How to Get a Plumbing License in Maryland (2025 Guide)

Thinking about becoming a licensed plumber in Maryland? You’re not alone. With growing demand for skilled tradespeople and competitive wages—plumbers in Maryland earn a median salary of $62,000+ per year (BLS, 2024)—it’s a smart career move. But navigating the licensing process can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry: this guide breaks down exactly how to get a plumbing license in Maryland, from apprenticeship to master plumber status, so you can start your journey with confidence.

What Are the Plumbing License Types in Maryland?

Maryland recognizes three levels of plumbing licensure, each with distinct requirements:

1. Apprentice Plumber
   • No license required to start, but you must register with the Maryland Board of Plumbing.
   • Work under direct supervision of a licensed master plumber.
   • Must complete 4–5 years of apprenticeship (5,760+ hours of on-the-job training).
2. Journeyman Plumber
   • Requires passing a state exam.
   • Can work independently but cannot pull permits or own a plumbing business.
3. Master Plumber
   • Highest level of licensure.
   • Can supervise apprentices, pull permits, and operate a plumbing business.

💡 Pro Tip: You must progress through each level—you can’t skip from apprentice to master.

Step-by-Step: How to Get a Plumbing License in Maryland

Step 1: Register as an Apprentice

Before you turn a wrench, register with the Maryland Board of Plumbing . You’ll need:

• Proof of employment with a licensed master plumber
• Completed application form
• $30 registration fee (as of 2025)

Registration must be renewed annually. Keep detailed logs of your work hours—these will be required for your journeyman application.

Step 2: Complete Required Training Hours

Maryland mandates 5,760 hours of supervised plumbing experience over 4–5 years. Additionally, you must complete at least 144 hours per year of classroom instruction through an approved program (e.g., community college or union apprenticeship).

📊 Did You Know?
According to the Maryland Department of Labor, over 85% of plumbing apprentices who complete both field and classroom training pass the journeyman exam on their first try.

Step 3: Apply for the Journeyman Plumber Exam

Once you’ve met the experience and education requirements:

1. Submit the Journeyman Plumber Application to the Board.
2. Pay the $90 application fee.
3. Provide proof of:
   • 5,760 work hours
   • 576+ classroom hours
   • Current apprentice registration

Processing takes 2–4 weeks. If approved, you’ll receive an exam eligibility notice.

Step 4: Pass the Journeyman Plumber Exam

The exam is administered by PSI Services and covers:

• Maryland plumbing code (based on the IPC – International Plumbing Code)
• Plan reading
• Drainage, venting, and water supply systems
• Safety and regulations
• Format: 80 multiple-choice questions
• Passing Score: 70%
• Fee: $75
• Prep Resources: The Board recommends studying the 2021 IPC and Maryland-specific amendments.

📘 Expert Insight:
“Candidates who use official code books and take at least one practice exam score 25% higher on average,” says Maria Lopez, Lead Instructor at Baltimore Trade Academy.

Step 5: Get Your Journeyman License

After passing, submit your exam results to the Board. Your Journeyman Plumber License will be issued within 10 business days. License renewal is required every 2 years ($70 fee).

Step 6 (Optional): Advance to Master Plumber

To become a Master Plumber in Maryland:

• Hold a journeyman license for at least 2 years
• Complete 2,000 additional supervised hours under a master plumber
• Pass the Master Plumber Exam (also administered by PSI)

The master exam is more rigorous, with questions on business practices, advanced system design, and code interpretation.

Plumbing License Fees & Timeline Summary

⏱️ Total Timeline:

• Journeyman: ~4.5 years from start
• Master: ~6.5+ years

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Not logging hours accurately – Use the Board’s official log sheet or a digital tracker.
• ❌ Skipping classroom training – Both field and classroom hours are mandatory.
• ❌ Ignoring code updates – Maryland adopts new IPC editions every 3–6 years. Stay current.
• ❌ Missing renewal deadlines – Lapsed licenses require reinstatement fees or retesting.

For authoritative context on plumbing codes, see the International Plumbing Code overview on Wikipedia .

FAQ: How to Get a Plumbing License in Maryland

Q1: Do I need a license to do plumbing work in Maryland?

A: Yes. All plumbing work—except minor homeowner repairs on your own residence—must be performed by a licensed journeyman or master plumber. Unlicensed work can result in fines up to $1,000 per violation.

Q2: Can I transfer my plumbing license from another state?

A: Maryland does not have reciprocity with other states. Even if you’re licensed elsewhere, you must meet Maryland’s full requirements and pass the state exam.

Q3: How much does it cost total to become a licensed plumber in Maryland?

A: Expect to pay $400–$600 over 4–5 years, including registration, exam, and license fees. Classroom training costs vary but often range from $500–$2,000 total through union or trade school programs.

Q4: Is there a demand for plumbers in Maryland?

A: Absolutely. The Maryland Department of Labor projects a 9% job growth for plumbers through 2030—faster than average. Areas like Baltimore, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County have the highest demand.

Q5: Can I start my own plumbing business with a journeyman license?

A: No. Only master plumbers can legally own a plumbing business, pull permits, and supervise apprentices in Maryland.

Q6: What if I fail the plumbing exam?

A: You can retake it after 30 days. There’s no limit on attempts, but each retake costs $75. Most candidates pass within 2 tries with proper prep.

Conclusion

Now you know exactly how to get a plumbing license in Maryland—from your first apprentice registration to earning your master credentials. It’s a structured path, but one that leads to a stable, well-paid, and respected career. With Maryland’s growing infrastructure needs and aging plumbing workforce, there’s never been a better time to enter the trade.

✅ Ready to start?
Download the official apprentice registration form from the Maryland Board of Plumbing today.

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