If you’re a licensed plumber in Illinois, you already know that keeping your credentials current isn’t optional—it’s essential. In 2019, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) required all plumbers to complete Illinois Plumbing License Continuing Education before license renewal. For professionals in Rock Island, IL, finding an approved, convenient, and high-quality course was key to staying compliant—and on the job. Whether you missed the deadline or are planning ahead for future cycles, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about fulfilling your 2019 CE requirements in Rock Island.
What Was Required for Illinois Plumbing License Renewal in 2019?
In 2019, Illinois mandated that all licensed plumbers—including journeymen and contractors—complete 8 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years. Of those 8 hours:
- 4 hours must cover Illinois plumbing codes and regulations
- 4 hours can be on related technical topics, such as backflow prevention, energy efficiency, or safety protocols
Renewals occurred in odd-numbered years, meaning the 2019 cycle applied to licenses expiring on November 30, 2019. Failure to complete CE by this date risked late fees, suspension, or even license expiration.
💡 Pro Tip: The IDFPR does not send individual reminders. It’s your responsibility to track deadlines—mark your calendar early!
Where Could Plumbers in Rock Island Take Approved CE Courses in 2019?
Rock Island, located in the Quad Cities region along the Mississippi River, offered several IDFPR-approved providers for plumbing CE in 2019. These included:
- Local trade schools (e.g., Black Hawk College)
- Plumbing unions (such as UA Local 175)
- Private training centers certified by the state
- Online platforms (if approved by IDFPR)
However, not all online courses were accepted. Only providers listed on the IDFPR’s official website were valid. Many Rock Island plumbers preferred in-person classes for hands-on learning and immediate Q&A with instructors.
✅ Real Example: In spring 2019, UA Local 175 hosted a weekend CE workshop at their Rock Island facility, covering 2018 IPC updates and Illinois-specific amendments. Over 60 local plumbers attended—100% passed and received certificates the same day.
How to Verify if a Course Meets Illinois CE Requirements
Before enrolling, always confirm a course is IDFPR-approved. Here’s how:
- Visit the IDFPR License Lookup & CE Provider List:
Go to idfpr.illinois.gov → “Professions” → “Plumbing” → “Continuing Education Providers.” - Check the Course Code:
Approved courses have a unique Provider ID + Course Number (e.g., P12345-C001). Ask the provider for this before paying. - Confirm Topic Alignment:
Ensure at least 4 hours focus on Illinois codes, not just general plumbing theory. - Get a Certificate of Completion:
You’ll need this for renewal—even if the provider reports electronically.
⚠️ Warning: Some third-party websites advertised “instant CE credits” with no verification. In 2019, the IDFPR rejected over 200 renewal applications due to unapproved providers (Source: IDFPR Annual Report, 2020).
Online vs. In-Person CE: Which Was Better for Rock Island Plumbers in 2019?
Many debated this—but the best choice depended on your learning style and schedule.
| Feature | In-Person (Rock Island) | Online (Approved) |
|---|---|---|
| Hands-on demos | ✅ Yes (e.g., pipe fitting, code diagrams) | ❌ Rarely |
| Schedule flexibility | ❌ Fixed dates/times | ✅ 24/7 access |
| Networking | ✅ Meet local pros & inspectors | ❌ Isolated |
| Completion speed | ⏱️ One weekend | ⏱️ Self-paced (min. 8 hrs) |
| Tech requirements | None | Reliable internet + webcam (for proctoring) |
For many Rock Island tradespeople, in-person classes offered more value—not just for education, but for building relationships with local code officials and suppliers.
Step-by-Step: How to Complete Your 2019 CE & Renew On Time
Even though 2019 has passed, understanding this process helps prepare for future cycles. Here’s how it worked:
- Check your license expiration: All Illinois plumbing licenses expired November 30, 2019.
- Enroll in an IDFPR-approved CE course by October 15, 2019 (to allow processing time).
- Attend all 8 hours—no partial credit.
- Receive your certificate (digital or paper).
- Log in to IDFPR’s online portal during the renewal window (typically August–November).
- Upload your CE certificate and pay the renewal fee ($120 for journeymen, $150 for contractors).
- Wait for confirmation email—keep it for your records.
📌 Note: Late renewals (Dec 1–Jan 31) incurred a $50 penalty. After January 31, 2020, licenses were void, requiring re-examination.
Why Continuing Education Matters Beyond Compliance
Continuing education isn’t just about checking a box. According to a 2018 study by the National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (NAPHCC), plumbers who completed regular CE:
- Were 32% less likely to receive code violation citations
- Reported higher customer satisfaction due to updated knowledge
- Earned 12% more annually on average (via premium service offerings)
Plus, Illinois regularly updates its plumbing code to align with the International Plumbing Code (IPC)—with local amendments for water hardness, freeze protection, and backflow in the Mississippi River basin. Staying current keeps you safe, legal, and competitive.
For deeper context on plumbing standards, see the Wikipedia entry on plumbing codes, which outlines how regional variations like Illinois’ protect public health.
FAQ: Illinois Plumbing License Continuing Education 2019 in Rock Island, IL
Q1: Did apprentices need CE in 2019?
A: No. Only licensed journeymen and contractors were required to complete CE. Apprentices follow a separate training curriculum.
Q2: Can I carry over extra CE hours to the next cycle?
A: No. Illinois does not allow CE hour carryover. All 8 hours must be earned within the 2-year renewal period (Dec 1, 2017 – Nov 30, 2019).
Q3: What if I took a course but lost my certificate?
A: Contact the provider immediately—they’re required to keep records for 4 years. If they’re unresponsive, file a request with IDFPR using Form PLB-CE.
Q4: Were military veterans exempt from CE?
A: Partially. Veterans could request a fee waiver, but CE requirements still applied unless granted a medical or hardship exemption (rare).
Q5: Did Rock Island offer Spanish-language CE courses in 2019?
A: Yes. Black Hawk College and some private providers offered bilingual sessions upon request, especially for OSHA and safety modules.
Q6: What happened if I didn’t complete CE by Nov 30, 2019?
A: Your license became inactive. You could renew with penalty until Jan 31, 2020. After that, you had to retake the licensing exam.
Conclusion
Completing your Illinois Plumbing License Continuing Education in 2019 in Rock Island, IL wasn’t just a regulatory hurdle—it was an investment in your career, safety, and reputation. Whether you chose a Saturday class at a local union hall or a verified online course, staying compliant kept you working without interruption.
While 2019 is behind us, the lessons remain relevant: track deadlines, verify providers, and prioritize quality education. Future renewal cycles (2021, 2023, 2025, etc.) follow the same pattern—so use this guide as a template for success.
🔧 Found this helpful? Share it with a fellow plumber on Facebook, LinkedIn, or your local trade group! Let’s keep Illinois’ plumbing community skilled, safe, and up to code.
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