Plumber License Requirements in Mississippi
| Licensing Authority | Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC) |
| License Type | Plumbing Contractor (Commercial / Residential) |
| Experience Required | Commercial: qualifying party must demonstrate at least 4 years of plumbing experience. Residential: must show proof of at least 3 completed plumbing jobs and provide 3 reference letters (1 from a bank, 2 construction-related). No formal degree required — high school diploma or GED is sufficient. |
| Education Substitute | No formal education substitution specified by MSBOC. Apprenticeship programs and trade school training count toward experience at the local level. |
| Exam Required | Yes — Mississippi Business and Law Management Exam + Mississippi Plumbing Contractor Trade Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 2 hours every year (residential licenses issued on or after July 1, 2015 only) |
| Processing Time | 7–10 business days |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $400 |
| Exam Fee | $240 |
| Est. Initial Total | $640 |
Related & additional fees
Separate or ongoing costs — not included in the estimate above.
| Residential application fee | $50 |
| Residential renewal fee | $100 |
| Additional trade classification | $100 |
Renewal: $400 every 1 year
Exam Requirements
Mississippi Business and Law Management Exam
Mississippi Plumbing Contractor Trade Exam
Exam provider: PSI
Recommended exam prep
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Residential Plumbing Contractor
Proof of 3 completed plumbing jobs; projects over $10,000
Exam: Required
Commercial Plumbing Contractor — Specialty
4 years experience; $20,000 minimum net worth; projects over $50,000
Exam: Required
License Reciprocity
This state has reciprocity agreements with 5 states. View full reciprocity details — You may be able to skip the trade exam if you hold a valid license from one of these states.
Notes
- Mississippi does NOT license individual plumbers (journeyman/master) at the state level — that is handled by local municipalities
- The MSBOC license is a contractor/business license
- Residential plumbing threshold: projects over $10,000
- Commercial plumbing threshold: projects over $50,000
- All exams are open book — tabbed and highlighted references permitted
- Exam eligibility valid for 6 months with unlimited retakes
- 2026 change: renewal notices sent by email only
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a plumber license in Mississippi?
Yes, Mississippi requires a statewide plumber license through the Mississippi State Board of Contractors.
How much does a plumber license cost in Mississippi?
The estimated initial cost is $640, including application, exam, and license fees.
What experience do I need for a plumber license in Mississippi?
Commercial: qualifying party must demonstrate at least 4 years of plumbing experience. Residential: must show proof of at least 3 completed plumbing jobs and provide 3 reference letters (1 from a bank, 2 construction-related). No formal degree required — high school diploma or GED is sufficient. Education substitute: No formal education substitution specified by MSBOC. Apprenticeship programs and trade school training count toward experience at the local level.
What exams are required for a plumber license in Mississippi?
You must pass the Mississippi Business and Law Management Exam and Mississippi Plumbing Contractor Trade Exam exams. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by PSI.
Does Mississippi have plumber license reciprocity?
Yes, Mississippi has reciprocity agreements with 5 states that may apply to plumbers. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams or have an expedited application process.
How long does it take to get a plumber license in Mississippi?
Processing time is typically 7–10 business days after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for plumbers in Mississippi?
Yes, 2 hours per every year (residential licenses issued on or after July 1, 2015 only) is required for license renewal.
Next steps
You know the requirements for plumbers in Mississippi— here's how to actually pass and apply.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: MSBOC