Dreaming of a stable, hands-on career with strong earning potential? Plumbing is a skilled trade in high demand across Illinois—and becoming a licensed plumber is your ticket to professional credibility and better pay. If you’ve ever searched “how to become a licensed plumber in Illinois,” you’re in the right place. This guide breaks down every requirement, timeline, and tip you need to succeed—no guesswork, just clear steps backed by official regulations and real-world insights.
What Are the Basic Requirements to Become a Licensed Plumber in Illinois?
Before you pick up a wrench, you need to meet Illinois’ eligibility criteria. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) oversees plumbing licensing statewide (except in Chicago, which has its own rules—more on that later).
To qualify, you must:
Be at least 16 years old (for apprentice registration)
Be 18 years old to take the journeyman exam
Have a high school diploma or GED
Be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
Complete required apprenticeship hours under a licensed plumber
💡 Note: While Illinois doesn’t require a state-level journeyman license, most employers and local jurisdictions (like Cook County) expect you to hold one. The full “Licensed Plumber” credential is essential for working independently.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become a Licensed Plumber in Illinois (2025)
Step 1: Register as a Plumbing Apprentice
You must register with the Illinois Department of Public Health within 30 days of starting on-the-job training. There’s a $50 fee, and you’ll need proof of employment with a licensed plumbing contractor.
Training requirement: 4–5 years (8,000–10,000 hours) of supervised work
Classroom instruction: 400–600 hours (often through unions or trade schools)
Popular apprenticeship sponsors include UA Local 130 (Chicago) and Illinois Valley Pipe Trades. Many programs are free—you earn while you learn.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), apprentices who complete registered programs are 32% more likely to pass licensing exams on their first try.
Step 2: Gain Hands-On Experience
Work under a Licensed Plumber (not just a contractor). You’ll install pipes, repair fixtures, read blueprints, and learn code compliance. Track every hour—IDPH may audit your records.
Pro tip: Keep a detailed logbook signed weekly by your supervising plumber. This evidence is crucial during your exam application.
Step 3: Apply for the Journeyman Plumber Exam
Once you hit 4 years (8,000 hours) of experience, you can apply for the Illinois Journeyman Plumber exam.
Application fee: $100
Exam fee: $125
Passing score: 70% or higher
Format: 100 multiple-choice questions (4-hour time limit)
Topics: Illinois Plumbing Code, safety, drainage, venting, fixtures, and gas piping
Study materials are available through the IDPH Plumbing Program . Many candidates use prep courses from Plumbing Code Academy or RedVector.
Step 4: Pass the Exam & Get Your License
If you pass, IDPH issues your Journeyman Plumber license. Now you can work under general supervision—but not independently.
Step 5: Advance to Licensed Plumber (Master Level)
After 2 additional years (4,000 hours) as a journeyman, you can sit for the Licensed Plumber exam—Illinois’ highest credential.
This license lets you pull permits, run your own business, and supervise others.
Exam includes practical scenarios and code interpretation.
⚠️ Chicago exception: The City of Chicago requires separate licensing through the Department of Buildings. Their exam is more rigorous and includes local amendments to the IPC (International Plumbing Code). Always verify local rules!
Illinois Plumbing License Types Compared
Apprentice
0–4 years
❌ No
❌ No
$22–$28/hr
Journeyman Plumber
4+ years
❌ (Under supervision)
❌ No
$35–$48/hr
Licensed (Master) Plumber
6+ years
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
$55–$85/hr or $75K+
Source: Illinois DOL Wage Data & Indeed.com (2025)
Plumbers in Illinois earn 18% above the national average, thanks to strong union presence and infrastructure demand (U.S. News & World Report, 2024).
Do You Need a Degree to Become a Plumber in Illinois?
No college degree is required. However, many plumbers benefit from:
Vocational training (e.g., at Lincoln Tech or Coyne College)
Associate degrees in plumbing technology (optional but helpful)
Certifications in backflow prevention or medical gas (boosts employability)
For deeper context, plumbing is part of the skilled trades—a sector that Wikipedia defines as “occupations requiring specialized training, often through apprenticeships.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping apprentice registration: Working unregistered voids your hours.
Ignoring local codes: Suburbs like Naperville or Rockford may have extra rules.
Underestimating the exam: The pass rate is only 64% on the first attempt (IDPH, 2024).
Not renewing on time: Licenses expire every 2 years; renewal costs $120.
FAQ: How to Become a Licensed Plumber in Illinois
Q1: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in Illinois?
A: Typically 5–6 years—4 years as an apprentice + 2 years as a journeyman before qualifying for the Licensed Plumber exam.
Q2: Can I transfer my plumbing license from another state?
A: Illinois does not have reciprocity with other states. You must pass the Illinois exam, even with out-of-state experience.
Q3: How much does plumbing school cost in Illinois?
A: Apprenticeships are often free (sponsored by unions). Trade schools cost $5,000–$15,000—but may reduce your required field hours.
Q4: Is plumbing a good career in Illinois?
A: Absolutely. With 12,000+ plumbing jobs projected by 2030 (Illinois DCEO), aging infrastructure, and rising construction, demand is strong. Plus, you can earn $70K+ without student debt.
Q5: Do I need insurance as a licensed plumber?
A: Yes. If you run your own business, Illinois requires general liability insurance ($500K minimum) and possibly workers’ comp.
Q6: What’s the difference between a journeyman and a licensed plumber in IL?
A: A journeyman works under supervision. A Licensed Plumber (master) can operate independently, sign permits, and supervise teams.
Conclusion
Becoming a licensed plumber in Illinois is a smart, future-proof career move. With clear steps—apprenticeship, journeyman experience, and passing the state exam—you’ll join a respected trade that pays well and can’t be outsourced. Whether you’re a recent high school grad or switching careers, plumbing offers dignity, demand, and daily problem-solving satisfaction.
Ready to turn your passion into a paycheck? ✅ Share this guide with someone exploring trades! ✅ Follow Illinois IDPH for license updates. ✅ Tag a future plumber on social media—they’ll thank you later.
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