Plumbing, METable of Contents
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Maine?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Maine?
Does My Maine Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Maine?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Maine?
You can’t rush through the training it takes to become a plumber, but that time and effort can 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 impacts the health and safety of our society.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 504,500 plumbers nationwide, and Maine employs 2,480 of them. The national number is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, adding 44,000 plumbers to the ranks across the country. In Maine, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is negative at -2% for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters.
Contractors struggle to find skilled tradesmen like plumbers, electricians, and HVACR or mechanical professionals while the demand for them continues to grow. According to the Associated General Contractors of America, “Construction employment in Maine in July 2025, totaled 34,700, a decrease of 500 (-1.4%) from July 2024 and an increase of 4,000 or 13% from February 2020.”
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Licensing requirements for plumbers vary from state to state and, in some cases, from locality to locality. Maine has strict, statewide standards for working as a licensed plumber.
Plumbing License Requirements for Plumbers in Maine
Is a license required for plumbers in Maine? Yes, and it is mandated from the very beginning.
The state licenses every level of this workforce from trainee to master. The Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation, located in Augusta, oversees the Plumbers’ Examining Board and issues the licenses.
Types of Plumbing Licenses in Maine
What are the different types of plumbing licenses in Maine?
There are four plumber licenses issued in Maine:
A Trainee Plumber is any person who is engaged in assisting and making plumbing installations under the direct supervision of a journeyman plumber or master plumber, whether for the purpose of learning the trade or just as a temporary job.
Journeyman-in-Training Plumber
A Journeyman-in-Training is a person who is licensed to assist in making plumbing installations under the direct supervision of a journeyman plumber or a master plumber to learn the trade, but who may not act as a journeyman plumber until fully licensed.
A Journeyman Plumber means any person who customarily performs the work of installing plumbing and drainage under the employment and direction of a master plumber or, not being a master plumber, does plumbing repair work as a regular part-time occupation.
A Master Plumber means any person licensed by the Board to engage in the business of installing plumbing or plumbing systems.
Each license has specific requirements.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
Be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate or GED equivalent.
Must be a citizen of the U.S. or be authorized to work in the U.S.
Complete a background check and pay a $21 background check fee.
File an application and submit the $100 license fees.
Must work under the supervision of a journeyman plumber or master plumber.
Journeyman-in-Training Plumber
Be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate or GED equivalent.
Must be a citizen of the U.S. or be authorized to work in the U.S.
Complete a background check and pay a $21 background check fee.
Must complete a plumbing course consisting of one year or two semesters at a board-approved community college; or complete a two-year plumbing course at an approved career and technical education program as a high school student or in a registered Department of Labor apprenticeship program.
Must receive a passing grade of 70% on the journeyman plumbers examination.
File an application and submit the $200 license fees.
Be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate or GED equivalent.
Must be a citizen of the U.S. or be authorized to work in the U.S.
Complete a background check and pay a $21 background check fee.
Must obtain a minimum of at least two years with 4,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a licensed trainee plumber under the supervision of a licensed master plumber; or a minimum of 2,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a licensed journeyman-in-training under the supervision of a licensed master plumber, as long as the work experience is obtained within four years of the date upon which the applicant was issued a journeyman-in-training license.
Must receive a passing grade of 70% on the journeyman plumbers examination.
File an application and submit the $200 license fees.
Be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate or GED equivalent.
Must be a citizen of the U.S. or be authorized to work in the U.S.
Complete a background check and pay a $21 background check fee.
Must obtain a minimum of at least one year with 2,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a licensed journeyman plumber; or a minimum of at least four years with 8,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a licensed trainee plumber under the supervision of a licensed master plumber.
Must receive a passing grade of 75% on the master plumbing exam.
File an application and submit the $200 license fees.
Steps to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in the State of Maine
You must be at least 18 years of age.
You must be a citizen of the U.S. or be authorized to work in the U.S.
You must complete a background check and pay a $21 background check fee.
Get an entry-level plumbing job and apply for a Trainee Plumber license and pay fees; or complete a plumbing course consisting of one year or two semesters at a board-approved technical college or community college in a registered Department of Labor apprenticeship program or as a high school student in a career and technical education program and obtain a passing grade of 70% (or higher) on the journeyman plumbers examination to qualify for your Journeyman-in-training license and pay fees.
Either work at least two years (4,000 hours) as a licensed Trainee Plumber or one year (2,000 hours) as a licensed Journeyman-in-training plumber to qualify to test for your Journeyman plumber license.
Pay for and pass Journeyman Plumber exam with at least a 70%.
Work indefinitely as a journeyman plumber; or
Meet the requirements to test for a master plumber license. A minimum of at least one year with 2,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a licensed journeyman plumber; or a minimum of at least four years with 8,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a licensed trainee plumber under the supervision of a licensed master plumber.
Pay for and pass the Master Plumber examination with at least a 75%.
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in Maine
There are many benefits you’ll see from getting your Maine plumbing license:
Most importantly, it is required by law in Maine to be licensed through the state to legally perform any plumbing work.
A trade license is proof of your experience and skill.
Only licensed master 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 Maine?
The annual mean wage for a plumber in Maine is $65,740, 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 Maine, those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $52,300
Intermediate (2-4 years): $67,900
Senior (4-7 years): $73,600
Salaries can 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 Maine?
The cost of getting a plumbing license in Maine is relatively low.
How you get started in the field determines your upfront costs. If you simply learn on the job as an entry level employee, you won’t have significant initial costs, but you will also likely receive a lower wage.
All levels require passing a background check, which incurs a $21 fee. Each of the plumbing exams cost $65
Maine plumber licensing fees Include:
Trainee Plumber: $100
Journeyman-in-Training Plumber: $200
Journeyman Plumber: $200
Master Plumber: $200
If you attend a vocational school or technical or community college, you’ll have to pay tuition, but you may qualify for financial aid.
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How to Get a Plumbing License in Maine
Becoming a plumbing professional in Maine isn’t fast, but it’s very straightforward.
APPRENTICESHIP/EXPERIENCEREQUIREMENTS: Get an entry-level plumbing job and apply for a Trainee Plumber license or begin as a plumbing student — either complete a plumbing course consisting of one year or two semesters at a board-approved technical college or community college in a registered Department of Labor apprenticeship program or as a high school student in a career and technical education program.
After meeting these requirements, you can become a Journeyman-in-Training plumber.
To qualify for a journeyman license, you must obtain minimum of at least two years with 4,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a licensed trainee plumber under the supervision of a licensed master plumber; or a minimum of 2,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a licensed journeyman-in-training under the supervision of a licensed master plumber.
To qualify for a master license, you must obtain a minimum of at least one year with 2,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a licensed journeyman plumber; or a minimum of at least four years with 8,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a licensed trainee plumber under the supervision of a licensed master plumber.
TAKE LICENSING EXAM AND PAY EXAM FEE: After getting the documented work experience for your license classification, you can apply to take the journeyman or master exam, via the Plumbers’ Examining Board. The exam fee is $65.
APPLY FOR LICENSE: After successfully passing an examination, you will need to complete the application process. You can apply online via the Maine.gov licensing hub or download a PDF and mail the application to: Plumbers’ Examining Board 35 State House Station Augusta, Maine 04333-0035
The Trainee Plumber application fee is $100. The fee for all other license types is $200.
BACKGROUND CHECK: All license classifications require passing a background check and paying a $21 fee.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Maine?
To qualify for a Journeyman-in-Training license, it will take a minimum of one year at a board-approved community college; or require completing a two-year plumbing course at an approved career and technical education program as a high school student or in a registered Department of Labor apprenticeship program.
To qualify for a Journeyman license, you must obtain a minimum of at least two years with 4,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a licensed trainee plumber under the supervision of a licensed master plumber; or a minimum of 2,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a licensed journeyman-in-training under the supervision of a licensed master plumber.
For a Master license, you must obtain a minimum of at least one year with 2,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a licensed journeyman plumber; or a minimum of at least four years with 8,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a licensed trainee plumber under the supervision of a licensed master plumber.
Maine Plumber Training Programs and Schools
Plumbers are responsible for a lot more than just fixing leaks or clogs. They design, install, and renovate systems that carry liquids or gasses. They must understand how to work with water supply systems and fully understand the Maine Plumbing Code. There are many programs to get the training you need to become a plumbing professional in Maine.
Eastern Maine Community College offers a two-year Plumbing Program that provides the required training to apply for a Journeyman license.
Southern Maine Community College offers a combined Plumbing Certificate that includes two full semesters. This certificate qualifies you for a Journeyman-in-Training license.
Central Maine Community College offers a Plumbing and Heating Technology program that includes a two-year AAS degree that qualifies you for a Journeyman license.
Apprenticeship: There are many other kinds of apprenticeships that will satisfy the licensing requirement in Maine, too. For example, UA Local 716 Maine Plumbers and Pipefitters offers a five-year plumbing apprenticeship that pays a salary while you learn plumbing skills.
Program Prerequisites: For most of these paths, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or a GED (General Educational Development) degree. Some apprenticeships accept high school students who are at least 16 years old.
On-the-Job Experience: While on the job, you will need to have good customer service skills, be detail-oriented, have some mechanical capability, and be physically fit because the job can include some heavy lifting and hours of walking, standing, and working in tight spaces.
For more detailed information about plumbing school options in Maine, check out our Ultimate Guide to Plumbing Schools in Maine.
Maine Plumbing Contractor Licensing Exam Details
The examinations are administered by the Plumbers' Examining Board and each incurs a $65 fee. You will need to include a signed affidavit verifying your experience when you apply for examination. The affidavit is included in the license application packet. All exams require a passing score of at least 70%, except for the Master exam, which requires a score of at least 75%. The Board has testing locations in Auburn, Bangor, Calais, Portland, and Presque Isle.
Who Issues Plumbing Contractors Licenses in Maine?
The Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation in Maine issues all professional licenses including for plumbers, HVAC professionals, and electricians.
Does My Maine Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
No. Because Maine doesn’t have reciprocity agreements with other states, you’ll have to meet licensing requirements to work in other states.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Maine?
While Maine doesn’t have official agreements, the state does consider reciprocity for any person who holds a valid license in another state as long as the licensing standards and experience requirements are at least equivalent to Maine's and as long as that state or territory grants similar privileges to those holding a Maine plumbing license.
The Plumbing Examining Board also expressly states on its website that the Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation wants to make sure that individuals who have military experience and training and who wish to obtain a plumbing license receive appropriate credit for their military training and experience. If this is your situation, they encourage you to contact them for assistance in preparing your application for licensure.
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 Maine
To keep your state-issued plumber’s license current, Maine requires you to renew it every two years. The renewal fee is $100 for Trainee Plumbers and $200 for all other classifications. The expiration date is exactly two years from the date of issuance.
Are There Plumbing Scholarships in Maine?
Yes, there are plumbing scholarships in Maine. Options include:
The Maine Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association offers several scholarship opportunities for plumbing students.
The Maine Apprenticeship Program connects students with organizations that offer apprenticeships, many of which include scholarships.
The Maine Blue Collar Scholarship Foundation offers scholarships for multiple trades, including plumbers.
Northern Maine Community College offers scholarships up to $1,500 for students who pursue a plumbing program.
How Can Someone Verify My Plumbing License in Maine?
License verification in Maine is available at no charge by visiting Plumbers' Examining Board online licensing portal. Users can search by a permit number, license number, address, or name.
When Can a Plumbing License Be Suspended in Maine?
A suspended plumber’s license means that the plumber is temporarily prohibited from practicing their trade legally. Some of the common reasons that a Maine plumbing license can be suspended are:
Fraud
Professional incompetence
Misleading or deceptive practices
Criminal convictions
Aiding unlicensed individuals
Failure to comply with regulations
Practicing on a lapsed license
Willful or repeated violations of regulations governing plumbing professionals
Licensees can also face disciplinary action if they fail to report changes in business or personal information to the board or fail to respond to an investigation or complaint.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Maine plumbing license regulations you can refer to the Plumbers’ Examining Board.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Maine?
Plumbing without a license in Maine is considered a civil violation and carries a fine of not less than $1,000 and not more than $5,000 per violation. Additionally, the Attorney General can seek an injunction to stop the unlicensed practice, recover financial losses for affected parties, and even require restitution. Violating an injunction can result in an additional fine of up to $10,000 per violation, plus reimbursement of investigation and legal costs.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Maine plumbing license regulations you can refer to the Plumbers’ Examining Board.
Continuing Education
Maine does not currently have any continuing education requirements for plumbers licenses.
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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