Thinking about advancing your plumbing career in coastal North Carolina? If you’ve completed your apprenticeship and are ready to work independently, how to get a journeyman card for plumbing in Wilmington, NC is likely top of mind. This guide walks you through every requirement, deadline, and tip you need—so you can earn your license with confidence and start building your reputation as a skilled tradesperson in New Hanover County.
What Is a Journeyman Plumber License in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, a journeyman plumber is a licensed professional who can install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems under the supervision of a licensed master plumber. Unlike an apprentice, a journeyman has proven technical knowledge and hands-on experience—but hasn’t yet met the criteria to work independently or pull permits.
The North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating, and Fire Sprinkler Contractors (NCSBEPHFSC) oversees all plumbing licenses statewide—including in Wilmington.
💡 Did You Know?
As of 2025, over 7,200 active plumbing licenses were issued in North Carolina, with steady growth in the Cape Fear region due to population expansion and new construction (NC State Board Annual Report, 2024).
Who Needs a Journeyman Plumber Card in Wilmington?
You must hold a valid journeyman license if you:
- Perform plumbing work beyond basic maintenance
- Are employed by a licensed plumbing contractor
- Want to eventually become a master plumber
Note: Homeowners doing work on their own primary residence may be exempt, but any commercial or rental property work requires a licensed plumber.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Journeyman Card in Wilmington, NC
Follow these five precise steps to earn your journeyman plumbing license:
1. Complete a State-Approved Apprenticeship (or Equivalent Experience)
You must have at least 2 years (4,000 hours) of practical plumbing experience under a licensed master plumber. This can come from:
- A formal apprenticeship program (e.g., through UA Local 636 or community colleges like Cape Fear Community College)
- Documented on-the-job training with pay stubs, W-2s, and supervisor affidavits
📌 Tip: The NC State Board accepts experience gained outside North Carolina—but you’ll need detailed verification forms signed by licensed supervisors.
2. Submit Your Application to the NC State Board
Apply online via the NCSBEPHFSC portal. Required documents include:
- Completed application form
- Proof of 4,000 hours of experience (Form B)
- $75 non-refundable application fee
- Copy of government-issued ID
Processing typically takes 7–10 business days.
3. Schedule and Pass the Journeyman Plumbing Exam
Once approved, you’ll receive an email with instructions to schedule your exam through PSI Services, the state’s testing vendor.
- Exam Format: 100 multiple-choice questions
- Time Limit: 4 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- Topics Covered:
- NC Plumbing Code (based on IPC with state amendments)
- Pipe sizing, venting, drainage
- Backflow prevention
- Safety and sanitation
📘 Study Resource: The Board recommends reviewing the International Plumbing Code (IPC) 2021 edition and the NC Administrative Code Title 21, Chapter 39.
You can take the exam at the Wilmington PSI Testing Center (3809 Oleander Drive, Suite 103) or other NC locations.
4. Pay the License Fee and Receive Your Card
After passing the exam:
- Pay the $100 initial license fee
- Your plastic journeyman card will arrive by mail in 5–7 business days
- License is valid for 1 year and must be renewed annually by December 31
5. Maintain Your License Through Continuing Education
To renew, complete 4 hours of continuing education (CE) each year, including:
- 2 hours on NC laws/rules
- 2 hours on technical plumbing topics
Approved CE providers include PHCC-NC and local trade associations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
| Mistake | Consequence | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Incomplete experience documentation | Application denial | Use Form B and get it notarized by your supervising master plumber |
| Missing exam deadlines | Delayed licensing | Schedule your test within 90 days of approval |
| Using outdated code books | Failing the exam | Study the 2021 IPC + NC amendments, not older versions |
| Letting CE lapse | License suspension | Track renewal dates; set calendar reminders |
Journeyman vs. Master Plumber: What’s the Difference?
Many confuse these two levels. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Journeyman Plumber | Master Plumber |
|---|---|---|
| Supervision Required? | ✅ Yes (by master) | ❌ No |
| Can Pull Permits? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Experience Needed | 2 years (4,000 hrs) | 4+ years (8,000+ hrs) |
| Exam Difficulty | Moderate | Advanced (includes business law) |
| Average Salary (Wilmington) | $58,000/year | $78,000+/year |
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025), plumbers in the Wilmington metro area earn 12% above the national average due to high demand in residential and commercial development.
For more on trade licensing structures, see Plumbing License Requirements by State on Wikipedia.
How Long Does the Entire Process Take?
On average:
- Application review: 1–2 weeks
- Exam scheduling: 1–3 weeks (depending on test center availability)
- License issuance: 1 week after passing
Total timeline: 4–8 weeks if all documents are in order.
Pro tip: Start gathering experience records before applying to avoid delays.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I work as a plumber in Wilmington without a journeyman card?
A: Only if you’re a registered apprentice under direct supervision. Performing unsupervised plumbing work without a license is a Class 1 misdemeanor in North Carolina and can result in fines up to $1,000.
Q2: Do I need a journeyman license to work for a plumbing company?
A: Yes. Even if employed by a licensed contractor, you must hold at least a journeyman license to legally perform plumbing installations or repairs in NC.
Q3: How much does it cost total to get licensed?
A: Expect to pay:
- Application fee: $75
- Exam fee: $95 (paid to PSI)
- Initial license fee: $100
- Study materials: $50–$150
Total: ~$320–$420
Q4: Can I transfer my plumbing license from another state?
A: North Carolina does not offer full reciprocity. However, out-of-state applicants with equivalent experience may qualify—subject to Board review and passing the NC-specific exam.
Q5: What if I fail the journeyman exam?
A: You can retake it after 30 days. There’s no limit on attempts, but each retake costs $95. Most candidates pass on the second try after targeted studying.
Q6: Where can I find approved apprenticeship programs near Wilmington?
A: Check:
- Cape Fear Community College (Wilmington): Offers plumbing tech courses
- UA Local 636 (Charlotte-based but serves NC): Registered apprenticeship
- NC Department of Commerce Apprenticeship Portal: apprenticeship.nc.gov
Conclusion
Earning your journeyman card for plumbing in Wilmington, NC isn’t just a formality—it’s your ticket to higher pay, greater responsibility, and long-term career growth in one of the Southeast’s fastest-growing trades markets. With clear steps, proper documentation, and focused exam prep, you’ll be licensed and ready to tackle real-world projects in no time.
If this guide helped you, share it with a fellow tradesperson on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Reddit’s r/Plumbing! And don’t forget to bookmark the NC State Board website for updates.
Now go turn those wrenches—and your career—forward. 💧🔧
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