Plumber License Requirements in District of Columbia
| Licensing Authority | Board of Industrial Trades, Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (BIT/DLCP) |
| License Type | Journeyman Plumber / Master Plumber |
| Experience Required | 8,000 hours (4 years) of supervised plumbing work under a licensed Master Plumber for Journeyman. Master requires additional experience beyond Journeyman level. |
| Education Substitute | Accredited plumbing or mechanical engineering degree may substitute for a portion of experience |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman/Master Plumber Exam |
| Bond Required | Yes — $5,000 |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | Not required |
| Processing Time | 4-8 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $52 |
| Initial License Fee | $110 |
| Master initial license | $120 |
| Master renewal | $155 |
| Contractor license | $120 |
| Contractor renewal | $180 |
| Est. Initial Total | $737 |
Renewal: $110 every 2 years
Exam Requirements
Journeyman/Master Plumber Exam
Exam provider: PSI
License Tiers
Apprentice Plumber
Entry level — must work under licensed Master Plumber
Exam: Not required
Journeyman Plumber
8,000 hours (4 years) supervised plumbing work
Exam: Required
Master Plumber
Journeyman license plus additional years as Journeyman
Exam: Required
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a plumber license in District of Columbia?
Yes, District of Columbia requires a statewide plumber license through the Board of Industrial Trades, Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection.
How much does a plumber license cost in District of Columbia?
The estimated initial cost is $162, including application, exam, and license fees. A $5,000 surety bond is also required.
What experience do I need for a plumber license in District of Columbia?
8,000 hours (4 years) of supervised plumbing work under a licensed Master Plumber for Journeyman. Master requires additional experience beyond Journeyman level. Education substitute: Accredited plumbing or mechanical engineering degree may substitute for a portion of experience
What exams are required for a plumber license in District of Columbia?
You must pass the Journeyman/Master Plumber Exam exam. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by PSI.
Do I need a bond for a plumber license in District of Columbia?
Yes, a $5,000 surety bond is required. $5,000 surety bond for plumbing contractors; renewed every 2 years with license
How long does it take to get a plumber license in District of Columbia?
Processing time is typically 4-8 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for plumbers in District of Columbia?
No, District of Columbia does not currently require continuing education for plumber license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: BIT/DLCP