Dreaming of a stable, high-demand career in the trades? Plumbing is a smart choice—but in Massachusetts, you must be licensed to work legally. If you’re wondering how to get a plumbing license in Mass, you’re not alone. Thousands of aspiring plumbers search this every year, and the process can feel overwhelming without clear guidance. Don’t worry: this guide breaks it down into simple, actionable steps—so you can go from apprentice to licensed plumber with confidence.
What Are the Plumbing License Types in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts recognizes three main plumbing license levels, each with specific privileges and requirements:
- Apprentice Plumber – Entry-level; works under direct supervision.
- Journeyman Plumber – Can perform most plumbing tasks independently but cannot pull permits or run a business.
- Master Plumber – Full authority: can design systems, pull permits, supervise others, and own a plumbing business.
💡 Fact: According to the Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters, over 12,000 active plumbing licenses are currently held in the state (2023 data).
Understanding which license you need is your first step. Most beginners start as apprentices, then progress to journeyman, and eventually master status.
Step 1: Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet Massachusetts’ baseline criteria:
- Age: At least 18 years old.
- Education: High school diploma or GED.
- Legal Status: Authorized to work in the U.S.
- Criminal Record: Certain felonies may disqualify you—disclosure is required.
While formal education isn’t mandatory, many candidates complete vocational training. For example, programs at Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology (Boston) or Worcester Technical High School offer hands-on prep aligned with state standards.
Step 2: Complete Required Work Experience
Experience is non-negotiable in MA plumbing licensing. Here’s what you’ll need:
| License Level | Required Experience | Supervision Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Journeyman | 6,000 hours (≈3 years full-time) | Yes – under a licensed Master Plumber |
| Master | Additional 2,000 hours (≈1 year) after Journeyman | Yes – performing master-level work |
✅ Important: All hours must be documented and verified by your supervising master plumber. The state may audit your logbook.
Many apprentices track hours using the Massachusetts Plumbing Apprentice Log Sheet, available on the Division of Professional Licensure (DPL) website.
Step 3: Enroll in and Complete a State-Approved Training Program
Massachusetts requires at least 550 hours of classroom instruction for journeyman applicants. Approved programs cover:
- Plumbing codes (based on the Massachusetts State Plumbing Code, which adopts parts of the IPC)
- Blueprint reading
- Backflow prevention
- Gas fitting (if pursuing gas endorsement)
- Safety and sanitation
Programs are offered by:
- Community colleges (e.g., Quinsigamond Community College)
- Trade unions (e.g., UA Local 12 in Boston)
- Private trade schools
🔍 Pro Tip: Choose a program that includes exam prep—many report 85%+ pass rates for their graduates.
Step 4: Apply for Your Exam Through the DPL
Once you’ve met experience and education requirements:
- Create an account on the Massachusetts DPL portal.
- Submit your application with:
- Proof of education
- Work experience affidavits
- $115 exam fee (as of 2025)
- Receive Authorization to Test (ATT) – usually within 2–4 weeks.
Exams are administered by PSI Services LLC at testing centers in Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and more.
Step 5: Pass the Massachusetts Plumbing Exam
The Journeyman Plumbing Exam is 100 multiple-choice questions, 4-hour time limit. Topics include:
- Vents and venting (22%)
- Drainage systems (20%)
- Fixtures & faucets (15%)
- Water supply systems (15%)
- Massachusetts amendments to national codes (28%)
📚 Study Resources:
- Massachusetts State Plumbing Code (2021 edition)
- PSI’s Official Candidate Bulletin
- Practice exams from PlumbingExam.com or RedVector
The passing score is 70%. Historically, first-time pass rates hover around 65%, so thorough prep is key.
ℹ️ Fun Fact: Massachusetts plumbing regulations are among the strictest in New England due to historic infrastructure and winter climate challenges—so the exam emphasizes local amendments over generic national code.
For deeper context on plumbing systems and history, see Plumbing on Wikipedia.
Step 6: Receive Your License and Maintain It
After passing:
- Your Journeyman license is issued digitally within 1–2 weeks.
- You must renew every 2 years (odd-numbered years).
- Continuing Education: 12 hours every renewal cycle (including 1 hour on workplace safety).
To advance to Master Plumber, repeat the process with higher experience requirements and a more complex exam (125 questions, includes business law and system design).
Journeyman vs. Master Plumber in MA: Key Differences
| Feature | Journeyman | Master |
|---|---|---|
| Work Autonomy | Can work alone on jobs | Can design systems & supervise |
| Pull Permits? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Start a Business? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Exam Difficulty | Moderate | Advanced + business law |
| Avg. Salary (2025) | $62,000 | $85,000+ |
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics + Mass.gov wage surveys)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Underreporting hours: Submit only verified, documented experience.
- Ignoring local amendments: 28% of the exam covers MA-specific rules.
- Skipping gas fitting training: Even if not pursuing gas endorsement now, basic knowledge helps.
- Missing deadlines: Applications expire if you don’t test within 90 days of ATT.
FAQ Section
Q: How long does it take to get a plumbing license in Massachusetts?
A: Most candidates take 3–4 years: 3 years as an apprentice (6,000 hours) + training + exam prep. Accelerated paths exist if you have military or out-of-state experience (evaluated case-by-case).
Q: Can I get a plumbing license in MA with a felony?
A: It depends. The Board reviews applications individually. Crimes involving fraud, violence, or public safety may disqualify you. Full disclosure is required—hiding a record leads to automatic denial or revocation.
Q: Do I need a separate license for gas fitting?
A: Yes. Massachusetts treats plumbing and gas fitting as distinct trades. You can hold one or both licenses. Many plumbers get dual endorsements to increase job opportunities.
Q: Is there reciprocity with other states?
A: No. Massachusetts does not have formal reciprocity agreements. Even licensed plumbers from neighboring states (e.g., NH, RI) must meet MA’s full requirements—but prior experience may count toward hour requirements.
Q: How much does it cost to get licensed?
A: Total costs range from $800–$2,500, including:
- Training ($500–$1,500)
- Exam fee ($115)
- Application & licensing fees ($100–$150)
- Study materials ($100–$200)
Q: Can I work while waiting for my license?
A: Only as an apprentice under direct supervision of a Master Plumber. Performing plumbing work without proper licensing is a misdemeanor in MA and can result in fines up to $1,000 per violation.
Conclusion
Knowing how to get a plumbing license in Mass opens doors to a rewarding, recession-resistant career with strong earning potential. With clear steps—gain experience, complete training, pass the exam, and maintain your credentials—you’ll join a trusted network of professionals keeping Massachusetts’ homes and businesses running smoothly.
🛠️ Ready to start? Share this guide with a friend who’s considering the trades—or post it on LinkedIn to help others in your network!
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