If you’re interested in becoming a plumber and working in Missouri, you’ll need to get a plumbing license. While Missouri doesn’t provide state licenses, it does require counties and cities to issue them. Learn more about how to get your plumbing license in Missouri.
Missouri Plumbing License Requirements
Although there’s no state license for Missouri plumbers, counties and cities have unique licensing requirements.
County and city governments provide oversight, and those seeking a journeyman or master plumber’s license must pass an exam to work in cities with populations over 15,000.
St. Louis and Kansas City are the state’s most densely populated cities, and each has stringent plumbing license requirements.
Each city requires apprentices to work under a journeyman or master plumber’s supervision to gain the experience needed to pass the exam and apply for a qualification certificate. Before working in an area, check with its government to learn its licensing requirements.
Missouri Plumbing License Types
- Apprentice
- Journeyman
- Master
- Contractor
Cost of a Missouri Plumbing License
Missouri’s local plumbing licenses come with varying application fees.
For example, in Jefferson, an apprentice license costs $12, a journeyman license or a master plumber’s license costs $105, and a contractor’s license costs $210. Check with your city to learn about its license fees.
A candidate’s career strategy determines their upfront licensing costs.
For instance, those choosing the path right out of high school can start at no cost through the state’s Career Technical Education System. Candidates with GEDs or high school diplomas, however, can start with one of several college programs.
Missouri Plumbing License Exams
According to Missouri law, each city with a population over 15,000 shall require plumbers to pass an exam before earning their licenses.
Examination scheduling is explained on city websites. When an application is accepted, the prospective plumber will receive a registration form in the mail.
With the form, they also get information on exam content, fees, references, format, locations, dates, deadlines, and much more.
In the city of St. Louis, applicants can sign up and pay the exam fee online.
Who Issues Missouri’s Plumbing Licenses?
Master plumbers and journeymen must be certified to provide services within the state, but they earn those certifications in their respective counties and cities.
The method by which a plumber obtains their license varies by jurisdiction, so applicants should contact the local government in the area where they plan to work.
Additional Plumbing Certifications in Missouri
While the state doesn’t require them, certifications can demonstrate a plumber’s proficiency and marketability.
Certificates from the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials and National Inspection Testing and Certification make plumbers more compelling prospects for customers and potential employers.