How to get a Plumbing license in Texas

The full Texas plumbing licensing path — experience hours, required exam, fees, and where to apply. Verified 5/26/2026.

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License details

Master Plumber License (Journeyman / Tradesman precede)

Verified 5/26/2026
Experience required
Tradesman → Journeyman (4,000 hrs) → Master (4 years as licensed Journeyman)
Required exam
Master Plumber Exam (UPC/IPC + Texas amendments, open-book) (Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners)
Notes & fees
Master initial license: $75 + exam $115. Renewal annual, $50 + 6 hrs CE/yr (must include 1 hr Texas rules). Endorsements: Medical Gas, Multipurpose Residential Fire Protection. Background check required.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get a plumbing license in Texas?

You need tradesman → journeyman (4,000 hrs) → master (4 years as licensed journeyman). Then pass the Master Plumber Exam (UPC/IPC + Texas amendments, open-book) administered by Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners. Applications go through the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE).

What exam do I need to pass?

Master Plumber Exam (UPC/IPC + Texas amendments, open-book) — administered by Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners.

How much experience do I need?

Tradesman → Journeyman (4,000 hrs) → Master (4 years as licensed Journeyman)

What about fees, insurance, and continuing education?

Master initial license: $75 + exam $115. Renewal annual, $50 + 6 hrs CE/yr (must include 1 hr Texas rules). Endorsements: Medical Gas, Multipurpose Residential Fire Protection. Background check required.

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