Michigan Plumbing License: Everything You Need to Know

The Michigan plumbing industry offers stable career opportunities for skilled individuals. To maintain standards in the trade, Michigan requires all plumbers to hold a license for most plumbing work. This guide provides an overview of licensing requirements, types of licenses, insurance, renewals, salary expectations, and resources for plumbers in Michigan.

What plumbing work can be done without a license?

In Michigan, any plumbing work beyond minor repairs requires a state-issued plumbing license. Unlicensed individuals are limited to tasks that do not alter plumbing systems, such as simple fixture replacements. For installations, repairs, and other plumbing services, a valid Michigan plumbing license is required.

What are the different types of plumbing licenses in Michigan

Michigan offers two primary types of plumbing licenses through the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA):

• Journeyman Plumber License: Allows plumbers to work under the supervision of a master plumber. Journeymen can perform installations, repairs, and other plumbing tasks.
• Master Plumber License: Authorizes plumbers to work independently, operate their own plumbing business, and supervise apprentices and journeymen.

Requirements for a Michigan Apprentice Plumber

• Education: There is no license requirement to begin an apprenticeship, but individuals must meet the program’s qualifications.
• Training: Complete a four-year apprenticeship, which includes both hands-on training and classroom education.
• Application: Once trained, apprentices can apply for the journeyman license to advance in their careers.

Requirements for a Michigan Journeyman Plumber License

• Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old.
• Experience: Complete four years (approximately 7,500 hours) as an apprentice under the supervision of a licensed master plumber.
• Examination: Pass the state-administered journeyman plumber exam, which tests plumbing techniques, safety standards, and Michigan codes.
• Application: Submit proof of apprenticeship, pay the $100 exam fee, and undergo a background check. 

Requirements for a Michigan Master Plumber License

• Experience: Hold a journeyman license and work as a journeyman plumber for at least two years (an additional 3,400 hours).
• Examination: Pass the master plumber exam, covering advanced plumbing skills and business practices.
• Application: Provide documentation of work experience, pass a criminal background check, and submit the necessary application and fees.

Average hourly rates for plumbers in Michigan

Plumbers in Michigan receive competitive wages at all experience levels. Here’s a breakdown of average hourly rates in Michigan compared to national averages:

• Apprentice Plumber: $15.50 per hour (National Average: $15.31)
• Journeyman Plumber: $24.70 per hour (National Average: $25.37)
• Master Plumber: $33.00 per hour (National Average: $30.46)

These figures reflect Michigan’s robust demand for licensed plumbing professionals and competitive compensation relative to the national average.

How to get a plumbing license in Michigan

Obtaining a plumbing license in Michigan involves a series of steps, including training, exams, and application submissions.

Step 1: Start as an Apprentice

Begin your career with a four-year apprenticeship program. Schools like the Detroit Training Institute of Technology and Brookins Construction Trade School offer training programs, often with financial aid options.

• Program Requirements: Complete 7,500 hours of hands-on experience and additional classroom instruction.
• On-the-Job Training: Apprentices work under a licensed plumber, gaining practical skills.

To become a Michigan plumber, you need to do between 10-12 months of classroom training. Your school, the local union, or a plumbing company can help you find an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships usually last for four years.

Step 2: Apply for the Journeyman Plumber License

After completing the required hours as an apprentice, you are eligible to apply for a journeyman plumber license.

• Requirements: Complete four years of supervised work, pass the journeyman exam, and pay the $100 exam fee.
• Application Submission: Provide proof of experience and complete a background check.

Step 3: Advance to Master Plumber

Licensed journeymen with at least two years of experience can apply for the master plumber license.

• Requirements: Hold a journeyman license for two years, accumulate an additional 3,400 hours of work experience, and pass the master plumber exam.
• Application Submission: Submit proof of experience, pass a background check, and complete the required paperwork and fees.

Checklist for Obtaining a Plumbing License

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

• Apprentice Plumber:
• 1. Enroll in an apprenticeship program (approximately four years).
  2. Work under a licensed plumber to accumulate 7,500 hours.
• Journeyman Plumber:
• 1. Complete four years as an apprentice.
  2. Pass the journeyman plumber exam.
  3. Submit the application with proof of experience and pay the $100 fee.
• Master Plumber:
• 1. Work as a journeyman for at least two years.
  2. Pass the master plumber exam.
  3. Submit proof of experience and complete application requirements.

Should I join a union?

Joining a union, like Plumbers Local 98 in Troy, can offer several benefits:

• Training Resources: Unions provide apprenticeships and training facilities.
• Job Security: Unions advocate for worker rights, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions.
• Career Advancement: Union members have access to continuing education and networking opportunities.

Insurance for Plumbers in Michigan

Michigan requires all plumbers to have liability insurance. Although the state does not mandate a specific minimum coverage amount, it is recommended that plumbers obtain at least $200,000 in annual coverage. Liability insurance protects against property damage or accidental injuries that may occur during plumbing work.

How to get my first Plumbing apprenticeship

The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs in Michigan provides resources for future plumbers. You can learn about schools that offer training and apprentice programs. 

To secure an apprenticeship in Michigan, consider the following steps:

• Union Apprenticeships: Organizations like Plumbers Local 98 offer structured apprenticeships and placement support.
• Apply Online: To become an apprentice, you must fill out an online application. Applications are only open a few times a year. You will need to attend an interview. Visit the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) website for information on apprenticeship openings.
• Prepare for Interviews: Dress professionally, bring a resume, and express your commitment to learning the trade.

Does my license work in any other states?

A Michigan plumbing license does not have reciprocity with other states. If you plan to work outside Michigan, you must meet the licensing requirements of the destination state.

How do I stay up to date with plumbing codes?

Licensed plumbers in Michigan must complete a five-hour code course every licensing period to stay current with any changes to state plumbing codes. LARA provides access to approved courses.

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 Michigan?

Licenses must be renewed with Michigan LARA according to the following schedules:

• Journeyman License: Renew annually before the end of April.
• Master License: Renew every three years before the end of April.

Renewal requirements include completion of the five-hour code update course and payment of the renewal fee to maintain active status.