Dreaming of a stable, in-demand career with hands-on work and strong earning potential? You’re not alone. Many Americans are turning to skilled trades like plumbing—especially in fast-growing states like Nevada. But if you’re wondering how to become a licensed plumber in Nevada, you’ve come to the right place. This guide breaks down every step clearly, so you can start your journey with confidence.
Why Get a Plumbing License in Nevada?
Nevada’s construction boom—especially in Las Vegas and Reno—has created consistent demand for licensed plumbers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of plumbers is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. In Nevada specifically, the need is even greater due to population growth and infrastructure development.
Without a license, you can’t legally perform plumbing work beyond minor repairs. A state-issued license not only keeps you compliant but also builds trust with clients and opens doors to higher-paying jobs.
Step 1: Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet Nevada’s minimum criteria:
Be at least 18 years old
Have a high school diploma or GED
Be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
Pass a background check (felony convictions may disqualify you)
💡 Tip: Nevada doesn’t require citizenship, but you must provide valid work authorization documents.
Step 2: Complete a Plumbing Apprenticeship
Nevada does not issue journeyman licenses, but you must gain hands-on experience before sitting for the contractor’s exam. The standard path is a 4- to 5-year apprenticeship registered with the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) or a U.S. Department of Labor-recognized program.
What your apprenticeship includes:
8,000+ hours of on-the-job training
576+ hours of classroom instruction
Training in pipefitting, drainage systems, water supply, code compliance, and safety
You can find apprenticeships through:
Local unions (e.g., UA Local 525 in Las Vegas)
Trade schools like Truckee Meadows Community College (Reno)
Private employers approved by the NSCB
📊 Fact: Apprentices in Nevada earn while they learn—average starting wage: $18–$22/hour, rising to $30+/hour by completion.
Step 3: Gain Required Work Experience
To qualify for a Plumbing Contractor License (the primary license in Nevada), you need:
4 years (8,000 hours) of full-time plumbing experience within the last 10 years
At least 1 year must be in residential or commercial plumbing (not just maintenance)
Experience must be verified by a licensed contractor or employer using the NSCB’s “Certification of Work Experience” form.
⚠️ Important: Volunteer work or unlicensed contracting doesn’t count. All hours must be legal and documented.
Step 4: Pass the Nevada Plumbing Contractor Exam
Once you meet the experience requirement, you can apply to take the Plumbing Contractor Examination through PSI Services, the state’s testing provider.
Business & law (contracts, insurance, licensing rules)
Technical plumbing systems
📘 Study tip: Use the NSCB’s official exam content outline and consider prep courses from providers like Builders License Training Institute or Contractor Training Center.
Cost:
Application fee: $100
Exam fee: $100
License fee (if passed): $300–$600 (based on business structure)
Step 5: Obtain Required Insurance & Register Your Business
After passing the exam, you must:
Secure a surety bond: $1,000–$50,000 (based on business size)
Get liability insurance: Minimum $100,000 per occurrence
Register your business with the Nevada Secretary of State (if forming an LLC or corporation)
Submit final license application to NSCB with all documents
Once approved, you’ll receive your C-1d Plumbing Contractor License, valid for 2 years.
🔁 Renewal: Licenses renew biennially. You’ll need to complete 8 hours of continuing education (including 1 hour on Nevada laws) before renewal.
Nevada Plumbing License vs. Other States: Key Differences
Journeyman License?
❌ No
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
Exam Focus
Business + IPC
Trade + Law
Trade + Business
Experience Required
4 years
4 years
4 years
Reciprocity
Limited
None
Some with UT, NV, CA
Nevada’s system is contractor-focused, meaning you skip the journeyman tier and aim directly for contractor status. This can accelerate your path to owning a business—but also demands broader knowledge.
Skipping formal apprenticeships: On-the-job experience alone may not meet NSCB standards.
Underestimating the business portion: 30% of the exam covers laws and management.
Using expired study materials: Nevada updates codes regularly—use 2024/2025 IPC editions.
Missing documentation: Incomplete work verification is the #1 reason for application denial.
FAQ: How To Become a Licensed Plumber in Nevada
Q1: Do I need a license to do plumbing in Nevada?
Yes. Any plumbing work valued at $1,000 or more (labor + materials) requires a licensed C-1d contractor. Minor repairs under $1,000 may be done without a license—but you can’t advertise as a plumber.
Q2: Can I get a Nevada license with an out-of-state license?
Nevada has limited reciprocity with Utah and Arizona for certain trades, but not for plumbing. You’ll still need to take the full exam.
Q3: How much does it cost to become a licensed plumber in Nevada?
Total costs range from $1,000 to $2,500, including:
Apprenticeship tuition (if applicable)
Exam fees ($200)
Bond & insurance ($500–$1,500)
License application ($300–$600)
Q4: How long does it take to get licensed?
Typically 4–5 years, mostly due to the required apprenticeship and experience. The exam and licensing process itself takes 4–8 weeks once you apply.
Q5: Can I work under someone else’s license while training?
Yes—as an employee of a licensed contractor. You cannot pull permits or sign contracts, but you can gain legal, countable experience.
Q6: Are there continuing education requirements?
Yes. 8 hours every 2 years, including 1 hour on Nevada laws and 7 hours on technical or safety topics approved by NSCB.
Conclusion: Start Your Plumbing Career in Nevada Today
Becoming a licensed plumber in Nevada isn’t just about fixing pipes—it’s about building a recession-resistant career, serving your community, and potentially running your own business. With clear steps, strong demand, and solid earning potential (average salary: $62,000–$85,000/year), now is an excellent time to get started.
Ready to take the first step? 👉 Share this guide with someone exploring a trade career—and visit the Nevada State Contractors Board to download application forms today!
Follow us on social media for more skilled trade guides—because your future doesn’t need a four-year degree, just the right direction. 💧🔧
Leave a Reply