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.
Next steps
You know the requirements for plumbers in Georgia— here's how to actually pass and apply.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: CILB-Plumbing