Plumber License Requirements in Minnesota
| Licensing Authority | Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry — Plumbing Board (DLI) |
| License Type | Journeyworker / Master Plumber |
| Experience Required | Journeyworker: 4 years (7,000 hours) of practical plumbing experience under a licensed plumber. Master: journeyworker license + 1 additional year (1,750 hours) working as a journeyworker plumber. |
| Education Substitute | DLI-approved plumbing apprenticeship programs satisfy the experience requirement. Technical school plumbing programs may count toward hours at the Board's discretion. |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyworker Plumber Exam + Master Plumber Exam |
| Bond Required | Yes — $25,000 |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 16 hours every 2 years |
| Processing Time | 2-4 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $38 |
| Exam Fee | $50 |
| Initial License Fee | $38 |
| Journeyworker initial license | $38 |
| Journeyworker renewal | $43 |
| Master Plumber initial license | $68 |
| Master Plumber renewal | $73 |
| Plumbing Contractor license | $128 |
| Exam fee | $50 |
| Est. Initial Total | $526 |
Renewal: $43 every 2 years
Exam Requirements
Journeyworker Plumber Exam
Master Plumber Exam
Exam provider: DLI
License Tiers
Apprentice Plumber
Entry level — must register with DLI, work under licensed plumber supervision
Exam: Not required
Journeyworker Plumber
4 years (7,000 hours) of practical plumbing experience under a licensed plumber
Exam: Required
Master Plumber
Journeyworker license + 1 additional year (1,750 hours) as a journeyworker
Exam: Required
Notes
- Minnesota has very low licensing fees compared to most states
- Exams are 5.5 hours long
- Plumbing contractor license requires a master plumber on staff
- Contractor may work statewide with a single license
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a plumber license in Minnesota?
Yes, Minnesota requires a statewide plumber license through the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry — Plumbing Board.
How much does a plumber license cost in Minnesota?
The estimated initial cost is $126, including application, exam, and license fees. A $25,000 surety bond is also required.
What experience do I need for a plumber license in Minnesota?
Journeyworker: 4 years (7,000 hours) of practical plumbing experience under a licensed plumber. Master: journeyworker license + 1 additional year (1,750 hours) working as a journeyworker plumber. Education substitute: DLI-approved plumbing apprenticeship programs satisfy the experience requirement. Technical school plumbing programs may count toward hours at the Board's discretion.
What exams are required for a plumber license in Minnesota?
You must pass the Journeyworker Plumber Exam and Master Plumber Exam exams. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by DLI.
Do I need a bond for a plumber license in Minnesota?
Yes, a $25,000 surety bond is required. Plumbing contractors must file a $25,000 surety bond with DLI.
How long does it take to get a plumber license in Minnesota?
Processing time is typically 2-4 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for plumbers in Minnesota?
Yes, 16 hours per every 2 years is required for license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: DLI