Thinking about launching a plumbing career in New Jersey? You’re not alone—thousands of skilled tradespeople choose plumbing each year for its stability, earning potential, and hands-on satisfaction. But before you can legally work on pipes, fixtures, or gas lines in the Garden State, you must obtain a plumbing license. This guide walks you through exactly how to get a plumbing license in NJ, step by step, with up-to-date requirements, insider tips, and official resources. Whether you’re an apprentice or a seasoned tradesperson from another state, we’ve got you covered.
What Types of Plumbing Licenses Exist in New Jersey?
New Jersey issues two main plumbing licenses through the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs (DCA) under the State Board of Examiners of Master Plumbers:
Journeyman Plumber License
Allows you to work under the supervision of a licensed Master Plumber.
Cannot pull permits or run your own plumbing business.
Master Plumber License
Full independent practice rights.
Can supervise journeymen, pull permits, and operate a plumbing business.
💡 Note: There is no “apprentice license” in NJ—apprentices work under a Master Plumber’s license without needing their own credential.
How to Get a Journeyman Plumbing License in NJ
To become a licensed Journeyman Plumber in New Jersey, you must meet these exact requirements:
1. Complete 5 Years of Full-Time Plumbing Experience
You need at least 5 years (8,000+ hours) of hands-on plumbing work under a licensed Master Plumber.
Part-time work counts proportionally (e.g., 20 hrs/week = 1 year of credit after 2 years).
Military plumbing experience may qualify—submit DD-214 for evaluation.
2. Pass the Journeyman Plumber Exam
Administered by PSI Services LLC, the state’s testing vendor.
Exam fee: $110 (as of 2024).
Covers:
NJ Plumbing Code (based on the IPC – International Plumbing Code)
Drainage, venting, water supply, gas piping, and safety regulations
Passing score: 70% or higher
📊 Stat: In 2023, the first-time pass rate for the NJ Journeyman exam was 68%—preparation is key!
Once you’ve held your Journeyman license for at least 1 year, you can pursue Master status.
1. Gain Additional Experience
Total required: 5 years as a Journeyman or equivalent (some experience can overlap).
Must include supervisory or complex system work (e.g., commercial plumbing, gas installations).
2. Pass the Master Plumber Exam
Same vendor (PSI), higher difficulty.
Exam fee: $135
Topics include advanced code interpretation, business law, and plan reading.
Open-book section allowed for code references.
3. Submit Master License Application
Fee: $175
Requires notarized experience affidavits and exam results
Background check required
✅ Pro Tip: Study the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code (UCC)—it adopts the IPC with state-specific amendments. Ignoring NJ-specific rules is the #1 reason for exam failure.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing License in NJ?
Exam Fee
$110
$135
License Application Fee
$125
$175
Renewal (Every 2 Years)
$125
$175
Total Initial Cost
$235
$310
💰 Note: Costs don’t include prep courses ($200–$500) or study materials. But investing in a prep course can double your chances of passing on the first try.
Can Out-of-State Plumbers Get Licensed in NJ?
Yes—but New Jersey does NOT have reciprocity with any state. Even if you’re licensed in NY, PA, or CT, you must:
Meet NJ’s experience requirements
Pass the full NJ exam
Submit all documentation
However, your out-of-state experience can count toward the 5-year requirement if verified.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
❌ Incomplete experience affidavits – Each year must be signed by a different Master Plumber.
❌ Using outdated code books – NJ updates its UCC every 3 years. Always use the current edition.
❌ Missing deadlines – Exam scores expire after 1 year. Apply for your license promptly!
❌ Ignoring gas piping rules – NJ has strict regulations for gas work. Master both plumbing and gas sections.
A: From start to finish, it typically takes 5–7 years: 5 years of experience + 2–6 months for exam prep, testing, and application processing.
Q2: Do I need a high school diploma to become a plumber in NJ?
A: No, but most employers and apprenticeship programs require one. Strong math and reading skills are essential for reading blueprints and calculating pipe slopes.
Q3: Can I work as a plumber in NJ without a license?
A: No. Performing plumbing work without a license is a disorderly persons offense in NJ (N.J.S.A. 45:14C-22). Fines can reach $5,000 per violation.
Q4: Are there plumbing apprenticeship programs in NJ?
A: Yes! Programs like UA Local 108 (Northern NJ) and UA Local 69 (Southern NJ) offer paid apprenticeships with classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Visit njua.org for details.
Q5: What’s the average salary for a licensed plumber in NJ?
A: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023), Journeymen earn $62,000–$78,000, while Master Plumbers average $85,000–$110,000+, especially if they own a business.
Q6: Can felons get a plumbing license in NJ?
A: It depends. The NJ Board reviews criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Minor offenses may not disqualify you, but fraud or violent crimes could. Disclose everything upfront.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to get a plumbing license in NJ—from apprenticeship to Master Plumber. With strong demand (NJ projects a 12% growth in plumbing jobs by 2030), this career offers long-term security, competitive pay, and the pride of solving real-world problems.
✅ Ready to start?
Document your experience
Enroll in an exam prep course
Schedule your PSI exam
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