Plumbers are required to be licensed in Washington DC in order to work on local jobs. Luckily, the licensing process is straightforward and attainable for anyone interested in becoming a plumber. Read on to learn how to get a Washington DC plumbing license.
Plumbing License Requirements in Washington DC
In Washington, DC, there are three levels of licensing for plumbers:
- Apprentice License
- Journeyman License
- Master License
Apprentice License Requirements
Apprentice plumbers must register with the mayor’s office and pay a fee.
They must work under the supervision of a licensed master plumber, gas fitter, or a master gas fitter.
The apprentice must work 8,000 hours over four years and meet education requirements to advance their licensing.
Journeyman License Requirements
The applicant for licensure as a journeyman plumber or journeyman gas fitter must meet the requirements of working 8,000 hours as an apprentice.
Journeyman applicants must have graduated with a degree from an accredited university or college.
Applicants must have two years of experience as a plumber or gas fitter.
The applicant can have a combination of school and experience that the board approves.
Master License Requirements
This advanced license requires proof of having a journeyman license and must be approved by the Board.
Master plumber applicants must have worked as a journeyman for a minimum of four years. They may also work as independent plumbing contractors after meeting certain requirements.
An applicant must hold a master’s license or have at least one employee with a master plumber license.
The contractor must also purchase and keep a surety bond of $5,000.
Cost to Get a Plumbing License in Washington DC
Apprenticeships can be sponsored by a trade organization, union, or future employer. Union apprenticeship programs require a non-refundable $50 test fee and a $50 application fee for processing.
Each level of licensing has fees starting with a basic $65 for application and then additional fees for each level:
- Apprentice license fee: $110
- Journeyman license fee: $110
- Master plumber and contractor licenses: $120
Licensing Exams
The District of Columbia uses PSI Exams as a third-party service for testing.
Applicants must apply with the Board of Industrial Trades to get approval to take the test by sending in a completed application with a Certificate of Completion from an apprenticeship program along with a $65 fee.
Who Issues Plumbing Licenses in Washington DC?
Plumbing licenses in Washington, DC, are issued by the District of Columbia Board of Industrial Trades.
Additional Plumbing Certifications
A plumber can get additional certifications to help show their skill. These include the NITC, or National Inspection Testing and Certification, the ASSE Certifications, International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, and other professional groups.
Can I Transfer a Plumbing License to Washington DC?
Washington DC does not have plumbing license reciprocity in place, however the Board may consider exam or experience waivers for licensed plumbers form out of state.