Plumber License Requirements in Virginia
| Licensing Authority | Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Board for Contractors — Tradesmen Program (DPOR) |
| License Type | Journeyman / Master Plumber (Tradesman License) |
| Experience Required | Journeyman: 4 years practical experience + 240 hours formal vocational training (or sliding scale up to 6 years + 80 hours). Master: 1 year as licensed VA journeyman, or 10 years verified practical experience. Residential Plumber: reduced requirements (new pathway effective April 2025). |
| Education Substitute | 2 years practical experience + associate degree or certificate from accredited program qualifies for journeyman |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman Plumber Exam + Master Plumber Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 3 hours 3 years (per renewal cycle) |
| Processing Time | ~30 days |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $75 |
| Exam Fee | $100 |
| Est. Initial Total | $175 |
Related & additional fees
Separate or ongoing costs — not included in the estimate above.
| Master exam fee | $125 |
| Residential plumber exam fee | $85 |
Renewal: $90 every 3 years
Exam Requirements
Journeyman Plumber Exam
Master Plumber Exam
Exam provider: PSI
Recommended exam prep
Formal prep pays for itself against a $100+ retake. Many states examine contractors on two separate papers — the trade exam and a business and law exam — so we list the course covering both first, with trade-specific depth after.
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Journeyman Plumber
4 yrs experience + 240 hrs training; OR 5 yrs + 160 hrs; OR 6 yrs + 80 hrs; OR 2 yrs + associate degree
Exam: Required
Master Plumber
1 year as licensed VA journeyman; OR 10 years verified practical experience
Exam: Required
Residential Plumber (new April 2025)
Less experience and training than journeyman; residential structures only
Exam: Required
License Reciprocity
This state has reciprocity agreements with 1 state. 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
- New Residential Plumber license type effective April 1, 2025 — allows work on residential structures only, serves as stepping stone to journeyman
- Tradesman license is for individuals; to operate a plumbing business, a separate Class A/B/C contractor license with PLB specialty is also required
- CE must focus on International Plumbing Code updates
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a plumber license in Virginia?
Yes, Virginia requires a statewide plumber license through the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Board for Contractors — Tradesmen Program.
How much does a plumber license cost in Virginia?
The estimated initial cost is $175, including application, exam, and license fees.
What experience do I need for a plumber license in Virginia?
Journeyman: 4 years practical experience + 240 hours formal vocational training (or sliding scale up to 6 years + 80 hours). Master: 1 year as licensed VA journeyman, or 10 years verified practical experience. Residential Plumber: reduced requirements (new pathway effective April 2025). Education substitute: 2 years practical experience + associate degree or certificate from accredited program qualifies for journeyman
What exams are required for a plumber license in Virginia?
You must pass the Journeyman Plumber Exam and Master Plumber Exam exams. A passing score of 60% for both journeyman and master is required. Exams are administered by PSI.
Does Virginia have plumber license reciprocity?
Yes, Virginia has reciprocity agreements with 1 state 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 Virginia?
Processing time is typically ~30 days after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for plumbers in Virginia?
Yes, 3 hours per 3 years (per renewal cycle) is required for license renewal.
Next steps
You know the requirements for plumbers in Virginia— here's how to actually pass and apply.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: DPOR