Thinking about a stable, in-demand career that pays well and offers hands-on satisfaction? How to become a licensed plumber in Indiana is a question thousands ask each year—and for good reason. With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 5% job growth for plumbers through 2032 (faster than average), Indiana’s construction boom and aging infrastructure create strong local demand. Whether you’re a high school grad, a career changer, or a skilled trades enthusiast, this guide walks you through every requirement—clearly, accurately, and without the confusion.
What Are the Basic Requirements to Become a Plumber in Indiana?
Before you pick up a wrench, know this: Indiana does not issue a state-wide plumbing license. Instead, licensing is handled at the city or county level—most notably in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, and South Bend. That means your first step is identifying where you plan to work.
Generally, you’ll need:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
- Pass background checks (required in most jurisdictions)
💡 Pro Tip: Contact your local building department early. For example, the City of Indianapolis Department of Business and Neighborhood Services oversees plumbing licensing there.
Step 1: Complete a Plumbing Apprenticeship
Indiana requires hands-on training before you can qualify for a journeyman or contractor license. The most common path? A 4- to 5-year plumbing apprenticeship approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.
What’s in an Indiana Plumbing Apprenticeship?
- 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training per year (totaling ~8,000–10,000 hours)
- 144+ hours of classroom instruction annually covering:
- Pipefitting
- Drain-waste-vent (DWV) systems
- Indiana plumbing codes
- Blueprint reading
- Safety protocols
You can find registered apprenticeships through:
- Local unions (e.g., United Association Local 365 in Indianapolis)
- Trade schools (like Vincennes University or Ivy Tech Community College)
- Private contractors approved by the U.S. DOL’s Apprenticeship.gov
📊 Did You Know?
According to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, plumbing apprentices in 2024 earn $18–$25/hour, with wages increasing yearly as skills progress.
Step 2: Gain Experience as a Plumber’s Helper or Apprentice
While in your apprenticeship, you’ll work under a licensed master plumber. This mentorship is crucial—you’ll learn real-world troubleshooting, customer service, and code compliance.
Important: Keep detailed logs of your hours. Most Indiana jurisdictions require notarized proof of your experience before allowing you to sit for exams.
Step 3: Apply for a Journeyman Plumber License
Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you’re eligible to apply for a Journeyman Plumber License in your city or county.
Typical Application Requirements:
| Application Fee | $50–$150 (varies by locality) |
| Proof of Training | Apprenticeship completion certificate |
| Exam Eligibility | 4+ years (8,000+ hours) of documented plumbing experience |
| Background Check | Required in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, etc. |
After approval, you’ll schedule your journeyman exam.
Step 4: Pass the Journeyman Plumber Exam
The exam tests your knowledge of:
- Indiana Administrative Code Title 675 (state plumbing rules)
- International Plumbing Code (IPC)
- Local amendments (e.g., Indianapolis has specific backflow prevention rules)
The test usually includes:
- 80–100 multiple-choice questions
- 3–4 hour time limit
- Passing score: 70–75% (varies by city)
📘 Study Resources:
- International Plumbing Code 2021 (IPC)
- Plumbing Exam Preparation by P. David Skiles
- Practice tests from PSI Exams , which administers most Indiana plumbing tests
Step 5: Maintain and Upgrade Your License
Your journeyman license typically expires every 1–2 years. Renewal often requires:
- Continuing education (4–8 hours per cycle in some cities)
- Renewal fee ($50–$100)
After gaining 2+ additional years of experience as a journeyman, you can pursue a Master Plumber License—allowing you to pull permits, run your own business, and supervise apprentices.
Journeyman vs. Master Plumber in Indiana: Key Differences
| Experience Required | 4 years | 6+ years (including 2 as journeyman) |
| Can Run a Business? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Can Pull Permits? | ❌ Only under master | ✅ Independently |
| Exam Difficulty | Moderate | Advanced (business law + complex systems) |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Assuming one license works statewide → Always verify local rules.
- ❌ Skipping code updates → Plumbing codes change every 3–6 years.
- ❌ Not documenting hours → Lost paperwork = delayed licensing.
For authoritative context on plumbing standards, refer to Wikipedia’s overview of plumbing , which traces its evolution and modern regulatory frameworks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does Indiana have a state plumbing license?
A: No. Plumbing licenses are issued at the city or county level. Always check with your local building department.
Q: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in Indiana?
A: Typically 4–5 years, including apprenticeship and exam prep. Some fast-track programs may shorten classroom time, but hands-on hours are non-negotiable.
Q: Can I work as a plumber in Indiana without a license?
A: Only as an apprentice under direct supervision. Performing plumbing work independently without a license is illegal and can result in fines or legal action.
Q: What’s the average salary for a licensed plumber in Indiana?
A: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data), Indiana plumbers earn $58,300/year on average, with top earners in metro areas exceeding $80,000.
Q: Do I need a contractor’s license to start a plumbing business?
A: Yes. In most Indiana cities, a Master Plumber License is required to operate a plumbing business. Some counties also require a general contractor’s registration.
Q: Are online plumbing courses accepted in Indiana?
A: Classroom instruction can sometimes be hybrid or online, but on-the-job training must be in-person. Always confirm with your local licensing authority.
Conclusion
Becoming a licensed plumber in Indiana is a smart, future-proof career move—offering job security, competitive pay, and the pride of skilled craftsmanship. While the path requires dedication (4–6 years of training and exams), the payoff is significant: freedom, financial stability, and demand that never dries up.
✅ Ready to start?
- Find an apprenticeship near you
- Contact your city’s building department
- Begin studying the IPC
If this guide helped you, share it with someone exploring a trade career! 🛠️
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