Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners License Search Made Easy

Why You Should Verify a Plumber’s License in Texas

Hiring a plumber for a leaky faucet or a full bathroom remodel? You wouldn’t hand your car keys to an unlicensed driver—so why trust your home’s plumbing to someone without proper credentials? The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners License Search tool exists to protect homeowners, contractors, and businesses by confirming that a plumber is legally authorized to work in the Lone Star State. Whether you’re a homeowner, property manager, or fellow tradesperson, verifying a license is your first line of defense against fraud, poor workmanship, and costly repairs.

What Is the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE)?

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) is the state agency responsible for licensing and regulating plumbers across Texas. Established to uphold safety, sanitation, and professional standards, the TSBPE ensures that only qualified individuals perform plumbing work—work that directly impacts public health and building integrity.

According to the TSBPE’s 2023 annual report, over 42,000 active plumbing licenses were issued statewide, covering roles from apprentices to master plumbers. The board also handled more than 1,200 consumer complaints that year—many of which involved unlicensed individuals posing as professionals.

💡 Did You Know? In Texas, it’s illegal to perform plumbing work without a valid license issued by the TSBPE—except for very limited homeowner exemptions (e.g., DIY work on your own primary residence).

For more context on occupational licensing in the U.S., see Wikipedia’s overview of professional licensure .

How to Perform a Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners License Search (Step-by-Step)

Verifying a plumber’s credentials takes less than 2 minutes. Here’s exactly how to do it:

1. Go to the Official TSBPE License Verification Portal
   Visit: https://www.tsbpe.texas.gov/verify-a-license/
   Note: Always use the official .gov site—avoid third-party lookups that may charge fees or display outdated info.
2. Enter Search Criteria
   You can search by:
   • License Number (if provided by the plumber)
   • First and Last Name
   • Business Name
3. Review the Results
   The system will display:
   • License status (Active, Inactive, Expired, Suspended)
   • License type (Apprentice, Journeyman, Master, Tradesman)
   • Expiration date
   • Any disciplinary actions or restrictions
4. Save or Print the Record
   For your records or contractor files, use your browser’s print function to save a PDF.

✅ Pro Tip: Always ask for the plumber’s license number before they start work. A legitimate professional will provide it without hesitation.

Why License Verification Matters: Real Risks of Hiring Unlicensed Plumbers

Skipping license verification might seem like a minor oversight—until something goes wrong. Consider these real-world consequences:

In 2022, the Texas Attorney General’s office reported a 37% increase in complaints about unlicensed contractors—many involving plumbing scams that led to water damage, mold, and structural issues.

Common License Types in Texas: What They Mean

Not all plumbing licenses are equal. Understanding the differences helps you hire the right pro for the job:

• Apprentice Plumber: Works under direct supervision of a licensed journeyman or master. Cannot work independently.
• Journeyman Plumber: Can perform most residential and commercial plumbing tasks independently but cannot design systems or pull permits in some jurisdictions.
• Master Plumber: Highest level. Can design systems, supervise others, and pull permits statewide.
• Tradesman Plumber-Limited: Restricted to specific tasks like water heater installation or residential service work only.

🛠️ Example: If you’re installing a new bathroom in a multi-family building, you’ll need at least a Journeyman—preferably a Master—to ensure code compliance and permit approval.

What to Do If a License Is Suspended or Expired

Finding a “Suspended” or “Expired” status doesn’t automatically mean the plumber is untrustworthy—but it does require caution.

• Expired: May simply mean they haven’t renewed yet. Ask for proof of renewal submission.
• Suspended: Could indicate disciplinary action (e.g., code violations, insurance lapses). Click the license details to see the reason.
• Never Licensed: Red flag. Do not proceed.

If you suspect fraud, report it directly to the TSBPE via their complaint portal .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners License Search free?
Yes! The official TSBPE license verification tool is completely free to use. Beware of commercial sites that mimic the service and charge fees.

Q2: Can I verify a plumbing company’s license?
Yes. Search by the business name or the responsible master plumber’s name. In Texas, plumbing businesses must be tied to a licensed master plumber.

Q3: How often do plumbing licenses expire in Texas?
Most licenses expire every 12 months and must be renewed by the plumber’s birth month. Continuing education is required for renewal.

Q4: What if I can’t find a plumber in the TSBPE database?
Double-check spelling. If still no results, the individual may be unlicensed. Do not hire them for plumbing work beyond basic homeowner exemptions.

Q5: Does TSBPE license plumbers in all Texas cities?
Yes. The TSBPE is the statewide authority. However, some cities (like Houston or Austin) may have additional local requirements or permits.

Q6: Can I check disciplinary history through the license search?
Yes. The verification page includes a “Disciplinary Actions” section if any formal actions have been taken by the board.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Home and Your Wallet

Using the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners License Search isn’t just a bureaucratic step—it’s a smart, responsible habit that safeguards your property, health, and investment. In a state as large and fast-growing as Texas, where construction booms and contractor demand are high, due diligence separates a smooth renovation from a plumbing nightmare.

✅ Take action today: Before signing any contract or handing over a deposit, verify that license. It takes 60 seconds—and could save you thousands.

Found this guide helpful? Share it with friends, family, or your neighborhood group on Facebook, Twitter, or Nextdoor! Helping others avoid unlicensed contractors builds safer communities across Texas. 💧🔧