Washington Plumbing License: Everything You Need to Know

The plumbing industry in Washington is experiencing steady growth, creating a demand for skilled professionals. Whether you’re starting as a trainee or advancing to a specialty or journey-level plumber, this guide provides detailed information about licensing requirements, apprenticeships, insurance, renewals, and job resources to help you succeed in the plumbing trade.

What plumbing work can be done without a license?

In Washington, a plumbing license is required to perform plumbing work unless you are the property owner working on your own residence. Licensed plumbers are authorized to perform tasks such as pipe installation, repairs, and maintenance on regulated plumbing systems. Performing unlicensed work can result in legal penalties.

What are the different types of plumbing licenses in Washington

Washington offers several plumbing licenses: Trainee, Journey Level, and Specialty Plumber licenses. Each license type has specific requirements for education, work experience, and examinations.

Trainee Plumber Certificate

Scope of Work: Allows you to work under the direct supervision of a licensed plumber.
Requirements:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Complete a Trainee Plumber Certificate application and pay the $36 fee.
• Annually renew the certificate and complete eight hours of continuing education.

Journey Level Plumber License

Scope of Work: Perform all plumbing tasks in commercial, industrial, and residential settings without supervision.
Requirements:

• Accumulate 8,000 hours (four years) of supervised work as a trainee, with at least half in commercial or industrial plumbing.
• Submit Affidavits of Experience to the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I).
• Pass the Journey Level Plumber exam with a score of at least 70%.

Specialty Plumber Licenses

Specialty licenses are designed for focused areas of plumbing, including residential, pump and irrigation, and backflow prevention.

• Residential Specialty License: Requires 6,000 hours of residential plumbing experience over three years.
• Pump and Irrigation Specialty License: Requires 4,000 hours over two years, plus electrical certification for pumps exceeding 100 gallons per minute.
• Domestic Well Specialty License: Requires 2,000 hours over one year.
• Backflow Specialty License: Requires an active Backflow Assembly Tester certification from the Washington State Department of Health.

Exam Requirements: All specialty licenses require passing a written exam with a score of 70% or higher.

Average hourly rates for plumbers in Washington

Licensed plumbers in Washington earn some of the highest wages in the industry. Here’s a breakdown of average hourly rates in Washington compared to national averages:

• Apprentice Plumber: $19.00 per hour (National Average: $15.31)
• Journeyman Plumber: $35.00 per hour (National Average: $25.37)
• Master Plumber: $42.00 per hour (National Average: $30.46)

Urban areas like Seattle and Bellevue tend to offer higher wages due to increased demand and cost of living.

How to get a plumbing license in Washington

The licensing process in Washington is managed by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). Aspiring plumbers begin as trainees and work their way up to Journey Level or Specialty Plumber licenses through a combination of supervised work experience, formal education, and examinations. Here’s how to navigate the process:

Step 1: Obtain a Trainee Plumber Certificate

The first step toward becoming a licensed plumber in Washington is to apply for a Trainee Plumber Certificate.

• Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be at least 16 years old and submit a completed application along with a $36 fee.
• Renewal: The certificate must be renewed annually. Renewal requires proof of eight hours of continuing education, which includes four hours on plumbing codes and four hours on industry practices or safety.
• Purpose: This certificate allows individuals to work under the direct supervision of a licensed plumber to gain hands-on experience and fulfill the work hour requirements for advanced licenses.

Step 2: Accumulate Required Work Experience

Trainees must complete a minimum number of supervised work hours, depending on the license type they intend to pursue:

• Journey Level Plumber License: Requires 8,000 hours (approximately four years) of documented work, with at least 4,000 hours in commercial or industrial plumbing.
• Residential Specialty License: Requires 6,000 hours (three years) of work experience focused on residential plumbing in single-family homes or buildings no taller than three stories.
• Pump and Irrigation License: Requires 4,000 hours (two years) of experience working with high-capacity pumping systems exceeding 100 gallons per minute. Electrical certification is also required for this license.
• Domestic Well License: Requires 2,000 hours (one year) of experience working with lower-capacity pumping systems (up to 100 gallons per minute). Electrical certification is also required.
• Backflow Specialty License: Requires an active Backflow Assembly Tester certification from the Washington State Department of Health.

Trainees must regularly submit Affidavits of Experience to L&I to document their hours. These forms are crucial for verifying eligibility to sit for the licensing exams.

Step 3: Pass the Licensing Exam

Once the required work hours are completed, trainees can apply to take the licensing exam for their chosen license.

• Journey Level Exam: Tests knowledge of plumbing codes, system design, and safety practices. Candidates must score at least 70% to pass.
• Specialty Exams: Focus on technical aspects specific to the license type, such as residential systems or backflow prevention. A passing score of 70% is also required.

For those pursuing advanced certifications like medical gas piping, additional coursework and exams are required. For example, Journey Level plumbers can take a 32-hour medical gas training course approved by L&I before sitting for the medical gas endorsement exam.

Apprenticeships and Education

Most aspiring plumbers gain their skills through apprenticeships, which are often sponsored by unions, trade organizations, or builder associations. Apprenticeships in Washington are organized by county and may have unique entry requirements.

• Common Prerequisites: Be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, and have a valid Washington driver’s license. Some programs may require applicants to provide their own tools and transportation.
• Educational Programs: While formal trade school training is not mandatory, completing a program can improve your chances of being accepted into an apprenticeship. For instance, Perry Technical Institute offers a one-year plumbing program with tuition averaging $18,000, while Penn Foster Career School offers an online program for $800-$900.
• Direct Entry Opportunities: Job Corps pre-apprenticeship programs and military veteran status can qualify applicants for direct entry into apprenticeships.

Scholarships and financial aid are available through organizations like the Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors (PHCC) Educational Foundation.

By following these steps and leveraging available educational resources, individuals can build a successful plumbing career in Washington. For detailed licensing information and updates, visit the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries website.

Checklist for Obtaining a Plumbing License

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

Trainee Plumber Certificate

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Submit the application and pay the $36 fee.
• Complete eight hours of continuing education annually.

Journey Level Plumber License

• Accumulate 8,000 hours of supervised work experience (at least 4,000 in commercial or industrial plumbing).
• Submit Affidavits of Experience to L&I.
• Pass the Journey Level exam.

Specialty Plumber Licenses

• Residential Specialty License: 6,000 hours of residential plumbing experience.
• Pump and Irrigation License: 4,000 hours of pump-related experience and electrical certification.
• Domestic Well License: 2,000 hours of well-related plumbing work.
• Backflow License: Hold an active Backflow Assembly Tester certification.
• Pass the relevant specialty exam.

Should I join a union?

Joining a union, such as UA Local 32, offers numerous benefits:

• Higher Wages: Union plumbers earn approximately 20% more than non-union plumbers.
• Job Security: Union members often receive better job placements and protections.
• Training Opportunities: Access to structured apprenticeship programs and ongoing education.

Benefits: Health insurance, pension plans, and paid leave.

Insurance for plumbers in Washington

Insurance is essential for licensed plumbers in Washington, providing protection for both professionals and their clients. Employers must provide workers’ compensation insurance for plumbing employees, with rates typically ranging from $0.70 to $2.50 per $100 of payroll based on the risk level. This coverage can be obtained through the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). Self-employed plumbers and contractors are advised to carry general liability insurance to safeguard against potential damages or injuries, ensuring comprehensive protection on all projects.

How to get my first plumbing apprenticeship

Securing a plumbing apprenticeship in Washington is the first step toward a successful career in the trade. The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) oversees apprenticeship programs, and you can apply through the L&I Apprenticeship Portal. These programs combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, typically lasting four to five years, during which apprentices accumulate up to 8,000 hours of supervised work and complete related coursework in plumbing systems, safety, and codes.

To apply for an apprenticeship, ensure you meet the basic requirements: you must be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, and possess a valid Washington state driver’s license. Applications often require submitting a resume, references, and proof of education. Some programs may also ask for a background check or drug screening. Technical skills and mechanical aptitude can enhance your application, and completing a pre-apprenticeship program, such as those offered by Job Corps or local technical schools, can improve your chances of acceptance.

Once your application is accepted, you will need to prepare for an interview with your chosen apprenticeship sponsor. Dress professionally and bring multiple copies of your resume and other required documents. During the interview, emphasize any relevant hands-on experience, such as mechanical work, construction, or DIY projects. Demonstrating enthusiasm for the trade and a commitment to completing the program is crucial. Many apprenticeship sponsors provide tools, guidance, and resources to ensure apprentices succeed, setting a strong foundation for a licensed plumbing career in Washington.

Does my license work in any other states?

Washington has a reciprocity agreement with Idaho for plumbing licenses. Licensed plumbers in Idaho can waive the trade portion of the licensing exam when applying in Washington. For updates, check with the Department of Labor and Industries.

How do I stay up to date with plumbing codes?

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

• International Code Council
• UpCodes
• Tests.com
• Washington State Building Code Council 
• Washington Labor & Industries

What resources are available in the plumbing industry?

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

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

I already have a license but:

• I changed my name — You should notify the DL&I. Be prepared to show a marriage certificate or court order with your legal name change.
• I misplaced my card — If you can’t find your certificate, you can request a duplicate from the DL&I by going online or by submitting a form. You must pay a fee of $20.
• I changed my address — You can update your address online or submit a change of address request to the DL&I.

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

Plumbing licenses in Washington must be renewed every two to three years, depending on the license type:

• Journey Level License: Renew every two years with proof of 16 hours of continuing education.
• Specialty Licenses: Renewal periods vary, with residential specialty licenses requiring 24 hours of continuing education every three years.
• Fees: Renewal fees range from $45 to $121. Failure to renew on time can double the renewal fee and result in license suspension.