Virginia Plumbing License: Everything You Need to Know

The plumbing industry in Virginia is expanding, offering ample opportunities for skilled professionals. Whether you’re starting your journey as an apprentice or advancing to a master plumber or contractor, this guide provides comprehensive details on licensing requirements, apprenticeships, insurance, renewals, and job resources to help you build a successful plumbing career.

What plumbing work can be done without a license?

In Virginia, engaging in plumbing work without a license is prohibited. Only licensed plumbers may perform tasks such as pipe installations, fixture repairs, and sewer line maintenance. Homeowners, however, may perform minor plumbing repairs on their own residences without a license. Unlicensed work on regulated plumbing systems can lead to legal penalties.

What are the different types of plumbing licenses in Virginia

Virginia offers three primary types of plumbing licenses: Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber, and Plumbing Contractor. Each license has specific requirements based on education, experience, and examinations.

• Journeyman Plumber License
  1. Requirements:
     • Two years of plumbing experience and a degree/certification from a technical school or trade program.
     • Four years of practical experience and 240 hours of plumbing training.
     • Five years of practical experience and 160 hours of vocational training.
     • Six years of practical experience and 80 hours of training.
     • Ten years of practical plumbing experience.
     • A bachelor’s degree in engineering and one year of practical experience.
  2. Exam: Pass the statutory/regulatory and trade portions of the Virginia plumber exam.
  3. Scope of Work: Install and repair plumbing systems under a master plumber’s supervision.
• Master Plumber License
  1. Requirements:
     • At least one year of practical experience as a licensed Journeyman Plumber or 10 years of plumbing experience.
  2. Exam: Pass the statutory/regulatory trade portions of the master plumber exam.
  3. Scope of Work: Install, repair, and design plumbing systems without supervision.
• Plumbing Contractor License
  1. Requirements:
     • Hold a valid Master Plumber license.
     • Obtain a Virginia Class A, B, or C contractor license.
  2. Exam: Pass the contractor exam.
  3. Scope of Work: Manage commercial and residential plumbing projects, including pipe installations and repairs.

Average hourly rates for plumbers in Virginia

Licensed plumbers in Virginia earn competitive wages, reflecting their experience and qualifications. Here’s a breakdown of average hourly rates in Virginia compared to national averages:

• Apprentice Plumber: $15.80 per hour (National Average: $15.31)
• Journeyman Plumber: $24.90 per hour (National Average: $25.37)
• Master Plumber: $32.00 per hour (National Average: $30.46)

Due to increased demand, urban areas such as Richmond and Northern Virginia often offer higher wages.

How to get a plumbing license in Virginia

The licensing process in Virginia combines education, hands-on training, and passing state-administered exams. To begin, aspiring plumbers must enroll in an apprenticeship program offered by unions, technical schools, or local plumbing companies. These programs typically last four to six years and provide supervised on-the-job training alongside classroom instruction in plumbing codes, system designs, and safety protocols. Once the required apprenticeship hours—usually 8,000 hours—are completed, candidates can apply for the Journeyman Plumber license. This involves passing an exam that evaluates knowledge of plumbing codes, materials, and system designs. Applicants must submit proof of training and pay the necessary licensing fee.

After obtaining a Journeyman Plumber license, individuals can work independently but under the supervision of a master plumber. To advance to Master Plumber status, they must gain at least one year of practical experience as a licensed Journeyman. The Master Plumber exam tests advanced trade knowledge, safety standards, and business management skills. Upon passing the exam and meeting the experience requirements, candidates can apply for a Master Plumber license.

For those looking to manage plumbing projects independently, obtaining a contractor license is the final step. This requires holding a Master Plumber license, securing liability insurance, and passing a contractor exam. Contractor licenses are available in Class A, B, or C categories, depending on the scale and scope of work the individual intends to undertake.

Checklist for Obtaining a Plumbing License

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

• Apprentice License

• 1. Eligibility: Be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or GED.
  2. Enroll: Join an approved apprenticeship program through unions, technical schools, or local plumbing companies.
  3. Training Hours: Accumulate 8,000 hours of supervised on-the-job training over four to six years.
  4. Classroom Education: Complete 240 to 600 hours of plumbing coursework covering codes, safety, and system design.

• Journeyman Plumber License

1. 1. Eligibility: Complete apprenticeship requirements or meet alternative qualifications:
      • Education Option: Two years of experience with a plumbing degree or certification.
      • Practical Experience Option: Five to 10 years of verified plumbing experience with varying levels of vocational training.
   2. Exam: Pass the Virginia Journeyman Plumber exam, which includes both statutory/regulatory and trade components.
   3. Application: Submit proof of experience and training, along with the required fee of $130.

• Master Plumber License

1. 1. Eligibility: Work as a licensed Journeyman Plumber for at least one year or document 10 years of practical plumbing experience.
   2. Exam: Pass the Virginia Master Plumber exam, which evaluates advanced trade knowledge, safety standards, and business management.
   3. Application: Submit proof of Journeyman licensure and pay the $130 licensing fee.

• Contractor License

• 1. Eligibility: Hold a valid Master Plumber license and meet the following requirements:
     • Class A License: For projects exceeding $120,000 annually or $10,000 per job.
     • Class B License: For projects up to $120,000 annually and $10,000 per job.
     • Class C License: For projects under $7,500 annually and $1,000 per job.
  2. Exam: Pass the contractor exam specific to the license class.
  3. Insurance: Obtain liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $100,000 for property damage and $300,000 for general liability.
  4. Application: Submit proof of insurance and pay the contractor licensing fee, which varies by class.

Should I join a union?

Joining a union, such as the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices (UA Local 10), offers several benefits:

• Higher Pay: Union plumbers earn approximately 20% more than non-union plumbers.
• Benefits: Access to health insurance, pension plans, paid leave, and sick pay.
• Training and Resources: Ongoing education and job placement opportunities.

Union membership also ensures better safety standards and worker protections. Part of a union’s duties is to hold companies accountable for unsafe work conditions.

Insurance for plumbers in Virginia

Licensed plumbers in Virginia must carry insurance to protect themselves and their clients. The minimum coverage requirements are:

• General Liability Insurance: $300,000 per occurrence.
• Property Damage Insurance: $100,000 per occurrence.

Contractors may need additional coverage, including workers’ compensation insurance for employees.

How to get my first plumbing apprenticeship

Plumbing apprenticeships are a crucial step for those looking to build a successful career in the trade, offering a blend of hands-on experience and classroom education. In Virginia, programs are offered by unions like the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of Virginia (PHCC), technical colleges, and local plumbing companies. These apprenticeships typically last four to five years, during which apprentices accumulate up to 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and around 600 hours of classroom instruction, covering plumbing codes, safety standards, and system design.

Application Requirements

To apply for a plumbing apprenticeship in Virginia, candidates need to submit:

• High School Diploma or GED: Demonstrating educational qualifications.
• Resume: Highlighting any relevant work or mechanical experience.
• Driver’s License: Required for travel to job sites. Some programs may also require background checks and drug screenings. Tuition for apprenticeship-related coursework can vary, with union-sponsored programs often included in membership fees, while technical colleges may charge between $1,500 and $2,500 annually. Financial aid or employer sponsorship may be available to offset costs.

Interview Tips

Securing an apprenticeship is competitive, and presenting yourself professionally can make a significant difference. Key interview tips include:

• Dress Professionally: Opt for business casual attire to convey seriousness.
• Prepare Documents: Bring multiple copies of your resume, references, and proof of education.
• Show Enthusiasm: Demonstrate a strong interest in the plumbing trade and a willingness to learn.
• Highlight Skills: Mention any relevant mechanical, DIY, or technical experience, even if unrelated to plumbing, to show aptitude and hands-on ability.

Resources for Apprenticeships

Virginia offers a variety of resources to support aspiring plumbers:

• Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of Virginia (PHCC): Provides structured apprenticeship programs with online and in-person options. Tuition for PHCC programs ranges from $1,475 for members to $2,500 for non-members.
• Associated Builders and Contractors of Virginia (ABC): Offers apprenticeship training, with tuition starting at $1,300 for members and $1,500 for non-members.
• Local Unions: Unions like UA Local 10 provide comprehensive training, including classroom instruction and job placement opportunities.
• Technical Colleges: Schools like Tidewater Community College and Virginia Western Community College offer pre-apprenticeship and full apprenticeship programs.

By leveraging these resources and preparing thoroughly, candidates can secure a plumbing apprenticeship and take the first step toward a rewarding career in Virginia’s growing plumbing industry.

Does my license work in any other states?

Virginia plumbing licenses are not automatically valid in other states. However, Virginia has implemented Universal License Recognition (ULR), which facilitates the licensing process for qualified out-of-state professionals. If you hold a valid plumbing license from another state with a similar scope of practice and have been licensed for at least three years, you may be eligible to obtain a Virginia license without additional examinations. To qualify, you must have passed an examination in your original state, met training standards, and have no disciplinary actions or pending investigations against your license. For detailed information and to apply, visit the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation’s Universal License Recognition page. 

How do I stay up to date with plumbing codes?

Licensed plumbers in Virginia are required to stay up to date with the current plumbing codes. Updated Virginia references can be found on the following websites:

• International Code Council
• UpCodes
• Tests.com
• Virginia Online Code Change Training

What resources are available in the plumbing industry?

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

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

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

Virginia plumbing licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal fee is $130. License holders must also complete any required continuing education credits. Late renewals may incur additional fees, and failure to renew on time can result in license suspension.