How to get a Plumbing license in Illinois
The full Illinois plumbing licensing path — experience hours, required exam, fees, and where to apply. Verified 6/12/2026.
Career prep, not a license.
Prep for the Illinois Plumbing exam
Plumbing 101 — Start Here (Free) — self-paced lessons, practice exam, certificate of completion.
Illinois Licensed Plumber (statewide) + Plumbing Contractor registration
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a plumbing license in Illinois?
You need 4-year idph-approved plumber apprenticeship (6,000 hrs ojt + 864 hrs classroom). engineering degree may substitute.. Then pass the Illinois Plumber Licensing Exam (IPC + IL amendments) administered by Continental Testing Services. Applications go through the Illinois Department of Public Health — Division of Environmental Health.
What exam do I need to pass?
Illinois Plumber Licensing Exam (IPC + IL amendments) — administered by Continental Testing Services.
How much experience do I need?
4-year IDPH-approved Plumber Apprenticeship (6,000 hrs OJT + 864 hrs classroom). Engineering degree may substitute.
What about fees, insurance, and continuing education?
IL is unique — plumbers are licensed STATE-wide (unlike electricians). Apprentice $75/yr, Plumber $125/yr, Contractor $300/yr + $20k bond. Annual CEU: 4 hrs. Exam is held twice a year; fee ~$285.
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