Plumber licensing requirements by state: A comprehensive guide

If you’re planning to start or grow a plumbing business, understanding your state’s plumber license requirements is the first step. Most states require plumbing contractors or master plumbers to hold a license — and the rules vary widely depending on where you work.

This guide breaks down state-by-state plumbing license requirements so you know who issues licenses, what experience or exams are needed and what plumbing business insurance can help protect your company.

(We also have state guides for other trades, including handypersons, carpenters, electricians, HVAC technicians, landscapers, roofing, painters and general contractors.)

The list is in alphabetical order and includes links for additional resources in each state.

Jump ahead:

• States A-E
• States F-J
• States K-O
• States P-T
• States U-Z

Alabama

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board (APGEB)

A license is required in Alabama to operate a plumbing business or advertise plumbing services. Plumbing companies must have at least one master plumber on staff or as the business owner, licensed through the APGEB. The master plumber license allows the holder to oversee plumbing work, pull permits, and contract directly with customers.

Applicants must pass the state plumbing exam, provide verified experience, submit references and fees ($50 application + $175 initial master certificate). Licenses renew annually.

Required business insurance in Alabama:

• Workers’ compensation insurance is required for plumbing businesses with five or more employees.
• General liability insurance is not mandated by the state but is recommended and may be required for local permits or commercial contracts.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Alabama.

Alaska

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Mechanical Inspection Section

In Alaska, plumbing businesses must hold a Mechanical Administrator license in the plumbing category and a contractor license from the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development. A licensed administrator must be associated with each business that installs or repairs plumbing systems.

Applicants must meet experience requirements, pass the plumbing trade exam and register their business with the state. Application fees vary depending on license type and endorsement, and renewal is typically required every two years.

Required business insurance in Alaska:

• General liability insurance is required for all licensed contractors. ($20,000 property / $50,000 per person / $100,000 per occurrence)
• Workers’ compensation insurance is required for any business with employees.
• Surety bond of at least $10,000 is required as part of contractor licensing.

Arizona

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC)

Plumbing businesses in Arizona must hold a plumbing contractor license from the Registrar of Contractors to perform any residential or commercial plumbing work for compensation. Individuals cannot advertise or contract plumbing services without this licensure.

Applicants must have at least four years of trade experience, pass both a business management and plumbing trade exam, and provide proof of bonding and insurance. License classifications include C-37 (commercial), C-37R (residential), and CR-37 (dual) for those working in both sectors.

Required business insurance in Arizona:

• Workers’ compensation insurance is required for plumbing businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is recommended and may be required for commercial projects or subcontracting.
• Surety bond amounts range from $2,500 to $100,000, depending on license type and annual revenue.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Arizona.

Arkansas

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Arkansas Department of Health – Plumbing & Natural Gas

Plumbing businesses in Arkansas must have a licensed master plumber affiliated with the company through the Department of Health. A contractor license from the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board is also required for commercial projects valued at $50,000 or more and residential jobs of over $2,000.

Applicants must show verified experience, pass trade and business exams and submit proof of insurance and financial responsibility. Licenses are renewed annually through the appropriate state agency.

Required business insurance in Arkansas:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with three or more employees.
• General liability insurance is recommended and often required for permits or contracts.

California

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Contractors State License Board (CSLB)

A C-36 Plumbing Contractor license is required in California for any plumbing project valued over $1,000 in labor and materials. This license allows business owners to advertise, bid and perform plumbing work on residential and commercial properties.

Applicants must have at least four years of journey-level experience, pass trade and business exams and provide proof of bonding and insurance. Fingerprinting and criminal background checks are also required. The licensing process typically takes 6–8 weeks once the application is approved.

Required business insurance in California:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for plumbing businesses with employees. A 2024 law delayed the universal mandate to Jan 1, 2028 with limited exemptions verified by CSLB.
• General liability insurance is recommended and may be required for permits or commercial contracts.
• Surety bond of $25,000 is required for all active contractor licenses.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in California.

Colorado

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) — State Plumbing Board

Plumbing businesses in Colorado must have a licensed master plumber registered with the State Plumbing Board. The master plumber license allows you to pull permits, oversee journeyman plumbers and operate a plumbing business.

Applicants must document four years (6,800 hours) of plumbing experience, pass the state trade exam and submit an application with fees. Residential and journeyman licenses are available for those not operating a business.

As of June 30, 2025, plumbing contractors must display their registration and master plumber license numbers on vehicles, bids and business materials.

Required business insurance in Colorado:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is recommended and may be required by clients or local jurisdictions.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Colorado.

Connecticut

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) — Occupational and Professional Licensing Division

To operate a plumbing business in Connecticut, you must hold a plumbing contractor license issued by the DCP. The P-1 (Unlimited Plumbing Contractor) license allows you to contract, advertise and supervise plumbing work on any residential or commercial project.

Applicants must complete a state-approved apprenticeship, hold a journeyperson (P-2) license and pass the trade and business exams. Licensing fees total about $150, and renewals are required annually.

Required business insurance in Connecticut:

• Workers’ compensation insurance is required for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is recommended and may be required for commercial or public contracts.

Delaware

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Delaware Division of Professional Regulation — Board of Plumbing, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Examiners

To operate a plumbing business or advertise plumbing services in Delaware, you must hold or employ a licensed master plumber through the Division of Professional Regulation. This license authorizes contracting, permitting, and supervision of plumbing work statewide.

Applicants must verify plumbing experience, typically through an apprenticeship and at least two years of supervised work under a master plumber, and then pass the state exam. The license must be renewed every two years.

Required business insurance in Delaware:

• Workers’ compensation insurance is required for any business with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is recommended and may be required for permits or commercial projects.

Florida

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) — Construction Industry Licensing Board

Plumbing businesses in Florida must hold a state plumbing contractor license to advertise or perform plumbing work for compensation. Licenses are issued as either registered (local jurisdiction) or certified (statewide).

Applicants must have four years of plumbing experience, pass trade and business exams and provide proof of financial stability, bonding and insurance. Certified contractors may work anywhere in Florida, while registered contractors are limited to approved local areas.

As of July 1, 2025, local specialty plumbing licenses will be phased out as Florida transitions to statewide licensing.

Required business insurance in Florida:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required to hold an active plumbing contractor license (minimum $100,000 bodily injury and $25,000 property damage coverage).

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Florida.

Georgia

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board — Division of Master and Journeyman Plumbers

Plumbing businesses in Georgia must have a master plumber license to advertise or contract plumbing services. The license allows you to operate a plumbing company, pull permits and supervise journeyman plumbers. Georgia offers two classifications:

• Class I (restricted) for single-family or two-family dwellings
• Class II (unrestricted) for all plumbing systems.

Applicants must document at least five years of plumbing experience, pass the state exam and meet financial and insurance requirements.

Required business insurance in Georgia:

• Workers’ compensation insurance is required for businesses with three or more employees.
• General liability insurance is recommended and may be required for local permits or commercial projects.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Georgia.

Hawaii

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) — Board of Electricians and Plumbers

Plumbing businesses must hold a C-37 Plumbing Contractor license with an RME (typically a master plumber) to advertise or contract plumbing work.

Applicants must have at least two years of experience as a licensed journey worker plumber, pass the master plumber exam and provide verification of work experience and fees. Licenses are renewed every three years, and continuing competency in the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) is required during each renewal cycle.

Required business insurance in Hawaii:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is recommended and may be required for commercial or government contracts.

Idaho

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses — Plumbing Program

Plumbing businesses in Idaho must employ or be owned by a licensed plumbing contractor through the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses. This credential allows the holder to advertise, contract plumbing work and supervise journeyman or apprentice plumbers.

Applicants must be or employ a journeyman plumber with at least two and a half years of experience, pass the contractor exam and submit proof of liability insurance and bonding. Licenses must be renewed annually.

Note: Beginning October 14, 2025, Idaho will move to a two-year license renewal cycle for plumbing contractors. Renewal fees will adjust to cover the longer term.

Required business insurance in Idaho:

• Workers’ compensation insurance is required for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for licensed plumbing contractors.
• Surety bond of $2,000 minimum is required as part of licensing.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Idaho.

Illinois

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)

To operate a plumbing business in Illinois, you must hold or employ a licensed plumbing contractor through the Department of Public Health. The plumbing contractor license authorizes you to advertise, bid, and perform plumbing work statewide.

Applicants must be or employ a licensed plumber, pass the contractor registration exam and provide proof of financial responsibility and insurance. Businesses must also register with the IDPH and renew licenses annually by April 30.

Required business insurance in Illinois:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance with minimum coverage of $100,000 per occurrence and $300,000 bodily injury aggregate plus $50,000 property damage, or $300,000 combined

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Illinois.

Indiana

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Indiana Plumbing Commission

Plumbing businesses in Indiana must employ or be owned by a licensed plumbing contractor through the Indiana Plumbing Commission. This license authorizes the holder to advertise plumbing services, bid projects and pull permits.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have four years of plumbing experience under a licensed contractor and pass both written and practical exams. Proof of insurance and financial responsibility is required with the license application. Licenses must be renewed every two years.

Required business insurance in Indiana:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance with a minimum of $100,000 bodily injury and $25,000 property damage coverage is required for contractor licensing.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Indiana.

Iowa

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board (PMSB)

Plumbing businesses in Iowa must employ or be owned by a licensed master plumber registered with the Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board. Only licensed master plumbers may contract plumbing services, pull permits, and supervise journeyman or apprentice plumbers.

Applicants must hold a journeyperson license, complete at least two years of experience and pass the master plumbing exam. All plumbing businesses must also hold a contractor registration with the Iowa Division of Labor.

Required business insurance in Iowa:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for contractor registration, with minimum coverage of $500,000 per occurrence.

Kansas

License required: No (statewide)

Licensing authority: Kansas State Board of Technical Professions and local city or county licensing departments

Kansas does not issue a statewide plumbing licensure, but plumbing businesses must be licensed at the local level through city or county building departments. To operate a plumbing business, you typically need a local plumbing contractor license and must employ a qualified master plumber.

For example, in Wichita and Sedgwick County, plumbing contractors are licensed through the Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department (MABCD). Applicants must hold a Master Plumber Certificate of Competency, pass the Business and Law exam, provide proof of insurance and maintain a $5,000 surety bond.

Required business insurance in Kansas:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance and a surety bond are required for local licensing in many jurisdictions.

Kentucky

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction — Division of Plumbing

Plumbing businesses in Kentucky must have a licensed master plumber associated with the company through the Division of Plumbing. Only master plumbers may advertise or contract plumbing services and must be registered with the state to operate a business.

Applicants must hold a journeyman plumber license for at least two years, pass the master plumber exam and provide proof of insurance and compliance with state business registration requirements. Licenses must be renewed annually.

Required business insurance in Kentucky:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance of at least $250,000 for property damage and $50,000 per person for bodily injury is required for active plumbing licenses.

Louisiana

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Louisiana State Plumbing Board (LSPB)

Plumbing businesses in Louisiana must have a licensed master plumber affiliated with the company through the State Plumbing Board. Only master plumbers may advertise plumbing services, bid jobs or pull permits.

Applicants must complete an approved apprenticeship or equivalent experience, hold a journeyman plumber license for at least five years and pass the master plumber exam.

Beginning in August 2025, a plumbing contractor license is required for projects valued at $10,000 or more. All master plumber licenses must also be on file with the State Licensing Board for Contractors to remain active.

Required business insurance in Louisiana:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for state contractor licensing and recommended for all plumbing businesses.
• Surety bond may be required for certain public or commercial projects.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Louisiana.

Maine

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation — Plumbers’ Examining Board

Plumbing businesses in Maine must employ or be owned by a licensed master plumber through the Plumbers’ Examining Board. Only master plumbers may advertise plumbing services, contract work, or obtain permits.

Applicants must hold a journeyman plumber license for at least one year, pass the master plumber exam and meet state insurance and business registration requirements. Licenses must be renewed on a biennial (two-year) cycle.

Required business insurance in Maine:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is recommended and may be required for local permits or public contracts.

Maryland

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Maryland Board of Plumbing — Maryland Department of Labor

Plumbing businesses in Maryland must have a licensed master plumber associated with the company through the Maryland Board of Plumbing. Only master plumbers may advertise plumbing services, obtain permits, and contract plumbing work.

Applicants must have at least two years of experience as a licensed journeyman plumber, pass the master plumber exam and submit proof of financial responsibility and insurance. Licenses must be renewed every two years.

Required business insurance in Maryland:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for contractor licensing; specific coverage limits are set by the Board.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Maryland.

Massachusetts

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters

Plumbing businesses in Massachusetts must employ or be owned by a licensed master plumber through the Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters. Only master plumbers may advertise plumbing services, pull permits and contract plumbing work.

Applicants must have at least one year of experience as a licensed journeyman plumber, pass the master plumber licensing exam, and meet insurance and business registration requirements. Licenses must be renewed every two years.

Required business insurance in Massachusetts:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is recommended and may be required by municipalities for permits or contracts.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Massachusetts.

Michigan

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) — Bureau of Construction Codes

Plumbing businesses in Michigan must employ or be owned by a licensed master plumber through the Bureau of Construction Codes. Only master plumbers may advertise plumbing services, pull permits and contract plumbing work.

Applicants must have at least two years of experience as a journeyman plumber, pass the master plumber exam, and provide proof of insurance and business registration. Licenses must be renewed every three years.

Required business insurance in Michigan:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is recommended and may be required by local jurisdictions for permits or contracts.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Michigan.

Minnesota

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI)

Plumbing businesses in Minnesota must hold a plumbing contractor license through the Department of Labor and Industry. This license authorizes business owners to advertise, bid and perform plumbing work on residential and commercial projects.

To qualify, the business must employ a licensed master plumber who serves as the responsible individual, submit proof of insurance and bonding and complete business registration requirements. Licenses are renewed every two years.

Required business insurance in Minnesota:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance with minimum coverage of $50,000 per person, $100,000 per occurrence, and $25,000 property damage is required.
• Surety bond of $25,000 is required for all licensed plumbing contractors.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Minnesota.

Mississippi

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC)

Plumbing businesses in Mississippi must hold a plumbing contractor license from the State Board of Contractors to advertise or perform plumbing work valued at $50,000 or more for commercial projects or $10,000 or more for residential jobs.

Applicants must pass trade and business exams, provide financial statements and submit proof of insurance and bonding. A qualifying individual with plumbing experience must be listed on the license application. Licenses are renewed every year.

Required business insurance in Mississippi:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with five or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for contractor licensing.
• Surety bond of $10,000 may be required for certain public or large-scale projects.

Missouri

License required: No (statewide)

Licensing authority: Local city or county building departments

Missouri does not issue a statewide plumbing license. Plumbing businesses must be licensed locally through city or county building departments to perform plumbing work or pull permits.

To operate a plumbing business, you typically need a local plumbing contractor license and must employ a licensed master plumber. Requirements vary by jurisdiction but usually include verified experience, passing a trade exam and submitting proof of insurance and bonding.

For example, in Jefferson City, plumbing contractors must be licensed through the Building Regulations Division, which requires a current certificate of insurance and a $5,000 surety bond.

Required business insurance in Missouri:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with five or more employees.
• General liability insurance is commonly required for local permits or contracts.

Montana

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Montana Department of Labor and Industry — Board of Plumbers

Plumbing businesses in Montana must employ or be owned by a licensed master plumber through the Board of Plumbers. Only master plumbers may advertise plumbing services, pull permits and contract plumbing work.

Applicants must hold a journeyman plumber license for at least four years, pass the master plumber exam, and provide proof of insurance and business registration. Licenses must be renewed annually.

Required business insurance in Montana:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for contractor licensing and must meet minimum coverage of $500,000 per occurrence.
• Surety bond of $4,000 is required for licensed plumbing contractors.

Nebraska

License required: No (statewide)

Licensing authority: Local city or county plumbing boards; Nebraska Department of Labor — Contractor Registration

Nebraska does not issue a statewide plumbing license. Plumbing businesses must meet local licensing requirements through city or county plumbing boards to perform work or pull permits.

Plumbing contractors who employ workers must register with the Nebraska Department of Labor before starting projects. Local requirements often include experience verification, trade exams and proof of insurance or bonding.

Required business insurance in Nebraska:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is commonly required for local permits or contracts.

Nevada

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB)

Plumbing businesses in Nevada must hold a C-1 Plumbing and Heating Contractor license issued by the State Contractors Board to advertise or perform plumbing work for compensation. This license allows contractors to install, repair and maintain plumbing systems in residential and commercial buildings.

Applicants must show four years of experience as a journeyman or supervisor, pass trade and business exams, and submit financial statements and proof of insurance and bonding. Licenses are renewed every two years.

Required business insurance in Nevada:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required, with minimum coverage based on license classification and project size.
• Surety bond between $1,000 and $500,000 depending on financial limits set by the Board.

New Hampshire

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: New Hampshire Mechanical Safety and Licensing Board (OPLC)

Plumbing businesses in New Hampshire must employ or be owned by a licensed master plumber through the Mechanical Safety and Licensing Board. Only master plumbers may contract plumbing work, advertise services, or pull permits.

Applicants must have a journeyman plumber license for at least six months, complete state-approved training, and pass the master plumber exam. Licenses must be renewed every two years.

Required business insurance in New Hampshire:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is recommended and may be required by local building departments or contracts.

New Jersey

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs — State Board of Examiners of Master Plumbers

Plumbing businesses in New Jersey must be owned by or employ a licensed master plumber through the State Board of Examiners of Master Plumbers. Only master plumbers may advertise plumbing services, pull permits or contract plumbing work.

Applicants must have at least four years of experience, including one year as a journeyman plumber, complete approved apprenticeship training and pass trade and business exams. Licenses must be renewed every two years.

Required business insurance in New Jersey:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for licensed master plumbers, with minimum coverage of $500,000 per occurrence.
• Surety bond of $3,000 is required for all licensed master plumbers.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in New Jersey.

New Mexico

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department — Construction Industries Division (CID)

Plumbing businesses in New Mexico must hold a plumbing contractor license issued by the Construction Industries Division. This license allows business owners to advertise, bid, and perform plumbing work for compensation.

Applicants must have at least four years of experience, pass the trade and business exams, and submit proof of financial responsibility, insurance and bonding. The main classifications are MM-1 (Plumbing) and MM-98 (Mechanical), depending on project scope.

Required business insurance in New Mexico:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with three or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for contractor licensing.
• Surety bond of $10,000 is required for all licensed plumbing contractors.

New York

License required: No (statewide)

Licensing authority: Local city or county building departments

New York does not issue a statewide plumbing license. Plumbing businesses must be licensed at the local level to perform plumbing work or pull permits.

Each city or county sets its own licensing requirements, typically requiring contractors to employ or be owned by a licensed master plumber. Local rules often include experience verification, passing a trade exam and submitting proof of insurance and bonding.

For example, in New York City, plumbing contractors are licensed through the Department of Buildings (DOB), which requires a master plumber license and proof of insurance.

Required business insurance in New York:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for most local contractor licenses.

North Carolina

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating, and Fire Sprinkler Contractors (NCBE)

Plumbing businesses in North Carolina must hold a plumbing contractor license. License classifications are Class I, Class II, and Restricted Limited. Class I and Class II determine allowable scope by building type and systems; Restricted Limited covers narrowly defined work.

Applicants generally need two years of experience, must pass trade and business exams, and provide proof of financial responsibility and insurance.

Required business insurance in North Carolina:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with three or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required, with minimum coverage based on license classification (from $50,000 to $150,000).

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in North Carolina.

North Dakota

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: North Dakota State Plumbing Board

Plumbing businesses in North Dakota must employ or be owned by a licensed master plumber through the State Plumbing Board. Only master plumbers may advertise plumbing services, pull permits and contract plumbing work.

Applicants must hold a journeyman plumber license for at least one year, pass the master plumber licensing exam, and submit proof of insurance and business registration. Licenses are renewed annually, and continuing education is required for renewal.

Required business insurance in North Dakota:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees. Because North Dakota is a monopolistic state, business owners must buy coverage from North Dakota Workforce Safety & Insurance.
• General liability insurance is required for licensed contractors, with minimum coverage based on project size or jurisdiction.
• Surety bond of $2,000 is required for all licensed plumbing contractors.

Ohio

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB)

Plumbing businesses in Ohio must hold a plumbing contractor license through the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board. This license authorizes contractors to advertise, bid and perform plumbing work for compensation.

Applicants must have at least five years of experience, pass trade and business exams and provide proof of insurance, bonding and state business registration. Licenses are renewed annually.

Required business insurance in Ohio:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees. Because Ohio is a monopolistic state, business owners must buy coverage from the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Comp.
• General liability insurance with minimum coverage of $500,000 bodily injury and $100,000 property damage is required for licensing.
• Surety bond of $25,000 is required for all licensed plumbing contractors.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Ohio.

Oklahoma

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Oklahoma Construction Industries Board (CIB)

Plumbing businesses in Oklahoma must hold a plumbing contractor license through the Construction Industries Board. This license allows business owners to advertise, bid and perform plumbing work for compensation.

Applicants must have at least four years of verified experience, including one year as a journeyman plumber, pass trade and business exams and provide proof of insurance and bonding. Licenses are renewed annually.

Required business insurance in Oklahoma:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required, with minimum coverage of $50,000 property damage and $100,000 bodily injury per occurrence.
• Surety bond of $5,000 is required for all licensed plumbing contractors.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Oklahoma.

Oregon

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB)

and Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD)

Plumbing businesses in Oregon must hold both a plumbing contractor license from the Construction Contractors Board and a plumber license from the Building Codes Division. The plumbing contractor license allows businesses to advertise, bid and perform plumbing work for compensation.

Applicants must employ a licensed supervising plumber, complete required pre-license training, pass the business exam and provide proof of insurance and bonding. As of July 1, 2025, the two-year CCB license fee will increase from $325 to $400 for new and renewing contractors.

Required business insurance in Oregon:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required, with minimum coverage based on business structure.
• Surety bond of $10,000 is required for residential plumbing contractors.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Oregon.

Pennsylvania

License required: No (statewide)

Licensing authority: Local city or county building departments

Pennsylvania does not issue a statewide plumbing license. Plumbing businesses must meet local licensing and permitting requirements through city or county authorities to perform plumbing work or pull permits.

Most cities require plumbing contractors to employ or be owned by a licensed master plumber, pass a local trade exam and show proof of insurance and bonding. For example, in Philadelphia, plumbing contractors must be licensed through the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) and maintain proof of insurance.

Required business insurance in Pennsylvania:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required by most local jurisdictions for permits or contracts.

Rhode Island

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training — Division of Workforce Regulation and Safety, Professional Regulation Unit

Plumbing businesses in Rhode Island must employ or be owned by a licensed master plumber through the Department of Labor and Training. Only master plumbers may advertise plumbing services, pull permits and contract plumbing work.

Applicants must hold a journeyperson plumber license for at least one year, pass the master plumber exam and submit proof of insurance and business registration. Licensure must be renewed annually.

Required business insurance in Rhode Island:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for contractor licensing, with minimum coverage of $300,000 per occurrence.
• Surety bond may be required by certain municipalities for permits or public projects.

South Carolina

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR) — Contractors Licensing Board

Plumbing businesses in South Carolina must hold a mechanical contractor license with a plumbing subclassification through the Contractors Licensing Board to advertise or perform plumbing work valued at $10,000 or more.

Applicants must have at least two years of work experience, pass the trade and business exams, and submit financial statements, bonding, and proof of insurance. Licenses must be renewed every two years.

Required business insurance in South Carolina:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with four or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for contractor licensing, with coverage amounts based on project size.
• Surety bond may be required depending on license group or financial limits.

South Dakota

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: South Dakota Department of Labor & Regulation — State Plumbing Commission

Plumbing businesses in South Dakota must hold a plumbing contractor license through the State Plumbing Commission. A licensed contractor may advertise plumbing services, contract work and pull permits statewide.

Applicants must have six years of experience. Applicants must also pass the state plumbing exam and submit proof of insurance and business registration.

Required business insurance in South Dakota:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is commonly required by local jurisdictions for plumbing permits or contracts.

Tennessee

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance — Board for Licensing Contractors

Plumbing businesses in Tennessee must hold a plumbing contractor license through the Board for Licensing Contractors for projects valued at $25,000 or more. This license allows business owners to advertise, bid and perform plumbing work for compensation.

Applicants must have three years of plumbing experience, pass the trade and business exams, and submit financial statements, proof of insurance and bonding. Contractors performing smaller projects may register locally but must still comply with city or county permitting rules.

Required business insurance in Tennessee:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with five or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for licensing, with coverage amounts based on project value.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Tennessee.

Texas

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE)

Plumbing businesses in Texas must have a Responsible Master Plumber (RMP) affiliated with the company through the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners. The RMP license allows plumbing contractors to advertise services, pull permits and perform plumbing work for compensation.

Applicants must hold a master plumber license, complete the RMP training course, submit proof of insurance and register the business with the TSBPE. Licenses must be renewed every year.

Beginning September 1, 2025, journeyman plumbers will only need two years of experience (down from four) to qualify for a master plumber license.

Required business insurance in Texas:

• General liability insurance is required for all registered plumbing businesses. To get an RMP designation, you must carry a minimum of $300,000 in general liability coverage.
• Workers’ compensation insurance is required for businesses with two or more employees.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Texas.

Utah

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Utah Department of Commerce — Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL)

Plumbing businesses in Utah must hold a plumbing contractor license through the Division of Professional Licensing. This license allows business owners to advertise, bid, and perform plumbing work for compensation.

Applicants must employ or have a master license, document at least four years of plumbing experience, pass the trade and business exams, and provide proof of insurance and financial responsibility. Licenses are renewed every two years.

Required business insurance in Utah:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for contractor licensing, with minimum coverage of $100,000 per incident and $300,000 aggregate.

Vermont

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Vermont Department of Public Safety — Division of Fire Safety

Plumbing businesses in Vermont must employ or be owned by a licensed master plumber through the Division of Fire Safety. Only master plumbers may advertise plumbing services, pull permits, and contract plumbing work.

Applicants must hold a journeyman plumber license for at least 12 months, pass the master plumber exam, and provide proof of insurance and business registration. Licenses are renewed every two years.

Required business insurance in Vermont:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is recommended and may be required for local permits or commercial projects.

Virginia

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) — Board for Contractors

Plumbing businesses in Virginia must hold a contractor license from the Board for Contractors with a plumbing (PLB) classification to advertise or perform plumbing work for compensation. As of April 1, 2025, Virginia offers a Residential Tradesman license for plumbers working solely in residential settings.

Applicants must designate a Qualified Individual with at least one to five years of experience, depending on license class (A, B, or C), pass the business and trade exams and submit proof of insurance and financial responsibility. Effective September 24, 2025, contractor licensing fees increased — the Class A license now costs $400 (up from $360) and Class B costs $380 (up from $345). Renewal fees rose to $240 for Class A licenses.

Required business insurance in Virginia:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with two or more employees.
• General liability insurance is recommended and may be required for certain contracts or local permits.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Virginia.

Washington

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I)

Plumbing businesses in Washington must register as a plumbing contractor with the Department of Labor & Industries. This registration allows businesses to advertise, bid and perform plumbing work across the state.

Applicants must employ a certified plumber, complete the business registration process with L&I, and provide proof of insurance and bonding. Separate certifications are required for journey-level and residential specialty plumbers performing fieldwork.

Note: L&I increased the contractor registration fee to $141.10 effective July 1, 2025, and will require electronic insurance submissions beginning January 15, 2026.

Required business insurance in Washington:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees. Because Washington is a monopolistic state, business owners must buy coverage from the L&I department.
• General liability insurance with minimum coverage of $250,000 per occurrence is required.
• Surety bond of $6,000 is required for plumbing contractors.

Learn more about plumber license and insurance requirements in Washington.

West Virginia

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: West Virginia Division of Labor — Contractor Licensing Board

Plumbing businesses in West Virginia must hold a plumbing contractor license from the Division of Labor to advertise, bid, or perform plumbing work valued at $5,000 or more.

Applicants must employ or be a licensed master plumber, pass the state plumbing exam, and provide proof of insurance, bonding, and business registration. Licenses are renewed annually.

Required business insurance in West Virginia:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for licensing, with minimum coverage of $100,000 per occurrence.

Wisconsin

License required: Yes

Licensing authority: Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS)

Plumbing businesses in Wisconsin must have a licensed master plumber associated with the company through the Department of Safety and Professional Services. Only master plumbers may advertise plumbing services, pull permits and contract plumbing work.

Applicants must hold a journeyman plumber license for at least 1,000 hours of experience, pass the master plumber exam, and submit proof of insurance and business registration. Business owners must also hold a Dwelling Contractor license to perform residential work.

Required business insurance in Wisconsin:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees.
• General liability insurance is required for the Dwelling Contractor license, with minimum coverage of $250,000 per occurrence and $500,000 aggregate.

Wyoming

License required: No (statewide)

Licensing authority: Local city or county building departments

Wyoming does not issue a statewide plumbing license. Plumbing businesses must meet local licensing and permitting requirements through city or county building departments to perform plumbing work or pull permits.

Most municipalities require plumbing contractors to employ or be owned by a licensed master plumber, pass a local trade exam and provide proof of insurance and bonding. For example, in Cheyenne, plumbing contractors are licensed through the Building Safety Department, which requires a master plumber license and proof of insurance.

Required business insurance in Wyoming:

• Workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with one or more employees. Because Wyoming is a monopolistic state, business owners must buy coverage from the Department of Workforce Services.
• General liability insurance is commonly required by local jurisdictions for permits or contracts.

How NEXT helps plumbers protect their businesses

Licensing and insurance requirements for plumbing contractors vary across the U.S. Before starting work, verify your state’s rules and ensure you’re properly insured. NEXT makes it fast, easy and affordable to protect your small business — and you can do it all online.

We’ll ask a few questions about your business and give you a quote. You can select your coverage options and buy your policy in about 10 minutes. Your certificate of insurance will be available immediately, and you can access your policy 24/7 via web or mobile app.

If you have questions, our licensed, U.S.-based insurance professionals are available to help.

Start a free quote with NEXT.

This information is provided as a service. To the best of our knowledge, it is correct and up-to-date; however, it is not expected to be taken as legal advice and you must always check the requirements on both a state level and a local government level before you start any work.