Maine Plumbing License: Everything You Need to Know

The plumbing industry in Maine offers promising career opportunities for skilled tradespeople. To ensure that plumbing professionals meet state standards, Maine requires plumbers to hold specific licenses. This guide provides a complete overview of the requirements, licensing process, salary expectations, and job resources for Maine plumbers.

What plumbing work can be done without a license?

In Maine, there is a distinction between plumbing repairs and installations. Minor plumbing repairs can be done without a license; however, plumbing installations require oversight by a master plumber unless performed by a homeowner in their own residence. All work, licensed or unlicensed, must comply with Maine’s plumbing codes.

What are the different types of plumbing licenses in Maine

Maine offers four levels of plumbing licenses through the Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation:

• Trainee Plumber License: This entry-level license is for those who work under a licensed plumber, learning essential skills. Applicants must be at least 16 years old and work under a master plumber’s supervision.
• Journeyman-in-Training License: This non-renewable, four-year license is for students enrolled in a plumbing trade program at a community college, providing both classroom learning and field training under a master plumber.
• Journeyman Plumber License: Journeymen can work independently on repair projects but need supervision for installations. This license requires completion of on-the-job training hours and passing an exam.
• Master Plumber License: Master plumbers can perform any plumbing work independently and supervise trainees. This license requires a higher level of experience and passing the master-level exam.

Requirements for Each License Level

Trainee Plumber License Requirements

• Age Requirement: Must be at least 16 years old.
• Training: Complete 4,000 hours of work experience under a master plumber’s supervision.
• Application: Submit proof of training with a master plumber and pay a $146 fee (includes background check).

Journeyman-in-Training License Requirements

• Program Enrollment: Attend a state-approved community college program, such as those at Southern Maine Community College or Northern Maine Community College.
• Program Duration: Complete two semesters of plumbing courses and hands-on experience under a master plumber.
• License Duration: This license lasts for four years and is non-renewable.

Journeyman Plumber License Requirements

• Experience: Complete 4,000 hours as a trainee or 2,000 hours as a journeyman-in-training.
• Examination: Pass the journeyman plumber exam with at least a 70% score.
• Application Fees: Total application and licensing fees are $246.

Master Plumber License Requirements

• Experience: Complete four years as a journeyman plumber.
• Examination: Pass the master plumber exam, which focuses on advanced plumbing installation and state plumbing codes.
• Application Fees: Fees for this license are the same as for a journeyman license.

Average hourly rates for plumbers in Maine

Maine plumbers enjoy competitive wages, with salaries varying by license level and experience. Here’s a breakdown of average hourly rates in Maine compared to national averages:

• Apprentice Plumber: $15.00 per hour (National Average: $15.31)
• Journeyman Plumber: $28.62 per hour (National Average: $25.37)
• Master Plumber: $40.00 per hour (National Average: $30.46)

These figures reflect Maine’s commitment to fair compensation for skilled trades, aligning with the state’s cost of living.

How to get a plumbing license in Maine

Obtaining a plumbing license in Maine requires a combination of hands-on training, classroom learning, and exams. The Department of Professional and Financial Regulation is responsible for plumbing licenses in Maine. Each step requires a separate application and fees. The fees include the cost of a criminal background check. The licensing board may deny you a license if there is a recent or serious offense.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for each licensing level:

Step 1: Begin with a Trainee License Secure a trainee position under a licensed master plumber, who can supervise up to three trainees. Work experience under this license involves a minimum of 4,000 hours of field training.

Step 2: Complete Journeyman-in-Training or Community College Program For those following the journeyman-in-training path, enroll in a plumbing trade program at a community college to gain foundational skills and classroom instruction.

Step 3: Apply for the Journeyman Plumber License After completing the required work hours, apply for the journeyman license. Pass the journeyman plumber exam, which assesses knowledge of plumbing practices, codes, and safety standards.

Step 4: Progress to Master Plumber Once licensed as a journeyman, work for at least one year before applying for a master plumber license. Pass the master plumber exam to demonstrate advanced expertise.

After 4000 work hours as a trainee or 2000 as a journeyman-in-training, you can apply for a journeyman plumber license. If you haven’t already, you must pass the journeyman license exam with a 70% score. The total fee for this license is $246. If you want to become a master plumber, you will learn about plumbing installation from a master plumber during the journeyman phase.

After 8000 work hours as a trainee or 2000 as a journeyman, you are eligible to become a master plumber. The fees for this license are the same as for a journeyman license. You will also need to pass the master plumber license exam.

The exams for both journeyman and master plumber cover basic plumbing skills, federal regulations, and the Maine plumbing codes. The master plumber exam focuses on plumbing installation. There is a $75 fee to take the plumbing exam at either level.

Checklist for Obtaining a Plumbing License

• Trainee License: Be 16 years old, secure training under a master plumber, and complete 4,000 hours of experience.
• Journeyman-in-Training: Enroll in an approved program and complete the required classroom and field training.
• Journeyman License: Complete trainee/journeyman-in-training experience, pass the exam, and submit fees.
• Master Plumber License: Work as a journeyman for at least one year, pass the master plumber exam, and submit fees.

Should I join a union?

Joining a union can be beneficial for plumbers working for companies. Unions, like the Maine Plumbers and Pipefitters UA Local 716, provide benefits such as job security, health insurance, and assistance with job placement. Membership can also offer collective bargaining for better wages and conditions. However, it’s not necessary to join a union if you are working as an independent plumber.

Insurance for plumbers in Maine

Plumbers need health and disability insurance. If you work for a major company, your employer may handle these benefits. As an independent plumber, you will apply for your own coverage or get insurance through a union.

Liability insurance is recommended for Maine plumbers to cover potential accidents and equipment damage. While employers often provide health and disability insurance, independent plumbers may need to secure these themselves or through union memberships.

How to get my first plumbing apprenticeship

Securing your first plumbing apprenticeship in Maine is a crucial step in building a successful plumbing career. Here are some practical steps, along with specific examples, to help you find and secure an apprenticeship:

1. Research Local Employers and Unions
   Start by researching plumbing companies and unions in Maine that offer apprenticeship opportunities. For example, Maine Plumbers and Pipefitters UA Local 716 offers apprenticeship programs, providing training under experienced plumbers and pipefitters. By joining a local union, you can access job placement resources and connect with companies actively seeking apprentices.
2. Explore Community College Partnerships
   Many community colleges in Maine, such as Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) and Northern Maine Community College (NMCC), have partnerships with local employers and unions. These colleges offer plumbing programs with built-in apprenticeship opportunities. For example, SMCC’s program places students with local master plumbers, where they gain real-world experience as part of their training.
3. Apply to Plumbing Companies Directly
   Some plumbing companies in Maine, such as Pine State Services and Royal Flush Plumbing, frequently hire apprentices. Check their websites or job boards for openings, and consider calling to ask about entry-level positions. Many companies value applicants who show initiative, so following up on your application with a call can make a positive impression.
4. Use Job Boards and State Resources
   Job sites like Indeed, Monster, and ZipRecruiter frequently list plumbing apprenticeships. Additionally, Maine’s Department of Labor provides resources for finding apprenticeships and entry-level positions in trades. Using these sites can help you identify available positions with established companies.
5. Prepare for the Interview
   When interviewing for an apprenticeship, present yourself professionally. Dress in business casual attire, arrive on time, and bring a resume that highlights any relevant skills or education. Prepare to discuss your interest in plumbing and why you want to work as an apprentice. Showing enthusiasm and commitment can help you stand out.

Does my license work in any other states?

Yes, Maine has reciprocity for plumbing licenses with New Hampshire, allowing Maine-licensed plumbers to work there without additional exams or licensing.

How do I stay up to date with plumbing codes?

Maine expects plumbers to stay aware of changes to the plumbing codes, but there is no mandatory continuing education requirement. You will need to get a copy of the “Maine State Internal Plumbing Code” through the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials. The Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation and the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials provide resources for 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 Maine?

Maine plumbing licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal fee is $100 for trainee licenses and $200 for journeyman and master plumber licenses. The journeyman-in-training license is non-renewable and lasts four years.