Tennessee Plumbing License: Everything You Need to Know

The Tennessee plumbing industry offers steady opportunities for professionals with the right credentials. Whether you’re starting as an apprentice or aiming to become a licensed contractor, this guide covers the steps to becoming a licensed plumber in Tennessee, insurance requirements, renewals, and industry resources.

What plumbing work can be done without a license?

In Tennessee, most plumbing work requires a license. Homeowners working on their primary residence are exempt from licensing requirements. Unlicensed individuals are limited to small tasks like unclogging pipes, while major projects such as re-piping, water heater installations, or septic repairs require a licensed professional.

What are the different types of plumbing licenses available in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, plumbing licenses are categorized based on the monetary value of the work. For projects valued at $25,000 or less, individuals can work as Limited Licensed Plumbers (LLP). However, LLP licenses are not universally required or accepted across the state. In certain counties such as Benton, Decatur, Dickson, Giles, Henderson, Henry, Hickman, Humphries, Lake, Lawrence, Lewis, Obion, Perry, Stewart, and Weakley, an LLP license is not mandatory. Additionally, cities like Nashville and Memphis do not recognize LLPs and may require separate municipal licensing. If you plan to work exclusively in one municipality with its own licensing and testing requirements, you only need to meet the local standards for projects under $25,000.

For plumbing projects exceeding $25,000, a Mechanical Plumbing Contractor license (CMC-A) is required. The CMC-A license is recognized statewide, meaning no additional exams or municipal approvals are necessary to work in any Tennessee county or city. This license authorizes work as both a prime contractor—directly contracting with property owners—and a subcontractor working under another contractor.

LLP licenses are issued to individuals, not businesses, and holders are prohibited from advertising themselves as contractors. In contrast, CMC-A licenses are issued to business entities, including sole proprietors, partnerships, LLCs, and corporations. To obtain an LLP license, candidates must demonstrate at least one year of plumbing experience. For the CMC-A license, applicants must document three years of relevant experience.

In summary, Tennessee’s plumbing licensing system includes two key licenses: the LLP for smaller projects under $25,000 and the CMC-A for larger projects over $25,000. Both licenses allow professionals to engage in a range of plumbing services, such as utility connections, irrigation system installations, and gas piping, with the CMC-A offering broader and more flexible opportunities across the state.

Average hourly rates for plumbers in Tennessee

Licensed plumbers in Tennessee earn competitive wages. Here’s a breakdown of average hourly rates in Tennessee compared to national averages:

• Apprentice Plumber: $13.50 per hour (National Average: $15.31)
• Journeyman Plumber: $23.20 per hour (National Average: $25.37)
• Mechanical Plumbing Contractor: $29.50 per hour (National Average: $30.46)

Plumbers in metropolitan areas like Nashville and Memphis often earn higher wages due to greater demand and higher costs of living

How to get a plumbing license in Tennessee

The process of obtaining a plumbing license in Tennessee combines formal education, hands-on experience, and passing state exams. Whether you’re starting your journey through an apprenticeship or formal training, here’s a step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Begin as an Apprentice

To start your plumbing career, enroll in an apprenticeship program. These programs, often sponsored by professional plumbing companies, unions, or trade organizations, provide a mix of classroom instruction and on-the-job training.

Requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a high school diploma or GED.
• Show an aptitude for math and problem-solving skills.

Training:
Apprenticeships typically last four to five years, during which you’ll complete 7,600 hours of supervised work and classroom education. For example, the Tennessee College of Applied Technology offers a 12-month certificate program in pipefitting and plumbing technology for approximately $5,300. Scholarships and financial aid, such as those from the Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors (PHCC) Educational Foundation, may be available to support your training.

Step 2: Apply for a Limited Licensed Plumber (LLP) License

After gaining at least one year of plumbing experience, you can apply for an LLP license. This license allows you to work on plumbing projects valued at $25,000 or less, depending on the municipality’s acceptance of LLPs.

Requirements:

• Application: Submit a notarized application, proof of one year of plumbing experience, and a $75 fee.
• Exam: Pass the open-book LLP exam, consisting of 40 questions covering general math, drainage waste and vents, and water supply systems. A passing score is 73% or higher, and the exam fee is $57.

Additional Notes:

• If you hold a local plumbing license (e.g., from Knoxville), you can use it to fulfill the experience requirement.
• Applicants with a criminal history or prior complaints must undergo a background check and receive approval from the Board at one of its six annual meetings.

Step 3: Advance to a Mechanical Plumbing Contractor (CMC-A) License

A CMC-A license allows you to work on projects exceeding $25,000 and is accepted statewide. This license is ideal for contractors aiming to take on large-scale or commercial plumbing projects.

Requirements:

• Experience: Document three years of relevant plumbing experience.
• Application: Submit a completed application, which includes:
  1. A Plumbing Exam Pre-Approval Request Form.
  2. A financial statement prepared by a CPA or licensed PA. This statement determines your monetary limit, which is ten times the lesser of your net worth or working capital.
  3. Proof of workers’ compensation and liability insurance.
  4. A $250 application fee.
• Exam: Pass the open-book CMC-A exam, which includes 110 trade-specific questions and 50 business and law questions. Topics include OSHA safety, gas piping, water distribution, and labor laws. A passing score of 73% or higher is required, and the exam fee is $114.

Exam Preparation and Resources

Both the LLP and CMC-A exams are administered by PSI, the official testing vendor in Tennessee. You can prepare for these exams by reviewing PSI’s Candidate Information Bulletins or purchasing study materials through the PSI and NASCLA online bookstores. These resources provide essential guidance on plumbing codes, system installations, and safety standards.

By following these steps and meeting all requirements, you’ll be well-prepared to obtain your plumbing license and build a rewarding career in Tennessee.

Checklist for Obtaining a Plumbing License

Here’s a step-by-step checklist to guide you through the process:

• Limited Licensed Plumber (LLP):

• 1. Complete one year of supervised plumbing work.
  2. Pass the LLP exam.
  3. Submit proof of experience and pay the application fee.

• Mechanical Plumbing Contractor (CMC-A):

• 1. Accumulate three years of plumbing experience.
  2. Pass the CMC-A exam.
  3. Submit a financial statement, insurance proof, and application fees.

Should I join a union?

Joining a union like UA Local 572 in Tennessee offers several advantages:

• Higher Pay: Union plumbers typically earn 20% more than non-union plumbers.
• Training Opportunities: Access structured apprenticeship programs and continuing education resources.
• Benefits: Health insurance, pension plans, and paid leave.

On the other hand, you must pay union dues and possibly initiation fees. Senior members of unions are usually the last to be fired or the first to be considered for promotions, which is a source of frustration among new members.

Insurance for plumbers in Tennessee

Licensed plumbers in Tennessee must carry liability insurance to protect themselves and their clients.

• Minimum Coverage: $100,000 for general liability, depending on the project’s monetary limit.
• Workers’ Compensation: Required for contractors with employees.

Self-employed plumbers may also consider additional coverage for equipment and workers’ compensation.

How to get my first plumbing apprenticeship

Securing a plumbing apprenticeship in Tennessee is the first step toward becoming a licensed plumber.

Where to Apply:

• Local Unions: UA Local 572 offers structured apprenticeship programs.
• Technical Schools: Tennessee College of Applied Technology provides pre-apprenticeship training.
• Plumbing Companies: Many local contractors offer direct apprenticeship opportunities.

Application Process:

• Submit proof of education, a valid driver’s license, and a resume.
• Pass background checks and drug screenings if required.

Interview Tips:

• Dress professionally in business casual attire.
• Highlight your mechanical skills, interest in plumbing, and willingness to learn.
• Bring the required documents, such as a resume and references.

Does my license work in any other states?

Tennessee has a reciprocity agreement with Ohio, allowing plumbers to waive trade exams. However, the license itself is not transferable, and plumbers must meet other state-specific requirements.

How do I stay up to date with plumbing codes?

Updated Tennessee plumbing codes can be found on the following websites:

• International Code Council
• UpCodes
• Tests.com

What resources are available in the plumbing industry?

The following information will help you prepare for a career as a plumber in Tennessee:

• Plumbing Specialties
• Plumbing Industry Trends
• Plumbing Blogs
• Plumbing Trade Shows

How often do I need to renew my plumbing license in Tennessee?

Tennessee plumbing licenses must be renewed annually. Renewal fees vary based on license type:

• LLP License: $75
• CMC-A License: $250

License holders must complete any required continuing education and submit proof of insurance to maintain active status. Late renewals may result in additional fees or suspension.