Dreaming of a stable, in-demand career in the Sunshine State? With Florida’s booming construction and real estate markets, skilled plumbers are more essential than ever. But before you can legally install pipes or fix leaks for pay, you must know how to get a plumbing license in Florida. This guide walks you through every requirement, exam detail, and insider tip—so you can earn your license with confidence and start working legally.
Why Do You Need a Plumbing License in Florida?
In Florida, it’s illegal to perform plumbing work for compensation without a state-issued license. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) enforces this to protect public health and safety. Unlicensed plumbing can lead to fines up to $5,000 per violation—and even criminal charges.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, plumbers in Florida earn a median annual wage of $52,000, with experienced licensed contractors often making $70,000+. A license isn’t just a legal formality—it’s your ticket to higher pay, credibility, and business opportunities.
Who Regulates Plumbing Licenses in Florida?
The Florida DBPR oversees all plumbing licensing through its Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). There are two main license types:
Registered Plumbing Contractor License – Limited to specific counties or municipalities (less common and more restrictive).
Most professionals aim for the Certified Plumbing Contractor license, which we’ll focus on here.
💡 Pro Tip: Always verify license status via the DBPR’s online portal before hiring or partnering with a plumber.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Plumbing License in Florida
Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet all of the following:
Be at least 18 years old.
Have a U.S. Social Security Number.
Possess 4 years of verifiable plumbing experience (6,000+ hours) under a licensed contractor within the last 10 years.
At least 1 year must be as a journeyman plumber or equivalent supervisory role.
Hold a high school diploma or GED.
⚠️ Important: Volunteer work, military service (with proper documentation), or apprenticeship hours can count—but you must provide detailed affidavits from licensed supervisors.
Administered by Pearson VUE at testing centers statewide.
📚 Study Smart: Use DBPR-approved prep materials. The International Code Council (ICC) and PSI offer practice tests. Most successful candidates spend 60–100 hours studying.
Step 4: Submit Your Application & Documentation
Once you pass the exam, submit your Certified Plumbing Contractor application to the DBPR with:
Proof of exam passage.
Experience affidavits (Form DBPR PR 20).
Course completion certificates.
$245 application fee.
Fingerprinting for background check (via Livescan).
Processing takes 4–8 weeks. You’ll receive your license number once approved.
Step 5: Maintain Your License
Your license is valid for 2 years. To renew, you must:
Complete 14 hours of continuing education (including 1 hour on Florida laws).
Pay the $205 renewal fee.
Ensure your liability insurance ($300,000 minimum) is active.
Failure to renew on time results in late fees or license lapse—requiring re-examination if expired over 12 months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Underestimating experience documentation: Vague affidavits get rejected. Include dates, job descriptions, and supervisor contact info.
❌ Skipping the Laws & Rules course: It’s mandatory—even if you’ve worked in Florida for years.
❌ Confusing registered vs. certified licenses: Only the certified license lets you work anywhere in Florida.
❌ Ignoring insurance requirements: You need general liability and workers’ comp (if hiring).
Florida Plumbing License vs. Other States: Key Differences
Unlike states like Texas or California, Florida does not require a separate journeyman license before becoming a contractor. However, it does demand more hands-on experience (4 years vs. 2–3 in many states).
Also, Florida’s exam heavily emphasizes local amendments to the International Plumbing Code (IPC). For example, Florida requires backflow prevention on all irrigation systems—a detail often missed by out-of-state test-takers.
Q: Can I get a plumbing license in Florida with an out-of-state license?
A: Florida has no reciprocity agreements for plumbing licenses. Even if you’re licensed in Georgia or Alabama, you must meet Florida’s full requirements—including taking the state exam.
Q: How much does it cost to get a plumbing license in Florida?
A: Total costs range from $600 to $1,200, including:
Exam fee: $295
Application: $245
Courses: $100–$300
Fingerprinting: $50–$80
Insurance (first year): $500+
Q: How long does it take to get licensed?
A: From start to finish, most applicants take 6–12 months—depending on how quickly they gather experience proof, complete courses, and schedule the exam.
Q: Can I work as a plumber in Florida without a license?
A: Only if you’re an employee working under a licensed contractor. You cannot advertise, bid, or perform plumbing work independently without your own license.
Q: What if I fail the exam?
A: You can retake it after 30 days. Each retake costs $295. Most people pass on the second attempt with targeted study.
Q: Do I need a business license too?
A: Yes—your plumbing license allows you to do plumbing work, but you still need a local business tax receipt (from your city/county) to operate legally as a business.
Conclusion
Knowing how to get a plumbing license in Florida opens doors to a recession-resistant, high-demand career with strong earning potential. By following these steps—verifying your experience, acing the exam, and staying compliant—you’ll join over 25,000 licensed plumbing contractors in the state serving homeowners, builders, and businesses.
Ready to take the plunge? Bookmark this guide, share it with a friend considering the trade, or post your questions in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow us on social media for more career-licensing tips in construction and skilled trades.
🔧 Your future as a Florida plumber starts today—one pipe at a time.
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