Plumber License Requirements in Michigan
| Licensing Authority | Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes, Plumbing Division (LARA/BCC) |
| License Type | Journeyman / Master Plumber / Plumbing Contractor |
| Experience Required | Journeyman: 6,000 hours (3 years) as a registered apprentice. Master: additional 4,000 hours (2 years) as a licensed journeyman immediately preceding application. Plumbing Contractor: same experience as Master plus proof of being an owner or officer of a Michigan plumbing business. |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman Plumber Exam + Master Plumber Exam + Plumbing Contractor Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 6 hours Journeyman: 5 hours every 3 years; Master/Contractor: 6 hours every 3 years. A 5-hour code update course is required within 1 year whenever a new Michigan Plumbing Code edition takes effect. |
| Processing Time | 2-4 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $40 |
| Exam Fee | $100 |
| Master Plumber application | $300 |
| Plumbing Contractor application | $300 |
| Apprentice registration | $15 |
| Master/Contractor renewal (3 years) | $300 |
| Est. Initial Total | $1,055 |
Renewal: $40 every 1 year for Journeyman (April 30 deadline); 3 years for Master/Contractor
Exam Requirements
Journeyman Plumber Exam
Master Plumber Exam
Plumbing Contractor Exam
Exam provider: PSI
License Tiers
Apprentice
Entry level — must register within 30 days of employment ($15 fee)
Exam: Not required
Journeyman Plumber
6,000 hours (3 years) as a registered apprentice
Exam: Required
Master Plumber
4,000 hours (2 years) as a licensed journeyman plumber immediately preceding application
Exam: Required
Plumbing Contractor
Same as Master Plumber plus proof of ownership/officer status of a plumbing business in Michigan
Exam: Required
Notes
- Apprentices must register within 30 days of employment
- All plumbing exams are open book
- Out-of-state plumbers must take the Michigan exam but can receive partial credit for prior experience with notarized documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a plumber license in Michigan?
Yes, Michigan requires a statewide plumber license through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes, Plumbing Division.
How much does a plumber license cost in Michigan?
The estimated initial cost is $140, including application, exam, and license fees.
What experience do I need for a plumber license in Michigan?
Journeyman: 6,000 hours (3 years) as a registered apprentice. Master: additional 4,000 hours (2 years) as a licensed journeyman immediately preceding application. Plumbing Contractor: same experience as Master plus proof of being an owner or officer of a Michigan plumbing business.
What exams are required for a plumber license in Michigan?
You must pass the Journeyman Plumber Exam and Master Plumber Exam and Plumbing Contractor Exam exams. A passing score of 70% (all exams are open book) is required. Exams are administered by PSI.
How long does it take to get a plumber license in Michigan?
Processing time is typically 2-4 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for plumbers in Michigan?
Yes, 6 hours per Journeyman: 5 hours every 3 years; Master/Contractor: 6 hours every 3 years. A 5-hour code update course is required within 1 year whenever a new Michigan Plumbing Code edition takes effect. is required for license renewal.
Next steps
You know the requirements for plumbers in Michigan— here's how to actually pass and apply.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: LARA/BCC