Licensing Guides
Michigan Plumbing License: How to Become a Plumber in Michigan
Plumbing, MI
Table of Contents
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in Michigan
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Michigan?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Michigan?
Does My Michigan Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Michigan?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Michigan?
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 affects the health and safety of our society.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 504,500 plumbers nationwide, and Michigan employs 12,830 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 Michigan, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is 1% 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 Michigan in July 2025 totaled 206,500, an increase of 10,100 (5.1%) from July 2024 and an increase of 28,700 or 16% from February 2020.” So, if you get the training you need, you should have a variety of jobs to choose from when you’re ready.
» Want to grow your plumbing business? Click here to get a demo.
Licensing requirements for plumbers vary from state to state and, in some cases, from locality to locality. Michigan has strict, statewide standards for working in the plumbing business beginning at the apprentice level.
Plumbing License Requirements for Plumbers in Michigan
Is a license required for plumbers in Michigan? Yes.
To perform any plumbing work legally in Michigan, you must be licensed through the state. You will begin by registering as an apprentice. After three years (6,000 hours) of documented work under a licensed authorized master plumber, you can apply to get your journey plumber license. After holding your journey license for two years (4,000 hours) of documented work, you can apply to get your master plumber license. Each license is a building block that leads to the next. If you want a plumbing contractor license, you will need to hold a master plumber license yourself or employ someone who is licensed as a master plumber.
The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) oversees all of the professional licensing in the state. The Bureau of Construction Codes is responsible for all the skilled trades, including electricians, mechanical contractors, and plumbers who are licensed through the Plumbing Division.
In 2017, the Skilled Trades Regulation Act became law in Michigan and consolidated regulations for five skilled trade industries, including plumbing, to create one uniform code that streamlined the application, testing, and renewal processes. Some of Michigan’s cities still retain the authority to require state-licensed tradesmen to register with their own governing agencies, so you always want to check with the jurisdiction where you intend to work to make sure you’re following any local requirements.
Types of Plumbing Licenses in Michigan
What are the types of plumber licenses in Michigan?
First, you are required to register as an apprentice within 30 days of employment as a plumbing apprentice and pay a $15 registration fee.
The state of Michigan issues three types of plumbing licenses, and there are different requirements for each:
Journey Plumber: Can work independently on plumbing systems.
Master Plumber: Can run their own plumbing business, supervise other plumbers, and handle more complex projects.
Plumbing Contractor: Is responsible for the overall management and execution of plumbing projects, including bidding, contracting, and ensuring code compliance.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
Journey Plumber License
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must have 3 years of experience (6,000 hours) as a registered plumbing apprentice in the practical installation of plumbing under the supervision of a licensed authorized master or journey plumber.
Submit license application.
Must pay the $100 examination fee and pass the examination.
Must pay the $40 license fee.
Master Plumber License
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must have two years of experience (4,000 hours) as a journey plumber immediately preceding the date of application.
Submit license application.
Must pay the $100 examination fee and pass the examination.
Must pay the $300 license fee.
Plumbing Contractor License
Must either hold a master plumber license or employ a master plumber as his or her representative.
Must be an owner of a sole proprietorship or partnership, or an officer of a corporation or limited liability company.
Must provide complete business or employment information for the previous five years.
Submit a complete application.
Must pay the $100 examination fee and pass the examination.
Must pay the $300 license fee.
Steps to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Michigan
You must be at least 18 years old.
Either attend a technical school or college to earn a plumbing degree before becoming a registered plumbing apprentice, or begin as an apprentice. Apprenticeships are available through union and trade organizations, as well as local plumbing businesses.
To establish a record of apprenticeship, every apprentice plumber must be registered within 30 days of beginning work.
After accumulating three years (6,000 hours) of experience as a registered apprentice, you may apply to become a licensed journeyman, which incurs a $40 application fee.
Once approved you will be notified that you may register for the state-mandated written and practical exams and pay the $100 fee directly to the third-party testing agency. There is also a practical portion of the plumbing exam, which you must schedule through LARA.
If you pass the exam, you will be issued your journey plumber license.
After accumulating two years of experience as a journey plumber, you may apply for a master plumber license. You must submit proof of 4,000 hours over at least two years immediately preceding the date of the applications and pay the $300 licensing fee.
Once approved, you will be notified that you may register for the state-mandated exam and pay the $100 fee directly to the third-party testing agency.
If you pass the exam, you will be issued your master plumber license.
If you want to be a plumbing contractor, you must either hold a master plumber license or employ a master plumber as your representative. You also must be an owner of a sole proprietorship or partnership, or an officer of a corporation or limited liability company, provide complete business or employment information for the previous five years, and submit documentation of all of this, along with the application and the $300 license fee.
Once approved, you will be notified that you may register for the state-mandated exam and pay the $100 fee directly to the third-party testing agency.
If you pass the exam and provide all documentation, you will be issued your plumbing contractor license.
Benefits of Getting a Plumbers License in Michigan
There are many benefits to getting your Michigan plumbing license:
Most importantly, it is required by law in Michigan to be licensed through the state 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 Michigan?
The annual mean wage for a plumber in Michigan is $72,830, 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 Michigan those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $53,000
Intermediate (2-4 years): $68,800
Senior (4-7 years): $74,500
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
Getting the most out of a plumbing technician, no matter where they are in their licensing journey, takes work. ServiceTitan’s cloud-based, all-in-one plumbing software gives technicians and business owners the technology they need to do the work efficiently, and the data they need to do it smartly.
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.
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Michigan?
The cost to get started as an apprentice in Michigan is fairly low. The fee for the apprentice registration is just $15. There’s no other cost associated with becoming an apprentice, and you’ll have the opportunity to earn while you learn. There are application and exam fees for licensing.
Journeyman Plumber: Application fee: $40 | Examination Fee: $100
Master Plumber: Application fee: $300 | Examination Fee: $100
Plumbing Contractor: Application fee: $300 | Examination Fee: $100
Advanced education is not required in the state, though you may choose to attend a trade school before pursuing an apprenticeship. Community College Review shows tuition at Michigan community colleges on average is $5,506 per year for in-state students and $7,381 for out-of-state students.
The #1 newsletter for the trades.
How to Get a Plumbing License in Michigan
The state provides a detailed explanation on the LARA website of how to get licensed. The licensing process includes:
APPRENTICESHIP: Michigan requires anyone doing any kind of plumbing work to register as an apprentice within 30 days of employment and pay a $15 registration fee. You may then begin accruing the three years of experience needed as a plumbing apprentice under a licensed authorized master or journeyman plumber to apply to test for a journey plumber license.
Many employers will sponsor employees in an apprenticeship program that typically lasts four to five years. Or you can look for formal apprenticeships through union and non-union organizations. Michigan’s Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity maintains a website of Registered Apprenticeships that meet national standards for registration with the U.S. Department of Labor. Apprenticeships through the Department of Labor are recognized nationwide, so your credentials will move with you.
APPLY FOR YOUR LICENSE: After you’ve met the work experience requirements, you can apply to take the state licensing exam at your desired level. The same application is used for all three licenses — Journey, Master, or Contractor. You can apply and pay online or print out the form and mail it and your check or money order made payable to the State of Michigan – BCC to:
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Bureau of Construction Codes/ Licensing Division P.O. Box 30255 Lansing, MI 48909
TAKE EXAM: All three written exams are administered by PSI. Each costs $100. If your eligibility is confirmed and your application is accepted, you will be notified by PSI to schedule and pay for your state exam. All of the exams are listed on the Candidate Information Bulletin, along with information about the examination process and tips for exam prep. You must receive a 70% to pass the exam. If you are successful, you will be issued your license.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Michigan?
It takes three years to qualify to take the journey plumber license exam and another two years as a journey plumber to qualify to take the master plumber license exam in Michigan. The path begins with an apprenticeship, so you will be working and earning money from the start.
Michigan 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, so they must know more than just the mechanics. They must know plumbing code.
Since the state of Michigan requires plumbing professionals to begin their career journey as a registered apprentice, you most likely will not choose to get a postsecondary degree. However, if you want to build your knowledge base before beginning as an apprentice, there are quite a few colleges in Michigan that offer plumbing programs, as well as many other training programs to get the training you need to become a plumbing professional. You can choose to attend a community or technical college and earn a certificate or degree in plumbing.
Here's a great list of the best plumbing colleges and universities in Michigan:
Niche: 2025 Best Colleges with Plumbing Degrees in Michigan
Many of the same colleges or programs appear on both of these lists.
Apprenticeship: The path most often taken is a plumbing apprenticeship. The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity maintains a list of registered apprenticeships.
Some apprenticeships are sponsored by local employers, while others are offered through unions or local trade associations. Local 357, serving Kalamazoo and Benton Harbor, and Local 98 in Detroit are just two examples.
Any program should cover OSHA safety training, detailed instruction in chemistry, mathematics, physics, blueprint reading and drafting, in-depth examination of state codes, and advanced training about water treatment systems, drainage systems, water heaters, plumbing appliances, and plumbing fixtures.
Tuition: Apprenticeships may have some upfront costs of tuition and book fees but the apprentice will be paid a percentage of the journeyman wage rate and will receive periodic wage increases as they meet program requirements. The cost of tuition at a vocational school or college depends on the program you choose, but can range from $2,000 at a community college to $40,000 at a state or private school for an associate degree or bachelor degree in engineering.
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 Michigan, check out our Ultimate Guide to Plumbing Schools in Michigan.
Michigan Plumbing Contractor Licensing Exam Details
The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Bureau of Construction Codes, Plumbing Division has contracted with PSI to conduct the examinations for licensing. Once you have the required years of experience, you may apply to the plumbing board to receive permission to test. If your eligibility is confirmed and your application is accepted, you will be notified how to schedule and pay for your state exam.
The Candidate Information Bulletin describes the examination and application process and details each of the exams — Journey Plumber, Master Plumber, and Plumbing Contractor.
The fee for each of the exams is $100.
The written portion of the journey plumber examination is made up of 125 questions and has a time limit of 180 minutes. There’s also a practical portion that must be scheduled with LARA. The master plumber exam is made up of 130 questions, also with a time limit of 180 minutes. The plumbing contractor exam contains 50 questions, and you are allowed 120 minutes to complete it.
All three require a 70% to pass and are open book. The Bulletin specifies which reference materials you may use and what items are not allowed in the testing center. There are seven PSI testing centers in Michigan, which are located in Dearborn, Holt, Southfield, Grand Rapids, Gaylord, and Marquette.
Who Issues Plumbers Licenses in Michigan?
The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), through the Bureau of Construction Codes Plumbing Division, issues all plumbing licenses in the state of Michigan. Several jurisdictions including Detroit, Dearborn, Saginaw, and Grand Rapids also have local governing agencies for issuing plumbing licenses within those municipalities. Be sure to check with local governments where you intend to work to make sure you meet any additional licensing or permitting requirements.
Does My Michigan Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
No. Michigan does not have agreements with other states that allow for automatic transfer of plumbing licenses.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Michigan?
Although Michigan does not have reciprocity agreements with other states, the Skilled Trades Regulation Act waives application, registration, and examination fees for veterans. In addition, spouses of active duty armed force members stationed in Michigan who hold out-of-state plumbing licenses in good standing qualify for a 6-month temporary license, which can be renewed.
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 Michigan
Journey plumber licenses must be renewed annually for $40. Master plumbers and plumbing contractors must renew their license every three years for $300.
Are There Plumbing Scholarships in Michigan?
Yes, there are plumbing scholarships available in Michigan. Options include:
John Peterson Memorial Plumbing Scholarship: Sponsored by Blessing Co., this scholarship provides starter plumbing tool bags filled with necessary hand tools for the plumbing trade and a Michigan Plumbing Code book to high school students pursuing a plumbing career.
BrassCraft Manufacturing Company Zell Scholarship: Headquartered in Michigan, BrassCraft offers annual scholarships to qualifying plumbing apprentices enrolled in accredited programs and employed by a licensed plumbing contractor.
Community Choice Credit Union Scholarships: This credit union offers scholarships to students entering trades like plumbing, with the goal of retaining talent in Michigan.
In addition to this scholarship, plumbing students in Michigan can explore financial aid opportunities by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Submitting the FAFSA gives you access to federal grants like the Pell Grant, subsidized student loans, and work-study programs—all of which can help cover tuition, tools, and other training costs. Many Michigan community colleges and trade programs also use FAFSA data to award institutional aid or state-based grants.
How Can Someone Verify My Plumbing License in Michigan?
Your plumbing license can be verified by potential clients or employees in Michigan through LARA’s online search. Users can search by name or license number.
When Can a Plumbing License Be Suspended in Michigan?
Suspending a plumber’s license means that the plumber is temporarily prohibited from practicing their trade legally. Some of the common reasons that a Michigan plumbing licenses 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 Michigan plumbing license regulations you can refer to the official Michigan Compiled Laws.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Michigan?
Performing plumbing work in Michigan without a license is illegal. According to Michigan Occupational Code, a first offense is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of at least $5,000 and up to $25,000, imprisonment up to a year, or both. A second offense incurs the same fine range, but imprisonment up to two years.
If an unlicensed person causes death or serious injury on the job, it’s a felony punishable by a fine between $5,000 and $25,000, imprisonment up to four years, or both.
Continuing Education
Each licensed journey or master plumber is required to complete an approved 5-hour code update course within one year after the adoption of a new edition of the Michigan Plumbing Code. Licensees will be notified by the plumbing division when this course must be taken. The Bureau of Construction codes does not regulate the cost of the code update course. The approved instructors set the cost of their approved course.
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.
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive plumbing business software solution built specifically to help service companies streamline their operations, boost revenue, and achieve growth. Our award-winning, cloud-based platform is trusted by more than 100,000 contractors across the country.
Ready to learn more about what ServiceTitan can do for your business? Contact our team to schedule a demo today.
