How to Get Your
Nevada Plumbing License
Your complete guide to becoming a licensed plumber in Nevada. Learn about requirements, exams, costs, and the step-by-step process to launch your plumbing career.

Nevada Plumbing License Quick Facts
Minimum Age
18 years (Apprentice)
Experience Required
4 years (8,000 hours)
Application Fee
$300
Licensing Body
Nevada State Contractors Board
Renewal Period
Every 2 years ($600)
Classroom Hours
320 hours required
Being a licensed plumber is a cornerstone of success for any contractor.
Licensing not only reflects your expertise and professionalism, but it also ensures that all your work meets the necessary industry standards and regulations set by the Nevada state contractors' board, providing enough credibility, legitimacy, and protection.
If you're a plumbing contractor in Nevada and wondering about starting a plumbing business in the state, it is a must that you understand the licensing requirements for obtaining a plumbing license.
We will walk you through this comprehensive guide to the Nevada plumbing license process. It will focus on the types of licenses offered, eligibility criteria, and the examination process.
Who Provides Plumbing Licenses in Nevada?
Nevada Licensing Authority
Nevada State Contractors Board
NSCBIssues plumbing licenses for journeyman and master plumbers throughout Nevada. Also oversees C-1 (Plumbing and Heating) and C-1D (Plumbing) contractor classifications.
Nevada Board of Plumbing Examiners
NBOPEReviews applications and determines eligibility for scheduling plumbing examinations in Nevada.
Nevada Reciprocity Information
Important: The Nevada State Contractors Board has minimal reciprocity agreements with California, Arizona, and Utah, which do not apply to plumbing, electrical, or fire protection.
- To legally perform contracting jobs in Nevada, a Nevada contractor's license is required.
- You must apply for and retake the necessary trade examination to operate as a contractor in Nevada, even if you're licensed in a reciprocal state.
Types of Plumbing Licenses in Nevada
License Types Available
Choose Your License Path
Apprentice Plumber
Entry-level position for those learning the trade under supervision of a licensed plumber.
Key Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- High school diploma or equivalent (recommended)
- Register under a licensed Nevada plumber
Journeyman Plumber License
Full license to provide plumbing services independently without supervision.
Key Requirements
- 4 years (8,000 hours) documented experience
- 320 hours of classroom instruction
- Pass journeyman trade exam
Master Plumber License
Advanced license for experienced plumbers with additional year of journeyman experience.
Key Requirements
- Valid Nevada journeyman license
- 1 additional year (2,000 hours) as journeyman
- Pass master plumber examination
C-1 Plumbing & Heating Contractor
Contractor license for plumbing and heating work, including all plumbing contractor operations.
Key Requirements
- Master or journeyman plumber license
- Registered business entity
- Valid contractor license from NSCB
C-1D Plumbing Contractor
Specialized contractor license for plumbing work only (water and gas piping from building edge to utility meter).
Key Requirements
- Master or journeyman plumber license
- Registered business entity
- Valid contractor license from NSCB
Requirements for Nevada Plumbing Licenses
Becoming a Plumbing Apprentice in Nevada
If you are just beginning your plumbing contractor's journey, it is advisable that you go through the plumbing apprenticeship programs. To undergo the apprenticeship programs, one must follow the basic requirements mentioned here:
Starting Your Plumbing Career
Apprentice Requirements
1Apprentice Plumber
Entry-level requirements
Apprentice Plumber
Entry-level requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- High school diploma or equivalent (recommended, not mandatory)
- Get registered under a Nevada licensed plumber (journeyman or master)
- Complete 8,000 hours of documented on-the-job training (typically 4 years)
- Complete 320 hours of related classroom instruction
- Receive on-the-job training and mentorship while working towards licensure
The documents you need to submit while your accredited apprenticeship program is specified below:
- Nevada driver's license
- Birth certificate
- Social security card
- Diploma/GED
- Proof of prior experience (if any)
- Proof of experience within an accredited training program
Journeyman and Master License Requirements
NSCB Requirements
Nevada Professional License Requirements
1Journeyman Plumber License
For apprentice plumbers with 4 years experience
Journeyman Plumber License
For apprentice plumbers with 4 years experience
- Minimum 4 years (8,000 hours) of substantiated experience within the 15 years immediately preceding
- Experience must be in a state-registered accredited apprenticeship
- Complete 320 hours of classroom instruction
- Submit official journeyman license application
- Provide affidavit of experience
- Submit photo ID
- Pay $300 application fee
- Pay examination fees ($140 for both tests together or $95 separately)
- Pass journeyman trade exam (75% passing score)
- Pass Construction Management System (CMS) exam
2Master Plumber License
For licensed journeyman plumbers
Master Plumber License
For licensed journeyman plumbers
- Hold a valid Nevada journeyman plumber license
- Gain additional 1 year (2,000 hours) of experience working as a licensed journeyman plumber in Nevada
- Submit official master plumber license application
- Provide affidavit of experience
- Submit photo ID
- Pay $300 application fee
- Pay examination fees
- Pass master plumber examination
Application Process
A candidate for a journeyman or master license must send all required documents to the National Inspection Testing Certification (NITC) at:
Nevada State Contractors Board 2310 Corporate Circle, Suite 200 Henderson, Nevada, 89074
Once the application is reviewed, the Nevada Board of Plumbing Examiners (NBOPE) will review your application and contact you via letter if you are eligible to schedule your exam.
License Renewal Information
An additional fee of $600 is to be paid every two years to keep the Nevada plumbing license active.
Plumbing License Costs in Nevada
NSCB Fees
Nevada Plumbing License Fees
| License Type | Exam Fee | License Fee | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journeyman Application | — | $300 | $600 (every 2 years) |
| Master Plumber Application | — | $300 | $600 (every 2 years) |
| Exam Fees (both tests together) Trade exam + CMS exam | $140 | ||
| Exam Fees (separate) Per individual exam | $95 |
Nevada Plumbing Exam Details
Once the application gets reviewed, the Nevada Board of Plumbing Examiners (NBOPE) will review the application form, and you will be contacted by a licensing analyst via a letter informing you that you are eligible to schedule the journeyman plumbing exam.
The letter sent by the licensing analyst will contain instructions as to where the journeyman exam can be accessed and scheduled. However, for a plumbing contractor, Nevada not only requires to complete a journeyman trade exam, but also a construction management exam (CMS) administered by the NITC and PSI.
Open Book Exam
Nevada Journeyman Plumbing Examination
50 questions covering plumbing theory, codes, and practices
Closed Book Exam
Nevada Construction Management System (CMS) Exam
100 questions covering construction management and business practices
Exam Information
- Examination fees: $140 (if you apply for both tests together), or $95 (if you apply separately)
- Validity: Valid for 5 years
- Passing criteria: 75%
Plumbing Trade Schools in Nevada
Nevada offers several accredited plumbing trade schools and apprenticeship programs:
| Trade School/Institute | Type | Tuition Fees | Contact | Address | |------------------------|------|--------------|---------|---------| | National Technical Institute (NTI) | Public | $5,000/year | (702) 948-9000 | 1870 Whitney Mesa Dr, Henderson, NV 89014 | | Plumbers and Pipefitters of Local 525 | Public | $2,000/semester | (760) 452-1520 | 760 N Lamb Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89110 | | Western Nevada College | Public | $2,900/year (in-state) & $9,700 (out-of-state) | (775) 445-3000 | 2201 W College Pkwy, Carson City, NV 89703 |
Steps to Get Your Nevada Plumbing License
Step-by-Step Guide
Your Path to Becoming a Licensed Plumber in Nevada
Meet Basic Requirements
Be at least 18 years old and obtain a high school diploma or equivalent (recommended).
Find a Licensed Plumber Sponsor
Register under a Nevada licensed plumber (either journeyman or master) to begin your apprenticeship.
Enroll in Apprenticeship Program
Join a state-registered accredited apprenticeship program to receive formal training and classroom instruction.
View Trade SchoolsComplete Required Training Hours
Gain 8,000 hours of documented on-the-job training (typically 4 years) and complete 320 hours of related classroom instruction.
Apply for Journeyman License
Submit your official journeyman license application to NITC with affidavit of experience, photo ID, and application fees.
Download Application FormPass Required Examinations
Pass both the journeyman trade exam (2 hours, 50 questions) and Construction Management System exam (1 hour 45 minutes, 100 questions) with a 75% passing score.
Congratulations! You're a Licensed Journeyman!
You are now a licensed journeyman plumber in Nevada and can work independently without supervision.
Gain Additional Experience (Optional)
Work as a licensed journeyman for at least 1 year (2,000 hours) to qualify for master plumber license.
Apply for Master Plumber License
After gaining the required journeyman experience, submit your master plumber license application and pass the master plumber examination.
Congratulations! You're a Master Plumber!
You are now a licensed master plumber in Nevada with advanced credentials and expertise.
Obtain Contractor License (Optional)
Apply for C-1 (Plumbing & Heating) or C-1D (Plumbing) contractor license to start your own plumbing business and take contracts.
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Start Your FREE TrialScope of Work Covered and Contractors Classification for Nevada Licensed Contractor
The NSCB has classified the contractors into three different classifications:
- Class A - General Engineering Contractor: Those having expertise in engineering knowledge and skill falls under this.
- Class B - General Building Contractor – Those contractors who are involved in constructing or renovating buildings or structures with the intent to render support, shelter, and confinement to people, animals, belongings, or any other movable property come under this.
- Class C - Specialty Contractor – Last is the "C" license classification for contractors whose construction work requires particular skill and whose principal contracting. Further, there are sub-classifications under the C-specialty contractors, which are:
- Plumbing and heating contractors (C-1)
- Plumbing Contractors (C-1D)
Scope of Work for Nevada Plumbing Contractors
The scope of work covered for the Nevada plumbing contractors include:
- To create sanitary conditions in buildings, material, and fixtures are installed. These are the permanent means for the supply of safe water and any sanitary waste and vent systems to ensure the appropriate removal of waste.
- Installing the boilers and all the related components like fittings, piping, valves, gauges, pumps, radiators, convectors, tanks, and lines.
- Installation and maintenance of drainage systems, hydronic heating systems, irrigation systems, and potable water heating systems.
- Installing the permanent means to supply gas for residential and industrial purposes and the pipe fittings for compressed air, vacuums, and gases for medical use.
Furthermore, those individuals holding a C-1D license may install piping for water and gas beginning at the edge of a building and ending at its utility meter.
Consequences of Unlicensed Plumbing in Nevada under NRS 624.700
If the Nevada board of plumbing found that the plumbing contractor is unlicensed then he gets fined with some heavy penalties. Here's is the table showing the different comparison of penalties and imprisonment every time when the contractor gets caught:
Nevada NRS 624.700
Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work
| License Type | Exam Fee | License Fee | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| First-time offender (Misdemeanor) Up to 6 months jail + possible restitution payment | — | Up to $1,000 | |
| Second-time offender (Gross misdemeanor) Up to 364 days in jail + possible restitution payment | — | $2,000 - $4,000 | |
| Third-time or subsequent offender (Category E felony) 1 to 4 years in Nevada State Prison + possible restitution payment | — | $5,000 - $10,000 |
License Requirement
If you are bidding on plumbing projects related to plumbing, heating, or insulation repairs, installations, or maintenance with a value exceeding $500 in labor or materials, you require a plumbing license.
Nevada board of plumbing requires plumbing contractors operating inside Nevada to hold either:
- Nevada State Contractors Board-issued C-1 plumbing and heating contractor license or
- A C-1D Nevada plumbing contractor license
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the reciprocal agreements of Nevada with other states' plumbing contractors?
The Nevada State Contractors Board has minimal reciprocity agreements with California, Arizona, and Utah, which do not apply to plumbing, electrical, or fire protection.
Hence, to legally perform contracting jobs in Nevada, a Nevada contractor's license is required. This means that you must apply for and retake the necessary trade examination to operate as a contractor in the state.
Is holding a plumbing license in Nevada compulsory?
Yes, if you are bidding on plumbing projects related to plumbing, heating, or insulation repairs, installations, or maintenance with a value exceeding $500 in labor or materials, you require a plumbing license.
Nevada board of plumbing requires plumbing contractors operating inside Nevada to hold either:
- Nevada State Contractors Board-issued C-1 plumbing and heating contractor license or
- A C-1D Nevada plumbing contractor license
From where can we obtain a Nevada plumbing license?
You can obtain a Nevada plumbing license either from Nevada State Contractors Board directly or from their official website.
- Northern Nevada: Nevada State Contractors Board, 2310 Corporate Circle, Ste 200, Henderson, NV 89074, Phone: (702) 486-1100
- Southern Nevada: Nevada State Contractors Board, 5390 Kietzke Lane, Ste 102, Reno, NV 89511, Phone: (775) 688-1141
How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in Nevada?
The typical path takes about 4-5 years. You'll need 4 years (8,000 hours) of apprentice experience plus 320 hours of classroom instruction before you're eligible to take the licensing exam. If you pursue a master plumber license, you'll need an additional year (2,000 hours) as a journeyman.
What is the difference between C-1 and C-1D contractor licenses?
- C-1 Plumbing and Heating Contractor: Covers all plumbing contractor operations including heating systems.
- C-1D Plumbing Contractor: Specialized license for plumbing work only. C-1D license holders may install piping for water and gas beginning at the edge of a building and ending at its utility meter.
What are the consequences of working without a license in Nevada?
Working without a license can result in severe penalties under NRS 624.700:
- First offense: Misdemeanor with up to $1,000 fine and up to 6 months jail
- Second offense: Gross misdemeanor with $2,000-$4,000 fine and up to 364 days in jail
- Third offense: Category E felony with $5,000-$10,000 fine and 1-4 years in Nevada State Prison
All offenses may also require restitution payments.
Conclusion
Now that you have gone through the whole licensing process, it's time to take a quick call, get licensed ASAP, and make the right move for your plumbing business. As said above, licensing is a cornerstone of success, but InvoiceOwl will take your business to the next level.
Career Advice
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