Plumber License Requirements in Maryland
| Licensing Authority | Maryland State Board of Plumbing (SBP) |
| License Type | Journeyman / Master Plumber-Gas Fitter |
| Experience Required | Journeyman: 4 years (7,500 hours) under a master plumber, plus 32 hours of backflow prevention device testing training. Master: journeyman license + 2 additional years (3,750 hours) under a master plumber. |
| Education Substitute | A Board-approved apprenticeship program satisfies the journeyman experience requirement. Formal plumbing education may count toward experience hours at the Board's discretion. |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman Plumber/Gas Fitter Exam + Master Plumber/Gas Fitter Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 8 hours every 2 years |
| Processing Time | 4-8 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $88 |
| Exam Fee | $65 |
| Est. Initial Total | $153 |
Renewal: $88 every 2 years
Exam Requirements
Journeyman Plumber/Gas Fitter Exam
Pass: 75%
Maryland Plumbing CodeGas fittingBackflow preventionPlumbing systems
Master Plumber/Gas Fitter Exam
Pass: 75%
Maryland Plumbing CodeBusiness and lawAdvanced plumbingGas systems
Exam provider: PSI
License Tiers
Apprentice Plumber
Entry level — must work under master plumber supervision
Exam: Not required
Journeyman Plumber/Gas Fitter
4 years (7,500 hours) under a master plumber, plus 32 hours backflow prevention training
Exam: Required
Master Plumber/Gas Fitter
Journeyman license + 2 additional years (3,750 hours) under a master plumber
Exam: Required
Notes
- MHIC license also required if performing residential home improvement plumbing work
- Plumbing license also covers gas fitting in Maryland
- PSI testing centers in Baltimore, College Park, Hagerstown, Lanham, and Salisbury
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a plumber license in Maryland?
Yes, Maryland requires a statewide plumber license through the Maryland State Board of Plumbing.
How much does a plumber license cost in Maryland?
The estimated initial cost is $153, including application, exam, and license fees.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: SBP