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 |
| Est. Initial Total | $235 |
Related & additional fees
Separate or ongoing costs — not included in the estimate above.
| Apprentice registration | $35 |
| Apprentice annual renewal | $10 |
| Master exam application | $160 |
| Master certification fee | $175 |
| Master renewal fee | $125 |
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
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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.
Next steps
You know the requirements for plumbers in Alabama— here's how to actually pass and apply.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: PGFB