Plumber / Virginia
2026 data Virginia board official source

Virginia Plumber License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

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

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Installs and repairs pipes and plumbing systems. Requires apprenticeship.

What the Virginia data shows for Plumbers

To practice as a plumber in Virginia, the state licensing board requires 5,622 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 Virginia's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Apprenticeship Program".

Budget $139 to get started, plus $119 at each renewal on a 1-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 8 hours of continuing education per 1-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

For plumbers, the reciprocity picture is: Journeyman licenses rarely reciprocal — check state board.

Licensing Requirements in Virginia

Education / Training Hours
Apprenticeship Program
5,622 hours
Exam Requirement
State Journeyman Plumber Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$139
Renewal Fee
$119
Renewal Cycle
Every 1 year
Continuing Education
8 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
4 years

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Compare all states for Plumber All Virginia licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Virginia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Plumber in Virginia? ▼
Virginia requires 5622 education/training hours, passing an exam (State Journeyman Plumber Exam), and an initial fee of $139. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Plumber in Virginia? ▼
To become a licensed plumber in Virginia, you must meet the state's requirements including 5622 hours of education and 4 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Virginia licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Plumber license to Virginia from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for plumbers: Journeyman licenses rarely reciprocal — check state board. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Virginia licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Virginia require a background check for Plumber licensing? ▼
Virginia does require a background check before issuing a plumber license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Plumber in Virginia? ▼
To stay licensed as a plumber in Virginia, plan on 8 hours of continuing education per 1-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $119.

Related Guides

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

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.