Dreaming of a stable, well-paid career in the skilled trades? You’re not alone—plumbing is one of the fastest-growing blue-collar professions in the U.S., with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 5% job growth through 2032. If you’re in Michigan, getting a plumbing license isn’t just a career boost—it’s a legal requirement to work independently. But where do you start?
This guide walks you through exactly how to get a plumbing license in Michigan, from apprenticeships to exams, with insider tips to avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re a beginner or already turning wrenches, we’ve got you covered.
What Types of Plumbing Licenses Exist in Michigan?
Michigan offers two main plumbing licenses, regulated by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA):
Journey Plumber License
Allows you to perform plumbing work under the supervision of a Master Plumber.
Required before you can sit for the Master exam.
Master Plumber License
Lets you operate independently, pull permits, and supervise apprentices and journeymen.
Required to start your own plumbing business in Michigan.
💡 Note: Michigan does not require a separate “contractor’s license” for plumbing work—your Master Plumber license doubles as your contractor credential.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Plumbing License in Michigan
Step 1: Complete a State-Approved Plumbing Apprenticeship
You must complete 4 years (or 6,000 hours) of hands-on experience under a licensed Master Plumber. This typically includes:
On-the-job training: Minimum 1,500 hours per year
Classroom instruction: At least 144 hours annually (covering codes, safety, blueprint reading, etc.)
Online prep courses (e.g., Builder’s License Training Institute)
Schedule your exam at psiexams.com after LARA approves your application (processing takes 2–4 weeks).
Step 4: Receive Your License & Maintain It
Once you pass:
LARA issues your license within 7–10 business days
You’ll receive a license number—required on all work vehicles and advertising
Renewal:
Licenses expire every 3 years
Requires 3 hours of continuing education (must include Michigan code updates)
Renewal fee: $60 (Journey), $72 (Master)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Skipping official apprenticeship registration → Hours may not count ❌ Using outdated code books → Michigan adopted the 2021 UPC in 2022 ❌ Missing continuing education → Leads to license suspension ❌ Working without a license → Fines up to $5,000 per violation under Michigan law
⚠️ Remember: Only licensed Master Plumbers can pull permits in Michigan. Working without one risks legal and safety liabilities.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Licensed in Michigan?
Apprenticeship tuition (if applicable)
$0–$5,000
Application fee
$100–$120
Exam fee (PSI)
$96
Study materials
$100–$300
Continuing education (every 3 years)
$60–$150
Total out-of-pocket (excluding apprenticeship): ~$300–$600.
For context, the average hourly wage for a licensed plumber in Michigan is $28–$42/hour (BLS, 2024). Most recoup licensing costs within 1–2 months of full-time work.
Why Get Licensed? The Real Benefits
✅ Higher Earnings: Master Plumbers earn 20–35% more than unlicensed technicians ✅ Legal Protection: Avoid fines and work stoppages ✅ Business Opportunities: Start your own company with just a Master License ✅ Public Trust: Licensing signals professionalism and skill—key for client retention
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , Michigan employs over 12,000 plumbers, with demand especially high in Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Lansing due to aging infrastructure.
Plumbing Licenses vs. Other States: A Quick Comparison
Michigan’s licensing is moderately strict—stricter than Ohio (no state license), but less complex than Illinois (requires business insurance + bonding).
A: Yes—Michigan offers reciprocity for plumbers licensed in states with equivalent requirements (e.g., Wisconsin, Ohio for limited scopes). You’ll still need to pass Michigan’s exam and prove 6,000 hours of experience. Submit a Reciprocity Application through LARA.
Q2: How long does the entire process take?
A: Typically 4–5 years—4 years for the apprenticeship + 1–3 months for application, exam scheduling, and approval. If you already have experience, it may take as little as 3–6 months.
Q3: Do I need a business license too?
A: Only if you’re forming an LLC or corporation. Your Master Plumber license allows you to operate as a sole proprietor. However, local cities (e.g., Detroit) may require a local business registration—check with your city clerk.
Q4: Can felons get a plumbing license in Michigan?
A: It depends. LARA reviews criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Violent or fraud-related felonies may disqualify you, but many non-violent offenses won’t—if disclosed upfront.
Q5: Is there a temporary license while I wait for exam results?
A: No. You must hold a Journey License to work unsupervised. Until then, you must work under a Master Plumber’s direct supervision.
Q6: Where can I find approved continuing education courses?
A: LARA maintains a list of approved providers here . Most courses are online and take 1–3 hours to complete.
Conclusion
Getting a plumbing license in Michigan is a smart investment in your future. It opens doors to higher income, entrepreneurship, and job security in a trade that’s always in demand. While the process requires time and effort, the 4-year apprenticeship builds real-world skills that no classroom alone can provide.
Now that you know exactly how to get a plumbing license in Michigan, take the next step: 👉 Share this guide with someone starting their plumbing journey! 📲 Follow us on LinkedIn or Facebook for more trade career tips.
Your future as a licensed Michigan plumber starts today—one pipe at a time.
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