Dreaming of a stable, in-demand career in the skilled trades? You’re not alone. With Tennessee’s construction sector growing steadily—up 6.2% in 2024 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics—licensed plumbers are more valuable than ever. But before you can legally install pipes or fix leaks for pay, you need to know how to get a plumbing license in Tennessee. This guide walks you through every requirement, step, and insider tip to help you succeed—without wasting time or money.
What Types of Plumbing Licenses Exist in Tennessee?
Tennessee offers three main plumbing license levels, each with distinct responsibilities and prerequisites:
Apprentice Plumber – Entry-level; works under direct supervision.
Journeyman Plumber – Can work independently on residential and light commercial jobs.
Master Plumber – Authorized to pull permits, design systems, and supervise teams.
💡 Key Insight: You must progress sequentially—apprentice → journeyman → master. Skipping steps isn’t allowed.
Step 1: Complete a State-Approved Apprenticeship
To qualify for the Journeyman exam, Tennessee law requires at least 4 years (or 8,000 hours) of hands-on plumbing experience under a licensed master plumber.
How to fulfill this requirement:
Enroll in a state-registered apprenticeship program (e.g., through a union like UA Local 57 or a vocational school).
OR work directly for a licensed plumbing contractor who documents your hours.
📌 Pro Tip: Keep detailed logs of your work hours, signed weekly by your supervising plumber. The Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors (TBLC) may audit these.
Step 2: Meet Education & Age Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet these baseline criteria:
Be at least 18 years old
Hold a high school diploma or GED
Provide proof of U.S. work authorization
No college degree is required, but many successful candidates take plumbing prep courses at community colleges like Nashville State or Chattanooga State. These cover blueprint reading, code compliance, and math for pipefitting.
Processing takes 2–4 weeks. Once approved, you’ll receive an exam eligibility notice.
Step 4: Pass the Tennessee Journeyman Plumbing Exam
The exam is administered by PSI Services and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. You’ll have 4 hours to complete it.
Exam breakdown:
General Knowledge
Tools, safety, math
20%
Drainage & Venting
Pipe sizing, slope, traps
30%
Water Supply
Pressure, backflow, fixtures
25%
Gas Piping
Installation, codes, testing
15%
Tennessee Amendments
State-specific code rules
10%
📘 Study Resource: The exam is based on the 2021 International Plumbing Code (IPC) with Tennessee amendments. The TBLC publishes a detailed content outline .
Passing score: 70% or higher Retake policy: Wait 30 days between attempts; $85 fee per retake.
✅ Success Story: In 2024, 68% of first-time test-takers passed—up from 59% in 2022—thanks to better prep resources and clearer state guidelines.
Step 5: Receive & Maintain Your License
Once you pass, your Journeyman Plumber license is issued within 10 business days. It’s valid for 2 years and must be renewed.
Renewal requirements:
Complete 8 hours of continuing education (approved by TBLC)
Pay $100 renewal fee
No disciplinary actions on record
⚠️ Warning: Working without a valid license can result in fines up to $1,000 per violation and job site shutdowns.
How to Upgrade to a Master Plumber License
After holding your Journeyman license for at least 2 years, you can pursue Master status.
Additional requirements:
4,000 more supervised hours (beyond the initial 8,000)
Pass the Master Plumbing Exam (120 questions, 5 hours)
Demonstrate experience with commercial plumbing systems
Master plumbers earn 20–30% more on average and can start their own contracting businesses.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants fail due to preventable errors:
❌ Incomplete hour documentation – Use TBLC’s official log sheet.
❌ Ignoring Tennessee-specific code amendments – These appear on 10% of the exam!
❌ Cramming last-minute – Experts recommend 8–12 weeks of study.
❌ Not verifying employer license status – Your supervisor must be active and in good standing.
Q1: Can I get a plumbing license in Tennessee with an out-of-state license?
A: Tennessee has limited reciprocity. You may qualify for exam waiver if your home state has substantially equivalent requirements (e.g., Georgia, Mississippi). Submit a reciprocity request with your application and official license verification.
Q2: How much does it cost total to get licensed?
A: Expect to pay:
Application: $125
Exam: $85
Prep courses (optional): $300–$800
Tools/books: $150–$300 Total: ~$660–$1,310
Q3: Do I need a contractor’s license too?
A: Only if you plan to run your own business. A plumbing license lets you perform plumbing work. But to pull permits under your own company name, you need a TN Contractor’s License (Class C or higher) from the same board.
Q4: How long does the entire process take?
A: Most candidates complete it in 4–5 years (including apprenticeship). If you already have experience, the licensing phase alone takes 2–3 months from application to license issuance.
Q5: Are there plumbing license exemptions in Tennessee?
A: Yes—but very limited. Homeowners can do plumbing on their primary residence without a license. However, no one may be paid for plumbing work without a valid license, even for small jobs.
Q6: Can felons get a plumbing license in Tennessee?
A: It’s possible but not guaranteed. The TBLC reviews criminal history case-by-case. Minor, non-violent offenses (especially if >5 years old) may not disqualify you. Full disclosure is required.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to get a plumbing license in Tennessee—from apprenticeship to exam day and beyond. With strong demand, competitive wages (average $58,000/year, up to $85,000+ for masters), and job security, plumbing is a smart career move in the Volunteer State.
✅ You’ve got the roadmap. ✅ You know the pitfalls. ✅ You’re ready to act.
If this guide helped you, share it with a friend considering a trade career! Tag them on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter—and help build Tennessee’s next generation of skilled professionals.
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