Mississippi Plumbing License: Everything You Need to Know

The plumbing industry in Mississippi offers steady career opportunities, with high demand for both residential and commercial plumbers. Licensing ensures compliance with safety and quality standards. This guide covers the requirements for obtaining a Mississippi plumbing license, including license types, apprenticeship details, insurance, and renewal processes.

What plumbing work can be done without a license?

In Mississippi, a license is mandatory for residential plumbers performing projects valued over $10,000 and for commercial plumbers handling jobs worth more than $50,000. All licensed plumbers must secure appropriate permits for each job, ensuring compliance with state regulations.

What are the different types of plumbing licenses in Mississippi

The Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC) offers two primary types of plumbing licenses:

• Unlimited Commercial Plumber License: Allows plumbers to perform all types of plumbing work on commercial buildings.
• Unlimited Residential Plumber License: Permits plumbers to carry out comprehensive plumbing tasks on residential buildings. Residential contractors can work on commercial plumbing projects; however, they are limited to buildings under 7,500 square feet.

Requirements for a Mississippi Plumbing License

• Age and Education: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or GED.
• Application Process: Complete and submit an application to the MSBOC.
• Examination: Pass the required exams (details below) within six months of application submission.
• Insurance: Secure general liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $300,000 per occurrence.

Exam Requirements

The Mississippi plumbing exam, administered by PSI Exams, is divided into two sections:

1. Business & Law Examination: 50 questions
2. Plumbing Examination: 70 questions, focusing on plumbing skills and state regulations

• Passing Score: A minimum of 70% is required for each section.

Exam Fees: Exam fees range between $100 and $150 per test.

Average hourly rates for plumbers in Mississippi

Licensed plumbers in Mississippi earn wages that reflect their skill level and experience. Here’s a breakdown of average hourly rates in Mississippi compared to national averages:

• Apprentice Plumber: $14.60 per hour (National Average: $15.31)
• Journeyman Plumber: $18.36 per hour (National Average: $25.37)
• Master Plumber: $25.00 per hour (National Average: $30.46)

These rates are aligned with the cost of living in Mississippi and show competitive earning potential for experienced plumbers.

How to get a plumbing license in Mississippi

For a Mississippi plumbing license, you are not required to enroll in an apprenticeship program. First, submit an application and pass the test. 

To become a licensed plumber in Mississippi, follow these steps:

1. Meet the Educational and Age Requirements: Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
2. Submit an Application: Apply to the Mississippi State Board of Contractors, providing proof of education, experience, and insurance.
3. Prepare for and Pass the Exam: Register for the required PSI exam, which includes the Business & Law and Plumbing sections.
4. Obtain Insurance: Secure general liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $300,000 per occurrence.

Recommended Schools for Plumbing Programs

Mississippi offers several reputable programs that provide foundational plumbing knowledge:

• Delta Technical College
• Hinds Community College

Courses typically cover plumbing fundamentals, blueprint reading, construction, and plumbing codes. Tuition at these schools can range up to $350 per credit hour, and financial aid is available for qualifying students.

Prerequisites for Mississippi plumbing schools:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a high school diploma or GED.
• Possess a valid Mississippi driver’s license and/or identification card.
• Be physically capable of performing plumbing duties.

Criminal Backgrounds

Applicants with a criminal background are encouraged to submit an application for a plumbing license. The licensing board reviews all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Plumber examinations 

PSI Exams administers the Mississippi plumber contractor tests. The Mississippi plumber exam has two sections: Business & Law examination (50 questions) and Plumbing examination (70 questions). The passing score is 70% for each section. Mississippi plumber examination fees range from $100 – $150 per test. 

Checklist for Obtaining a Plumbing License

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

1. Educational Requirements: High school diploma or GED
2. Insurance Coverage: Obtain $300,000 of general liability insurance.
3. Application: Submit an application to the MSBOC.
4. Pass the Exam: Complete the PSI exam with a passing score of 70% or higher.

Renew Annually: Pay the annual renewal fee ($400 for commercial and $100 for residential licenses).

Should I join a union?

Joining a plumbing union, such as Plumbers Local Union 198, can offer several benefits:

• Higher Wages: Union plumbers often earn up to 20% more than their non-union counterparts.
• Job Security and Representation: Union membership provides representation, job protection, and workplace support.
• Additional Benefits: Access to retirement plans, health insurance, sick pay, and vacation pay.

Insurance for plumbers in Mississippi

Mississippi requires licensed plumbers to hold general liability insurance with at least $300,000 in coverage per incident. If employed by a company, the employer may provide insurance, but self-employed plumbers must obtain their own policy.

Additionally, plumbers should maintain up-to-date vaccinations due to potential exposure to hazardous materials. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends vaccines for tetanus, hepatitis B, typhoid fever, polio, and hepatitis A.

How to get my first plumbing apprenticeship

Finding an apprenticeship is an important first step for future plumbers in Mississippi. Apprenticeships can be obtained through:

1. Trade Schools: Many Mississippi trade schools, like Delta Technical College, offer apprenticeship placements.
2. Unions: Local unions provide structured apprenticeship programs that include training and certification.
3. Online Resources: Sites like Career Training Base, My Next Move, and Study.com list available apprenticeship programs.

For interviews, dress professionally and bring your resume, along with copies of identification and educational documents.

Does my license work in any other states?

Mississippi has reciprocity agreements with North Carolina, Alabama, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Georgia. If you hold a Mississippi plumbing license, you may be eligible to apply for a license in these states without taking additional exams, though you should verify specific requirements with each state.

How do I stay up to date with plumbing codes?

Mississippi plumbers are required to stay informed of any changes to plumbing codes. Resources to stay current include:

• International Plumbing Codes
• ASPE (American Society of Plumbing Engineers)

Attending trade shows and participating in continuing education courses can also help ensure compliance with current codes.

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 Mississippi?

Mississippi plumbing licenses must be renewed annually. Renewal fees are as follows:

• Commercial License Renewal Fee: $400
• Residential License Renewal Fee: $100

Ensure that your renewal is completed on time each year to avoid lapses in licensure and potential penalties.