Plumbing, UTTable of Contents
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Utah?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Utah?
Does My Utah Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Utah?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Utah?
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 licensure to work in the plumbing trade 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 Utah employs 6,770 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 Utah, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is significantly higher, at 36% 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 Utah in July 2025 totaled 143,100, an increase of 4,500 (3.2%) from July 2024 and an increase of 29,300 or 26% 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. Utah requires a state license for anyone working in the plumbing business, beginning at the apprentice level.
Plumbing License Requirements for Plumbers in Utah
Is a license required for plumbers in Utah? Yes, and it is mandated from the very beginning.
In the state of Utah, you must be licensed to legally perform plumbing work of any kind. Utah issues plumbing licenses at every level — apprentice, journeyman, master, and contractor. All Utah plumbing licenses are issued through the Utah Department of Commerce — Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).
Types of Plumbers Licenses in Utah
What are the types of plumber licenses in Utah?
There are five plumber classifications issued by the state of Utah. They include:
Apprentice Plumber — Entry-level license for those learning the trade under supervision of a licensed plumber. Allows hands-on training while working toward higher certifications.
Journeyman Plumber — Mid-level license for experienced plumbers who can work independently on all types of plumbing projects, including commercial and residential work.
Residential Journeyman Plumber — Mid-level license for experienced plumbers who perform residential plumbing only.
Master Plumber — Advanced license allowing work on all plumbing projects and the ability to supervise other plumbers.
Residential Master Plumber — Advanced license allowing work on all residential plumbing projects and the ability to supervise other plumbers.
In addition, those who want to operate their own business must hold a master plumbing license and obtain a contractor license with one of the following classifications:
General Plumbing Contractor — Allows operation of a plumbing business for all types of projects, including residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing work.
Residential Plumbing Contractor — Allows operation of a plumbing business restricted to residential projects only.
Each license has specific requirements.
Apprentice Plumber
Must be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate or GED equivalent.
Must be registered with the Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL).
Must be enrolled in a plumbing apprenticeship program or be working for a licensed master plumber, licensed residential master plumber, licensed journeyman plumber, or licensed residential journeyman plumber.
Must file an application and submit appropriate fees.
Journeyman Plumber (JP)
Must have completed a plumbing apprenticeship consisting of at least four years of full-time classroom training and 8,000 hours of training on-the-job; OR
Must complete “Verification of Plumbing Experience” form documenting at least 16,000 hours of required training as an apprentice.
Pass the Utah Plumber Theory and Practical exams.
Must file an application and submit appropriate fees.
Residential Journeyman Plumber (RJP)
Must have completed a plumbing apprenticeship consisting of at least three years of full-time classroom training and 6,000 hours of on-the-job training; OR
Must complete “Verification of Plumbing Experience” form documenting at least 12,000 hours of required training as an apprentice.
Pass the Utah Residential Plumber Theory and Practical exams.
Must file an application and submit appropriate fees.
Master Plumber (MP)
Must have earned an Associate in Applied Science Degree and have 2,000 hours (1 year) of supervisory plumbing experience as a licensed journeyman plumber with W-2 form to verify that work experience; OR
Must have 4,000 hours (2 years) of supervisory plumbing experience as a licensed journeyman plumber with W-2 form to verify that work experience.
Must take and pass the Utah Master Plumber Law and Rule examination.
Must file an application and submit appropriate fees.
Residential Master Plumber (RMP)
Must have earned Associate in Applied Science Degree and have 2,000 hours (1 year) of supervisory plumbing experience as a residential licensed journeyman plumber with W-2 form to verify that work experience; OR
Must have 4,000 hours (2 years) of supervisory plumbing experience as a residential licensed journeyman plumber with W-2 form to verify that work experience.
Pass the Utah Master Plumber Law and Rule exam.
Must file an application and submit appropriate fees.
General Plumbing Contractor (P-200)
Must have a master plumber license.
Must take a 30-hour pre-licensure course from Associated Builders and Contractors Inc (ABC), Utah Home Builders Association (UHBA), or Associated General Contractors of Utah (AGC).
You must obtain general liability insurance with a minimum of $100,000 coverage for each incident and $300,000 in total.
Register your business with the Utah Division of Corporations if you are a corporation, LLC, LLP, or partnership.
Obtain a Federal EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the Internal Revenue Service. If you are a sole proprietor, you can use your Social Security Number.
If you have employees, you MUST:
Obtain a certificate of workers compensation insurance with DOPL as certificate holder.
Obtain a state withholding tax registration from the Utah State Tax Commission.
Obtain an unemployment registration from the Utah Department of Workforce Services.
Experience Requirement: Two years of experience in the construction industry. This experience must be at least 4,000 hours (or two years) of paid work experience at any time in your life in the construction industry. You must self-certify that you have this experience. The other ways to satisfy the experience requirement (pick one):
Qualifier on current or previous Utah Contractor License for at least two years
Construction Management degree
Licensed Utah Professional Engineer
Pass NASCLA (National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies) Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors, or
One year of licensed experience working in another state, district or territory of the U.S. in the similar scope of practice sought in Utah if the license is currently active and in good standing.
Exam Requirement: (One of the following)
Utah Business & Law Exam: Apply directly with the authorized exam provider. Provide a copy of your test results with the contractor application to DOPL.
One year of licensed experience working in another state, district or territory of the U.S. in the similar scope of practice sought in Utah if the license is currently active and in good standing.
Qualifier on Utah Contractor License prior to May 9, 2017.
Complete Contractor Application and submit with appropriate fee to Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.
Residential Plumbing Contractor (P-201)
All of the above except with residential experience and exam requirements.
Steps to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Utah
Enroll in a plumbing apprenticeship program or work for a licensed plumber and register with the DOPL.
For JP of RJP license, complete required apprenticeship; OR
Complete documented work experience training as an apprentice.
Take the corresponding exam and pass with a score of at least 70%.
File a plumber application and submit appropriate fees.
To qualify to test for the MP or RMP license, earn an Associate in Applied Science Degree and have 2,000 hours (one year) of supervisory plumbing experience as a licensed journeyman plumber with W-2 form to verify that work experience; OR
Complete two years of W-2 documented supervisory plumbing work experience.
Pass the corresponding exam with a score of at least 70%.
File an application and submit appropriate fees.
If you want to become a contractor and own your own business, rather than working indefinitely as a plumber for a licensed contractor, you will need to take a 30-hour pre-licensure course.
Obtain general liability insurance with a minimum of $100,000 coverage for each incident and $300,000 in total.
Register your business with the Utah Division of Corporations if you are a corporation, LLC, LLP, or partnership.
Obtain a Federal EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the Internal Revenue Service. If you are a sole proprietor, you use your Social Security Number.
If you have employees, obtain a certificate of workers compensation insurance with DOPL as certificate holder, a state withholding tax registration from the Utah State Tax Commission, and obtain an unemployment registration from the Utah Department of Workforce Services.
Meet the experience and exam requirements.
File an application and submit appropriate fees.
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in Utah
There are many benefits to getting your Utah plumbing license:
Most importantly, it is required by law in Iowa 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 Utah?
The annual mean wage for a plumber in Utah is $62,600, 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 Utah, those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $52,400
Intermediate (2-4 years): $68,100
Senior (4-7 years): $73,800
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 Utah?
Utah is experiencing a construction boom, so it is a very good time to get into the trades and construction in general. HVAC, plumbing, and electrical companies are looking for people interested in learning those skills and often are willing to pay for your training. That means you can get started as an apprentice in Utah for relatively little.
The apprentice application fee is $116. You can gain the training and experience through a licensed plumbing business or enroll in a community or technical college program. The Plumbing Apprenticeship program at Mountainland Technical College costs $4,719.
For each level of licensure, there are application and exam fees:
Journeyman Plumber (JP): Application fee: $116 | Examination fee: $163
Residential Journeyman Plumber (RJP): Application fee: $116 | Examination fee: $163
Master Plumber (MP): Application fee: $116 | Examination fee: $163
Residential Master Plumber (RMP): Application fee: $116| Examination fee: $163
General Plumbing Contractor: Application fee: $226 | Examination fee: $85
Residential Plumbing Contractor: Application fee: $226 | Examination fee: $85
Contractors will also have to pay for the pre-license course, which costs around $400 depending on where you take it.
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How to Get a Plumbing License in Utah
Becoming a plumbing professional in Utah isn’t fast, but it’s straightforward.
APPRENTICESHIP/WORK EXPERIENCE: In most cases you will need to be at least 18 years old and have graduated from high school or earned a GED equivalent before you enroll in a plumbing apprenticeship program or work for a licensed plumber and register with the DOPL. As a plumber’s apprentice, you will work full-time hours training with a licensed JP, RJP, MP, or RMP. You’ll also typically have a classroom component, either through a technical college, local union or trade organization, or directly from your employer. You will need to renew your apprentice registration with the DOPL every even-numbered year.
To be eligible to test for the JP, you must complete a plumbing apprenticeship consisting of at least four years of full-time classroom training and 8,000 hours of on-the-job training OR complete the “Verification of Plumbing Experience” form documenting at least 16,000 hours of required training as an apprentice.
To be eligible to test for the RJP, you must complete a plumbing apprenticeship consisting of at least three years of full-time classroom training and 6,000 hours of on-the-job training; OR complete the “Verification of Plumbing Experience” form documenting at least 12,000 hours of required training as an apprentice.
To be eligible to test for the MP or RMP you must have earned an Associate in Applied Science Degree and have 2,000 hours (one year) of supervisory plumbing experience as a licensed journeyman plumber or licensed residential journeyman plumber with W-2 form to verify that work experience; OR have 4,000 hours (two years) of supervisory plumbing experience with W-2 forms to verify that work experience.
TAKE LICENSING EXAM: Once you have satisfied the training requirements for journeyman status, you will need to take the JP or RJP written journeyman exam and practical exam administered through PROV, and the same is true when you meet the master level. The Candidate Information Bulletin provides detailed instructions on how to register for the exams, how to pay for them, where they are administered, and what you can expect on test day. Before you begin any exam, you will be asked to self-certify, under penalty of perjury, that you meet the necessary requirements to take the exam.
SUBMIT APPLICATION: After successfully passing the written and practical exam, you can apply for your license. You will need to sign an affidavit stating that you are qualified in all respects for the license for which you are applying and disclose any misconduct or criminal history. You can mail your completed application and fee to:
DOPL PO Box 146741 Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6741
Applications can also be hand-delivered to the DOPL at 160 East 300 South, First Floor, Salt Lake City, Utah 84111. After your application has been received by DOPL, you’re asked to wait four to six weeks for application processing before checking on its status.
DOPL also suggests that you always make a copy of anything you send, and use verification, such as certified mail, to provide proof of delivery.
CONSIDER BECOMING A PLUMBING CONTRACTOR: Contractors own and operate their own businesses and can hire other licensed employees to work for them. Plumbing Contractors must be licensed to legally operate a business. DOPL requires anyone who wants to be a Plumbing Contractor in Utah to take a 30-hour pre-licensure course and pass the Utah Business and Law exam. The Contractor Exam Examination Handbook explains the process and describes the test.
You will also need to obtain general liability insurance with a minimum of $100,000 coverage for each incident and $300,000 in total, register your business with the Utah Division of Corporations if you are a corporation, LLC, LLP, or partnership, and obtain a Federal EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the Internal Revenue Service. If you are a sole proprietor, you use your Social Security Number. If you have employees, you’ll need to obtain a certificate of workers’ compensation insurance with DOPL as certificate holder, obtain a state withholding tax registration from the Utah State Tax Commission, obtain an unemployment registration from the Utah Department of Workforce Services, meet the experience and exam requirements, and file an application and submit appropriate fees.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Utah?
It will take about four years to complete an apprenticeship and then earn a journeyman plumber license in Utah. It will take at least two more years to meet the eligibility requirements to test for a master plumber license. If you choose to become a contractor, the license application process and pre-license course will take additional time.
The great news is that as an apprentice you begin earning a wage from the very beginning, and that compensation goes up each year as you acquire more training and knowledge until you are a fully licensed journeyman. Then it goes up again when you acquire your master license. As a contractor, you can own your own business.
Utah 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. The Utah System of Higher Education (USHE) is made up of the state’s eight public colleges and eight technical colleges. There are plumbing apprenticeship programs offered at many of them, including:
Dixie Technical College has a residential plumber program and an apprenticeship. Salt Lake Community College offers an apprentice program for independent plumbers and a plumber/pipefitter program through the JATC.
Tuition: Tuition varies slightly from school to school, but most of Utah’s technical college plumbing programs cost between $2,000 and $4,000, plus the cost of books and materials.
Apprenticeship: There are several formal apprenticeship opportunities to get the training you need in Utah as well. The Utah Career Center offers a five-year apprenticeship. The tuition is $575 per semester, plus $150 for books. It’s a joint venture through Local 140 Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee in cooperation with UA Local 140 Plumbers, Pipefitters, HVAC&R, which offers a union apprenticeship at the training center as well.
Utah’s Department of Workforce Services also 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. Or you can simply look for an entry-level position on Indeed or ZipRecruiter.
Program Prerequisites: For any of these paths, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or a GED. All applicants should have a driver’s license or letter verifying reliable transportation to work, must pass a drug test, and have passed high school algebra or its equivalent.
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 Utah, check out our Ultimate Guide to Plumbing Schools in Utah.
Utah Plumbing Contractor Licensing Exam Details
DOPL has contracted Prov Exams to administer all of the plumbing exams and contractor exams. The Utah Plumber written exam is 100 questions and has a four-hour time limit. Topics include:
Basic valves
Drain, waste, and vent
Fuel gas
Hydronics
Indirect & special waste
Pipe and fittings
Plumbing drawing
Plumbing fixtures
Plumbing math
Plumbing safety
Structural penetration, insulation
Water heaters
Water supply
The written residential plumbing exam covers the same topics, but only has 90 questions. There’s still a four-hour time limit.
The written exam for master plumbers has 40 questions and a two-hour time limit. Topics include:
General statutes
Regulations
Labor laws
Other state regulations
Plumbing specific regulations
Safety
Safety reporting requirements
Utah Code Amendments
The practical plumber exams are both two and half hours long and require you to complete two projects.
The Utah Contractors Business and Law exam is made up of 60 questions about business organization, licensing, estimating and bidding, contract management, project management, financial and risk management, labor, lien, and tax laws, and safety. You will have two hours to complete it.
Who Issues Plumbers Licenses in Utah?
Plumbing licenses are issued through the Utah Department of Commerce — Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL). 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 Utah Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
No, your Utah plumbing contractor license will not automatically work in another state. You'll need to meet the specific licensing requirements of any other state where you plan to work, although some may allow a streamlined path to licensure if you’re already licensed in another state.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Utah?
Utah doesn’t have reciprocity agreements with other states, but does allow for licensure by endorsement. The DOPL has maps detailing which states have a license deemed equivalent for Journeyman Plumber, Residential Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber, and Residential Master Plumber. There is a separate map that identifies licensing by endorsement for contractors.
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 Utah
Plumbers licenses all expire on Nov. 30 of even-numbered years and must be renewed. The renewal fee is $74, and renewal can be done online.
Contractor licenses must also be renewed every two years. They expire on Nov. 30 of odd-numbered years. The fee for renewal is $128. You can renew online using this portal.
Are There Plumbing Scholarships in Utah?
Yes, there are plumbing scholarships available in Utah. They include:
UHPCA: Offers three $1,000 scholarships per year to students attending apprenticeship programs at Utah trade schools.
Hogan & Associates Construction: Offers $1,000 scholarships to high school seniors who are interested in achieving a degree in a construction-related field.
In addition to this scholarship, plumbing students in Utah 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 Utah 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 Utah?
Your plumbing license can be verified by potential clients or employees in Utah through the Utah Division of Professional Licensing Licensee Lookup & Verification System. Users can search by name or license number.
When Can a Plumbing License Be Suspended in Utah?
A suspended plumber’s license means that the plumber is temporarily prohibited from practicing their trade legally. Some of the common reasons that a Utah 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
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Utah plumbing license regulations, you can refer to the state’s Plumbing Laws & Rules.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Utah?
In Utah, performing plumbing work without the required license can result in a Class A misdemeanor, fines up to $1,000 for a first offense and $2,000 for subsequent offenses, and possible cease-and-desist orders from the Utah DOPL. Customers may also take action in court to recover money paid to an unlicensed plumber or be relieved of contractual obligations.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Utah plumbing license regulations, you can refer to the state’s Plumbing Laws & Rules.
Continuing Education
Utah law requires plumbers to obtain continuing education as a condition of license renewal. Plumbing licensees must complete 12 hours of continuing education each two-year license period. All courses must be approved by DOPL. There is also a continuing education requirement for contractors — six hours per licensing period.
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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