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 |
| Master exam fee | $125 |
| Residential plumber exam fee | $85 |
| Est. Initial Total | $385 |
Renewal: $90 every 3 years
Exam Requirements
Journeyman Plumber Exam
Master Plumber Exam
Exam provider: PSI
License Tiers
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. 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.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: DPOR