Plumber / West Virginia
2026 data West Virginia board official source

West 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 West Virginia data shows for Plumbers

West Virginia sets the entry bar for plumbers at 5,135 training hours and a passing score on State Journeyman Plumber Exam, with 4 years of supervised work experience expected. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under West Virginia's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Apprenticeship Program".

Budget $107 to get started, plus $92 at each renewal on a 1-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 8-hour continuing-education requirement per 1-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

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

Licensing Requirements in West Virginia

Education / Training Hours
Apprenticeship Program
5,135 hours
Exam Requirement
State Journeyman Plumber Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$107
Renewal Fee
$92
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 West Virginia licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with West Virginia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Plumber in West Virginia? ▼
West Virginia requires 5135 education/training hours, passing an exam (State Journeyman Plumber Exam), and an initial fee of $107. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Plumber in West Virginia? ▼
To become a licensed plumber in West Virginia, you must meet the state's requirements including 5135 hours of education and 4 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the West Virginia licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Plumber license to West Virginia from another state? ▼
Plumber licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Journeyman licenses rarely reciprocal — check state board. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The West Virginia licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does West Virginia require a background check for Plumber licensing? ▼
West 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 West Virginia? ▼
To stay licensed as a plumber in West Virginia, plan on 8 hours of continuing education per 1-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $92.

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.