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 |
| Est. Initial Total | $162 |
Related & additional fees
Separate or ongoing costs — not included in the estimate above.
| Master initial license | $120 |
| Master renewal | $155 |
| Contractor license | $120 |
| Contractor renewal | $180 |
Renewal: $110 every 2 years
Exam Requirements
Journeyman/Master Plumber Exam
Exam provider: PSI
Recommended exam prep
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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.
Next steps
You know the requirements for plumbers in District of Columbia— here's how to actually pass and apply.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: BIT/DLCP