Plumber License Requirements in Arkansas

Licensing Authority	Arkansas Department of Health, Plumbing and Natural Gas Section (ADH)
License Type	Journeyman Plumber / Master Plumber
Experience Required	4 years experience for Journeyman; 5 years experience for Master. Apprentice registration required from the start.
Education Substitute	Approved plumbing apprenticeship program may count toward experience requirements
Exam Required	Yes — Journeyman/Master Plumber Exam
Bond Required	No
Insurance	General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required with employees
Continuing Education	Not required
Processing Time	4-6 weeks

Fee Breakdown

Application Fee	$25
Exam Fee	$75
Initial License Fee	$75
Master exam fee	$125
Master initial license	$200
Master renewal	$200
Est. Initial Total	$700

Renewal: $75 every 1 year

Exam Requirements

Journeyman/Master Plumber Exam

100 questions3 hoursPass: 70%

Arkansas Plumbing CodePlumbing systemsSafety practices

Exam provider: ADH

License Tiers

Apprentice Plumber

Entry level — registered with ADH

Exam: Not required

Journeyman Plumber

4 years plumbing experience

Exam: Required

Master Plumber

5 years plumbing experience

Exam: Required

License Reciprocity

This state has reciprocity agreements with 4 states. View full reciprocity details — You may be able to skip the trade exam if you hold a valid license from one of these states.

tennesseeReciprocity for contractor licenses; Tennessee contractors must have held a valid license for at least 3 years. Must complete reciprocal application form and pay standard fees.

mississippiReciprocity for contractor licenses; Mississippi contractors must have held a valid license for at least 1 year

alabamaReciprocity for contractor licenses; Alabama contractors must have held a valid license for at least 1 year

louisianaReciprocity for contractor licenses; Louisiana contractors must have a valid license in good standing

Notes

Open book exam
ADH also licenses mechanical (HVAC) professionals

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a plumber license in Arkansas?

Yes, Arkansas requires a statewide plumber license through the Arkansas Department of Health, Plumbing and Natural Gas Section.

How much does a plumber license cost in Arkansas?

The estimated initial cost is $175, including application, exam, and license fees.

What experience do I need for a plumber license in Arkansas?

4 years experience for Journeyman; 5 years experience for Master. Apprentice registration required from the start. Education substitute: Approved plumbing apprenticeship program may count toward experience requirements

What exams are required for a plumber license in Arkansas?

You must pass the Journeyman/Master Plumber Exam exam. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by ADH.

Does Arkansas have plumber license reciprocity?

Yes, Arkansas has reciprocity agreements with 4 states that may apply to plumbers. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams or have an expedited application process.

How long does it take to get a plumber license in Arkansas?

Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks after submitting a complete application.

Is continuing education required for plumbers in Arkansas?

No, Arkansas does not currently require continuing education for plumber license renewal.

Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: ADH