Plumber / Texas
2026 data Texas board official source

Texas Plumber License Requirements

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

Installs and repairs pipes and plumbing systems. Requires apprenticeship.

What the Texas data shows for Plumbers

To practice as a plumber in Texas, the state licensing board requires 6,108 documented education or training hours, a passing score on State Journeyman Plumber Exam, and 4 years of supervised work experience. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Texas's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Apprenticeship Program".

Budget $172 to get started, plus $146 at each renewal on a 1-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 8 hours of continuing education are due every 1-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

On reciprocity, plumbers should know: Journeyman licenses rarely reciprocal — check state board.

Licensing Requirements in Texas

Education / Training Hours
Apprenticeship Program
6,108 hours
Exam Requirement
State Journeyman Plumber Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$172
Renewal Fee
$146
Renewal Cycle
Every 1 year
Continuing Education
8 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
4 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Texas licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Plumber in Texas?
Texas's requirements cover 6108 hours of education or training, the State Journeyman Plumber Exam exam, and an initial fee of $172. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Plumber in Texas?
Texas licenses plumbers who complete its requirements (6108 education hours, 4 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Texas licensing board.
Can I transfer my Plumber license to Texas from another state?
Reciprocity for plumbers nationally works like this: Journeyman licenses rarely reciprocal — check state board. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Texas. Verify the specifics with the Texas licensing board.
Does Texas require a background check for Plumber licensing?
Background screening is part of the plumber licensing process in Texas. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Plumber in Texas?
To stay licensed as a plumber in Texas, plan on 8 hours of continuing education per 1-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $146.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites