Dreaming of a stable, hands-on career with strong earning potential? Plumbing is a high-demand trade in Tennessee, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 12% job growth for plumbers nationwide through 2032—faster than average. But before you can fix a leaky faucet or install a new water heater legally, you need to know how to become a licensed plumber in Tennessee. This guide walks you through every requirement, timeline, and tip to get you licensed, working, and thriving in the Volunteer State.
What Are the Basic Requirements to Become a Plumber in Tennessee?
Before diving into training or exams, ensure you meet Tennessee’s baseline eligibility:
Age: At least 18 years old
Education: High school diploma or GED
Legal Status: U.S. citizen or authorized to work in the U.S.
Criminal Background: No disqualifying criminal history (minor offenses may be reviewed case-by-case)
Tennessee doesn’t require a state-wide journeyman license, but most cities and counties do—especially Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Always check with your local plumbing board first.
💡 Pro Tip: While Tennessee lacks a single statewide plumbing license, the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors (TBLC) oversees plumbing contractors. If you plan to run your own business or pull permits, you’ll likely need a Plumbing Contractor License from TBLC.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Licensed Plumber in Tennessee
Step 1: Complete a Plumbing Apprenticeship (4–5 Years)
Tennessee strongly encourages (and many jurisdictions require) formal apprenticeship training. You’ll combine on-the-job experience with classroom instruction.
Duration: Typically 4–5 years
Hours Required: 6,000–8,000 hours of hands-on work
Classroom Hours: ~500–1,000 hours in plumbing theory, code, safety, and math
You can find apprenticeships through:
Unions (e.g., UA Local 572 in Nashville)
Trade schools (e.g., Tennessee College of Applied Technology – TCAT)
Private plumbing companies that sponsor trainees
📊 Did You Know? Graduates of TCAT programs report 90%+ job placement rates within 6 months of completion (source: Tennessee Board of Regents ).
Step 2: Gain Experience as a Plumber Trainee or Helper
While in your apprenticeship, you’ll work under a licensed master plumber. Keep detailed logs of your hours—many local boards require signed verification from your supervising plumber.
Step 3: Apply for a Journeyman Plumber License (If Required Locally)
Cities like Memphis and Knoxville issue journeyman licenses. Requirements vary, but generally include:
Memphis
4 years
Yes
$100
Knoxville
4 years
Yes
$75
Nashville
Not issued (work under contractor)
No
N/A
Check your city’s building or codes department website for exact rules.
Step 4: Pass the Required Exams
If your jurisdiction requires a journeyman exam, expect questions on:
Pass the TBLC Plumbing Contractor Exam (business & law + trade sections)
Provide proof of $10,000 surety bond
Carry general liability insurance ($300,000 minimum)
📌 Note: The TBLC exam is open-book but challenging—focus on Tennessee-specific regulations and business practices.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Licensed?
Apprenticeship Tuition (TCAT)
$3,000–$6,000 (often subsidized)
Exam Fees (local or TBLC)
$75–$150
Application Fees
$50–$200
Bond & Insurance (for contractors)
$500–$1,500/year
Study Materials
$100–$300
Total startup cost: $4,000–$8,000 (much lower than a 4-year college degree).
Pros and Cons of Becoming a Licensed Plumber in Tennessee
✅ High demand—low unemployment
❌ Physically demanding work
✅ Earn while you learn (apprenticeships pay $15–$20/hr)
❌ On-call/emergency hours possible
✅ No student debt (vs. college)
❌ Licensing varies by city—can be confusing
✅ Path to entrepreneurship
❌ Must stay updated on code changes
Real Success Story: From Helper to Business Owner
James R., 28, started as a plumbing helper in Chattanooga with no experience. He enrolled in TCAT Cleveland’s plumbing program while working part-time. After 4 years, he passed Knoxville’s journeyman exam, then earned his TBLC contractor license at 26. Today, he runs Summit Plumbing Co., employing 5 technicians and earning over $90,000/year.
“The hardest part was studying after long workdays,” James says. “But knowing I’d never be stuck in a dead-end job kept me going.”
FAQ: How to Become a Licensed Plumber in Tennessee
Q1: Do I need a license to do plumbing work in Tennessee?
A: It depends on your location and job scope. In Nashville, you can work under a licensed contractor without your own license. But in Memphis or Knoxville, you need a journeyman license for most residential/commercial work. Always verify with your local building department.
Q2: Can I get licensed without an apprenticeship?
A: Technically yes—if you can prove 4+ years of verifiable experience, some cities may let you sit for the journeyman exam. But apprenticeships are the fastest, most reliable path and often paid.
Q3: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in Tennessee?
A: Typically 4–5 years through an apprenticeship. If you already have experience, you might qualify for exams in 1–2 years.
Q4: What’s the difference between a journeyman and a contractor license?
A: A journeyman works under a licensed contractor. A contractor can run a business, pull permits, and supervise others. You usually need journeyman-level experience before applying for a contractor license.
Q5: Are online plumbing courses accepted in Tennessee?
A: For apprenticeship classroom hours, in-person or hybrid programs (like TCAT’s) are preferred. Fully online courses rarely satisfy hands-on requirements. However, online prep courses for exams are widely used and accepted.
Q6: Where can I find plumbing jobs after getting licensed?
A: Tennessee has strong demand in growing cities like Franklin, Murfreesboro, and Clarksville. Check job boards like Indeed, local union halls, or the Home Builders Association of Tennessee .
Conclusion
Knowing how to become a licensed plumber in Tennesseeopens doors to a recession-resistant, well-paying career with room to grow. Whether you aim to work for a company or launch your own plumbing business, the path is clear: train, gain experience, pass your exams, and get licensed. With median plumber salaries in TN hovering around $55,000–$70,000 (and top earners clearing $90K+), the investment pays off fast.
Ready to turn wrenches into wages? Share this guide with a friend considering a trade career—and take your first step toward a licensed future today! 🔧
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