Thinking about becoming a licensed plumber in Missouri? You’re not alone. With steady demand for skilled tradespeople and strong job growth projected through 2030, plumbing offers a stable, well-paying career path. But before you can legally work on residential or commercial plumbing systems in the Show-Me State, you’ll need to earn your plumbing license in Missouri. This guide walks you through every step—from apprenticeship to exam day—so you can start your career with confidence.
What Types of Plumbing Licenses Exist in Missouri?
Missouri offers three main plumbing license classifications, each with distinct responsibilities and requirements:
- Apprentice Plumber
- Entry-level; works under direct supervision of a licensed journeyman or master plumber.
- No state exam required to start—just register with the Missouri Division of Professional Registration (DPR).
- Journeyman Plumber
- Can work independently on most plumbing installations and repairs.
- Must pass a state-administered exam after completing required experience.
- Master Plumber
- Authorized to design systems, pull permits, supervise apprentices, and own a plumbing business.
- Requires additional experience and a separate, more advanced exam.
💡 Note: Missouri does not issue statewide contractor licenses for plumbing—licensing is handled at the state level by the DPR, but some cities (like Kansas City or St. Louis) may have additional local requirements.
Step-by-Step: How To Get a Plumbing License in Missouri
Step 1: Register as an Apprentice
Before you can count hours toward licensure, you must register as an apprentice with the Missouri Board of Plumbing Examiners (under the DPR).
- Fee: $25 (as of 2025)
- Requirements:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Provide proof of employment with a licensed Missouri plumber
- Submit an application online via the DPR portal
Once registered, your work hours begin counting toward your journeyman eligibility.
Step 2: Complete Required Experience Hours
To qualify for the Journeyman Plumber exam, you need:
- 4 years (8,000 hours) of practical plumbing experience
- At least 1,000 hours per year must be hands-on field work
- Experience must be verified by a licensed journeyman or master plumber
📊 Stat Insight: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Missouri employs over 6,200 plumbers, with a projected 6% job growth by 2032—faster than the national average.
Step 3: Complete Classroom Instruction (If Required)
While Missouri does not mandate formal classroom hours for journeyman applicants, many successful candidates complete supplemental training through:
- Trade schools (e.g., Ranken Technical College in St. Louis)
- Union apprenticeship programs (UA Local 513)
- Online courses covering the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)
These programs help you understand code compliance, blueprint reading, and safety—key topics on the exam.
Step 4: Apply for the Journeyman Exam
Submit your exam application to the DPR at least 30 days before your desired test date.
- Application fee: $75
- Exam fee: $90
- Required documents:
- Proof of 8,000 hours (signed by employer)
- Government-issued ID
- Completed application form
Exams are administered by PSI Services LLC at testing centers in Jefferson City, Kansas City, Springfield, and St. Louis.
Step 5: Pass the Missouri Journeyman Plumbing Exam
The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, covering:
- General plumbing knowledge (40%)
- Missouri-specific codes and regulations (30%)
- Plan reading and isometric drawings (20%)
- Safety and installation practices (10%)
- Passing score: 70%
- Time limit: 4 hours
- Reference materials allowed: 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)
✅ Pro Tip: Use PSI’s official study guide and take practice tests. Over 60% of first-time takers who use prep courses pass on their first attempt.
Step 6: Receive Your License & Maintain It
Once you pass, your Journeyman Plumber license is issued within 2–3 weeks.
- License renewal: Every 2 years
- Renewal fee: $60
- Continuing education: Not currently required in Missouri, but recommended to stay current with code updates.
Missouri vs. Neighboring States: License Comparison
| Missouri | 4 years | Yes | Limited |
| Illinois | 4–5 years | Yes | No |
| Kansas | 4 years | Yes | Partial (via IC&RC) |
| Arkansas | 4 years | Yes | No |
🔗 For more on plumbing regulations across the U.S., see the Wikipedia page on plumbing codes .
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not registering as an apprentice early: Unregistered hours don’t count!
- Underestimating code knowledge: The exam heavily tests UPC and Missouri amendments.
- Missing documentation: Incomplete applications cause 3–6 week delays.
- Ignoring local rules: Cities like Columbia may require business registration even if you’re licensed statewide.
How Long Does It Take to Get Licensed?
On average:
- Apprenticeship: 4 years (minimum)
- Exam scheduling: 2–6 weeks after application
- License issuance: 2–3 weeks post-exam
Total timeline: Approximately 4 to 4.5 years from day one.
FAQ: How To Get a Plumbing License in Missouri
Q1: Do I need a license to do plumbing work in Missouri?
A: Yes. Missouri law requires anyone performing plumbing work for compensation to hold a valid state-issued plumbing license (apprentice, journeyman, or master). Unlicensed work can result in fines up to $1,000 per violation.
Q2: Can I get a Missouri plumbing license with out-of-state experience?
A: Possibly. Missouri does not have full reciprocity, but you can apply for licensure by endorsement if you hold a current license in another state with comparable requirements. You’ll still need to pass Missouri’s exam.
Q3: How much does it cost to get a plumbing license in Missouri?
A: Total estimated cost:
- Apprentice registration: $25
- Journeyman application + exam: $165
- Optional prep course: $200–$500
- Total: $390–$700 (not including lost wages during study)
Q4: Is there a demand for plumbers in Missouri?
A: Absolutely. The Missouri Department of Economic Development reports a shortage of skilled trades workers, especially in urban areas. Licensed plumbers earn an average of $58,000/year, with top earners exceeding $85,000.
Q5: Can I start my own plumbing business with a journeyman license?
A: No. Only Master Plumbers can legally own and operate a plumbing contracting business in Missouri. You’ll need an additional 2 years of experience (beyond journeyman) to qualify for the master exam.
Q6: Where can I find approved plumbing apprenticeships in Missouri?
A: Check with:
- UA Local 513 (St. Louis/Kansas City)
- Ranken Technical College
- Missouri Works Initiative (state workforce program)
- Local unions and trade associations
Conclusion
Earning your plumbing license in Missouri is a smart investment in a recession-resistant career with strong earning potential. While the process takes time and dedication, the steps are clear: register as an apprentice, log your hours, study the codes, pass the exam, and launch your future.
If this guide helped you, share it with someone considering a trade career—they’ll thank you later! 💧🔧
Follow us for more expert guides on skilled trades, licensing, and career growth in the U.S.
Leave a Reply