Plumber License Requirements in Iowa
| Licensing Authority | Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board (PMSB) |
| License Type | Journeyperson / Master Plumber |
| Experience Required | Journeyperson: 4 years / 8,000 hours as a registered apprentice. Master: must hold journeyperson license with 2 additional years of experience. Contractor license requires a Master Plumber on staff. |
| Education Substitute | Completion of an approved plumbing technology program may substitute for a portion of apprenticeship hours at the Board's discretion. |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyperson Plumbing Exam + Master Plumber Exam |
| Bond Required | Yes — $5,000 |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 8 hours every 3 years (2 hrs safety, 2 hrs code, 4 hrs discipline-specific) |
| Processing Time | 2-4 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $35 |
| Exam Fee | $95 |
| Initial License Fee | $120 |
| Apprentice registration | $50 |
| Master Plumber license | $240 |
| Contractor license (PMSB) | $250 |
| Contractor registration (Division of Labor) | $150 |
| Paper application surcharge | $25 |
| Est. Initial Total | $965 |
Renewal: $120 every 3 years (expires June 30)
Exam Requirements
Journeyperson Plumbing Exam
Master Plumber Exam
Exam provider: Kirkwood Community College (15 locations statewide)
License Tiers
Apprentice Plumber
Entry level — must register with PMSB
Exam: Not required
Journeyperson Plumber
4 years (8,000 hours) of practical experience as a registered apprentice
Exam: Required
Master Plumber
Journeyperson license plus 2 years of additional experience
Exam: Required
Notes
- Exams administered by Kirkwood Community College at 15 locations statewide
- Open-book exam format
- License renewal cycle is 3 years, expiring June 30
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a plumber license in Iowa?
Yes, Iowa requires a statewide plumber license through the Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board.
How much does a plumber license cost in Iowa?
The estimated initial cost is $250, including application, exam, and license fees. A $5,000 surety bond is also required.
What experience do I need for a plumber license in Iowa?
Journeyperson: 4 years / 8,000 hours as a registered apprentice. Master: must hold journeyperson license with 2 additional years of experience. Contractor license requires a Master Plumber on staff. Education substitute: Completion of an approved plumbing technology program may substitute for a portion of apprenticeship hours at the Board's discretion.
What exams are required for a plumber license in Iowa?
You must pass the Journeyperson Plumbing Exam and Master Plumber Exam exams. A passing score of 75% is required. Exams are administered by Kirkwood Community College (15 locations statewide).
Do I need a bond for a plumber license in Iowa?
Yes, a $5,000 surety bond is required. Plumbing contractors must obtain a $5,000 surety bond. Master contractors must also maintain $500,000 liability insurance.
How long does it take to get a plumber license in Iowa?
Processing time is typically 2-4 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for plumbers in Iowa?
Yes, 8 hours per every 3 years (2 hrs safety, 2 hrs code, 4 hrs discipline-specific) is required for license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: PMSB