Plumber License Requirements in Alabama
| Licensing Authority | Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board (PGFB) |
| License Type | Apprentice / Journeyman Plumber / Master Plumber |
| Experience Required | Journeyman: Minimum 2 years as a registered apprentice, or successful completion of a Board-approved apprentice training program combined with registered apprentice time equaling 2 years. Must have 2 years of CURRENT experience to qualify for exam. Master: 1 year of CURRENT work experience as a journeyman to qualify for master exam. |
| Education Substitute | Completion of a Board-approved apprentice training program can reduce on-the-job time. Program + apprentice time must total at least 2 years. |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman Plumber Exam + Master Plumber Exam + Business and Law Exam (Master only — new for 2026) |
| Bond Required | Yes — $2,000 |
| Insurance | General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 4 hours annually (due by December 31 each year) |
| Processing Time | Results provided immediately after exam. 90 days to pay fees and become certified after passing. |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $50 |
| Exam Fee | $110 |
| Initial License Fee | $75 |
| Apprentice registration | $35 |
| Apprentice annual renewal | $10 |
| Master exam application | $160 |
| Master certification fee | $175 |
| Master renewal fee | $125 |
| Est. Initial Total | $740 |
Renewal: $75 every 1 year (expires December 31)
Exam Requirements
Journeyman Plumber Exam
Master Plumber Exam
Business and Law Exam (Master only — new for 2026)
Exam provider: Prov
License Tiers
Apprentice Plumber
No experience required. Must register with the Board. No exam required.
Exam: Not required
Journeyman Plumber
2 years as a registered apprentice, OR completion of a Board-approved apprentice training program + apprentice time totaling 2 years.
Exam: Required
Master Plumber
1 year of current work experience as a licensed journeyman plumber under a master plumber.
Exam: Required
Notes
- Fees shown are for Journeyman tier — Master tier costs more (see 'Other fees')
- Effective January 1, 2026: Master applicants must also pass a new Business and Law exam
- Exams reference the 2021 International Plumbing Code
- Open-book exams — scores provided immediately
- Renewal season: October 1 through December 31. Late renewals subject to penalty.
- Gas Fitter certifications available separately (Journeyman Gas Fitter: 50 questions / 2 hours; Master Gas Fitter: 75 questions / 3 hours)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a plumber license in Alabama?
Yes, Alabama requires a statewide plumber license through the Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board.
How much does a plumber license cost in Alabama?
The estimated initial cost is $235, including application, exam, and license fees. A $2,000 surety bond is also required.
What experience do I need for a plumber license in Alabama?
Journeyman: Minimum 2 years as a registered apprentice, or successful completion of a Board-approved apprentice training program combined with registered apprentice time equaling 2 years. Must have 2 years of CURRENT experience to qualify for exam. Master: 1 year of CURRENT work experience as a journeyman to qualify for master exam. Education substitute: Completion of a Board-approved apprentice training program can reduce on-the-job time. Program + apprentice time must total at least 2 years.
What exams are required for a plumber license in Alabama?
You must pass the Journeyman Plumber Exam and Master Plumber Exam and Business and Law Exam (Master only — new for 2026) exams. A passing score of 70% (both Journeyman and Master) is required. Exams are administered by Prov.
Do I need a bond for a plumber license in Alabama?
Yes, a $2,000 surety bond is required. Master plumbers required to obtain a $2,000 surety bond at the local level (county where work is performed). Not required for journeyman certification.
How long does it take to get a plumber license in Alabama?
Processing time is typically Results provided immediately after exam. 90 days to pay fees and become certified after passing. after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for plumbers in Alabama?
Yes, 4 hours per annually (due by December 31 each year) is required for license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: PGFB