Minnesota Plumbing License: Everything You Need to Know

The plumbing industry in Minnesota provides promising career paths, especially as demand for skilled tradespeople continues to grow. Minnesota requires licensed plumbers to ensure quality and adherence to state safety standards. This guide covers all essential information for obtaining a plumbing license in Minnesota, including license types, requirements, apprenticeships, insurance, and renewal processes.

What plumbing work can be done without a license?

In Minnesota, almost all plumbing work requires a state-issued plumbing license. Unlicensed individuals can perform only limited repairs that do not alter plumbing systems. For installations, repairs, and other plumbing services, a valid Minnesota plumbing license is necessary. In Minnesota, almost all plumbing work requires a state-issued plumbing license. Unlicensed individuals can perform only limited repairs that do not alter plumbing systems. For installations, repairs, and other plumbing services, a valid Minnesota plumbing license is necessary.

What are the different types of plumbing licenses in Minnesota

Minnesota offers two primary types of plumbing licenses, administered by the Department of Labor and Industry (DLI):

• Journeyman Plumber License: Allows plumbers to perform various plumbing tasks under the supervision of a master plumber.
• Master Plumber License: Authorizes plumbers to work independently, supervise apprentices and journeymen, and operate a plumbing business.

Requirements for a Minnesota Apprentice Plumber (Unlicensed)

• Registration: Register as an unlicensed plumber with the state. This is the first step to gaining hands-on experience in the field.
• Education and Age: Must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED.
• Work Hours: Complete a minimum of 7,000 hours over four years in specific categories:
  • 2,000 hours in water distribution system installation
  • 2,000 hours in drain, waste, and vent system installation
  • 1,000 hours in fixture installation
• Application Fee: $14 annually to maintain registration as an unlicensed plumber.

Requirements for a Minnesota Journeyman Plumber License

• Experience: Complete a four-year apprenticeship (7,000 hours) under the supervision of a licensed master plumber.
• Examination: Pass the state-administered journeyman plumber exam, which tests plumbing skills, state codes, and safety standards.
• Application Fee: Pay a $128 fee when applying for the license.

Requirements for a Minnesota Master Plumber License

• Experience: Work as a licensed journeyman plumber for at least one year (1,750 hours of additional experience).
• Examination: Pass the master plumber exam, which covers advanced plumbing techniques, business practices, and Minnesota plumbing codes.

Application Fee: Pay a $128 fee upon application.

Average hourly rates for plumbers in Minnesota

Licensed plumbers in Minnesota earn competitive wages, which reflect their level of experience and certification. Here’s a breakdown of average hourly rates in Minnesota compared to national averages:

• Apprentice Plumber: $15.00 per hour (National Average: $15.31)
• Journeyman Plumber: $30.82 per hour (National Average: $25.37)
• Master Plumber: $35.00 per hour (National Average: $30.46)

These rates demonstrate Minnesota’s commitment to fair compensation for skilled tradespeople and provide a clear incentive for career advancement within the industry.

How to get a plumbing license in Minnesota

The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry is responsible for plumbing licenses. To become a licensed plumber in Minnesota, follow these steps:

Step 1: Register as an Unlicensed Plumber

Begin by registering with the DLI as an unlicensed plumber. This registration allows you to accumulate the required work experience for a journeyman license.

• Apprenticeship Programs: Various technical colleges and union programs, like those offered by Plumbers and Gasfitters Local Union 34 in Saint Paul, provide structured apprenticeships.
• Training Requirements: Gain 7,000 hours of supervised work experience over four years, covering water distribution, waste systems, and fixture installation.

Step 2: Apply for the Journeyman Plumber License

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

• Requirements: Four years of supervised work experience and completion of relevant coursework.
• Examination: Pass the journeyman plumber exam, administered by the DLI.
• Application Submission: Provide documentation of your experience and pay the $128 fee.

Step 3: Advance to Master Plumber

Licensed journeymen with one year of experience can apply to become master plumbers.

• Requirements: Hold a journeyman license and accumulate an additional 1,750 hours of work experience.
• Examination: Pass the master plumber exam, covering advanced skills and business regulations.
• Application Submission: Submit proof of experience, pass a background check, and pay the $128 fee.

You must work for at least one year as a journeyman plumber to take the master plumber exam. With a passing grade, you can apply for your master plumber license for a $128 fee. In addition, to receive a master plumber license, you must abide by the plumber code for five years. The exams for both journeyman and master plumber cover basic plumbing knowledge, federal regulations, and the plumbing codes of Minnesota. The master plumber test has a greater focus on administrative issues. You can find several online resources to prepare you for the exam. Local unions also may have resources to help you. There is a $50 fee to take the plumbing exam at both levels.

Checklist for Obtaining a Plumbing License

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

• Unlicensed Plumber (Apprentice):
• 1. Register with the state as an unlicensed plumber.
  2. Complete 7,000 hours of experience over four years.
  3. Pay the $14 annual registration fee.
• Journeyman Plumber:
• 1. Complete the required 7,000 hours of experience.
  2. Pass the journeyman plumber exam.
  3. Pay the $128 application fee.
• Master Plumber:
• 1. Work as a journeyman for at least one year.
  2. Pass the master plumber exam.
  3. Pay the $128 application fee.

Should I join a union?

Joining a union, such as Plumbers and Gasfitters Local Union 34, offers significant benefits:

• Apprenticeships and Training: Unions provide structured training programs and job placements for apprentices.
• Job Security: Union membership offers job protections, fair wages, and benefits.

Networking: Unions provide access to industry resources, professional connections, and continuing education.

Insurance for plumbers in Minnesota

Minnesota requires liability insurance for licensed plumbers. While there is no specified minimum coverage amount, it’s recommended that plumbers carry at least $200,000 in coverage annually. This insurance protects against property damage or accidental injuries on job sites. Additionally, plumbers must be bonded to adhere to state plumbing codes.

How to get my first plumbing apprenticeship

As a registered unlicensed plumber, you are a trainee of the master plumber. The training period is a paid position, increasing with each year of experience. For the interview, arrive on time and be prepared to talk about your plumbing knowledge and experience. Local unions have structured programs for students who are at least 18 years old. You can apply for these positions through the union’s website.

To secure an apprenticeship in Minnesota, consider the following options:

• Union Apprenticeships: Plumbers Local Union 34 offers structured apprenticeships with benefits such as training, health insurance, and competitive wages.
• Apply Online: The Minnesota DLI and union websites list apprenticeship openings.

Prepare for Interviews: Dress professionally, bring a resume, and demonstrate your commitment to the plumbing industry.

Does my license work in any other states?

Minnesota does not have reciprocity for plumbing licenses with other states. If you plan to work in another state, you must comply with that state’s licensing requirements.

How do I stay up to date with plumbing codes?

Continuing education is mandatory for licensed plumbers in Minnesota. Master and journeyman plumbers must complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years, 12 of which must focus on Minnesota plumbing codes. Approved courses are listed on the DLI website.

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 Minnesota?

Minnesota plumbing licenses must be renewed every two years through the DLI. Renewal fees are as follows:

• Journeyman and Master Plumber: $128
• Unlicensed Plumber (Apprentice): $14 annually

Renewal requires completion of the required continuing education hours and submission of a renewal application and fees before the expiration date.