How to Get Your Plumbing License in Florida (2025 Guide)

Dreaming of a stable, in-demand career with strong earning potential? Becoming a licensed plumber in Florida could be your ticket—but the path isn’t always clear. If you’ve searched “how to get your plumbing license in Florida,” you’re not alone. Thousands of aspiring tradespeople face confusion over requirements, exams, and experience rules. This guide cuts through the noise with a clear, step-by-step roadmap—backed by state regulations and real-world insights—so you can earn your license confidently and legally.

What Types of Plumbing Licenses Exist in Florida?

Florida offers two main plumbing licenses through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR):

1. Certified Plumbing Contractor License
   • Allows you to work anywhere in Florida.
   • Requires passing a state exam.
   • Must meet strict experience and education criteria.
2. Registered Plumbing Contractor License
   • Limited to the county that issued the registration.
   • Does not require a state exam, but you must pass a local competency test (if required by the county).
   • Often used as a stepping stone to the certified license.

💡 Key Insight: Over 85% of working plumbers in Florida hold a Certified license because it offers statewide mobility and higher credibility with clients and employers (Florida DBPR, 2024).

Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Plumbing License in Florida

Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, ensure you meet Florida’s baseline criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a U.S. Social Security number.
• Possess a high school diploma or GED.
• Demonstrate good moral character (no disqualifying criminal history).

⚠️ Note: Certain felony convictions may disqualify you. Check the DBPR’s guidelines for details.

Step 2: Gain the Required Work Experience

Florida mandates hands-on plumbing experience under a licensed contractor:

• Certified License: 4 years of experience (minimum 2,000 hours per year).
  • At least 1 year must be as a journeyman plumber or in a supervisory role.
• Registered License: Varies by county—typically 2–4 years under a licensed plumber.

✅ Pro Tip: Keep detailed logs of your work hours, signed by your supervising contractor. The DBPR may audit these during your application.

Step 3: Complete Required Education (If Applicable)

While Florida doesn’t require formal plumbing school, approved coursework can substitute part of your experience:

• Up to 2 years of the 4-year requirement can be replaced with:
  • A 4-year apprenticeship through a state-recognized program, or
  • A 2-year associate degree in plumbing technology from an accredited institution.

📚 Example: Programs at Florida State College at Jacksonville or Miami Dade College are DBPR-approved and count toward eligibility.

Step 4: Submit Your Application to the DBPR

Apply online via the Florida DBPR portal . You’ll need:

• Proof of experience (signed affidavits)
• Official transcripts (if using education credits)
• $135 application fee (as of 2025)
• Fingerprinting for background check ($50–$75)

Processing takes 4–8 weeks. Don’t schedule your exam until your application is approved.

Step 5: Pass the Florida Plumbing Contractor Exam

The exam is administered by Pearson VUE and consists of two parts:

• Total cost: $195
• Study resources: Use the Florida Contractor’s Guide and IPC (International Plumbing Code).
• First-time pass rate: ~62% (DBPR, 2024)—so study thoroughly.

🔍 Fun Fact: Florida’s plumbing code is based on the International Plumbing Code (IPC), which is used in over 40 U.S. states. Learn more about plumbing standards on Wikipedia .

Step 6: Obtain Liability Insurance & Register Your Business

Once you pass the exam:

• Secure $300,000 general liability insurance.
• If operating as an LLC or corporation, register with the Florida Division of Corporations.
• Pay the initial license fee: $245 (valid for 2 years).

Your license will be mailed within 10 business days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Underestimating the exam: Many fail Part A (Business) despite strong technical skills.
• ❌ Incomplete experience documentation: Unsigned or vague affidavits = automatic rejection.
• ❌ Missing deadlines: Licenses expire every 2 years on August 31 (odd-numbered years). Renew early!

Certified vs. Registered License: Which Should You Choose?

💬 Expert Advice: “Start with a Registered license if you’re new, but aim for Certified within 2 years—it’s worth the effort,” says Marcus Lee, Master Plumber in Tampa with 18 years of experience.

FAQ Section

Q1: How long does it take to get a plumbing license in Florida?

A: Typically 6–12 months, depending on your experience, application processing time, and exam scheduling. If you already have 4 years of documented experience, you could be licensed in under 3 months.

Q2: Can I get a plumbing license in Florida with an out-of-state license?

A: Florida has no reciprocity with other states. You must meet Florida’s specific experience and exam requirements—even if licensed elsewhere.

Q3: Do I need a license to do minor plumbing work in Florida?

A: Yes. Florida law requires a license for any plumbing work valued over $500, including labor and materials. Unlicensed work can result in fines up to $5,000.

Q4: How much does it cost to get a plumbing license in Florida?

A: Total costs range from $500–$800, including:

• Application fee ($135)
• Exam fee ($195)
• Fingerprinting ($75)
• Insurance & business registration (~$200–$300)

Q5: Can felons get a plumbing license in Florida?

A: It depends. The DBPR reviews criminal history case-by-case. Non-violent, older offenses may be approved with documentation of rehabilitation.

Q6: How often do I need to renew my Florida plumbing license?

A: Every 2 years, by August 31 of odd-numbered years. You’ll need 14 hours of continuing education, including 2 hours on Florida laws.

Conclusion

Earning your plumbing license in Florida opens doors to a recession-resistant career with strong demand—especially as the state’s population grows and infrastructure ages. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll avoid common pitfalls, pass your exam with confidence, and join over 28,000 licensed plumbing contractors serving Florida communities.

👉 Ready to start? Bookmark this guide, share it with a friend considering the trades, or post it on LinkedIn to help others in your network!

Got questions? Drop them in the comments below—we’re here to help future plumbers succeed.