0–30 days | Grace Period | Pay standard renewal + $50 late fee |
| 31–90 days | Lapsed | Pay renewal + $100 late fee + possible audit |
| 91+ days | Expired | Reapply as a new applicant (fees, exams, background check) |
Working while your license is lapsed or expired violates Texas law (Texas Occupations Code §1301) and can result in:
- Fines up to $5,000 per violation
- Cease-and-desist orders
- Ineligibility for future licensing
⚠️ Real-World Example: In 2024, the TSBPE disciplined 112 plumbers for operating with expired licenses—37 had to retake the journeyman exam.
Step-by-Step: How to Renew Your Journeyman Plumbing License in Texas
Renewing your license is simple if you follow these steps at least 30 days before February 28:
- Complete Continuing Education (CE)
- You must complete 8 hours of approved CE annually.
- Courses must be TSBPE-approved (find them on the TSBPE website).
- Topics include plumbing code updates, backflow prevention, and safety protocols.
- Gather Documentation
- Proof of CE completion (certificates)
- Current government-issued ID
- Payment method (credit/debit card)
- Log Into the TSBPE Licensing Portal
- Go to https://www.tsbpe.texas.gov/licensing/
- Use your license number and PIN
- Submit Renewal Application & Pay Fee
- Renewal fee: $105 (as of 2026)
- Late fee: +$50 (if within 30 days post-expiration)
- Print or Save Your New License
- Digital licenses are valid, but carry a printed copy on job sites.
📌 Note: Licenses are not automatically renewed. You must actively submit your application each year.
Common Mistakes That Delay or Void Renewal
Even experienced plumbers make these avoidable errors:
- ❌ Assuming automatic renewal – Texas does not auto-renew licenses.
- ❌ Using non-approved CE courses – Only TSBPE-listed providers count.
- ❌ Waiting until the last week – System traffic can cause delays; renew early.
- ❌ Failing to update contact info – Missed emails = missed deadlines.
To avoid issues, create a personal compliance checklist each November for the following February renewal.
Journeyman vs. Master Plumber License Duration: Key Differences
Many confuse journeyman and master license rules. Here’s how they compare in Texas:
| Feature | Journeyman License | Master Plumber License |
|---|---|---|
| Validity Period | 1 year | 1 year |
| CE Requirement | 8 hours/year | 8 hours/year |
| Renewal Deadline | Feb 28 | Feb 28 |
| Supervision Required? | Yes (must work under master) | No (can supervise others) |
| Exam Needed for Renewal? | No (unless expired >90 days) | No |
Both require annual renewal, but only master plumbers can pull permits or run their own plumbing businesses.
🔍 Learn more about plumbing licensing tiers in the U.S. on Wikipedia’s plumbing regulation page.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I renew my Texas journeyman plumbing license online?
Yes! The TSBPE offers a fully digital renewal portal. Just log in, upload CE certificates, and pay the fee. Processing takes 3–5 business days.
Q2: What if I’m out of state during renewal season?
You can still renew online from anywhere. Just ensure your CE is completed and documents are ready. Time zones don’t affect submission.
Q3: Do military personnel get extensions?
Yes. Texas offers license extensions for active-duty service members under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). Contact TSBPE directly for documentation.
Q4: How do I check if my license is still active?
Use the TSBPE’s “License Verification” tool at https://www.tsbpe.texas.gov/verify-license/. Enter your name or license number for real-time status.
Q5: Can I work while my renewal is processing?
Only if you submitted your renewal before expiration. If renewed on time, your license remains active during processing. If late, you cannot work until approved.
Q6: What’s the cost to reinstate an expired license?
If expired over 90 days, you must reapply as a new candidate:
- Application fee: $115
- Exam fee: $78
- Background check: $45
Total: ~$238 + time lost waiting for approval.
Conclusion
So, how long does a journeyman plumbing license last in Texas? Just one year—but with smart planning, annual renewal is quick, affordable, and stress-free. Staying current protects your livelihood, your reputation, and your clients’ safety.
Don’t gamble with expiration dates. Set a reminder, complete your CE early, and renew ahead of the February 28 deadline. Your future self (and your paycheck) will thank you.
👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a fellow plumber on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram! One click could save someone from a costly licensing mistake.
Stay licensed. Stay legal. Keep Texas flowing. 💧🔧
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