Thinking about becoming a licensed plumber in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania? 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 pipes, fixtures, or gas lines in Wilkes-Barre, you must obtain a valid plumber license issued under Pennsylvania state regulations. This guide walks you through exactly how to get a license of plumber in Wilkes-Barre, PA—clearly, accurately, and without the confusing jargon.
Is a Plumbing License Required in Wilkes-Barre, PA?
Yes. In Pennsylvania, all plumbing work must be performed by a state-licensed plumber or under the direct supervision of one. While Wilkes-Barre itself doesn’t issue separate city-level plumbing licenses, it operates under the Pennsylvania State Board of Examiners of Plumbers, HVACR Technicians, and Electricians, which regulates licensing statewide.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of plumbers in Pennsylvania is expected to grow by 6% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the national average. That means now is an excellent time to get licensed—but only if you meet the state’s requirements.
💡 Note: Performing plumbing work without a license in PA can result in fines up to $1,000 per violation and potential legal liability for damages.
What Are the Types of Plumbing Licenses in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania offers two main plumbing credentials:
| License Type | Description | Supervision Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice Registration | Entry-level status; allows you to train under a licensed master plumber | Yes |
| Journeyman Plumber License | Full licensure to perform most plumbing tasks independently | No |
| Master Plumber License | Highest level; permits designing systems, pulling permits, and supervising others | No |
Most people start as registered apprentices, then progress to journeyman, and eventually master plumber. For this guide, we’ll focus on obtaining your Journeyman Plumbing License—the standard credential needed to work independently in Wilkes-Barre.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Plumber License in Wilkes-Barre, PA
Step 1: Complete a Registered Apprenticeship (4–5 Years)
You must complete at least 4 years (or 576 hours of classroom instruction + 8,000 hours of on-the-job training) under a licensed master plumber. This is non-negotiable.
- Enroll in a state-approved apprenticeship program. Options include:
- Local unions (e.g., UA Local 112 in Scranton, serving NEPA)
- Technical schools (e.g., Luzerne County Community College)
- Employer-sponsored programs
✅ Pro Tip: Keep detailed logs of your work hours. The Pennsylvania licensing board may audit your records.
Step 2: Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure you:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Are a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Have no felony convictions related to fraud, theft, or safety violations
Step 3: Submit Your Journeyman License Application
Apply through the Pennsylvania Department of State:
- Online portal: www.dos.pa.gov
- Application fee: $105 (as of 2026)
- Processing time: 4–6 weeks
Include:
- Proof of completed apprenticeship (signed by your master plumber supervisor)
- Transcripts or training certificates
- Government-issued ID
Step 4: Pass the Pennsylvania Journeyman Plumber Exam
The exam is administered by PSI Services LLC and covers:
- Plumbing codes (based on the Uniform Plumbing Code and PA amendments)
- Plan reading
- Venting, drainage, and water supply systems
- Safety and backflow prevention
- Exam fee: $95
- Passing score: 70%
- Format: 100 multiple-choice questions, 4-hour time limit
📚 Study Resources:
- International Plumbing Code (IPC) 2021
- PSI’s official candidate bulletin
- Practice tests from PlumbingLicense.com
You can schedule your test at a PSI testing center in Scranton, Allentown, or Harrisburg—all within 2 hours of Wilkes-Barre.
Step 5: Receive Your License & Maintain It
Once you pass, your Journeyman Plumber License will be mailed within 10 business days. It’s valid for 2 years and must be renewed.
- Renewal fee: $105 every 2 years
- Continuing education: Not currently required in PA (as of 2026), but highly recommended
🔗 For more on plumbing standards, see the Uniform Plumbing Code overview on Wikipedia.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
- ❌ Skipping the apprenticeship: You cannot “test out” without documented experience.
- ❌ Using outdated codebooks: Always study the 2021 IPC with PA amendments.
- ❌ Missing documentation: Incomplete applications are the #1 reason for delays.
- ❌ Assuming local permits = license: Wilkes-Barre may require permits for jobs, but that doesn’t replace your state license.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Licensed?
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Apprenticeship (tuition/tools) | $0–$5,000 (often paid by employer) |
| Application fee | $105 |
| Exam fee | $95 |
| Study materials | $100–$300 |
| Total (excluding apprenticeship) | ~$300–$500 |
Compared to 4-year college degrees, plumbing licensure is a high-return, low-debt career path. The average journeyman plumber in Wilkes-Barre earns $58,000/year, with masters earning over $80,000 (Source: PA Department of Labor & Industry, 2025).
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I get a plumbing license in PA with experience but no formal apprenticeship?
No. Pennsylvania requires documented, supervised training through a registered apprenticeship. Self-taught experience—even with 10+ years—won’t qualify unless it was under a licensed master plumber and properly logged.
Q2: How long does it take to get a plumber license in Wilkes-Barre?
Typically 4 to 5 years, including apprenticeship. The application and exam process adds 1–2 months after training completion.
Q3: Do I need a license to do small plumbing jobs, like fixing a leaky faucet?
Yes. Pennsylvania law defines plumbing as any work involving potable water, drainage, sewage, or gas piping. Even minor repairs require a licensed plumber or supervision by one.
Q4: Can I transfer my plumbing license from another state to Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has limited reciprocity. Currently, it only accepts licenses from states with substantially equivalent requirements (e.g., New Jersey, Ohio). You’ll still need to pass the PA exam unless exempt.
Q5: What’s the difference between a journeyman and master plumber in PA?
A journeyman can install and repair systems but cannot pull permits or design plans. A master plumber can do all that plus supervise apprentices and run a plumbing business.
Q6: Where can I find approved apprenticeship programs near Wilkes-Barre?
Check:
- UA Local 112 (Plumbers & Pipefitters) – Scranton, PA
- Luzerne County Community College – Nanticoke, PA
- PA Department of Labor & Industry Apprenticeship Portal: www.dli.pa.gov/apprenticeship
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to get a license of plumber in Wilkes-Barre, PA—from apprenticeship to exam day. It’s a structured path, but one that leads to job security, good pay, and community trust. With plumbing shortages nationwide and aging infrastructure in Northeastern PA, licensed professionals are in high demand.
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Your future as a licensed plumber starts with one pipe—and one permit—at a time.
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