Indiana Plumbing License: Everything You Need to Know

The plumbing industry in Indiana is expanding, providing a promising career path for skilled professionals. This guide covers all the essentials for obtaining your Indiana plumbing license, including license types, requirements, salaries, apprenticeship options, and renewal processes.

What plumbing work can be done without a license?

In Indiana, all professional plumbing work requires a license. Apprentices are the only exception, but they must work under the direct supervision of a licensed plumber.

What are the different types of plumbing licenses available in Indiana?

Indiana offers a structured path to becoming a licensed plumber through three main license levels:

1. Apprentice Plumber License
   • Requirements:
     1. Must be at least 17 years old to apply.
     2. Complete a minimum of four years in a state-approved plumbing apprenticeship program.
     3. Accumulate 576 hours of classroom training and 1,900 hours of fieldwork each year.
     4. Submit an apprenticeship application with proof of training.
   • Scope of Work: Apprentices perform tasks like assembling parts, cleaning lines, and preparing job sites under the supervision of licensed plumbers.
2. Journeyman Plumber License
   • Requirements:
     1. Complete a state-approved apprenticeship with at least 7,600 hours of training.
     2. Pass the journeyman plumber exam administered by the Indiana Plumbing Commission.
     3. Submit proof of experience and pay the $25 application fee.
   • Scope of Work: Journeymen follow state codes, test components, and install plumbing supplies for residential and commercial projects.
3. Master Plumber License
   • Requirements:
     1. Work as a licensed journeyman for a specified period.
     2. Pass the master plumber exam.
     3. Submit proof of experience and pay all exam and licensing fees.
   • Scope of Work: Master plumbers can handle all aspects of plumbing work, including supervising journeymen and training apprentices.

Apprentices spend at least 4 years working in a state-approved plumbing program before becoming a journeyman. If you possess a plumbing license from another state, Indiana allows you to skip the apprentice program and immediately become a journeyman.

Average hourly rates for plumbers in Indiana

Indiana offers competitive pay across all levels in the plumbing profession. Here’s a breakdown of average hourly wages compared to national averages:

• Apprentice Plumber: $13.75 per hour
  (National Average: $15.31 per hour)
  Apprentice plumbers in Indiana earn slightly below the national average, but this role provides valuable hands-on experience.
• Journeyman Plumber: $22.87 per hour
  (National Average: $25.37 per hour)
  Journeymen in Indiana earn wages close to the national average, reflecting the high demand for skilled labor in the state.
• Master Plumber: $30.50 per hour
  (National Average: $30.46 per hour)
  Master plumbers in Indiana earn around the national average, offering competitive pay for those with advanced expertise and supervisory roles.

With wages that align closely with national averages, Indiana offers competitive compensation for plumbers across all experience levels. The steady demand for skilled plumbers, combined with opportunities for advancement through union support and structured apprenticeship programs, makes Indiana an attractive state for building a long-lasting and rewarding career in plumbing.

How to get a plumbing license in Indiana

Most licensed plumbers in Indiana begin their careers as apprentices. The Indiana Plumbing Commission is responsible for providing licenses to state plumbers. Before becoming a plumber, you must do an apprenticeship. 

The apprenticeship requires 576 hours of training in a school setting and 1,900 hours of fieldwork each year for 4 years. You also need to complete 7,600 hours of training in the field and on the job. Several technical schools in Indiana offer apprentice training, including AC/C Tech and Mechanical Skills, Inc.

Checklist for Obtaining a Plumbing License

To become a licensed plumber in Indiana, you’ll need to progress through three key licensing levels, each with specific experience and examination requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the steps and qualifications needed for each license:

1. Apprentice Plumber License
   • Be at least 17 years old and complete the application process.
   • Complete four years of school and fieldwork, totaling 7,600 hours of training.
2. Journeyman Plumber License
   • Complete the apprenticeship, pass the journeyman exam, and submit proof of experience.
3. Master Plumber License
   • Work as a journeyman plumber, pass the master exam, and apply with proof of experience.

Educational Costs

Your educational costs will depend on both the plumbing program and the school. Online programs often charge less than $1,000 per year but do not include any fieldwork opportunities. Career and vocational schools offer certificate programs that cost up to $3,000 per year. Most community colleges offer financing options, such as payment plans and loans.

Plumbing Exams

To get a journeyman license, you must pay a $25 application fee. You’ll also take an exam after completion of your fieldwork and apprenticeship. Contractors must take a similar exam that focuses on sewage and drainage systems for residential and commercial properties. The contractor license requires an application fee of between $50 and $100. Exams are available from the International Code Council (ICC) with online registration. The ICC website also offers free resources to help you prepare for the exams.

Criminal Background

A criminal background check is part of the licensing process. Though felons can apply for an Indiana plumbing license, it depends on the type of crime. For example, crimes against people may block someone from getting a license.

Should I join a union?

Joining a union can offer several benefits for Indiana plumbers:

• Higher Wages: Union plumbers often earn more due to collective bargaining.
• Job Security: Unions advocate for fair treatment and workplace protections.
• Resources: Union members gain access to benefits like health insurance, pensions, and additional training.

UA Local 440 is a major union in Indiana that can help arrange apprenticeships and support career growth for plumbers.

Insurance for plumbers in Indiana

Indiana requires licensed plumbers to carry liability insurance to protect against property damage and injuries. Most policies range from $600 to $1,700 annually, offering up to $2 million in coverage per year.

How to get my first plumbing apprenticeship

Finding an apprenticeship is a key step toward becoming a licensed plumber in Indiana. Options include:

• Licensed Plumbing Companies: Many plumbing businesses offer apprenticeships.
• Trade Schools and Unions: Organizations like UA Local 440 in Indianapolis provide structured apprenticeship programs.

The Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA) offers a list of companies that hire apprentices. For interviews, dress in business casual and expect to answer questions about your desire to become a plumber and your current background.

Does my license work in any other states?

An Indiana plumbing license is only valid within the state. If you plan to work in another state, you’ll need to meet that state’s specific licensing requirements.

How do I stay up to date with plumbing codes?

The Indiana Association of Plumbing Heating and Cooling Contractors (IAPHCC) offers workshops and conferences to help plumbers stay current with state plumbing codes. Many vocational schools and online courses also provide code updates.

What resources are available in the plumbing industry?

Several resources are available to help you advance your plumbing career. Visit these industry sites:

• Plumbing Trade Shows and Conferences
• Top Industry Plumbing Blogs
• Plumbing Trends
• Top Plumbing Specialties

How often do I need to renew my plumbing license in Indiana?

Indiana plumbing licenses must be renewed annually. The Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA) sends renewal notifications at least 90 days before the expiration date. Renewal can be completed online, with verification provided within 24 hours.