Hiring the wrong plumber can cost you thousands—not just in repair bills, but in legal headaches and safety risks. You’re not alone: nearly 1 in 4 homeowners report hiring an unlicensed contractor unknowingly (Consumer Reports, 2023). Fortunately, learning how to find out if plumber is licensed is simpler than you think. In this guide, we’ll walk you through reliable, step-by-step methods to verify any plumber’s credentials—quickly and for free.
Why Does a Plumbing License Matter?
Before diving into how to check a license, it’s crucial to understand why it matters.
Has completed required training (typically 2–5 years of apprenticeship)
Passed state or local exams on plumbing codes and safety
Carries liability insurance and bonding in most jurisdictions
Is legally authorized to perform plumbing work in your area
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 480,000 plumbers are employed in the U.S.—but only those with active licenses meet state safety and competency standards. Hiring an unlicensed plumber may void your homeowner’s insurance if something goes wrong.
💡 Pro Tip: In many states, it’s illegal to perform plumbing work without a license—and you could be fined for knowingly hiring someone unlicensed.
Step-by-Step: How to Find Out If Plumber Is Licensed
Follow these 5 verified steps to confirm a plumber’s license status with confidence.
1. Ask the Plumber Directly for Their License Number
Start simple: ask for their license number. A licensed, reputable plumber will provide it willingly—often on their business card, truck, or invoice.
📌 What to look for: The number should include a state abbreviation (e.g., “CA C-36” for California) or a local licensing authority ID.
2. Check Your State’s Contractor Licensing Board Website
Every U.S. state (except Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, and Vermont) requires plumbers to be licensed at the state or county level. Use your state’s official contractor board:
⚠️ Red Flag: If the license is inactive or expired, do not hire them.
3. Use the National Contractor License Search Tool
While licensing is state-based, the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) offers a centralized portal to find your state’s board: 🔗 https://www.nascla.org
This is especially helpful if you’re in a multi-state metro area (e.g., near D.C., Chicago, or Portland).
4. Verify Insurance and Bonding Separately
A license ≠ insurance. Always ask for:
General liability insurance (covers property damage)
Workers’ compensation (covers injuries to their crew)
Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and call the insurer to confirm it’s valid. Uninsured plumbers leave you liable for accidents on your property.
5. Cross-Check with Local Building Departments
For major jobs (e.g., water heater replacement, sewer line repair), permits are required. Call your local building or permits office and ask:
Is this plumber approved to pull permits in our jurisdiction?
Have they completed inspections successfully in the past?
🛠️ Real Example: In 2024, a Phoenix homeowner paid $6,000 for a “licensed” plumber who used a fake CSLB number. The city denied the permit, and the homeowner had to redo all work—after verifying licenses through www.cslb.ca.gov .
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make When Verifying Licenses
Avoid these pitfalls:
❌ Assuming “licensed” means “insured” → Always verify both.
Contact your local Better Business Bureau (BBB) to file a complaint.
Consult a lawyer if substandard work caused damage.
In some states (like California), you may be entitled to triple damages under consumer protection laws.
Licensed vs. Unlicensed Plumbers: Key Differences
Training
2–5 years apprenticeship + exams
None required
Legal to work?
✅ Yes (with valid license)
❌ Illegal in most states
Insurance
Typically carries liability & workers’ comp
Rarely insured
Permits
Can legally pull permits
Cannot obtain permits
Code compliance
Follows local plumbing codes
Often cuts corners
Recourse if work fails
State board can mediate
Little to no legal protection
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do all states require plumbers to be licensed?
A: Most do—but licensing may be at the state, county, or city level. Five states (Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Vermont) have no statewide plumbing license, but many cities within them still require local permits or registration.
Q: Can I check a plumber’s license for free?
A: Yes! All official state contractor board websites offer free license lookup tools. Never pay a third party to verify a license.
Q: What does a plumbing license number look like?
A: It varies by state. Examples:
California: “C-36 #123456”
Texas: “T0012345”
Florida: “CFC123456”
Always confirm format on your state’s licensing site.
Q: Is a general contractor license the same as a plumbing license?
A: No. A general contractor may subcontract plumbing work—but the actual plumber must hold a specialty plumbing license. Never assume general licensing covers plumbing.
Q: How often do plumbing licenses expire?
A: Typically every 1–2 years. Renewal requires continuing education in many states. Always check the expiration date during verification.
Q: Can I verify a plumber’s license over the phone?
A: Yes—call your state licensing board with the plumber’s name or license number. But online verification is faster and provides more detail (e.g., complaint history).
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Home and Wallet
Knowing how to find out if plumber is licensed isn’t just bureaucratic—it’s a critical safety and financial safeguard. A few minutes of verification can prevent leaks, code violations, insurance denials, and even home damage.
✅ Take action now: Before you approve any plumbing work,
Ask for the license number
Verify it online
Confirm insurance
Then breathe easy knowing you’ve hired a true professional.
💬 Found this guide helpful? Share it with friends on Facebook, Pinterest, or Nextdoor—help others avoid plumbing scams too!
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