Licensing Guides
Vermont Plumbing License: How to Become a Plumber in Vermont
Plumbing, VT
Joanne Bratton
Table of Contents
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in Vermont
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Vermont?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Vermont?
Does My Vermont Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Vermont?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Vermont?
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 Vermont employs 960 of them. The national number is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, adding 44,000 to the ranks across the country. In Vermont, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is higher at 7% 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 Vermont in July 2025 totaled 15,700, a decrease of 400 (-2%) from July 2024 and an increase of 400 (3%) from February 2020.
If you get the training you need, you should have a variety of jobs to choose from when you’re ready.
» Want to grow your plumbing business? Click here to get a demo.
Licensing requirements for plumbers vary from state to state and, in some cases, from locality to locality. Vermont has statewide standards for working in the plumbing business, beginning at the apprenticeship level.
Plumbing License Requirements for Plumbers in Vermont
Is a license required for plumbers in Vermont? Yes. It is mandated from the beginning.
The State of Vermont Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire Safety issues plumbing licenses for journeyman plumbers and master plumbers. It also issues limited licenses for water heater, heating system, and water treatment specialists.
Types of Plumbing Licenses in Vermont
What are the types of plumber licenses in Vermont? There are two types of plumbing licenses and three types of limited licenses for specialty plumbing work.
Journeyman Plumber — A licensed person who installs plumbing or performs heating and water specialties under the direction of a master plumber. A journeyman plumber also may supervise an apprentice employed by a master plumber, under the master plumber’s direction.
Master Plumber — A licensed person who installs plumbing systems as a business, hires or employs others to perform plumbing work, or supervises journeyman or apprentice plumbers.
Water Heater Specialist (P1) — A specialist performs work as an employee or as an independent contractor only in connection with the specialty field designated on the license. This limited license is for the installation, replacement, and repair of any residential, industrial, or commercial domestic hot water supply tanks.
Heating System Specialist (P2) — This limited license is for the installation, replacement, and repair of residential, industrial, or commercial hydronic space heating systems, including radiant, solar, and other types of hydronic system design. Steam system work is limited to steam systems with operating pressure of up to 15 pounds per square inch gauge (PSIG).
Water Treatment Specialist (P3) — This limited license is for the installation, replacement, and repair of residential, industrial, or commercial potable water treatment and filtration equipment.
Each license has specific requirements that must be met.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
Journeyman Plumber License
Complete a plumbing apprenticeship with the Vermont State Apprenticeship Council and submit a certificate of completion with your application. Or, submit one of the following:
Proof of 12,000 hours of on-the-job training with instruction, training, and experience acceptable to the Plumbers Examining Board.
Those with an out-of-state journeyman plumber license may submit proof of apprenticeship or schooling and 8,000 hours of experience.
Those seeking a reciprocal military license must submit military documents showing proof of honorable discharge, training, and proof of 8,000 hours of experience.
Pay the $90 application fee.
Pass the journeyman plumber exam.
Master Plumber License
Be a licensed Vermont journeyman plumber for at least 12 months. Or, submit one of the following with your application:
Proof of 14,000 hours of on-the-job training with instruction, training, and experience acceptable to the Plumbers Examining Board.
Those who have held an out-of-state journeyman plumber license for one year must show proof of schooling and experience.
Those holding an out-of-state master plumber license must obtain a certified letter of licensure from the issuing state, proof of schooling, and proof of 12,000 hours of experience.
Those seeking a reciprocal military license must submit military documents showing proof of honorable discharge, training, and proof of 8,000 hours of experience.
Pay the $120 application fee.
Pass the master plumber examination.
Water Heater Specialist (P1) and Heating System Specialist (P2) Limited License
Be a registered apprentice and submit a completion certificate from the Vermont Department of Labor showing 2,000 hours of experience.
If you are not a registered apprentice, show proof of completing 4,000 hours of on-the-job training (submit affidavits from a P1 or P2 licensed specialist or licensed master plumber) and at least 144 hours of formal instruction.
Pay the $50 application fee per specialty.
Pass an examination.
Water Treatment Specialist (P3) Limited License
Have 4,000 hours of experience (submit affidavits from a P3 licensed specialist or a licensed master plumber) and complete a board-certified water treatment education course.
If you do not meet this requirement, show proof of completion of instruction, training, and experience acceptable to the Plumbers Examining Board.
Pay the $50 application fee.
Pass an examination.
Steps to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Vermont
Be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED, depending on apprenticeship program requirements.
Apply for a State of Vermont Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Program.
Complete your four- or five-year apprenticeship, depending on the program.
Apply for a Journeyman Plumber License with the Vermont Division of Fire Safety.
Pass the journeyman plumber exam.
Work for one year as a licensed journeyman plumber.
Apply for a Master Plumber License with the Vermont Division of Fire Safety.
Pass the master plumber exam.
Renew your plumbing license every two years.
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in Vermont
There are many benefits to obtaining your Vermont plumbing license:
Most importantly, Vermont requires journeyman, master, and specialist plumbers to hold a state license to legally perform any plumbing work.
A trade license is proof of your experience and skill.
Only licensed master plumbers 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 Vermont?
The annual mean wage for a plumber in Vermont is $63,230, 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 Vermont those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $51,000
Intermediate (2-4 years): $66,200
Senior (4-7 years): $71,800
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
Getting the most out of a plumbing technician, no matter where they are in their licensing journey, takes work. ServiceTitan’s cloud-based, all-in-one plumbing software gives technicians and business owners the technology they need to do the work efficiently, and the data they need to do it smartly.
SMS communications that keep customers informed about the technician’s visit.
Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app.
Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency.
The ability to build multi-option proposals with photos, on-site, in minutes.
Sales presentations that make conversations with customers easier and drive up the average ticket.
Mobile payment acceptance, eliminating lost checks and increasing cash flow.
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Vermont?
The cost to get started as a plumbing apprentice in Vermont is fairly low. 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.
Journeyman, master, and specialty licenses require applicants to pass an exam. The exams, administered by Prov Exams, cost $80 each.
A journeyman plumber license costs $90 and a master plumber license costs $120. A specialty license costs $50 per specialty field. Licenses must be renewed every two years at the same cost.
The #1 newsletter for the trades.
How to Get a Plumbing License in Vermont
Becoming a plumbing professional in Vermont isn’t fast, but it is straightforward.
COMPLETE APPRENTICESHIP/WORK EXPERIENCE: Complete a four- to-five year plumbing apprenticeship under the Vermont Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Program. Those who did not complete a registered apprenticeship may be eligible to apply for a journeyman plumber license if they have 12,000 hours of on-the-job training, experience, and instruction acceptable to the Plumbers Examining Board.
APPLY FOR JOURNEYMAN PLUMBER LICENSE: Download, print out, and complete a plumbing license application. The application is the same for all classes of plumbing licenses. You’ll need to submit your apprenticeship certificate of completion or proof of on-the-job training, experience, and instruction. Mail the notarized application and the $90 application fee to: Division of Fire Safety, Central Office, Licensing Division, 45 State Drive, Waterbury, VT 05671-8200.
PASS JOURNEYMAN PLUMBER EXAM: Once the Plumbers Examining Board approves your application, you may take and pass the journeyman plumber exam. The exam is administered by Prov Exams and costs $80. Prov provides a candidate information bulletin with exam information.
APPLY FOR MASTER PLUMBER LICENSE: You’re eligible to apply for a master plumber license once you’ve worked as a Vermont licensed journeyman plumber for at least 12 months. If you don’t meet this requirement, applicants may show proof of 14,000 hours of on-the-job training with instruction, training, and experience approved by the Plumbers Examining Board. Download, print out, and complete a plumbing license application. Mail the notarized application with the $120 application fee to the address listed above.
PASS MASTER PLUMBER EXAM: Once the Plumbers’ Examining Board approves your application, you may take and pass the master plumber exam. The exam is administered by Prov Exams and costs $80. Prov provides a candidate information bulletin with exam information.
The Division of Fire Safety lists all forms on its plumbing licensing page. The Plumbers Examining Board must receive the application and all documentation two weeks before a board meeting. Meeting dates are listed on the Plumbers Examining Board page.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Vermont?
It takes a minimum of four years to obtain your master plumber license in Vermont, depending on the length of your registered apprenticeship, which varies based on program requirements. You must work a minimum of one year as a licensed journeyman plumber before you're eligible to take the master plumber exam.
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. Your salary increases again when you become a licensed master plumber. As a Vermont master plumber, you can own your own plumbing business, be your own boss and grow your business as much as you want.
Vermont 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 Vermont requires plumbing professionals to begin their career journey with an apprenticeship, you may not choose to get a postsecondary degree. Several plumbing pre-apprenticeship programs exist in the state, including the Central Vermont Career Center in Barre and the Stafford Technical Center in Rutland. These programs provide plumbing knowledge and skills for candidates who want to begin an apprenticeship and start their plumbing career.
Apprenticeship
Apprenticeship opportunities include:
Vermont State University (formerly Vermont Technical College)
For more information on registered Vermont apprenticeships or to submit a job-seeker inquiry form, visit the State of Vermont Department of Labor’s Registered Apprenticeship Program page.
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 Vermont.
Vermont Plumbing Contractor Licensing Exam Details
All Vermont plumbing license applicants must pass a plumbing exam after the Plumbers Examining Board approves their application. The exams are administered by Prov Exams and cost $80 each.
The journeyman plumber exam has 82 questions; the master plumber exam has 102 questions. Both exams have a three-hour time limit.
Subject areas for the journeyman and master plumber exams include:
General knowledge and plumbing math
Fixtures and fittings
Water heaters
Water supply and distribution
Sanitary drainage and indirect/special waste
Vents and vent systems
Traps, interceptors and separators
Storm and roof drainage
Plan reading and isometrics
Safety
References
The water heater specialist exam has 30 questions and a two-hour time limit. Subject areas include:
General requirements
Installation
Water supply and distribution
Piping valves and fittings
Safety devices
Safety
The heating system specialist exam has 60 questions and a three-hour time limit. Subject areas include:
General knowledge
Hydronic systems
Piping, pumps, valves
Fuel gas and oil
Low pressure steam boilers
Water
Testing and inspection
Local amendments
The water treatment specialist exam has 40 questions and a two-hour time limit. Subject areas include:
General requirements
Installation
Water supply and distribution
Piping valves and fittings
Water treatments
Safety
References
The exams are open book with approved reference materials. Detailed exam information, including exam prep and approved references, may be found in Prov’s Vermont trade licensing candidate information bulletin.
Who Issues Plumbing Contractors Licenses in Vermont?
The State of Vermont Division of Fire Safety issues licenses for journeyman plumbers, master plumbers, and limited licenses for specialty work relating to water heaters, heating systems, and water treatment.
The central office of the Division of Fire Safety’s licensing division is at 45 State Drive, Waterbury, VT 05671-8200. The office phone number is (802) 479-7564 and email is DPS.DFSLicensing@vermont.gov.
Does My Vermont Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
No. Vermont does not have formal reciprocity agreements for plumbing licenses with other states.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Vermont?
While Vermont does not have formal reciprocity agreements with other states for plumbing licenses, those who hold a journeyman, master, or specialist plumbing license in another state with similar licensing requirements may be exempt from taking the Vermont plumbing examination, according to the state’s plumbing rules. The applicant must still apply for the Vermont license, submit required documentation, and meet licensing requirements.
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 Vermont
State plumbing requirements may be found in Vermont Title 26, Chapter 39 and Vermont Plumbing Rules, Current Vermont Adopted Edition 2021.
Vermont also sets state standards regarding lead content in plumbing supplies. More information may be found on the lead information page of the Office of the Vermont Attorney General.
Are There Plumbing Scholarships in Vermont?
Yes, there are several plumbing or trade school scholarships in Vermont. Scholarship opportunities include:
The Vermont Trades Forgivable Loan Program covers up to full tuition, initial licensing fees, and exam fees for qualified students enrolled in an industry-recognized training and certification program in high-demand trades, which includes plumbing.
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 Vermont?
Potential clients or employees may verify your Vermont plumbing license by visiting the Division of Fire Safety’s plumbing page. The website provides a current list of licensed plumbers in the state.
When Can a Plumbing License Be Suspended in Vermont?
A suspended plumber’s license means the plumber is temporarily prohibited from legally practicing their trade. In Vermont, the Plumbers Examining Board may suspend or revoke a plumbing license for many reasons, including:
Obtaining a license by fraud or deceit.
Gross negligence, incompetency, misrepresentation, or misconduct.
Violating rules of the Department of Health, the Department of Public Safety, or the Plumbers Examining Board.
In addition, those who are found guilty of perjury for furnishing false information on their license application face 15 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For specific information, refer to the Vermont statutes and the state’s plumbing laws.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Vermont?
Working as a plumber in Vermont without a license is illegal. Anyone who installs plumbing, performs specialty installation, or advertises plumbing work without the appropriate license will face a fine of up to $1,000 for each offense, according to Vermont statutes.
Continuing Education
Those with Vermont journeyman, master, and specialist plumbing licenses must complete eight hours of continuing education within the previous 24 months before renewing their licenses. At least two hours of continuing education must include code review.
The Division of Fire Safety provides a list of approved continuing education providers on its plumbing page. After course completion, attendees receive a certificate with the date, sponsor’s name, course title, place, number of hours completed, instructor’s signature, and the attendee’s name and license number.
Plumbing licenses must be renewed online every two years. License renewal costs are as follows:
Journeyman Plumber License: $90
Master Plumber License: $120
Specialist Limited License: $50 per specialty
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.
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive plumbing business software solution built specifically to help service companies streamline their operations, boost revenue, and achieve growth. Our award-winning, cloud-based platform is trusted by more than 100,000 contractors across the country.
Ready to learn more about what ServiceTitan can do for your business? Contact our team to schedule a demo today.
