Licensing Guides
Indiana Plumbing License: How to Become a Plumber in Indiana
Plumbing, IN
Joanne Bratton
Table of Contents
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in Indiana
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Indiana?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Indiana?
Does My Indiana Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Indiana?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Indiana?
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 455,940 plumbers nationwide, and Indiana employs 11,620 of them. The national number is projected to grow 6% from 2024 to 2034, adding more than 43,300 to the ranks across the country. In Indiana, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is at 4% 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 Indiana in July 2025 totaled 167,900, a decrease of 1,300 (-0.8%) from July 2024 and an increase of 17,800 or 12% 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. Indiana has statewide standards for working in the plumbing business, beginning at the apprentice level.
Plumbing License Requirements for Plumbers in Indiana
Is a license required for plumbers in Indiana? Yes. It is mandated from the very beginning. In the state of Indiana, to legally perform plumbing work of any kind, you must be licensed. The state licenses every level of this workforce.
The Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA) oversees the Indiana Plumbing Commission, which issues licenses for plumbing apprentices, journeyman plumbers, and plumbing contractors.
In addition, plumbing contractors must follow local requirements. For instance, in Indianapolis, plumbing contractors must register their state license with the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services.
Types of Plumbing Licenses in Indiana
What are the types of plumber licenses in Indiana? There are three types of state-issued plumbing licenses or registrations.
Apprentice Plumber Registration — An apprentice plumber is someone learning the plumbing trade and working under the direction and supervision of a licensed plumbing contractor or a licensed journeyman plumber.
Journeyman Plumber — This is a person who constructs, installs, alters, maintains, repairs, remodels, removes, and replaces plumbing under the supervision, direction, and responsibility of a licensed plumbing contractor.
Plumbing Contractor — A plumbing contractor is a person who constructs, repairs, alters, remodels, adds to, subtracts from, or improves plumbing. They are responsible for all the plumbing within the entire project or fabricates units or plumbing for installation.
Each license or registration has specific requirements.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
Apprentice Plumber Registration
Be at least 17 years old.
Submit your Social Security Number.
Register for a four-year apprenticeship program approved by the Indiana Plumbing Commission.
Complete the application online.
Pay the $10 annual application fee.
Be at least 18 years old.
Submit your Social Security Number.
Complete a four-year approved apprenticeship, with a minimum of 576 hours of classroom instruction and 6,400 hours of on-the-job training. Successful completion of the apprenticeship includes passing an exam. If you have an out-of-state license, show proof of four years of plumbing trade experience.
Complete the examination application online and pay the $30 application fee.
Once the commission approves your application, take and pass the examination. Exam fee is $75.
Pay the $15 initial application/license fee in an even year, or $30 in an odd year. Licenses are for a two-year term.
Be at least 18 years old.
Submit your Social Security Number.
Complete the examination application online and pay the $50 application fee.
Show proof of completing a four-year approved apprenticeship. Or, if you have an out-of-state license, show proof of four years experience in the plumbing trade. Nonlicensed contractor applicants may show four years of plumbing business experience.
Once the commission approves your application, take and pass the examination. Exam fee is $100.
Pay the $50 initial application/license fee in an even year, or $100 in an odd year. Licenses are for a two-year term.
Steps to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Indiana
Be at least 17 years old.
Register for an approved plumbing apprenticeship.
Complete an apprentice plumber application online.
Annually renew your plumbing apprentice registration until you complete your apprenticeship.
To obtain a Journeyman Plumber License, complete your four-year apprenticeship. Or, if you hold an out-of-state license, show proof of four years of plumbing trade experience.
Apply for the journeyman plumber exam.
Once the commission approves your application, take and pass the journeyman plumber exam.
Receive Journeyman Plumber License.
To obtain a Plumbing Contractor License, complete the examination application online.
Show proof of completing a four-year apprenticeship. If you hold an out-of-state license, show proof of four years experience in the plumbing trade. Nonlicensed contractor applicants may show four years of plumbing business experience.
Once the commission approves your application, take and pass the plumbing contractor exam.
Receive Plumbing Contractor License.
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in Indiana
There are many benefits to obtaining your Indiana plumbing license:
Most importantly, Indiana requires plumbers to hold a state license to legally perform any plumbing work.
A trade license is proof of your experience and skill.
Only licensed plumbing contractors can operate a business and advertise services, obtain commercial insurance, pull building permits and pass inspections, 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 Indiana?
The annual mean wage for a plumber in Indiana is $69,500, 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 Indiana those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $51,700
Intermediate (2-4 years): $67,200
Senior (4-7 years): $72,800
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
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How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Indiana?
The cost to get started as an apprentice in Indiana is fairly low. As an apprentice, you’ll pay an annual $10 fee.
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 costs. A journeyman plumber exam application fee is $30; the exam costs $75. An initial journeyman license costs $15 in an even year or $30 in an odd year. Renewal fee for the two-year license is $30.
A plumbing contractor exam application fee is $50; the exam costs $100. An initial contractor license costs $50 in an even year or $100 in an odd year. Renewal fee for the two-year license is $100.
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How to Get a Plumbing License in Indiana
Becoming a plumbing professional in Indiana isn’t fast, but it is straightforward.
APPRENTICESHIP/WORK EXPERIENCE: You will need to be at least 17 years old to register as a plumbing apprentice with the Indiana Plumbing Commission. Many apprenticeship programs require you to be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED certificate. Register for an approved apprenticeship program to gain the required hands-on experience. Complete a plumbing apprentice application. This includes submitting a sponsor certification form with the school sponsor’s signature, license number, and supervising journeyman plumber or plumbing contractor name and license number. Renew your apprentice registration each year and pay the $10 fee until you complete your apprenticeship.
TAKE LICENSING EXAM: Once you’ve completed your four-year apprenticeship (this includes passing an exam), you may apply online for the Journeyman Plumber exam. Application fee is $30. Once the commission approves your exam application, pay the $75 exam fee to Prov, which administers the exam.
APPLY FOR LICENSE: After passing the exam, pay the $15 license fee in an even year, or $30 in an odd year.
CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS: If you hold a Journeyman Plumber’s License and want to advance your plumbing career and become a contractor, you’ll follow additional steps. First you’ll create and register your Indiana business with the state.
Apply online for a plumbing contractor exam and pay the $50 application fee. Once the commission approves your exam application, pay the $100 exam fee to Prov, which administers the exam. After passing the exam, pay the $50 license fee in an even year, or $100 in an odd year. Corporate plumbing businesses submit additional information to the commission.
The Indiana Plumbing Commission provides a FAQ page for answers to frequently asked questions about plumbing licensing.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Indiana?
It will take a minimum of four years to complete a plumbing apprenticeship in Indiana. The state requires an apprenticeship to include 576 hours of classroom instruction and 6,400 hours of on-the-job training. Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you can apply for the journeyman plumber exam.
The application review process timeframe varies depending on the board’s meeting schedule, according to the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency.
The great news is that as an apprentice you earn a wage from the very beginning, and compensation can increase each year as you acquire more training and knowledge, until you are a licensed plumber. Your salary increases again when you become a plumbing contractor. As a contractor you can be your own boss and grow your business as much as you want.
Indiana 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 Indiana requires plumbing professionals to begin their career journey as an apprentice, you may not choose to get a postsecondary degree. The Indiana Plumbing Commission maintains a list of approved apprentice programs.
Apprenticeship
State-approved apprentice programs include:
Fort Wayne Area Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC)
Indiana PHCC — Northwest Indiana Region; South Central Chapter
Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 157 JAC — Terre Haute Training Center
South Bend and Vicinity Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 172 JATC
UA Local 136 Plumbers and Steamfitters — Evansville Training Center
Program Prerequisites: For apprenticeship plumbing programs, you need to be at least 17 years old, although many apprenticeship programs require you to be 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 Indiana.
Indiana Plumbing Contractor Licensing Exam Details
Licensed journeyman plumbers and plumbing contractors must pass an exam before receiving their license.
Indiana journeyman plumbers who have completed their apprenticeship apply online for the Journeyman Plumber exam. Application fee is $30. Once the plumbing commission approves their application, they will pay the $75 exam fee to Prov, which administers the exam.
Plumbing contractors also apply online and pay a $50 application fee. Once the plumbing commission approves the application, they will pay a $100 exam fee to Prov.
A candidate information bulletin provides detailed exam information, including how to schedule an exam and specific reference materials. The exam is open book with authorized reference materials. Prov has 22 testing sites throughout the state.
Exam subject areas include:
Stormwater systems
Indiana business
General requirements
Fixtures
Water heaters
Water supply and distribution
Sanitary drainage
Vents
Developed length/isometric analysis
Those who do not pass may pay the exam fee and retake the exam. Prov also offers an Indiana plumbing contractor practice exam.
Who Issues Plumbing Contractors Licenses in Indiana?
The Indiana Plumbing Commission issues licensing for apprentice plumbers, journeyman plumbers, and plumbing contractors. The commission is located in the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency at:
Indiana Government Center South, Room W072 402 West Washington St. Indianapolis, IN 46204
The agency’s customer contact center may be reached at (317) 232-2960. The agency’s online services allow applicants to apply, renew, and track license application status.
Does My Indiana Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
No. Indiana does not have reciprocity agreements for plumbing licenses with other states.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Indiana?
While Indiana does not have reciprocity agreements for plumbing licenses, the plumbing commission accepts out-of-state plumbing trade experience for those with current out-of-state plumbing licenses.
Out-of-state plumbers still must complete a license application online and submit a notarized experience in plumbing trade form certifying they have four years of experience in the plumbing trade. Those with out-of-state licenses will still need to take and pass the exam before receiving an Indiana plumbing license.
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 Indiana
State plumbing requirements may be found in Indiana Code Title 25, Article 28.5 and Indiana Administrative Code Title 860.
The state also requires plumbing contractors to display their license in the business office. The license number must be in all written or printed advertising and on all vehicles used to provide plumbing services. The contractor must maintain a register listing the name and license number of all contractors, journeyman plumbers, and apprentice plumbers. Plumbers must carry a license or registration pocket card while performing plumbing work.
Are There Plumbing Scholarships in Indiana?
Yes, there are several plumbing or trade school scholarships in Indiana. The Next Level Jobs Workforce Ready Grant covers tuition and fees of qualifying certificate programs, including plumbing.
Other plumbing scholarships 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 Indiana?
Potential clients or employees may verify your Indiana plumbing license by using the state’s license verification webpage.
Search professional licenses by:
Profession
License type
License number
License status
Doing Business As
First or last name
City, state, county, or zip code
When Can a Plumbing License Be Suspended in Indiana?
A suspended plumber’s license means the plumber is temporarily prohibited from legally practicing their trade. In Indiana, a plumbing license can be suspended for many reasons, including licensing violations or deceptive acts. State licensing agencies also may suspend, withhold, or restrict professional licenses for those who owe overdue child support.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For specific information about state plumbing license regulations, refer to Indiana Plumbing Licensing law.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Indiana?
Performing plumbing work in Indiana without a license is illegal. Those who work or advertise as a journeyman plumber or plumbing contractor without licensure from the Indiana Plumbing Commission, or continue to act as a licensed plumber if their license has been suspended, revoked, or restricted, faces a Class A misdemeanor, according to state law.
A journeyman plumber or plumbing contractor who continues to work after their license has expired faces a Class B misdemeanor.
Continuing Education
Indiana does not require continuing education for plumbing license renewal. Apprentice plumbers renew their registration annually. Registration fee is $10.
Journeyman plumbers and plumbing contractors renew licenses every two years. Renewal notices are emailed or mailed 90 days before the expiration date. License holders renew online. Renewal fees are $30 for a Journeyman Plumber License and $100 for a Plumbing Contractor License.
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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