How Many Questions Are On The Plumbing Exam?

If you’re preparing to become a licensed plumber, one of the first things you’ll wonder is: “How many questions are on the plumbing exam?” It’s a smart question—knowing the exam’s structure helps you study smarter, not harder. Whether you’re a first-time test-taker or retaking for a better score, this guide gives you the exact details you need to walk into your exam with confidence.

What Is the Plumbing Exam?

The plumbing licensing exam is a standardized assessment used across the U.S. to evaluate your knowledge of plumbing codes, safety standards, design principles, and local regulations. Passing this exam is typically required to obtain a journeyman or master plumber license, depending on your state.

While there’s no single national plumbing exam, most states use exams developed by trusted organizations like the International Code Council (ICC) or PSI Services LLC. These exams align closely with the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) or the International Plumbing Code (IPC)—both nationally recognized standards.

💡 Did You Know?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of plumbers is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than average—making now a great time to get licensed.

For more background on plumbing codes and standards, you can explore the Uniform Plumbing Code on Wikipedia.

How Many Questions Are On The Plumbing Exam? (By Exam Type)

The number of questions varies depending on whether you’re taking a journeyman, master, or contractor exam—and which state you’re in. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Journeyman Plumbing Exam

• Typical Question Count: 100–120 questions
• Time Allotted: 3–4 hours
• Passing Score: Usually 70–75%

States like Texas, California, and Florida use 100-question journeyman exams. In New York, the exam often includes 110 scored questions, plus 10–15 unscored pretest items.

2. Master Plumber Exam

• Typical Question Count: 100–130 questions
• Time Allotted: 4–5 hours
• Passing Score: 70–75%

Master exams are more advanced, covering system design, load calculations, and code interpretation. For example:

• Illinois: 125 questions
• Georgia: 100 scored + 20 pretest
• Arizona: 115 total questions

3. Business & Law (Contractor) Exam

If you’re applying for a plumbing contractor license, you may also need to pass a Business and Law exam:

• Question Count: 50–80 questions
• Topics: Contracts, insurance, licensing laws, project management

✅ Pro Tip: Some states (like California) require both a trade exam and a law exam to get your plumbing contractor license.

State-by-State Comparison (Top 10 States)

⚠️ Important: Always verify with your state licensing board, as exam formats can change without notice.

What’s Covered in the Plumbing Exam?

Most plumbing exams test your knowledge across these core categories:

1. General Regulations (10–15%)
   • Permits, inspections, approvals
2. Fixtures & Fittings (10–20%)
   • Installation, materials, water conservation
3. Water Supply & Distribution (15–20%)
   • Pipe sizing, pressure, backflow prevention
4. Sanitary Drainage (20–25%)
   • Venting, traps, cleanouts, slope requirements
5. Storm Drainage (5–10%)
   • Roof drains, leaders, sumps
6. Gas Piping (10–15%) – if applicable
7. Plan Reading & Isometrics (5–10%)
8. Math & Formulas (5–10%)
   • Area, volume, pipe offsets, flow rates

📐 Sample Question Type:
“What is the minimum trap arm length for a 2-inch fixture?”
A) 18 inches
B) 24 inches
C) 30 inches
D) 36 inches

(Answer: B – per IPC Section 1002.2)

How to Prepare Effectively (5-Step Plan)

Don’t just study—study strategically. Here’s how:

Step 1: Confirm Your State’s Exam Details
Visit your state’s plumbing board website (e.g., Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners) to download the official candidate bulletin.

Step 2: Get the Right Code Books
You’ll need the current edition of your state’s adopted code (IPC or UPC). Most exams are open-book, but you must know how to navigate them fast.

Step 3: Take Timed Practice Tests
Use platforms like ICC Learning Center, PlumbingExamPrep.com, or PSI’s practice exams. Aim for 85%+ consistently before test day.

Step 4: Master Tabbing & Highlighting
Pre-tab your code book with color-coded sections (e.g., green = drainage, blue = water supply). This saves critical minutes during the exam.

Step 5: Simulate Exam Conditions
Practice with 100 questions in 4 hours, no breaks, using only allowed materials. Build stamina and focus.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Assuming all states use the same exam
• ❌ Not checking the exam’s adopted code year (e.g., 2021 IPC vs. 2018 IPC)
• ❌ Overlooking math questions – even basic formulas can trip you up
• ❌ Bringing outdated or unapproved reference materials

🛑 Warning: Many test-takers fail not because they lack knowledge—but because they run out of time. Practice pacing!

FAQ Section

Q1: Is the plumbing exam the same in every state?
No. While many states use ICC or PSI exams based on national codes (IPC/UPC), each state may modify content, add local amendments, or require additional exams (like business law).

Q2: Are plumbing exams open-book?
Yes, most are open-book, but only specific reference materials are allowed—and you must be fast at using them. Always check your state’s approved list.

Q3: How long does it take to get plumbing exam results?
It varies. PSI exams often show results immediately after completion. Pearson VUE and some state-specific exams may take 1–3 business days.

Q4: Can I retake the plumbing exam if I fail?
Yes, but most states require a waiting period (e.g., 30 days in Texas) and may charge a retest fee. Some limit the number of attempts per year.

Q5: Do I need field experience before taking the exam?
Absolutely. Most states require 2–5 years of documented apprenticeship or work experience under a licensed plumber before you’re even eligible to sit for the exam.

Q6: What’s the average pass rate for the plumbing exam?
According to ICC data, first-time pass rates range from 55% to 70%, depending on the exam level and state. Proper preparation significantly boosts your odds.

Conclusion

So, how many questions are on the plumbing exam? It’s usually 100–130, but the exact number depends on your license level and state. More importantly—knowing the structure, content breakdown, and time limits gives you a real edge on test day.

Now that you’ve got the facts, it’s time to study smart, stay calm, and pass with confidence.

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Good luck—you’ve got this! 💧🔧