Plumber License Requirements in Kentucky
| Licensing Authority | Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction — Plumbing Division (DHBC) |
| License Type | Journeyman / Master Plumber |
| Experience Required | Journeyman: 2 consecutive years as a registered apprentice, OR 1 year apprentice + approved plumbing course. Master: must hold valid journeyman license for at least 2 of the past 5 years, plus 2 years active employment under a master plumber. |
| Education Substitute | A DHBC-approved plumbing course can reduce the apprenticeship requirement from 2 years to 1 year for the journeyman level. |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman Plumber Exam (written + practical) + Master Plumber Exam (written trade + law) |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 6 hours every renewal cycle |
| Processing Time | 4-6 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $50 |
| Exam Fee | $50 |
| Initial License Fee | $60 |
| Est. Initial Total | $160 |
Related & additional fees
Separate or ongoing costs — not included in the estimate above.
| Journeyman exam fee | $50 |
| Journeyman license fee | $60 |
| Master exam fee | $150 |
| Master license fee (annual) | $150 |
Renewal: $60 every 1 year
Exam Requirements
Journeyman Plumber Exam (written + practical)
Master Plumber Exam (written trade + law)
Exam provider: DHBC
Recommended exam prep
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Apprentice Plumber
Entry level — must register, work under master plumber supervision
Exam: Not required
Journeyman Plumber
2 consecutive years as a registered apprentice, OR 1 year apprentice + approved plumbing course
Exam: Required
Master Plumber
Valid journeyman license for minimum 2 years within the last 5 years, plus 2 years active employment under a master plumber
Exam: Required
Notes
- Journeyman exam includes both written and practical components
- Master exam covers trade knowledge and Kentucky plumbing law
- Passport-sized color photo required with exam registration
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a plumber license in Kentucky?
Yes, Kentucky requires a statewide plumber license through the Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction — Plumbing Division.
How much does a plumber license cost in Kentucky?
The estimated initial cost is $160, including application, exam, and license fees.
What experience do I need for a plumber license in Kentucky?
Journeyman: 2 consecutive years as a registered apprentice, OR 1 year apprentice + approved plumbing course. Master: must hold valid journeyman license for at least 2 of the past 5 years, plus 2 years active employment under a master plumber. Education substitute: A DHBC-approved plumbing course can reduce the apprenticeship requirement from 2 years to 1 year for the journeyman level.
What exams are required for a plumber license in Kentucky?
You must pass the Journeyman Plumber Exam (written + practical) and Master Plumber Exam (written trade + law) exams. A passing score of 75% journeyman (70% minimum each portion); 80% master (75% minimum each portion) is required. Exams are administered by DHBC.
How long does it take to get a plumber license in Kentucky?
Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for plumbers in Kentucky?
Yes, 6 hours per every renewal cycle is required for license renewal.
Next steps
You know the requirements for plumbers in Kentucky— here's how to actually pass and apply.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: DHBC