A plumbing license signifies adherence to complying standards and demonstrates expertise in subject-matter knowledge, guaranteeing safe, secure, and expert plumbing services.

Like others, have you, too, considered a career in plumbing but felt daunted by the licensing process? Don't worry, you are not alone.

Knowing the plumbing industry trends in the state, it's more important than ever to make sure you have a Texas plumbing license.

There are an expected 48,600 openings for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters projected each year, on average, over the decade. So, irrespective of whether you're just starting your plumbing business or looking to expand your career opportunities, this guide will help you navigate the licensing process.

Who Provides Plumbing Licenses in Texas?

Is a license required to be a plumber in Texas?

Yes, a plumbing license is mandatory to work as a plumber in Texas. The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) is the organization in charge of issuing license permits, endorsements, and registrations to plumbers in Texas.

A plumbing contractor has to go through several stages and get the license for each individual stage fulfilling the basic experience and the examination requirements.

Types of Plumbing Licenses in Texas

Requirements for Texas Plumbing Licenses

Scope of Work by License Type

Understanding what you can and cannot do with each license level is crucial:

Apprentice Plumber:

• Learn and assist with plumbing installation under direct supervision of licensed journeyman or master plumber
• Can perform tasks independently only when a licensed plumber is unavailable (e.g., digging trenches)
• Important: Only hours worked AFTER registration count toward tradesman or journeyman exam requirements

Tradesman Plumber Limited:

• Construct, install, repair, service, or renovate plumbing for one and two-family dwellings under supervision of responsible master plumber
• May directly supervise plumber's apprentice on one and two-family dwelling job sites
• Can work on structures other than one/two-family dwellings ONLY under supervision of licensed journeyman or master plumber

Journeyman Plumber:

• Install, change, repair, service, or renovate plumbing under supervision of responsible master plumber
• May directly supervise plumber's apprentice on job sites
• May supervise tradesman plumber limited on structures other than one and two-family dwellings

Master Plumber:

• Install, change, repair, service, or renovate all types of plumbing systems independently
• May directly supervise plumber's apprentices, tradesman plumbers, and journeyman plumbers
• Can serve as responsible master plumber for a plumbing business

Plumbing License Costs in Texas

There are numerous upfront costs associated while applying for a license in Texas plumbing trade. However, the long-term benefits of earning potential and the professional recognition one gets make this investment worthwhile.

Plumbing Endorsements in Texas

There are three different possible plumbing endorsements that can be added to the journeyman, master, or plumbing inspector's license:

Steps to Get Your Texas Plumbing License

Benefits of a Texas Plumbing License

• Enhance your Scale: You will have the chance to advance both professionally and financially if you obtain a plumbing license. It's a rare opportunity to "earn as you learn," as your income will rise as you gain new skills.
• Help moving forward: No matter where your career takes you, having an acknowledged and accepted industry certificate can help you get forward.
• A sense of independence: You can eventually choose to establish your own plumbing company and be your own boss by earning the appropriate expertise and skills.
• Strong competitive edge: You have a competitive edge in the job market by standing out as a qualified and knowledgeable professional. This can then result in increased earning possibilities, ultimately generating more plumbing leads.
• More learning opportunities: Licensed plumbers can get access to a variety of plumbing associations and trade organizations that provide additional training and education. This can help you expand your profession and stay up to date on industry developments.

Annual Average Salary of Texas Plumber

Plumbing licenses helps plumbers earn a competitive salary with ample growth opportunities. The average annual salary for a plumber in Texas is $52,740, and it is $25.23 hourly.

However, if we specifically talk about the apprentice plumber or the journeyman, then the same is shown in the table here:

Time Frame for Obtaining a Plumbing License

The duration involved in obtaining a Texas plumbing license is different for each and every level:

• Tradesman Plumber Limited: Minimum of 2 years (4,000 hours) experience as a plumbing apprentice plus completion of 24 hours of board-approved classroom training, followed by passing the licensing exam.
• Journeyman Plumber License: 4 years (8,000 hours) of plumbing trade experience plus completion of a 48-hour board-approved training course, followed by passing the licensing exam.
• Master Plumber License: Must hold a journeyman license with 4 years of experience (or 1 year with approved training program), plus passing the master plumber examination.

Each license level requires more training and experience, allowing for work on an increasing range of plumbing systems, from residential to commercial to industrial.

Conclusion

After this detailed licensing procedure, generating plumbing leads or winning more jobs should not be your matter of concern. Get your license today so that you can take the most out of yourself.

Additionally, plumbing business management can be made much easier with the right use of digital software. InvoiceOwl offers a simple, fast, and efficient invoicing solution to help you streamline your billing process and get your payments on time.