Thinking about becoming a plumber—or hiring one—in the United States? You’re not alone. But here’s the catch: not every state requires a plumber’s license, and the rules can vary wildly depending on where you are. If you’re wondering, “How many states in the US need a plumber’s license?”—you’ve come to the right place. This guide breaks down exactly which states mandate licensure, which leave it to local jurisdictions, and what that means for your career or home project.
How Many U.S. States Require a Plumber’s License?
As of 2026, 44 out of 50 U.S. states require some form of state-level plumbing license to legally perform plumbing work. The remaining 6 states do not issue state-wide plumbing licenses, though many still regulate plumbing through county or city ordinances.
This means that while you might not need a state license in places like Kansas or Missouri, you could still need approval from your local building department before turning a wrench.
💡 Key Insight: Even in unlicensed states, plumbing work must comply with the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) or International Plumbing Code (IPC)—both adopted in some form across all 50 states.
Which States Don’t Require a State Plumbing License?
The six states that do not have a statewide plumbing licensing requirement are:
- Kansas
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- Pennsylvania
- South Dakota
- Wyoming
However, don’t assume you can start working freely in these states. For example:
- In Pennsylvania, cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh enforce their own licensing.
- In Wyoming, most counties require permits and inspections, even if no formal license is issued.
- Nebraska delegates authority to local governments—so Omaha may require certification while rural areas do not.
📌 Pro Tip: Always check with your city or county building department before starting any plumbing job—even in “unlicensed” states.
For more context on plumbing codes and their adoption, see the Uniform Plumbing Code overview on Wikipedia.
Why Do Most States Require a Plumber’s License?
Licensing isn’t just bureaucracy—it’s about public health, safety, and infrastructure integrity. Improperly installed pipes can lead to:
- Sewage backups
- Water contamination
- Structural water damage
- Gas leaks (in gas-line plumbing)
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025), licensed plumbers earn 18% more on average than unlicensed workers, reflecting both skill validation and legal compliance.
Moreover, insurance companies often refuse to cover damages caused by unlicensed plumbing work—leaving homeowners financially exposed.
State-by-State Breakdown: Licensing Models Compared
Not all plumbing licenses are created equal. States use different models:
| Licensing Model | Description | Example States |
|---|---|---|
| State-Issued License | Mandatory statewide exam & renewal | California, Texas, Florida |
| Local-Only Regulation | No state license; cities/counties set rules | Pennsylvania, Missouri |
| Registration Only | Must register but no exam required | South Dakota (in some counties) |
| Journeyman + Master Tiers | Two-tier system with experience requirements | New York, Illinois, Washington |
Most licensed states require:
- 2–5 years of apprenticeship
- Passing a written exam (often based on IPC/UPC)
- Continuing education for renewal (every 1–3 years)
Steps to Get a Plumbing License (Where Required)
If you’re in one of the 44 licensed states, here’s a general roadmap:
- Complete a Plumbing Apprenticeship
- Typically 4–5 years under a licensed master plumber.
- Combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
- Accumulate Required Work Hours
- Most states require 4,000–8,000 hours of hands-on experience.
- Apply for the Journeyman Exam
- Submit proof of hours, pay fees ($50–$300), and schedule your test.
- Pass the Licensing Exam
- Covers code knowledge, safety, math, and system design.
- Passing score usually 70% or higher.
- Obtain Your License & Renew On Time
- Renewal cycles range from 1 to 3 years.
- Late renewals often incur penalties or require retesting.
⚠️ Warning: Working without a license in a regulated state can result in fines up to $5,000, job stoppages, or even criminal charges.
What Happens If You Hire an Unlicensed Plumber?
In licensed states, hiring an unlicensed plumber can backfire:
- Voided Homeowner’s Insurance: Many policies exclude coverage for work done by unlicensed contractors.
- Failed Inspections: Permits won’t be approved without a licensed pro’s signature.
- No Legal Recourse: If the job goes wrong, you may have no way to recover costs.
A 2024 study by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) found that 62% of plumbing-related insurance claims involved unlicensed labor.
FAQ Section
Q1: Do I need a plumber’s license for minor home repairs?
A: In most states, homeowners can perform plumbing work on their own primary residence without a license. However, you still need to pull permits and pass inspections. Rules vary—check local codes first.
Q2: Can I work as a plumber in multiple states with one license?
A: Generally, no. Plumbing licenses are not nationally transferable. Some states offer reciprocity (e.g., between Wisconsin and Minnesota), but you’ll usually need to take a jurisprudence exam or meet experience requirements.
Q3: How much does a plumbing license cost?
A: Costs range from $75 to $500, depending on the state and license level. Add exam prep materials ($100–$300) and background checks ($50–$100).
Q4: Are there exemptions for handyman plumbing work?
A: Yes—but narrowly. Most states allow handymen to fix faucets or unclog drains, but not to install new pipes, water heaters, or sewer lines. Exceeding these limits = illegal contracting.
Q5: How long does it take to get licensed?
A: From start to finish (apprenticeship + exam), it typically takes 4 to 6 years. Accelerated programs exist but are rare and rigorous.
Q6: What’s the difference between a journeyman and master plumber?
A: A journeyman can work independently but can’t pull permits or run a business. A master plumber has additional experience (usually 2+ years post-journeyman), can supervise others, and owns a licensed plumbing company.
Conclusion
So, how many states in the US need a plumber’s license? Forty-four—and even in the other six, local rules often apply. Whether you’re launching a plumbing career or fixing a leaky sink, understanding these regulations protects your wallet, your home, and public safety.
Don’t gamble with unlicensed work. Verify credentials, pull permits, and always prioritize code compliance.
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Stay safe, stay licensed, and keep those pipes flowing.
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