Massachusetts Plumbing License: Everything You Need to Know

The Massachusetts plumbing industry offers a stable career path with a high demand for skilled professionals. The Massachusetts Board of Registration of Plumbers and Gas Fitters oversees the licensing process to ensure competency and safety in the trade. This guide provides updated information on licensing requirements, insurance, renewal, average salaries, and resources for advancing your plumbing career in Massachusetts.

What plumbing work can be done without a license?

Massachusetts law restricts unlicensed individuals from performing most plumbing tasks. Basic repairs, like replacing a fixture or gasket, may be done without a license, but all major plumbing work requires a Massachusetts plumbing license, ensuring adherence to state standards.

What are the different types of plumbing licenses in Massachusetts

There are three types of licenses available through the Board of Registration of Plumbers and Gas Fitters: Apprentice, Journeyman and Master Plumber. There is a high demand for plumbers at all levels in Massachusetts. 

The three levels of plumbing licenses available in Massachusetts:

• Apprentice Plumber License: Entry-level license for individuals starting their career. Apprentices work under a licensed plumber to gain foundational skills and practical experience.
• Journeyman Plumber License: Allows plumbers to perform a broad range of plumbing work under the oversight of a master plumber.
• Master Plumber License: The highest level of licensure, allowing plumbers to work independently, supervise others, and train apprentices and journeymen.

Requirements for a Massachusetts Apprentice Plumber License

• Training: Complete an approved technical training program, typically at a technical high school or community college.
• Experience: Register as an apprentice and complete 5,100 hours of supervised on-the-job training over four to five years.
• Application: Submit proof of training and experience to the Board of Registration of Plumbers and Gas Fitters.

Requirements for a Massachusetts Journeyman Plumber License

• Experience: Accumulate 8,000 hours of supervised work (typically over at least three years).
• Education: Complete 150 hours of additional coursework, covering plumbing design, state codes, and industry regulations.
• Examination: Pass the journeyman plumber exam, which assesses technical skills, code knowledge, and safety practices.
• Application: Submit proof of experience, training, and a background check, along with the application fee.

Requirements for a Massachusetts Master Plumber License

• Experience: Work as a licensed journeyman plumber for at least one year.
• Examination: Pass the master plumber exam, covering advanced knowledge in plumbing practices, project management, and Massachusetts state codes.
• Application: Submit proof of experience and background check.

Average hourly rates for plumbers in Massachusetts

Massachusetts plumbers are well-compensated across all experience levels, reflecting the high demand in the state. Here’s a breakdown of average hourly rates in Massachusetts compared to national averages:

• Apprentice Plumber: $17.66 per hour (National Average: $15.31)
• Journeyman Plumber: $30.82 per hour (National Average: $25.37)
• Master Plumber: $40.00 per hour (National Average: $30.46)

These rates demonstrate competitive wages for Massachusetts plumbers and reflect the specialized skill levels required in the industry.

How to get a plumbing license in Massachusetts

Licensing is administered by the Board of Registration of Plumbers and Gas Fitters. Each step requires a separate application. You will have to pass a criminal background check. If you have a criminal record, the nature of the offense may preclude you from obtaining a license.

The process to obtain a plumbing license in Massachusetts involves training, supervised work, exams, and state certification.

Step 1: Start as an Apprentice

Begin by completing a technical training program to learn plumbing fundamentals. Institutions like Ben Franklin Institute of Technology and Southeastern Technical Institute offer programs combining theoretical and practical instruction.

• Program Structure: Courses cover basic math, blueprint reading, pipe fitting, and welding.
• Experience Requirements: Register with a master plumber to begin accruing the 5,100 hours of required supervised experience.

The classes in preparation for your apprenticeship are a mix of academic and practical courses. You will need some basic math and science education to understand plumbing principles. Technical classes cover blueprint reading, pipe fitting, and welding. After completing the program, you can find a master plumber who will start your formal apprenticeship.

You can work as an apprentice for up to ten years. Much of that time will be spent mastering the basics of plumbing work. In the beginning, you will observe the plumbing tasks. A plumber managing a large project may have you on a normal 9-to-5 schedule. An independent plumber may have a more flexible schedule.

Step 2: Apply for the Journeyman Plumber License

After completing the apprentice phase, you can apply to become a journeyman.

• Education Requirements: Complete 150 hours of additional classroom study.
• Experience Requirements: Accumulate 8,000 hours of hands-on experience under the supervision of a master plumber.
• Exam: Pass the state-administered journeyman exam.
• Application: Submit proof of education, work experience, and a background check, along with the $52 application fee.

Classes will cover subjects like design and state regulations. The cost of the programs ranges from $1500 to $2000 per semester. Financial aid is available at most of these schools. A plumber can work at the journeyman level indefinitely, renewing the license every two years. After working for one year, you are eligible to apply for a master plumber’s license. 

Step 3: Advance to Master Plumber

After working as a journeyman for at least one year, you may apply for the master plumber license.

• Experience Requirements: Hold a valid journeyman license for a minimum of one year.
• Exam: Pass the master plumber exam, which tests advanced plumbing knowledge and management skills.
• Application: Submit proof of experience and pay the $78 application fee.

Checklist for Obtaining a Plumbing License

To simplify the licensing process, here’s a quick checklist:

• Apprentice License:
• 1. Complete an approved technical training program.
  2. Register as an apprentice.
  3. Complete 5,100 hours of supervised work.
• Journeyman License:
• 1. Accumulate 8,000 hours of experience over three years.
  2. Complete 150 hours of classroom study.
  3. Pass the journeyman plumber exam.
• Master Plumber License:
• 1. Work as a journeyman for at least one year.
  2. Pass the master plumber exam.
  3. Submit proof of experience and pay the $78 fee.

Should I join a union?

Although joining a plumber’s union is not required, it can be a helpful resource for the licensing process. A union also can assist in apprenticeships and job placement. Joining a union, like UA Local 12 Plumbers & Gasfitters, provides benefits such as:

• Higher Wages: Unions negotiate competitive pay rates.
• Benefits: Members gain access to health insurance, pension plans, and legal support.
• Job Security: Union membership can provide job security and additional training resources.

Insurance for plumbers in Massachusetts

Insurance is essential for licensed plumbers in Massachusetts:

• General Liability Insurance: Protects against property damage and injuries on a client’s property.
• Health and Disability Insurance: Recommended due to the physical nature of the job.

Independent plumbers must purchase their own insurance, while company-employed plumbers may have coverage provided.

How to get my first plumbing apprenticeship

To secure an apprenticeship, consider the following steps:

• Apply Through Local Unions: Unions, like UA Local 12, offer apprenticeships and can help with placements.
• Contact Local Plumbers: Many licensed plumbers offer apprenticeship opportunities.
• Prepare for Interviews: Dress professionally, bring a resume, and be prepared to discuss your training and interest in the trade.

Does my license work in any other states?

A Massachusetts plumbing license is valid only within the state. If you plan to work in another state, you will need to check reciprocity agreements or obtain the necessary local licensing.

How do I stay up to date with plumbing codes?

Massachusetts requires journeymen and master plumbers to complete 12 hours of continuing education every two years to stay updated on plumbing codes and regulations. Approved courses are available online or through community colleges.

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 Massachusetts?

Massachusetts plumbing licenses must be renewed every two years, with the following fees:

• Apprentice License: $40
• Journeyman License: $52
• Master License: $78

Renewal requires the completion of continuing education hours and submission of the renewal application and fee.