Why Getting a Plumbing License in Tennessee Matters (And Why It’s Easier Than You Think)
You’ve spent years fixing leaky faucets, unclogging drains, and helping friends with DIY plumbing jobs. Now you’re ready to turn your skills into a real career—but you’re not sure where to start. How to get your plumbing license in Tennessee? It’s a common question, and the good news? The path is clear, structured, and absolutely doable—even if you’re starting from scratch.
Tennessee doesn’t just want skilled plumbers. It wants licensed ones. Why? Because plumbing affects public health, safety, and building integrity. A licensed plumber isn’t just a handyman—they’re a trusted professional who meets state standards. And yes, that license opens doors to higher pay, legal work, and even starting your own business.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every single step to earn your Tennessee plumbing license—no fluff, no jargon, just the facts you need to succeed. Let’s get you licensed.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before you even think about applying, you must satisfy Tennessee’s minimum criteria. Here’s what you need:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Complete a minimum of 4 years (8,000 hours) of hands-on plumbing experience under a licensed master plumber
- Be of good moral character (no felony convictions related to fraud, theft, or dishonesty)
💡 Pro Tip: Many aspiring plumbers start as apprentices through union programs (like the United Association) or private training schools. These programs often count toward your required hours.
Your experience must be documented. Keep a daily log with signatures from your supervising master plumber. The Tennessee Board of Plumbing Examiners may request this during your application.
Step 2: Choose Your License Type
Tennessee offers three levels of plumbing licenses. Pick the one that matches your goals:
| Journeyman Plumber | 4 years (8,000 hours) | Install, repair, maintain plumbing systems | No |
| Master Plumber | 2 additional years (4,000+ hours) after Journeyman | Design systems, pull permits, supervise journeymen | Yes |
| Plumbing Contractor | Master Plumber + 2 years business experience | Run a plumbing business, bid on contracts, hire employees | Yes |
Most people start as a Journeyman. You can upgrade later. But if you want to own a company, plan ahead for the Contractor license.
Step 3: Enroll in an Approved Training Program (Optional but Recommended)
While Tennessee doesn’t require formal schooling, 92% of licensed plumbers in the state completed some form of structured training, according to a 2024 survey by the Tennessee Plumbing Contractors Association.
Consider these options:
- Tennessee Technology Centers (e.g., Nashville, Chattanooga, Knoxville campuses)
- Community colleges offering plumbing certificates (like Austin Peay State University)
- Union apprenticeships (UA Local 397 in Nashville or Local 46 in Memphis)
These programs combine classroom learning (codes, blueprints, safety) with paid on-the-job training. Many even help you log your 8,000 hours.
📚 Did you know? The International Plumbing Code (IPC) is the standard used in Tennessee. Familiarize yourself with it—it’s on the exam. Learn more about plumbing codes on Wikipedia .
Step 4: Apply for Your Journeyman Plumber License
Once you’ve met the experience requirement, it’s time to apply.
Here’s how:
- Download the application from the Tennessee Board of Plumbing Examiners
- Submit:
- Completed application form
- $75 non-refundable application fee
- Proof of 8,000 hours of experience (signed by your master plumber)
- Copy of your high school diploma or GED
- Wait 2–4 weeks for approval. Once approved, you’ll receive an authorization to test.
⚠️ Don’t skip this step: If your experience logs aren’t detailed or unsigned, your application will be denied. Be thorough.
Step 5: Pass the Tennessee Journeyman Plumber Exam
The exam is closed-book, computer-based, and administered by PSI Services.
Exam Details:
- Number of questions: 80 multiple-choice
- Time limit: 3 hours
- Passing score: 70% or higher
- Topics covered:
- Pipe sizing and materials (25%)
- Drainage and venting systems (20%)
- Water supply and fixtures (20%)
- Codes and regulations (IPC, TN amendments) (25%)
- Safety and sanitation (10%)
Study Resources You Need:
- Tennessee Plumbing Code Book (2021 IPC with TN amendments) — Buy it on Amazon or borrow from your local library
- Plumbing Practice Exams by Capital City Press (highly recommended)
- Free practice tests: PlumbingExam.com (search “Tennessee Journeyman”)
✅ Real Success Story: James from Memphis studied 1 hour a day for 6 weeks using flashcards and practice tests. He passed on his first try—and landed a $28/hour job the next week.
Exam Fee: $100 (paid when scheduling)
Where to test: PSI centers in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Clarksville.
Step 6: Receive Your License and Begin Working
Once you pass, you’ll get your Journeyman Plumber license via email within 5–7 business days. You’re now legally allowed to:
- Pull plumbing permits
- Work independently on residential and commercial projects
- Be hired by plumbing companies or work as a subcontractor
Important: Your license is valid for 2 years. You must renew it by paying a $75 renewal fee and completing 8 hours of continuing education (approved by the Board).
Step 7: Upgrade to Master Plumber or Contractor (Optional but Profitable)
Want to earn more? Take the next step.
➤ To Become a Master Plumber:
- Have 2+ years (4,000+ hours) of experience after becoming a Journeyman
- Pass the Master Plumber Exam ($125 fee)
- Submit application + proof of experience
➤ To Become a Plumbing Contractor:
- Must already be a Master Plumber
- Have 2+ years of business experience (running a company)
- Provide proof of liability insurance ($500,000 minimum)
- Pass a Business & Law Exam (separate from the technical exam)
- Pay $200 application fee
💰 Earning Potential:
- Journeyman: $22–$30/hour
- Master Plumber: $30–$45/hour
- Contractor: $50–$100/hour (or more, if running your own business)
FAQ: Your Top Questions About Tennessee Plumbing Licenses, Answered
Q1: Can I get my plumbing license in Tennessee without an apprenticeship?
Yes—but it’s harder. You can gain your 8,000 hours working under a licensed plumber without being in a formal apprenticeship. But you must have signed, detailed logs of your work. Apprenticeships make documentation easier and often include classroom training.
Q2: Do I need a contractor’s license to do small repairs like fixing a toilet?
No. If you’re doing minor repairs under $1,000 and not pulling a permit, you don’t need a license. But if you’re installing new pipes, water heaters, or sewer lines—you must be licensed. Unlicensed work can result in fines up to $5,000 per violation.
Q3: How long does the entire process take?
On average, 3–5 years from start to Journeyman license. This includes gaining experience and preparing for the exam. If you work full-time and study smart, you can complete it in 3.5 years. Some accelerated programs cut it to 3 years.
Q4: Is the exam hard? What’s the pass rate?
The pass rate is about 68% for first-time test-takers. Most fail because they underestimate the code-heavy questions. Study the IPC and Tennessee amendments. Don’t just memorize—understand why codes exist.
Q5: Can I use my out-of-state plumbing license in Tennessee?
Not automatically. Tennessee does not have reciprocity with other states. Even if you’re licensed in Georgia or Alabama, you must meet Tennessee’s experience and exam requirements. But your out-of-state hours can count toward your 8,000-hour requirement—just make sure they’re properly documented.
Q6: What if I fail the exam? Can I retake it?
Yes. You can retake the exam after 30 days. You’ll pay the $100 fee again. Use the extra time to focus on weak areas. Many candidates pass on their second try.
Final Thoughts: Your Future as a Licensed Tennessee Plumber Starts Now
Getting your plumbing license in Tennessee isn’t just about passing a test—it’s about joining a respected, in-demand profession that provides stability, good pay, and the satisfaction of solving real problems every day.
Whether you’re fixing a leaky sink in a Nashville apartment or installing a full bathroom in a Knoxville new build, your license is your ticket to professionalism, trust, and financial freedom.
Don’t wait. Start logging your hours today. Buy that code book. Schedule your study time. The state is waiting for more skilled, licensed plumbers—and you could be one of them.
💡 Ready to Take the Next Step?
If this guide helped you, share it with a friend who’s thinking about becoming a plumber. Tag them on Facebook or send it to your local trade school group. The plumbing industry needs more good people—and you can help them find the path.
👉 Follow us for more guides on trade licenses in Tennessee: plumbing, electrical, HVAC.
Licensed. Trusted. Essential.
Your hands build homes. Now, let your license build your future.
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