How Many Questions Are on the Journeyman Plumbing Test?

If you’re preparing to take the journeyman plumbing test, you’re probably wondering: “How many questions are on the journeyman plumbing test?” It’s a smart—and essential—question to ask. Knowing the exam structure helps you plan your study time, manage test-day stress, and boost your confidence. You’re not just looking for a number; you want clarity, strategy, and a roadmap to success. Let’s break it all down together.

What Is the Journeyman Plumbing Test?

Before diving into question counts, it’s important to understand what the journeyman plumbing test actually is. This exam certifies that a plumber has the necessary knowledge to work independently—without supervision—on residential and commercial plumbing systems.

Administered at the state level (or by organizations like PSI or ICC), the test evaluates your understanding of:

• Plumbing codes (typically based on the International Plumbing Code or state-specific adaptations)
• Safety standards
• Pipe fitting, venting, drainage, and water supply systems
• Math and blueprint reading

Passing this exam is a major career milestone—and knowing how many questions are on the journeyman plumbing test is your first step toward preparation.

How Many Questions Are on the Journeyman Plumbing Test?

The short answer: Most journeyman plumbing exams consist of 100 to 120 multiple-choice questions.

However, this number varies by state. Here’s a quick state-by-state snapshot:

💡 Pro Tip: Always verify your exam details with your state’s licensing board. The number of questions, time limits, and passing scores can differ—even between cities within the same state.

What’s the Passing Score?

Most states require a minimum score of 70% to 75% to pass. For a 100-question test, that means you’ll need to answer at least 70–75 questions correctly.

Some states, like Oregon, use a scaled scoring system (similar to the SAT), where your raw score is converted based on question difficulty. Others, like Arizona, publish exact passing thresholds.

Always confirm your state’s policy—this affects how aggressively you should aim to over-prepare.

What Topics Are Covered on the Exam?

The journeyman plumbing test is typically split into two main content areas:

1. Trade Knowledge (70–80% of questions)
   • Drain-waste-vent (DWV) systems
   • Water supply and distribution
   • Gas piping
   • Fixtures and appliances
   • Backflow prevention
   • Isometric drawing interpretation
2. Business & Law (20–30% of questions)
   • Licensing regulations
   • Permits and inspections
   • Contract basics
   • OSHA safety standards

According to the International Code Council (ICC), questions are weighted based on real-world job tasks. That means you’ll see more questions about pipe sizing than, say, historical plumbing trivia.

For deeper insight, the International Plumbing Code (IPC) serves as the foundation for most state exams—making it essential reading during your prep.

How Is the Test Structured?

Most journeyman plumbing exams follow this format:

• Format: Computer-based or paper-based (depending on location)
• Question Type: Multiple-choice (single best answer)
• Reference Materials: Many states allow you to use a code book during the exam (e.g., the current IPC or UPC).
• Calculator Policy: Basic, non-programmable calculators are usually permitted.

⚠️ Note: Even if you can bring a code book, don’t rely on it to “look up” every answer. The time limit means you must know 80% of the material cold. Flipping through pages eats precious minutes.

How to Prepare Effectively (Step-by-Step)

Ready to study smart—not just hard? Follow this proven 5-step plan:

Step 1: Confirm Your Exam Blueprint

Visit your state licensing board’s website and download the official content outline. Example: California’s CSLB publishes a Trade Examination Bulletin with exact topic percentages.

Step 2: Get the Right Code Book

Buy the current edition of the plumbing code your state uses—usually either the IPC or Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). Highlight, tab, and annotate it early.

Step 3: Use a Reputable Prep Course

Top-rated resources include:

• Plumbing Exam Academy (online video courses)
• Builder’s License Training Institute (practice tests + flashcards)
• PSI’s official practice exams (mirrors real test format)

Step 4: Take Timed Practice Tests

Aim for at least 5 full-length practice exams under timed conditions. Track weak areas (e.g., “I keep missing gas piping questions”) and review them daily.

Step 5: Master Time Management

With ~100 questions in 4 hours, you have about 2.4 minutes per question. Practice skipping hard questions and flagging them to return later—never get stuck.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced plumbers fail the journeyman test due to preventable errors:

• ❌ Assuming field experience = exam readiness
  Real-world plumbing ≠ code-book precision. The exam tests code compliance, not just “what works.”
• ❌ Ignoring math and blueprint sections
  These often trip up test-takers. Practice calculating pipe slopes, fixture units, and isometric offsets.
• ❌ Cramming the night before
  Spaced repetition over 4–8 weeks yields far better results than last-minute panic.
• ❌ Not checking allowed references
  Some states allow only specific editions of code books. Bring the wrong one, and you’re out of luck.

FAQ Section

Q1: Is the journeyman plumbing test the same in every state?

A: No. While many states base their exams on the International Plumbing Code (IPC), each state sets its own question count, passing score, and content emphasis. Always check your local licensing authority.

Q2: Can I take the test without work experience?

A: Generally, no. Most states require 4–5 years of documented plumbing experience (often as an apprentice) before you’re eligible to sit for the journeyman exam.

Q3: How long does it take to get results?

A: Computer-based exams often provide instant results. Paper-based tests may take 2–4 weeks. Some states email results; others mail them.

Q4: What if I fail the journeyman plumbing test?

A: You can usually retake it after 30–90 days, but you’ll need to pay the exam fee again (typically $100–$250). Use the failure report (if provided) to target weak areas.

Q5: Are there free practice questions available?

A: Yes! The ICC and PSI offer limited free samples. However, paid prep courses ($50–$200) provide far more realistic and comprehensive practice.

Q6: Do I need to renew my journeyman license?

A: Yes—in most states, you must renew every 1–2 years with continuing education credits (usually 4–8 hours on code updates or safety).

Conclusion

So, how many questions are on the journeyman plumbing test? Typically 100 to 120—but your exact number depends on your state. More importantly, success isn’t just about the count; it’s about strategic preparation, code mastery, and time management.

You’ve got the skills from the field. Now pair them with focused study, and you’ll walk into that testing center with confidence.

Found this guide helpful? Share it with a fellow plumber on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Reddit! Passing the journeyman test is a team effort—and your success could inspire someone else’s. 💧🔧

Good luck—you’ve got this!