Plumber License Requirements in Georgia
| Licensing Authority | Georgia Construction Industry Licensing Board, Division of Master and Journeyman Plumbers (CILB-Plumbing) |
| License Type | Journeyman Plumber / Master Plumber Class I (Restricted) / Master Plumber Class II (Unrestricted) |
| Experience Required | Journeyman: 3 years minimum as apprentice/helper/trainee under a licensed master plumber. Approved vocational training may substitute for up to 1 year. Master: 5 years total, with at least 2 years as a licensed journeyman, plumbing contractor, foreman, superintendent, or military plumber. Applicants must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. |
| Education Substitute | Approved vocational/technical plumbing programs may substitute for up to 1 year of apprenticeship experience |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman Plumber Exam + Master Plumber Class I Exam + Master Plumber Class II Exam |
| Bond Required | Yes — $10,000 |
| Insurance | General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 8 hours 8 hours per 2-year renewal cycle (4 hours per year) |
| Processing Time | 4-8 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $40 |
| Exam Fee | $233 |
| Est. Initial Total | $273 |
Renewal: $75 every 2 years (even-numbered years)
Exam Requirements
Journeyman Plumber Exam
Master Plumber Class I Exam
Master Plumber Class II Exam
Exam provider: PSI Exams
License Tiers
Journeyman Plumber
3 years as apprentice/helper/trainee under a licensed master plumber
Exam: Required
Master Plumber Class I (Restricted)
5 years total, including 2 years as licensed journeyman; restricted to single-family, duplexes, and commercial up to 10,000 sq ft
Exam: Required
Master Plumber Class II (Unrestricted)
5 years total, including 2 years in commercial/industrial plumbing; no restrictions
Exam: Required
Notes
- 2026 change: As of May 1, 2026, exams will be based on the 2024 editions of the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) and International Plumbing Code (IPC)
- Must use GOALS online portal -- paper applications no longer accepted
- Criminal background check required from local law enforcement
- Master exam offered 6 times per year; journeyman exam on continuous basis
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a plumber license in Georgia?
Yes, Georgia requires a statewide plumber license through the Georgia Construction Industry Licensing Board, Division of Master and Journeyman Plumbers.
How much does a plumber license cost in Georgia?
The estimated initial cost is $273, including application, exam, and license fees. A $10,000 surety bond is also required.
What experience do I need for a plumber license in Georgia?
Journeyman: 3 years minimum as apprentice/helper/trainee under a licensed master plumber. Approved vocational training may substitute for up to 1 year. Master: 5 years total, with at least 2 years as a licensed journeyman, plumbing contractor, foreman, superintendent, or military plumber. Applicants must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. Education substitute: Approved vocational/technical plumbing programs may substitute for up to 1 year of apprenticeship experience
What exams are required for a plumber license in Georgia?
You must pass the Journeyman Plumber Exam and Master Plumber Class I Exam and Master Plumber Class II Exam exams. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by PSI Exams.
Do I need a bond for a plumber license in Georgia?
Yes, a $10,000 surety bond is required. $10,000 surety bond deposited with the probate court judge in the county where the business operates. Required for master plumbers; journeyman plumbers working under a master plumber's bond may not need their own.
How long does it take to get a plumber license in Georgia?
Processing time is typically 4-8 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for plumbers in Georgia?
Yes, 8 hours per 8 hours per 2-year renewal cycle (4 hours per year) is required for license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: CILB-Plumbing