Licensing Guides
Kansas Plumbing License: How to Become a Plumber in Kansas
Plumbing, KS
Joanne Bratton
Table of Contents
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in Kansas
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Kansas?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Kansas?
Does My Kansas Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Kansas?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Kansas?
You can’t rush through the training it takes to become a plumber, but time and effort lead 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 Kansas employs 4,090 of them. The national number is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, adding more than 43,300 to the ranks across the country. In Kansas, 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 Kansas in July 2025 totaled 71,700, an increase of 100 (0.1%) from July 2024 and an increase of 7,100 or 11% 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, like Kansas, from locality to locality.
Plumbing License Requirements for Plumbers in Kansas
Is a license required for plumbers in Kansas? Yes, depending on local regulations. There is no state license for plumbers in Kansas. Instead, each county or city sets its own requirements for plumbing licensing. It’s important to check with each jurisdiction where you plan to work to make sure you meet local licensing requirements.
The Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department (MABCD) issues trade certificates for journeymen plumbers, master plumbers, and plumbing contractors in Sedgwick County and the City of Wichita.
In Johnson County, the Contractor Licensing Division within the Department of Planning, Housing and Community Development issues plumbing contractor licenses. This county covers the City of Overland Park.
Types of Plumbing Licenses in Kansas
What are the types of plumber licenses in Kansas? It depends on the regulations of each county or municipality, since Kansas does not offer licenses at the state level. We’ll cover the types of plumbing licenses in the two most populous counties and cities in Kansas — Sedgwick County, which includes the City of Wichita, and Johnson County, which includes the City of Overland Park.
Sedgwick County/City of Wichita
Journeyman Plumber — A journeyman plumber is an individual approved by the MABCD and qualified to perform gas piping, venting, or plumbing work for a licensed contractor.
Master Plumber — A master plumber is an individual approved by the MABCD and qualified to engage in the business of plumbing and gas piping, and install plumbing, gas fixtures, and appliances.
Plumbing Contractor — A person, firm, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, or association who holds a plumbing, gas fitter, lawn irrigation, drain laying, or certified water conditioning license from the MABCD. A plumbing contractor undertakes for hire the planning, laying out, supervising, installing, or performing additions, alterations, and repairs to the installation of these systems.
Note: Sedgwick county does not certify apprentice plumbers.
Johnson County/City of Overland Park
Class DP Plumbing Contractor License — A person or firm that undertakes for another to maintain, repair, alter, or add to any plumbing system or plumbing system component. The contractor is responsible for the training and oversight of all employed tradesmen.
Within each jurisdiction, there are specific requirements.
SEDGWICK COUNTY/WICHITA LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
Journeyman Plumbing Trade Certificate
Complete one year of field experience and one year of plumbing trade school.
Pass the journeyman plumber exam.
Or, show two years of field experience and score a 75% or higher on one of the following International Code Council (ICC) exams: K9R Plumbing with Gas, 560 Journeyman Plumber with Gas, or the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) exam.
Pay the $35 certificate fee.
Master Plumbing Trade Certificate
Complete two years of field experience as a journeyman plumber.
Pass the master plumber exam.
Or, complete four years of field experience and score 75% or higher on one of the following ICC exams: K9F Master Plumber with Gas, 557 Master Plumber with Gas, or IAPMO exam.
Pay the $35 certificate fee.
Identify a master or Qualified Individual (QI) responsible for the work. Include their trade certificate and business license numbers.
Obtain a minimum of $300,000 in general liability insurance, showing MABCD as the certificate holder.
Meet state workers’ compensation insurance requirements.
Show proof of auto insurance coverage or a notarized auto insurance waiver form.
Businesses other than sole proprietorships must show a Certificate of Good Standing from the Kansas Secretary of the State.
Pay the $360 license fee.
JOHNSON COUNTY/OVERLAND PARK LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
Class DP Plumbing Contractor License
Be at least 18 years old.
Identify at least one Qualified Individual. This person must score a 75% or higher on a Master Plumbing with Gas (KGF) ICC exam. The Contractor Licensing Division also recognizes standard exams from Prometric, past subsidiaries of Educational Testing Service (ETS), or the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO). Or, the QI may hold a Bachelor of Science degree (or greater) in architecture, relevant engineering, construction science, or construction management from an Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET) or American Council for Construction Education (ACCE) accredited program.
If the business is an LLC or corporation, show a Certificate of Good Standing from the Kansas Secretary of State.
Obtain $1 million general liability insurance per occurrence for bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage, and a minimum $1 million completed operations provisions.
Meet state workers’ compensation insurance requirements.
Pay $100 application fee and $225 license fee.
Steps to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Kansas
Follow these steps to obtain a Sedgwick County/Wichita plumbing license. Each county or city has its own process to obtain a plumbing license.
Most apprenticeship programs require you to be 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
Register for an apprenticeship.
Complete one year of field experience and one year of plumbing trade school. Or, show two years of field experience.
Pass journeyman plumber exam.
Apply for the Journeyman Plumber Trade Certificate.
To obtain a master plumber certificate, complete two years of experience as a journeyman plumber. Or, complete four years of field experience.
Pass master plumber exam.
Apply for the Master Plumbing Trade Certificate.
To become a plumbing contractor, identify a master or Qualified Individual who meets requirements.
Obtain $300,000 liability insurance.
If you have employees, obtain workers’ compensation insurance.
Apply for a Plumbing Contractor License.
Receive contractor license.
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in Kansas
There are many benefits to obtaining a plumbing license from local jurisdictions in the state of Kansas.
Most cities and counties in Kansas require plumbers to hold a 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 Kansas?
The annual mean wage for a plumber in Kansas is $68,710, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, that salary increases, as you might expect, 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 Kansas those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $51,700
Intermediate (2-4 years): $67,100
Senior (4-7 years): $72,700
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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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.
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How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Kansas?
The cost to get started as a plumber in Kansas is fairly low. Licensing requirements vary based on the jurisdiction and license type. In Sedgwick County and the City of Wichita, you’ll need to work as an apprentice for one year and attend one year of trade school, or obtain two years of work experience.
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.
To become a journeyman plumber in Sedgwick County, you’ll need to pass an exam. Exam fees vary by exam provider, but generally cost $115 to $125. To become a master plumber, you’ll need to pay for and pass the master plumber exam. Certificate fees for journeyman and master certificates cost $35. Certificates must be renewed every two years. Renewal fee is $35. A Plumbing Contractor License costs $360. Renewal fee is $360 every odd year.
Johnson County, which covers the City of Overland Park, only requires plumbing contractors to obtain licensing. This license requires a Qualified Individual to pass a master plumber exam. The application fee is $100 and the license fee is $225. Annual license renewal fee is $225.
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How to Get a Plumbing License in Kansas
Becoming a plumbing professional in Kansas isn’t fast, but it is straightforward. Each county or city has its own process to obtain a plumbing license, so you’ll need to check with the jurisdictions where you plan to work to meet local licensing requirements.
Sedgwick County/Wichita
APPRENTICESHIP/WORK EXPERIENCE: Register in a plumbing apprentice program. Most programs require you to be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED certificate. Sedgwick County and Wichita do not certify plumbing apprentices. Once you’ve completed one year of field experience and one year of trade school, or two years of field experience, you’re eligible to take the journeyman plumber exam.
TAKE JOURNEYMAN PLUMBER EXAM: Take and pass an approved journeyman plumber exam. The MABCD provides exam information on its trade certification page.
APPLY FOR CERTIFICATE: Submit an application and supporting documents to the MABCD for your Journeyman Plumber Trade Certificate. Pay the $35 fee.
TAKE MASTER PLUMBER EXAM: Once you’ve completed two years of experience as a journeyman plumber, or four years of field experience, take and pass the master plumber exam. The MABCD provides exam information on its trade certification page.
APPLY FOR CERTIFICATE: Submit an application and supporting documents to the MABCD for your Master Plumbing Trade Certificate. Pay the $35 fee.
CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS: If you want to advance your plumbing career and become a contractor, you’ll follow additional steps. Depending on your business structure, register your business with the Kansas Secretary of State. Identify a master or Qualified Individual responsible for the plumbing work. You’ll also need to obtain $300,000 liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees. Apply for your Plumbing Contractor License and pay the $360 fee.
Johnson County/Overland Park
MEET QUALIFYING CRITERIA: To obtain a Plumbing Contractor License, you must identify at least one Qualified Individual in your business. A Qualified Individual must score a 75% or higher on the Master Plumbing with Gas (KGF) ICC exam. The Contractor Licensing Division also recognizes standard exams from Prometric, past subsidiaries of Educational Testing Service (ETS), or the IAPMO.
Or, Qualifying Individuals may hold a Bachelor of Science degree (or greater) in architecture, relevant engineering, construction science, or construction management from an Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET) or American Council for Construction Education (ACCE) accredited program.
MEET CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS: If the business is an LLC or a corporation, show a Certificate of Good Standing from the Secretary of State. Contractors must obtain $1 million general liability insurance per occurrence for bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage, and a minimum $1 million completed operations provisions. Contractors must also meet state workers’ compensation insurance requirements.
APPLY FOR LICENSE: Submit a Contractor License application. The Contractor Licensing Division provides application instructions. Pay the $100 application fee and the $225 license fee.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Kansas?
The time it takes to get a plumbing license in Kansas depends on the local regulations.
In Sedgwick County and the City of Wichita, you will need at least one year of field experience and one year of plumbing trade school, or two years of field experience, in order to take the journeyman plumber’s exam. To obtain your Master Plumbing Trade Certificate, you will need at least two years of experience as a journeyman plumber, or four years of field experience.
To obtain a Plumbing Contractor License in Johnson County, which covers Overland Park, you’ll need to pass a master plumber exam, or employ an individual who has passed this exam.
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 master plumber. As a contractor you can be your own boss and grow your business as much as you want.
Kansas 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 most plumbing professionals begin their career journey as an apprentice, you may not choose to get a postsecondary degree. Some local jurisdictions, such as Johnson County, accept a Bachelor of Science degree in relevant subjects from a program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET) or the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE).
Apprenticeship
Some apprenticeship opportunities include:
Those listed on job search sites such as Glassdoor, Indeed, SimplyHired, and ZipRecruiter
Community College/Trade School
Many community colleges and universities offer plumbing training programs. Some of these programs include:
Butler Community College in El Dorado
Fort Hays Tech | North Central in Beloit and Hays
Johnson County Community College in Overland Park
Washburn Tech University in Topeka
Apprenticeship Program Prerequisites: Most 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 Kansas.
Kansas Plumbing Contractor Licensing Exam Details
Local jurisdictions in Kansas set their own plumbing license exam requirements. Many counties and cities require plumbers, or plumbing contractors, to pass an examination.
In Sedgwick County and the City of Wichita, journeyman and master plumbers must pass an exam before applying for a trade certificate.
The MABCD accepts ICC exams and IAPMO exams. For journeyman exams, this includes the ICC Plumbing with Gas (K9R), the ICC Journeyman Plumber with Gas (560), or the IAPMO exam. For master exams, this includes the ICC Master Plumber with Gas (K9F), the ICC Master Plumber with Gas (557), or the IAPMO exam.
In Johnson County, contractors must identify a Qualified Individual who has passed the ICC exam Master Plumbing with Gas (KGF). The county also recognizes standard exams from Prometric, past subsidiaries of Educational Testing Service (ETS), or the IAPMO.
The ICC provides an exam catalog with complete exam listings. It also provides a Kansas-specific contractor/trades examination information bulletin with detailed exam information, including how to schedule the exam and test content areas. Both journeyman and master exams are based on the 2018 International Plumbing Code. Plumbing exams cost $115.
IAPMO provides Kansas licensing exam details on its webpage, where test takers may register for the exam. Exams cost $125.
Who Issues Plumbing Contractors Licenses in Kansas?
Local jurisdictions in Kansas issue plumbing licenses. In Sedgwick County and the City of Wichita, the Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department issues trade certificates for journeymen plumbers, master plumbers, and plumbing contractors.
The MABCD may be reached by phone at (316) 660-1840. It is located at 271 W. 3rd St. N., Wichita, KS 67202.
In Johnson County, which covers Overland Park, the Contractor Licensing Division within the Department of Planning, Housing and Community Development issues plumbing contractor licenses.
The Contractor Licensing Division may be reached by email at contractor.licensing@jocogov.org, or by phone at (913) 715-2233. It is located at 111 S. Cherry St., Suite 1000; Olathe, Kansas 66061.
Does My Kansas Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
No. Kansas issues licenses at the local level, so it does not have reciprocity agreements for plumbing licenses with other states.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Kansas?
Although Kansas does not have reciprocity agreements, many county licenses work in other jurisdictions. In Sedgwick County, a plumbing contractor license from the MABCD is valid in several jurisdictions. Johnson County regulations also cover several jurisdictions.
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 Kansas
In Kansas, each county or city has its own plumbing requirements. The City of Wichita/Sedgwick County Unified Building and Trade Code lists its local regulations. This includes a requirement that contractors must display permanent vehicle permit numbers assigned by the MABCD on both sides of their vehicles used for business. Contractors must also include the full name and license number of the licensed person, firm, or legal entity in all advertisements.
Johnson County contractor licensing regulations may be found in its local resolution.
Are There Plumbing Scholarships in Kansas?
Yes, there are several plumbing or trade school scholarships in Kansas. The Kansas Promise Act Scholarship assists students in specific types of two-year degree and certificate programs, which includes several plumbing and plumbing technology programs.
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 Kansas?
Individual counties and cities in Kansas issue plumbing licenses, so license verification depends on local systems. In the City of Wichita and Sedgwick County, potential clients or employees may verify your license on its license lookup page. Search by license number or applicant number.
Johnson County provides a contractor license search page. Search by company name, company license number, individual name, address, or type of license.
When Can a Plumbing License Be Suspended in Kansas?
A suspended plumber’s license means the plumber is temporarily prohibited from legally practicing their trade. The reasons for plumbing license suspension or revocation depend on local regulations.
In Sedgwick County and the City of Wichita, the MABCD may revoke a certificate or license for several reasons, including:
Abandonment of any contract without legal cause.
Diversion of funds or property received for performance or completion of a specific contract.
Misrepresentation of fact in obtaining a license.
Carelessness or negligence in providing safety measures for the protection of workmen and the public.
Failure to obtain required permits.
Violations of code.
In Johnson County, the Johnson County Licensing Review Board may suspend or revoke a contractor license for many reasons, including:
Misrepresentation of fact in obtaining a license.
Failure to obtain a required permit or inspection.
Failure to hire a licensed electrical, HVAC, or plumbing contractor to supervise work on a job site.
Fraudulent or deceitful use of a contractor’s license to obtain a building permit.
Violations of code or law.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For specific information about state plumbing license regulations, refer to laws of the local jurisdiction.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Kansas?
The penalties for unlicensed work depend on the regulations of the local jurisdiction. In Sedgwick County, those who violate the City of Wichita/Sedgwick County Unified Building and Trade Code can be charged with an unclassified misdemeanor, according to the code. They are also subject to the following fines:
First conviction: A fine of $100 to $500.
Second conviction within a 12-month period: A fine of $200 to $1,000.
Third conviction within a 12-month period: A fine of $500 to $2,000.
Continuing Education
Renewal requirements for a plumbing certificate or license are based on the regulations of the local jurisdiction.
In Sedgwick County and the City of Wichita, journeyman and master plumbers are required to complete a total of 12 continuing education units (CEUs) for each two-year license cycle. This breaks down to three trade-specific and three general CEUs each year, to total six trade-specific and six general CEUs for each license cycle. A list of continuing education courses may be found on the MABCD continuing education page.
Journeyman and master plumbers submit a renewal application and pay the $35 certificate renewal fee. Plumbing Trade Contractor Licenses are renewed every odd year. Complete the contractor application form, submit required documentation, and pay the $360 license fee.
In Johnson County, contractor licenses expire Dec. 31 and must be renewed annually. The Qualified Individual must complete a minimum of eight hours of continuing education per license classification. Visit the contractor education page for a list of approved classes. The county accepts renewals beginning Oct. 1. Renew online or submit a Contractor License renewal form by mail or in person, and pay the $225 fee. Renewals received after Jan. 31 will be subject to a $75 late fee.
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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