Dreaming of a stable, hands-on career with strong earning potential? You’re not alone. Many people in North Carolina are turning to skilled trades like plumbing—and for good reason. But before you can legally work on pipes, fixtures, or drainage systems in the state, you must become a licensed plumber. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to become a licensed plumber in NC, step by step, so you can start your journey with confidence and clarity.
What Are the Plumbing License Types in North Carolina?
North Carolina issues three main plumbing license classifications through the NC State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating, and Fire Sprinkler Contractors:
- Apprentice Plumber – Entry-level; works under direct supervision.
- Journeyman Plumber – Can work independently on residential and light commercial jobs.
- Master Plumber – Authorized to pull permits, design systems, and run a plumbing business.
💡 Did You Know? As of 2024, North Carolina requires all plumbing work—even minor repairs—to be performed by a licensed professional or under the direct supervision of one. Unlicensed plumbing can result in fines up to $5,000.
Step 1: Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet these non-negotiable criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Possess a valid Social Security Number
- Pass a background check (no felony convictions related to fraud, theft, or violence)
No prior experience is needed to start as an apprentice, making this an accessible entry point for career changers or recent graduates.
Step 2: Register as an Apprentice Plumber
To legally train in the field, you must register with the NC State Board. Here’s how:
- Complete the Apprentice Application (available on ncboard.org )
- Pay the $30 registration fee
- Submit proof of employment with a licensed plumbing contractor
Once approved, you’ll receive an Apprentice ID card valid for one year (renewable up to 5 years).
📌 Pro Tip: Keep detailed logs of your work hours. You’ll need 2,000 hours per year (4,000 total) to qualify for the Journeyman exam.
Step 3: Complete Required Training & Work Experience
North Carolina mandates hands-on experience paired with classroom instruction:
Work Hours | 4,000 hours under a licensed Journeyman or Master Plumber (min. 2 years) |
Classroom Training | 300+ hours from an approved program (e.g., community college or trade school) |
Popular training providers include:
- Wake Technical Community College (Raleigh)
- Central Piedmont Community College (Charlotte)
- Forsyth Tech (Winston-Salem)
These programs cover blueprint reading, pipefitting, local codes, and safety—critical for passing your exam.
🔗 For a full list of approved schools, visit the NC Community College System or check the state board’s website.
Step 4: Apply for the Journeyman Plumber Exam
Once you’ve completed your hours and training:
- Submit the Journeyman Application
- Pay the $90 exam fee
- Provide signed experience affidavits from your supervising plumber(s)
- Schedule your exam through PSI Exams (the state’s testing partner)
Exam Details:
- Format: 90 multiple-choice questions
- Time Limit: 4 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- Topics: NC Plumbing Code, system design, venting, drainage, gas piping, and safety
📊 Pass Rate Insight: In 2023, the first-time pass rate for the NC Journeyman exam was 68%—higher than the national average, thanks to strong prep programs.
Step 5: Pass the Exam & Get Licensed
After passing, you’ll receive your Journeyman Plumber License within 2–3 weeks. With it, you can:
- Work independently on most residential and light commercial jobs
- Pull permits (under your employer’s license)
- Earn $22–$35/hour (BLS 2024 data shows NC plumbers average $52,000/year, with top earners exceeding $75,000)
Step 6 (Optional): Advance to Master Plumber
Want to start your own business? You’ll need a Master Plumber License. Requirements:
- Hold a Journeyman license for at least 2 years
- Complete 2,000 additional supervised hours
- Pass the Master Plumber Exam ($100 fee, 100 questions, 5-hour limit)
Master plumbers in NC earn $65,000–$90,000+ annually, especially in high-demand areas like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Asheville.

Costs & Timeline Summary
Apprentice Registration | $30/year | Immediate |
Trade School (300 hrs) | $1,500–$4,000 | 6–12 months |
Journeyman Exam Fee | $90 | — |
License Issuance | $75 | 2–3 weeks post-exam |
Total Estimated Cost | $1,700–$4,200 | 2–3 years |
💡 Financial Aid Tip: Many NC community colleges offer scholarships or Workforce Innovation grants for trade students. Ask your school’s financial aid office!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Skipping classroom training – You must have both hours and education.
- ❌ Not logging hours properly – Use the board’s official affidavit forms.
- ❌ Assuming reciprocity – NC does not accept out-of-state licenses automatically.
- ❌ Working unlicensed – Even “helping a friend” can trigger penalties.
For more on licensing standards, see the plumbing profession overview on Wikipedia .
FAQ: How to Become a Licensed Plumber in NC
Q1: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in North Carolina?
A: Typically 2 to 3 years—including apprenticeship, training, and exam prep. You must complete 4,000 work hours and 300 classroom hours before sitting for the Journeyman exam.
Q2: Can I get a plumbing license in NC with no experience?
A: Yes—but only as an Apprentice. You’ll need to work under a licensed plumber while completing required training. No prior experience is needed to start.
Q3: Does North Carolina accept plumbing licenses from other states?
A: Not automatically. NC has limited reciprocity with a few states (e.g., South Carolina), but you’ll likely need to pass the NC exam regardless. Always check with the state board first.
Q4: How much does a plumber make in North Carolina?
A: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), the average annual wage is $52,300. Journeyman plumbers earn $22–$35/hour; Master plumbers often exceed $45/hour.
Q5: Do I need a contractor’s license to run a plumbing business in NC?
A: Yes. If you plan to operate as a business (LLC, sole proprietor, etc.), you must hold a Master Plumber License and register your business with the NC Secretary of State.
Q6: Is plumbing school required in North Carolina?
A: Yes—you must complete at least 300 hours of approved classroom instruction in addition to hands-on work. Online-only courses are not accepted unless part of a state-approved hybrid program.
Conclusion
Becoming a licensed plumber in North Carolina is a smart, future-proof career move. With strong demand, competitive pay, and clear licensing steps, the path is more accessible than ever. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or pivoting from another field, this trade offers stability, independence, and growth.
Ready to turn wrenches into wages? Share this guide with someone who’s considering a trade career—and take your first step toward a licensed plumbing future in NC today!
🔧 Your future in plumbing starts now—no leaks, no delays.
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