Licensing Guides
Wisconsin Plumbing License: How to Become a Plumber in Wisconsin
Plumbing, WI
Joanne Bratton
Table of Contents
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in Wisconsin
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Wisconsin?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Wisconsin?
Does My Wisconsin Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Wisconsin?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Wisconsin?
You can’t rush through the training it takes to become a plumber, but time and effort leads to a career that is long-lasting, lucrative, and fulfilling. Almost every state requires plumbers to be licensed because it’s complicated work that affects the health and safety of our society.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics ,there are 504,500 plumbers nationwide, and Wisconsin employs 9,120 of them. The national number is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, adding 44,000 to the ranks across the country. In Wisconsin, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is higher at 10% 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 Wisconsin in July 2025 totaled 143,600, an increase of 3,100 (2%) from July 2024 and an increase of 16,400 (13%) from February 2020.
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. Wisconsin has statewide standards for working in the plumbing business beginning at the plumbing apprentice level.
Plumbing License Requirements for Plumbers in Wisconsin
Is a license required for plumbers in Wisconsin? Yes. It is mandated from the beginning.
The State of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) issues apprentice, journeyman and master plumbing licenses. The DSPS also issues licenses for many other trades, including HVAC and electrical.
In addition, master plumbers who own their own businesses are subject to local contractor requirements, which vary by jurisdiction. For instance, plumbing contractors working in Milwaukee must submit a master plumber’s performance bond, submit a power of attorney form, show proof of insurance, and pay a registration fee in order to pull plumbing permits. It’s important to check with the jurisdictions where you plan to work to make sure you meet local requirements.
Types of Plumbing Licenses in Wisconsin
What are the types of plumber licenses in Wisconsin? There are nine types of plumbing licenses. At each license level, the state offers a restricted appliance classification and a restricted service classification.
Apprentice Registration
Plumbing Apprentice — An apprentice is any person other than a journeyman or master plumber who is engaged in learning and assisting in plumbing and drainage installation.
Plumbing Learner Restricted Appliance — A registered learner is a person who is learning a limited type of plumbing and assists a restricted plumber licensee. The registered learner must work under the direct supervision of an individual holding a master plumber, master plumber restricted appliance, journeyman plumber, or journeyman plumber restricted appliance license.
The restricted appliance classification permits the license holder to only make connections to existing installations. This includes installing a water heater, water treatment device, or any item in connection with a water distribution system, including a stormwater use or reclaimed water system which does not require a direct connection to a drain system.
Plumbing Learner Restricted Service — A registered learner assists a restricted plumber licensee in the area of systems or services and must work under the direct supervision of an individual holding a master plumber, master plumber restricted service, journeyman plumber, or journeyman plumber restricted service license.
The restricted service classification permits installing septic tanks for private on-site wastewater treatment systems, drain fields designed to serve the septic tanks, and sewer service from the septic tank or sewer extensions from the mains to the immediate inside or proposed inside foundation wall of the building. It also includes installing water services, stormwater use systems, and reclaimed water systems if it is located outside the building’s foundation wall.
Journeyman License
Journeyman Plumber — Any person other than a master plumber who is engaged in plumbing installation.
Journeyman Plumber Restricted Appliance — A journeyman plumber with a restricted appliance classification (defined above). Those licensed as restricted journeyman plumbers must work under the supervision of a master plumber or a restricted master plumber.
Journeyman Plumber Restricted Service — A journeyman plumber with a restricted service classification (defined above).
Master License
Master Plumber — Any person skilled in the planning, superintending, and installing plumbing and who is familiar with the laws, rules, and regulations governing plumbing systems.
Master Plumber Restricted Appliance — A master plumber with a restricted appliance classification (defined above).
Master Plumber Restricted Service — A master plumber with a restricted service classification (defined above).
Each license or registration has specific requirements that must be met.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
Plumbing Apprentice Registration
Be at least 16 to 18 years old, depending on the apprenticeship program requirements.
Apply for an approved apprenticeship program recognized by the Wisconsin Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards or U.S. Department of Labor.
Register as a plumbing apprentice with the DSPS. Pay the $15 application fee.
Work under the supervision of a licensed master plumber. Most plumbing apprenticeships last five years and include 8,000 hours of on-the-job training, 572 paid instruction hours, and 260 unpaid instruction hours.
Renew registration every year until you complete your apprenticeship. Renewal fee is $15.
Plumbing Learner Restricted Appliance and Plumbing Learner Restricted Service registrations
Work under the direct supervision of an individual holding a master plumber, master plumber restricted, journeyman plumber, or journeyman plumber restricted license in the appropriate classification.
Register with the DSPS. Pay the $15 registration fee.
The master plumber who employs you is responsible for your training and education.
Renew registration every two years. There is no renewal fee.
Be at least 18 years old.
Complete an approved plumbing apprenticeship program. Out-of-state applicants must have completed a five-year apprenticeship program and a minimum of 576 hours of plumbing-related instruction.
Submit an application to the DSPS and pay the $10 application fee.
Upon approval, take and pass the journeyman plumber exam. The exam costs $20 through DSPS, or a total of $180 through Pearson VUE.
Work under the supervision of a master plumber.
Pay the $180 license fee.
Renew the license every four years. Renewal fee is $180.
Journeyman Plumber Restricted Appliance License
Be at least 18 years old.
Completed a minimum of 1,000 hours of experience in one continuous year as a registered Plumbing Learner Restricted Appliance.
Must submit evidence of completing educational coursework for plumbing code, blueprint or blueline reading, and appliance and equipment servicing.
Submit an application with DSPS. Pay the $10 application fee.
Upon approval, take and pass the journeyman plumber restricted appliance exam. The exam costs $20 through DSPS, or $90 through Pearson VUE.
Pay the $180 license fee.
Renew the license every four years. The renewal fee is $180.
Journeyman Plumber Restricted Service License
Complete a minimum of 1,000 hours of experience in one continuous year as a registered Plumbing Learner Restricted Service.
Submit evidence of completing the following educational coursework:
40 credit hours of plumbing code
20 credit hours of blueprint or blueline reading
10 credit hours of transit or builders level
20 credit hours of plumbing related mathematics
10 credit hours of first aid and safety
Submit an application with DSPS. Pay the $10 application fee.
Upon approval, take and pass the journeyman plumber restricted service exam. The exam costs $20 through DSPS, or $90 through Pearson VUE.
Pay the $180 license fee.
Renew the license every four years. The renewal fee is $180.
Work for at least three years as a licensed Wisconsin journeyman plumber (a minimum of 1,000 hours each year). Or, graduate from an accredited engineering university or college with a degree in civil engineering, mechanical engineering, or other approved engineering curriculum related to plumbing.
Out-of-state applicants must have completed a five-year plumbing apprenticeship with a minimum of 576 instruction hours, and have held a journeyman license for three years, with 1,000 hours of experience each year. Or, applicants must hold a plumbing license and have a minimum of eight years of plumbing experience, with 1,000 hours of experience per year for at least three years.
Submit an application to the DSPS and pay the $20 application fee.
Upon approval, take and pass the master plumber exam. The exam costs $30 through DSPS or a total of $190 through Pearson VUE.
Pay the $500 license fee.
Renew the license every four years. Renewal fee is $500.
Note: Wisconsin requires each member or employee of a partnership or limited liability company, or each officer or employee of a corporation engaging in the business of superintending plumbing installations, to obtain a master plumber’s license before superintending plumbing installations.
Master Plumber Restricted Appliance License
Work at least two years as a Wisconsin journeyman plumber restricted appliance or journeyman plumber, completing a minimum of 1,000 hours of experience each year.
Submit an application to the DSPS and pay the $20 application fee.
Upon approval, take and pass the master plumber restricted appliance exam. The exam costs $30 through DSPS or $90 through Pearson VUE.
Pay the $500 license fee.
Renew the license every four years. Renewal fee is $500.
Master Plumber Restricted Service License
Work at least two years as a Wisconsin journeyman plumber restricted service or journeyman plumber, completing a minimum of 1,000 hours of experience each year.
Submit an application to the DSPS and pay the $20 application fee.
Upon approval, take and pass the master plumber restricted service exam. The exam costs $30 through DSPS or $90 through Pearson VUE.
Pay the $500 license fee.
Renew the license every four years. Renewal fee is $500.
Steps to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Wisconsin
Be at least 16 to 18 years old, depending on the apprenticeship program requirements.
Apply for an approved apprenticeship program, recognized by the Wisconsin Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards or the U.S. Department of Labor.
Register as a plumbing apprentice with the DSPS.
Work under the supervision of a licensed master plumber. Most plumbing apprenticeships last five years and include 8,000 hours of on-the-job training, 572 paid instruction hours, and 260 unpaid instruction hours.
Renew your registration every year until you complete your apprenticeship.
To become a journeyman plumber, submit an application to the DSPS.
Take and pass the journeyman plumber exam.
Pay the $180 license fee.
Renew your license every four years.
To become a master plumber, you must have worked at least three years as a licensed journeyman plumber (a minimum of 1,000 hours each year). Or, applicants must have an engineering degree related to plumbing from an accredited university or college.
Submit an application to the DSPS.
Take and pass the master plumber exam.
Pay the $500 license fee.
Renew the license every four years.
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in Wisconsin
There are many benefits to obtaining your Wisconsin plumbing license:
Most importantly, Wisconsin requires apprentice, journeyman, and master plumbers to hold state licensure to legally perform any plumbing work.
A plumbing license is proof of your experience and skill.
Only licensed master plumbers can operate a plumbing contracting business and advertise services, obtain commercial insurance, pull building permits, and pass inspections.
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 Wisconsin?
The annual mean wage for a plumber in Wisconsin is $83,020, 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 Wisconsin, those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $52,500
Intermediate (2-4 years): $68,200
Senior (4-7 years): $73,900
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
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 Wisconsin?
The cost to get started as a plumbing apprentice in Wisconsin is fairly low. It costs $15 each year to register as a plumbing apprentice. 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.
For a journeyman license, the application fee is $10. The cost for the journeyman plumber exam is $20 or $180, depending on where you take the exam. The license fee is $180. The license must be renewed every four years, and the renewal cost is $180.
For a master license, the application fee is $20. The cost for the master plumber exam is $30 or $190, depending on where you take the exam. The license fee is $500. The license must be renewed every four years, and the renewal cost is $500.
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How to Get a Plumbing License in Wisconsin
Becoming a plumbing professional in Wisconsin isn’t fast, but it is straightforward.
COMPLETE APPRENTICESHIP/WORK EXPERIENCE: Apply for an approved apprenticeship program recognized by the Wisconsin Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards or U.S. Department of Labor. In Wisconsin, local apprenticeship committees sponsor registered apprenticeships in the construction trade. Register as a plumbing apprentice with the DSPS through the LicensE online portal and pay the $15 application fee. The DSPS provides registration application information. Most plumbing apprenticeships last five years and include 8,000 hours of on-the-job training, 572 paid instruction hours, and 260 unpaid instruction hours. Renew your registration every year until you complete your apprenticeship. The renewal fee is $15.
APPLY FOR JOURNEYMAN PLUMBER LICENSE: Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you’re eligible to take the journeyman plumber exam. Apply for the journeyman plumber license with DSPS through the LicensE online portal and pay the $10 application fee. The DSPS provides journeyman license application information.
PASS JOURNEYMAN EXAM: Upon approval, take and pass the two-part journeyman plumber exam. The exam is administered by DSPS for a $20 fee or through Pearson VUE for a total of $180. The DSPS provides detailed information on its trades credentialing examination information page. After passing the exam, pay the $180 license fee. The license must be renewed every four years.
APPLY FOR MASTER PLUMBER LICENSE: To become a master plumber, you must have worked for at least three years as a licensed journeyman plumber, with a minimum of 1,000 hours each year. Or, you must have an engineering degree related to plumbing from an accredited university or college. Apply for the master plumber license with DSPS through the LicensE online portal and pay the $20 application fee. The DSPS provides master license application information.
PASS MASTER EXAM: Upon approval, take and pass the two-part master plumber exam. The exam is administered by DSPS for a $30 fee or through Pearson VUE for a total of $190. The DSPS provides detailed information on its trades credentialing examination information page. After passing the exam, pay the $500 license fee. The license must be renewed every four years.
APPLY FOR A RESTRICTED LICENSE: The state offers restricted appliance and restricted service licenses for plumbing learners, journeymen plumbers, and master plumbers. The registration or licensing process is similar to the process above. DSPS provides detailed application information for:
Applicants must meet minimum requirements and submit the application to DSPS through the LicensE online portal. Applicants (except for plumbing learners) must also pass an exam.
CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS: For plumbing businesses, Wisconsin requires each member or employee of a partnership or limited liability company, or each officer or employee of a corporation engaging in the business of superintending plumbing installations, to obtain a master plumber’s license before superintending plumbing installations. Plumbing businesses also must meet contractor requirements at the local level in order to pull plumbing permits. These requirements vary based on the local jurisdiction.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Wisconsin?
It takes a minimum of five years to complete a plumbing apprenticeship program in Wisconsin. While program requirements may vary slightly, a plumbing apprenticeship typically includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training, 572 paid instruction hours, and 260 unpaid instruction hours.
The great news is that as a plumber in training, you earn a wage from the very beginning and compensation increases each year as you acquire more training and knowledge. Your salary increases when you become a licensed journeyman plumber, and again when you become a licensed master plumber. As a master plumber, you can own your own plumbing business, be your own boss and grow your business as much as you want. The sky’s the limit!
Wisconsin Plumber Training Programs and Schools
Plumbers are responsible for more than just fixing leaks or clogs. They design, install, and renovate systems that carry liquids or gasses. In addition to mechanics, they must know and follow plumbing code.
Since the state of Wisconsin requires plumbing professionals to begin their career journey as an apprentice, you may not choose to get a postsecondary degree. The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development provides a list of registered pre-apprenticeship programs (choose “construction” and then “plumber”) to help applicants prepare for an apprenticeship. The Milwaukee Area Technical College also offers a preparatory plumbing program.
In Wisconsin, registered apprenticeships in the construction trade are sponsored by local apprenticeship committees and not individual employers. Applicants must apply directly to a local committee for the occupation they seek.
Apprenticeship
Wisconsin Apprenticeship, with a listing of plumbing local apprenticeship committees
Program Prerequisites: For most apprenticeship plumbing programs, you need to be at least 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 Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Plumbing Contractor Licensing Exam Details
Applicants for journeyman and master plumbing licenses, including restricted licenses, must pass a plumbing exam. Applicants must first apply with the DSPS. DSPS then notifies applicants if they are eligible to take the exam. Applicants schedule the exam on the LicensE online portal, and choose whether they want to take the exam at the DSPS location or at a Pearson VUE exam location.
DSPS partnered with Pearson VUE to offer applicants more exam locations, the ability to reschedule without waiting, and to receive exam results faster. Once you choose Pearson VUE as your test location, you won’t be able to change it to a DSPS location.
Plumbing exams are open book with approved reference materials (listed in the individual links below). A passing score is 70%.
Journeyman plumber exam: The two-part exam costs $20 through DSPS or $90 each through Pearson VUE. Part 1 of the exam has 87 questions; Part 2 has 120 questions. Each part has a three-hour time limit.
Journeyman restricted appliance exam: The one-part exam costs $20 through DSPS or $90 through Pearson VUE. The exam has 70 questions and a three-hour time limit.
Journeyman restricted service exam: The one-part exam costs $20 through DSPS or $90 through Pearson VUE. The exam has 90 questions and a three-hour time limit.
Master plumber exam: The two-part exam costs $30 with DSPS or $95 each with Pearson VUE. Part 1 of the exam has 110 questions; Part 2 has 132 questions. Each exam has a four-hour time limit.
Master plumber restricted appliance exam: The one-part exam costs $30 with DSPS or $90 through Pearson VUE. The exam has 70 questions and a three-hour time limit.
Master plumber restricted service exam: The one-part exam costs $30 with DSPS or $90 through Pearson VUE. The exam has 90 questions and a three-hour time limit.
The DSPS provides additional exam information on its trades credentialing exam information page. Pearson VUE also provides a FAQ page answering commonly asked questions about trade exams.
Who Issues Plumbing Contractors Licenses in Wisconsin?
The State of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) issues apprentice, journeyman and master plumbing licenses.
The DSPS headquarters are at 4822 Madison Yards Way, Madison, WI 53705. The office may be contacted at (608) 266-2112 or (877) 617-1565.
Those with general questions may email DSPS at dsps@wisconsin.gov. Those with licensing or credentialing questions should choose “request support” in the LicensE online portal. The DSPS also provides contact information on its trades program contacts page.
Does My Wisconsin Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
No. Wisconsin does not have formal reciprocity agreements with other states for plumbing licenses.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Wisconsin?
While Wisconsin does not have reciprocity agreements with other states, the DSPS may issue plumbing licenses to those with out-of-state licenses if they meet license requirements and pass Wisconsin’s plumbing exam. For journeyman plumbers, an out-of-state applicant must have completed a five-year apprenticeship program and a minimum of 576 hours of plumbing-related instruction.
For master plumbers, out-of-state applicants must have completed a five-year plumbing apprenticeship with a minimum of 576 instruction hours, and have held a journeyman license for three years, with 1,000 hours of experience each year. Or, they must hold a plumbing license and have a minimum of eight years of plumbing experience, with 1,000 hours of experience per year for at least three years.
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 Wisconsin
Plumbing laws and regulations may be found in Wisconsin Statute Chapter 145 and Wisconsin Code Chapter SPS 380-387.
In addition, the state allows only licensed master plumbers or those who employ a licensed master plumber to advertise as a plumbing contractor, master plumber or plumber. All advertisements must include the master plumber’s license number.
Are There Plumbing Scholarships in Wisconsin?
Yes, there are several plumbing or trade school scholarships in Wisconsin. Scholarship opportunities or scholarship directories include:
Ascendium — Tools of the Trade Apprentice Scholarship
National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) Foundation, Inc.
Be sure to check with your high school or area community organizations for local scholarships.
How Can Someone Verify My Plumbing License in Wisconsin?
Potential clients or employees may verify your Wisconsin plumbing license by visiting the DSPS’ credential/license search page. Search by:
License type
License number
Individual name
Organization name
When Can a Plumbing License Be Suspended in Wisconsin?
A suspended plumber’s license means the plumber is temporarily prohibited from legally practicing their trade. In Wisconsin, a plumbing license may be suspended or revoked for many reasons, including:
Making a misstatement in the license application or renewal.
Committing gross negligence or misconduct.
Practicing incompetently.
Failing to correct an installation for which he or she is responsible, at his or her own expense, within 30 days after notification by the department of a rule violation.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For specific information, refer to Wisconsin law.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Wisconsin?
Working as a plumber in Wisconsin without a license is illegal. Wisconsin has stiff monetary penalties for those who work without license.
Those who do not have the appropriate plumbing license and install plumbing without a licensed master plumber in charge, or who advertise as a plumbing business and perform plumbing work without a master plumber license, face the following penalties:
First offense: $1,000
Second offense: $1,500
Third and subsequent offenses: $2,000
Those who do not have the appropriate plumbing license but install plumbing with a licensed master plumber in charge face the following penalties:
First offense: $100
Second offense: $500
Third and subsequent offenses: $1,000
In addition, the master plumber faces the following penalties for allowing an individual to install plumbing without the proper license:
First offense: $1,500
Second offense: $1,750
Third and subsequent offenses: $2,000
Continuing Education
Journeyman and master plumbers must complete 24 continuing education units within the four-year license cycle. Journeyman and master plumber restricted licenses must complete 12 hours of continuing education units.
The DSPS provides more information on its trades continuing education page, including a list of approved course providers. It also provides a license information sheet with continuing education information and license expiration dates.
All journeyman and master plumber licenses expire on March 31 every four years. License holders renew through the LicensE online portal. All journeyman license renewal fees cost $180; all master license renewal fees cost $500.
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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