Licensing Guides
North Dakota Plumbing License: How to Become a Plumber in North Dakota
Plumbing, ND
Joanne Bratton
Table of Contents
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in North Dakota
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in North Dakota?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in North Dakota?
Does My North Dakota Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in North Dakota?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in North Dakota?
You can’t rush through the training it takes to become a plumber, but time and effort leads to a career that is long-lasting, lucrative, and fulfilling. Almost every state requires plumbers to be licensed because it’s complicated work that affects the health and safety of our society.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 504,500 plumbers nationwide, and North Dakota employs 1,650 of them. The national number is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, adding 44,000 to the ranks across the country. In North Dakota, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is higher at 11% for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters.
Contractors struggle to find skilled tradesmen like plumbers, electricians, and HVAC or mechanical professionals while the demand for them continues to grow. According to the Associated General Contractors of America, construction employment in North Dakota in July 2025 totaled 29,700, a decrease of 700 (-2.3%) from July 2024 and an increase of 1,600 (6%) from February 2020.
If you get the training you need, you should have a variety of jobs to choose from when you’re ready.
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Licensing requirements for plumbers vary from state to state and, in some cases, from locality to locality. North Dakota has statewide standards for working in the plumbing business, beginning at the plumbing apprentice level.
Plumbing License Requirements for Plumbers in North Dakota
Is a license required for plumbers in North Dakota? Yes. It is mandated from the beginning.
The North Dakota State Plumbing Board registers plumbing apprentices and issues journeyman plumber and master plumber licenses.
The board also licenses sewer and water apprentices, installers, and contractors; and water conditioning apprentices, installers, and contractors.
The North Dakota Secretary of State licenses contractors and subcontractors. In North Dakota, those who perform more than $4,000 worth of work must obtain a contractor license. In addition, plumbing contractors may need to obtain a license from the local jurisdiction where they work.
Types of Plumbing Licenses in North Dakota
What are the types of plumber licenses in North Dakota? There are four types of state-issued plumbing registration or licenses.
Apprentice Plumber Registration — An apprentice plumber learns and assists in the installation, alteration, and repair of plumbing and drainage under the immediate and personal supervision of a master or a journeyman plumber.
Journeyman Plumber License — A journeyman plumber is engaged in the practical installation, alteration, and repair of plumbing.
Master Plumber License — A master plumber is skilled in the planning, supervision, practical installation, alteration, and repair of plumbing. They are also familiar with the laws, rules, and regulations governing plumbing systems.
Contractor License — A licensed contractor is a subcontractor, general contractor, public contractor, or nonresident contractor who performs work that costs more than $4,000. There are four contractor classifications based on contract amounts.
Class A: Contract amount of more than $500,000 per job
Class B: Contract amount of up to $500,000 per job
Class C: Contract amount of up to $300,000 per job
Class D: Contract amount of up to $100,000 per job
Each license has specific requirements.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
Apprentice Plumber Registration
Be at least 18 years old.
Register within 30 days of starting work to receive credit toward apprenticeship.
Graduates of plumbing courses at an accredited school may be granted hourly credit toward the term of apprenticeship when an official copy of the school transcript is provided. Hourly credit is based on the grade point average.
Pay registration fee, depending on the apprentice plumber type:
1st year/0 to 1,900 hours: $5 to $20 fee
2nd year/1,901 to 3,800 hours: $30 fee
3rd year/3,801 to 5,700 hours: $40 fee
4th year/5,701 to 7,600 hours: $50 fee
5th year/more than 7,600 hours: $75 fee
Be at least 18 years old.
Have four years (1,900 hours each year, totalling 7,600 hours) of experience as an apprentice plumber working for a licensed master plumber.
Pay the $50 application fee/exam fee.
Pass the journeyman plumber exam.
Pay the $100 license fee.
Be at least 21 years old.
Have two years (3,400 hours) of experience as a licensed journeyman plumber.
Pay the $50 application fee/exam fee.
Pass the master plumber exam.
Pay the $200 license fee.
Register your business with the North Dakota Secretary of State.
Obtain liability insurance.
If you have employees living in the state, obtain a certificate of payment from Workforce Safety and Insurance (WSI) to verify workers’ compensation insurance coverage. If you do not, provide a letter of good standing from WSI.
Pay the license fee based on your contractor classification:
Class A: $450
Class B: $300
Class C: $225
Class D: $100
Steps to Get a Plumbing License in North Dakota
Be at least 18 years of age.
Begin a plumbing apprenticeship.
Register as a plumbing apprentice with the North Dakota State Plumbing Board within 30 days of starting your apprenticeship.
Pay registration fee. Fees vary based on your apprenticeship year.
To become a journeyman plumber, you will need four years of experience (7,600 hours) working as an apprentice plumber for a licensed master plumber.
Apply for the journeyman plumber license. Pay the $50 application and exam fee.
Register for and pass the journeyman plumber exam.
Pay the $100 license fee.
To become a master plumber, you will need at least two years (3,400 hours) of experience as a licensed journeyman plumber.
Apply for the master plumber license. Pay the $50 application and exam fee.
Register for and pass the master plumber exam.
Pay the $200 license fee.
To become a plumbing contractor, register your business with the North Dakota Secretary of State.
Obtain liability insurance.
If you have employees living in the state, obtain a certificate of payment from Workforce Safety and Insurance (WSI) to verify workers’ compensation insurance coverage. If you do not, provide a letter of good standing from WSI.
Pay the license fee based on your chosen contractor classification, which is determined by the contract amount per job.
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing License in North Dakota
There are many benefits to obtaining your North Dakota plumbing license:
Most importantly, North Dakota requires plumbers to hold state licensure to legally perform any plumbing work.
A trade license is proof of your experience and skill.
Only licensed contractors can operate a business and advertise services, obtain commercial insurance, pull building permits and pass inspections, and bid on public and government projects.
Having a license protects your company and customers.
A license gives you a competitive advantage in the job market and increases your earning potential as you acquire more experience.
What Is the Mean Wage for a Plumber in North Dakota?
The annual mean wage for a plumber in North Dakota is $65,760, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, that salary can increase as you acquire more experience. A plumbing salary database, shared with ServiceTitan by Payscale.com, projects the median plumber salary will increase nationally in 2025 by 3.65% for entry-level workers, and 3.55% for both intermediate and senior level plumbers. In North Dakota those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $51,100
Intermediate (2-4 years): $66,400
Senior (4-7 years): $71,900
Salaries vary widely depending on the city where you work and other factors like education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession.
What Business Owners Need to Know
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Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app.
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How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in North Dakota?
The cost to get started as a plumbing apprentice in North Dakota is fairly low. Annual apprenticeship fees vary from $5 to $75 depending on your year of apprenticeship.
Apprenticeship program costs vary depending on the program you choose. Program fees cover course instruction, textbooks, and materials. Your employer or union typically will absorb these costs.
Other licenses have additional fees. Journeyman and master plumbers must pay a $50 application and exam fee. A journeyman license costs $100 and a master plumber license costs $200. Licenses expire annually on Dec. 31. Renewal fees for a journeyman license is $100; a master plumber license is $200.
To become a plumbing contractor, you’ll pay a license fee based on your classification. Classifications are determined on your contract amount for each job. License fees vary from $100 to $450. You’ll also have additional costs related to business registration and insurance. Annual contractor license renewal fees range from $30 to $90, depending on the classification.
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How to Get a Plumbing License in North Dakota
Becoming a plumbing professional in North Dakota isn’t fast, but it is straightforward.
COMPLETE APPRENTICESHIP: The state requires journeyman plumbers to complete a four-year (7,600 hours) apprenticeship. To start the process, register for a plumbing apprenticeship program and submit an apprentice plumber registration application or apply online with the state plumbing board within 30 days of starting work. You’ll renew your apprenticeship annually and pay a registration fee based on the year of your apprenticeship. Graduates of plumbing courses at an accredited school may be granted hourly credit toward the term of apprenticeship when an official copy of the school transcript is provided. Hourly credit is based on the grade point average.
APPLY FOR JOURNEYMAN PLUMBER LICENSE: Once you’ve completed apprenticeship requirements, complete a journeyman plumber license application or apply online. Pay the $50 application and exam fee.
PASS JOURNEYMAN EXAM: Once your application is approved, register online for the exam. The board lists exam information on its exam page. After passing the exam, pay the $100 license fee to receive your journeyman plumber license.
APPLY FOR MASTER PLUMBER LICENSE: Once you’ve worked two years (3,400 hours) as a licensed journeyman plumber, you’re eligible to apply for a master plumber license. Complete a master plumber license application or apply online.
PASS MASTER EXAM: Once your application is approved, register online for the exam. The board lists exam information on its exam page. After passing the exam, pay the $200 license fee to receive your master plumber license.
CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS: To become a plumbing contractor, you’ll need to register your business with the North Dakota Secretary of State and obtain liability insurance. If you have employees living in the state, obtain a certificate of payment from Workforce Safety and Insurance (WSI) to verify workers’ compensation insurance coverage. If you do not, provide a letter of good standing from WSI. Choose your contractor classification based on the contract amount per job. Annual license fees vary from $100 to $450 and are based on the license classification.
The board lists answers to frequently asked questions about plumbing licensing on its FAQ page.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in North Dakota?
It takes a minimum of four years (7,600 hours) to complete a plumbing apprenticeship in North Dakota. Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you’re eligible to apply for a journeyman plumber license.
The great news is that as an apprentice you earn a wage from the very beginning and compensation increases each year as you acquire more training and knowledge, until you are a licensed journeyman plumber. Your salary increases again when you become a master plumber. As a licensed plumbing contractor, you can be your own boss and grow your business as much as you want.
North Dakota Plumber Training Programs and Schools
Plumbers are responsible for more than just fixing leaks or clogs. They design, install, and renovate systems that carry liquids or gasses. In addition to mechanics, they must know and follow plumbing code.
Since the state of North Dakota requires plumbing professionals to begin their career journey with an apprenticeship, you may not choose to get a postsecondary degree. However, the state grants hourly credit toward the term of apprenticeship for those who are graduates of plumbing courses at an accredited school. An official copy of the school transcript must be provided. Hourly credit is based on the grade point average.
Community Colleges/Universities
Plumbing training opportunities include:
Apprenticeship
Apprenticeship opportunities include:
Those listed on job search sites such as Glassdoor, SimplyHired, and ZipRecruiter
Program Prerequisites: For most apprenticeship plumbing programs, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED certificate.
On-the-Job Experience: While on the job, you will need to use good customer service skills, possess mechanical capability, pay attention to detail, and be physically fit. The job typically includes hours of walking, standing, and working in tight spaces, and includes some heavy lifting.
For more detailed information about plumbing school options, check out our Ultimate Guide to Plumbing Schools in North Dakota.
North Dakota Plumbing Contractor Licensing Exam Details
Both the journeyman plumber license and master plumber license require applicants to pass a plumbing exam.
Before taking the exam, applicants submit a license application and pay the $50 application and exam fee. Once their applications are approved, they register online for the exam. The plumbing board lists detailed information on its exam page and an exam schedule page with test dates and locations. Tests are given in Bismark, Grand Forks, Minot, and Fargo.
The journeyman plumber exam consists of five parts. Test takers have five hours to complete the exam.The first two parts are closed book and contain 100 multiple choice questions, and include completing waste- and vent-pipe sizing. Parts three, four, and five are open book and contain 40 questions. Practical portions include water-pipe sizing and completing a drain, waste, and vent with fixture units.
The master plumber exam consists of four parts. Test takers have five hours to complete the exam. Part one is closed book and contains 100 multiple choice questions. Parts two, three, and four are open book and contain 40 questions. Practical portions include water-pipe sizing and completing a drain, waste, and vent with fixture units.
Those taking the journeyman and master exam bring the 2018 North Dakota Plumbing Code reference book and a calculator with them to the exam. Those who fail the exam must wait six months before retaking the exam.
Who Issues Plumbing Contractors Licenses in North Dakota?
The North Dakota State Plumbing Board registers plumbing apprentices and issues journeyman plumber licenses and master plumber licenses. Board offices are at 1110 College Drive, Suite 210, Bismarck, ND 58501. The plumbing board may be contacted by phone at (701) 328-9977 or by email at ndplumb@nd.gov.
The North Dakota Secretary of State licenses contractors and subcontractors who perform more than $4,000 worth of work. The office is at 600 E Boulevard Ave. Dept 108, Bismarck, ND 58505 and may be contacted by phone at (701) 328-2900.
Does My North Dakota Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
North Dakota has reciprocity agreements with South Dakota, Minnesota, and Montana. This means you may be eligible for an exam waiver, depending on the type of license you seek. You will still need to apply for the license by reciprocity from the appropriate state licensing agency and follow the licensing process.
South Dakota: Applicants holding a license in another state with equivalent requirements may not need to take an exam. When applicants apply, they will need to verify their current license.
Minnesota: If you have held a North Dakota journeyman or master plumber license for at least one year, you may obtain the equivalent license without an examination. You’ll need to complete the reciprocity application and then apply online.
Montana: If you have passed the North Dakota journeyman plumbing written and practical examinations and do not have any complaints on your active North Dakota license, you will not need to take Montana’s journeyman exam.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in North Dakota?
Those holding a South Dakota, Minnesota, or Montana plumbing license may be eligible to obtain a North Dakota plumbing license without an examination.
You will need to submit an application with the North Dakota State Plumbing Board. Your application must be accompanied by a certificate of endorsement from the state in which you are licensed, which is not simply a copy of your current license.
Reciprocal licensing rules include:
South Dakota: South Dakota journeymen may apply for a journeyman license without an exam. South Dakota contractors may apply for a master license without an exam. You must be a South Dakota resident and hold a current license.
Minnesota: If you’ve held a Minnesota journeyman license for at least one year, you may apply for a journeyman license without an exam. If you’ve held a Minnesota master license for at least one year, you may apply for a master license without an exam. You must be a Minnesota resident and hold a current license.
Montana: If you hold a current Montana journeyman or master license, you may apply for a journeyman license without an exam.
Plumbing Certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. National Inspection Testing and Certification (NITC), International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (ASSE Certifications) and other professional certifications are not required but may make you a more attractive hire to prospective employers or can increase your marketability to customers.
Other Requirements Unique to North Dakota
State plumbing requirements may be found in the plumber licensure section of North Dakota Century Code and North Dakota Administrative Code Chapter 62-02-01.
Are There Plumbing Scholarships in North Dakota?
Yes, there are several plumbing or trade school scholarships in North Dakota. They include:
Be sure to check with your high school or area community organizations for local scholarships that help students begin their career in the plumbing trade.
How Can Someone Verify My Plumbing License in North Dakota?
Potential clients or employees may verify your North Dakota plumbing license by using the North Dakota State Plumbing Board License Lookup page. Search active licenses by:
License type
License number
Individual name
Those seeking to verify a contractor license may visit the Secretary of State’s registered contractor search. Search by name or license number.
When Can a Plumbing License Be Suspended in North Dakota?
A suspended plumber’s license means the plumber is temporarily prohibited from legally practicing their trade. In North Dakota, a plumbing license can be suspended or revoked for many reasons, including:
Being found guilty of an offense determined by the board to affect an individual’s ability to serve the public as a plumber.
Obtaining a license by error or fraud.
Incompetency.
Permitting another person to use the license.
Failure to show continuing education certification.
Failure to report plumbing work that requires an inspection.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For specific information about state plumbing license regulations, refer to North Dakota’s Century Code.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in North Dakota?
Performing plumbing work in North Dakota without a license is a Class B misdemeanor for a first conviction and can incur a fine of up to $100. A second conviction is a Class A misdemeanor with a fine of up to $1,000. Those found guilty of third and subsequent convictions face a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to 30 days in jail.
Those working without a contractor license are guilty of a Class A misdemeanor and may be assessed civil penalties up to three times the license fee amount.
Continuing Education
Those with journeyman and master plumber licenses must complete four credit hours of continuing education every two years. Plumbing board continuing education session fees are $40 for journeyman and master plumbers. Continuing education session fees may be paid online. Apprentices are encouraged to attend continuing education courses at no cost. The board’s continuing education page lists class dates and locations, and a list of approved online continuing education courses.
Licenses expire annually on Dec. 31. Visit the board’s license renewal page for current renewal forms.
Renewal fees are as follows:
1st year apprentice plumber: $20
2nd year apprentice plumber: $30
3rd year apprentice plumber: $40
4th year apprentice plumber: $50
5th year apprentice plumber: $75
Journeyman plumber: $100
Master plumber: $200
Contractor licenses expire annually on March 1. Contractors renew through the North Dakota Secretary of State’s FirstStop online portal. To renew, contractors must:
List each project, contract, and subcontract that exceeded $50,000.
Certify that payroll taxes, Workforce Safety and Insurance premiums, and unemployment insurance premiums have been paid.
Submit a certificate of liability insurance.
Contractors pay a renewal fee based on license classification. Renewal fees are as follows:
Class A (more than $500,000 per job): $90
Class B (up to $500,000 per job): $60
Class C (up to $300,000 per job): $45
Class D (up to $100,000 per job): $30
Resources
You can stay up to date on all plumbing industry news in several ways:
Check top plumbing blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends.
Listen to top plumbing podcasts like ServiceTitan’s Toolbox for the Trades podcast.
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