Plumber License Requirements in North Carolina
| Licensing Authority | NC State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating, and Fire Sprinkler Contractors (NC PHF Board) |
| License Type | Plumbing Contractor (P-I or P-II) |
| Experience Required | 2 years / 4,000 hours of hands-on plumbing experience. Technician: 1.5 years / 3,000 hours. |
| Education Substitute | Up to 50% of experience (2,000 hours) can be substituted with approved academic/technical coursework |
| Exam Required | Yes — Plumbing Trade Exam + Business & Law Exam |
| Bond Required | Yes — $5,000 |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | Not required |
| Processing Time | Several weeks plus 90-day exam authorization window |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $25 |
| Exam Fee | $100 |
| Initial License Fee | $150 |
| Est. Initial Total | $275 |
Renewal: $150 every 1 year
Exam Requirements
Plumbing Trade Exam
Business & Law Exam
Exam provider: PSI
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P-I (Class I)
All buildings — residential, commercial, industrial
Exam: Required
P-II (Class II)
Single-family detached dwellings only
Exam: Required
Plumbing Technician
Must work under licensed P-I, P-II, or RLP contractor
Exam: Required
License Reciprocity
This state has reciprocity agreements with 7 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
- Technician license fee is $75 (activation and renewal)
- Exam waiver agreement with South Carolina
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a plumber license in North Carolina?
Yes, North Carolina requires a statewide plumber license through the NC State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating, and Fire Sprinkler Contractors.
How much does a plumber license cost in North Carolina?
The estimated initial cost is $275, including application, exam, and license fees. A $5,000 surety bond is also required.
What experience do I need for a plumber license in North Carolina?
2 years / 4,000 hours of hands-on plumbing experience. Technician: 1.5 years / 3,000 hours. Education substitute: Up to 50% of experience (2,000 hours) can be substituted with approved academic/technical coursework
What exams are required for a plumber license in North Carolina?
You must pass the Plumbing Trade Exam and Business & Law Exam exams. A passing score of 75% is required. Exams are administered by PSI.
Do I need a bond for a plumber license in North Carolina?
Yes, a $5,000 surety bond is required. Minimum $5,000 surety bond. Some local jurisdictions may require additional bonding.
Does North Carolina have plumber license reciprocity?
Yes, North Carolina has reciprocity agreements with 7 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 North Carolina?
Processing time is typically Several weeks plus 90-day exam authorization window after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for plumbers in North Carolina?
No, North Carolina does not currently require continuing education for plumber license renewal.
Next steps
You know the requirements for plumbers in North Carolina— here's how to actually pass and apply.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: NC PHF Board