Licensing Guides
Maryland Plumbing License: How to Become a Plumber in Maryland
Plumbing, MD
Table of Contents
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in Maryland
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Maryland?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Maryland?
Does My Maryland Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Maryland?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Maryland?
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 Maryland employs 11,490 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 Maryland, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is 6% 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 Maryland in July 2025 totaled 159,100, a decrease of 4,100 (-2.5%) from July 2024 and a decrease of 8,200 or -5% 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. Maryland has strict, statewide standards for working in the plumbing business beginning at the apprentice level.
Plumbing License Requirements for Plumbers in Maryland
Is a license required for plumbers in Maryland? Yes.
It is illegal to perform any plumbing services in Maryland without a state-issued license. To join this workforce legally, you must begin by registering as an apprentice. After four years of documented work under a licensed plumber, you can apply to get your own journeyman license. Then after two more years working with your journey license, you can apply to become a master plumber in Maryland. There are serious penalties if you defy this state law.
Plumbing licenses are issued by the Maryland Board of Plumbing, one of 21 licensing boards that fall under the Maryland Department of Labor — Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. The licensing requirements are posted on the Board’s website.
Types of Plumbing Licenses in Maryland
What are the types of plumbers licenses in Maryland?
The Maryland Board of Plumbing issues three plumber/gas fitter licenses. They include:
Apprentice Plumber/Gas Fitter: Refers to a person who is learning the trade under the direction and control of a licensed master plumber/gas fitter or a licensed master natural gas fitter.
Journey Plumber/Gas Fitter: Authorizes an individual to provide plumbing services only under the direction and control of a master plumber or a holder of a limited master plumber license.
Master Plumber/Gas Fitter: Can enter contracts, own their own business, and perform all plumbing services.
Each license has specific requirements that must be met to qualify for licensure.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
Apprentice Plumber/Gas Fitter
Must be at least 16 years of age
Must work supervised under a licensed master plumber/gas fitter or master gas fitter
Requires an application and application fee of $18.50
Journey Plumber/Gas Fitter
Must hold apprentice license for at least four years
Requires 7,500 hours of training under the control and direction of a licensed master plumber
Requires 32 hours of training in backflow prevention device testing
Must apply for and pass exam, which incurs a $65 fee
Requires an application and application fee of $43.50
Master Plumber/Gas Fitter
Must hold journey license for at least two years
Requires 3,750 hours of training under the control and direction of a licensed master plumber
Must apply for and pass exam, which incurs a $65 fee
Requires general liability insurance (at least $300,000) and property damage insurance (at least $100,000)
Requires an application and application fee of $87.50
Steps to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Maryland
You must be at least 16 years old, although certain apprenticeships require you to be 18.
Most, but not all, apprenticeships require a high school diploma or GED.
You must hold an apprentice license for a minimum of four years and complete 7,500 hours of training under the control and direction of a licensed master plumber.
You must complete 32 hours of approved training in backflow prevention device testing.
You must pass a comprehensive written examination.
At this point, you may apply for your journeyman license.
You may work indefinitely with a journeyman license as long as you work under the direction and control of a master plumber.
If you choose to pursue a master plumber license, you must gain an additional two years of experience and complete 3,750 hours of training while holding a journeyman license and being supervised by a master plumber.
Then you must take and pass another comprehensive written examination.
At this point, you may apply for your master plumber license.
By law, all master plumbers must have a minimum of $400,000 in insurance coverage, consisting of $300,000 in general liability insurance and $100,000 in property damage insurance through a company approved by the Maryland State Insurance Administration.
Every plumber license application requires the applicant to disclose if they have ever been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor in any state or federal court or if this type of license has ever been denied, suspended, or revoked. A felony or misdemeanor conviction does not automatically disqualify an individual from licensure. The Board encourages everyone to apply for a license. Each conviction is evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and the board is required to consider certain factors, including the nature of the crime, length of time since the conviction, and what the applicant has done since the conviction.
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in Maryland
There are many benefits to getting your Maryland plumbing license:
Most importantly, it is required by law in Maryland to be licensed through the state to legally perform any plumbing work, even at an apprentice level.
A trade license is proof of your experience and skill.
Only licensed master plumbers 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.
It also increases your earning potential.
What Is the Mean Wage for a Plumber in Maryland?
The annual mean wage for a plumber in Maryland is $69,980, 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 Maryland those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $55,300
Intermediate (2-4 years): $71,800
Senior (4-7 years): $77,800
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
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How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Maryland?
The cost to get started as an apprentice in Maryland is fairly low. The fee for the apprentice license application is $18.50. A journey license requires a $65 exam fee and $43.50 application fee. Then, to get a master license, you must pay a $65 exam fee and $87.50 license fee. You’ll also incur fees for the required insurance.
Apprenticeships are sponsored by trade associations and plumbing companies, so there’s no associated fee. In addition, you’ll get paid while learning on the job.
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How to Get a Plumbers License in Maryland
The first step in your plumbing career path in Maryland is to apply for your plumbers apprentice license. You don’t need to be enrolled in an apprentice program to get your license, but you will need your license before you are allowed to start your training.
WORK EXPERIENCE: Once you have your apprentice license, you may begin accruing the necessary work experience. Maryland requires you to hold your apprentice license for at least four years and complete 7,500 hours of training under the control and direction of a licensed master plumber. Your apprenticeship must be with an approved sponsor. The Maryland Apprentice and Training Program website lists approved programs and employers. As part of this training, you must complete 32 hours of training in backflow prevention device testing through one of the approved courses.
APPLY TO TAKE EXAMINATION: The state of Maryland has contracted with PSI Testing Services to administer the exams. Once you’ve fulfilled the work experience requirements, you may apply to take the license exam. The MD Journey Plumber/Gas Fitter exam costs $65.
There is a second version of it listed on the PSI Testing site. It is labeled MD Journey Plumber/Gas Fitter (IPC and IFGC version). IPC stands for International Plumbing Code and IFGC stands for International Fuel Gas Code. Applicants who intend to work in Baltimore County, Prince George’s County, or Montgomery County may be required to submit to this or an additional examination by the local jurisdiction. You may wish to contact the Baltimore County Plumbing Board or the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) before completion of the application.
Baltimore County: 410-887-3620
WSSC: 301-206-8587
TAKE LICENSING EXAM: To be eligible to register for an examination, you have to satisfactorily complete the required work experience. PSI will review the application to determine that an applicant is eligible by meeting all license requirements. The Candidate Information Bulletin provides all the information about the tests, the requirements, and the process. Every test requires a minimum passing grade of 70%.
APPLY FOR LICENSE: Applicants who pass the examination will NOT receive any additional notices from PSI. They will receive a registration card that is used in conjunction with electronic filing for the actual license. You can apply for your license online through Maryland’s Department of Labor Electronic Licensing online platform. This is a link to the plumbers license application. Questions regarding the license application should be directed to the State Board of Plumbing at 410-230-6231.
ADDITIONAL WORK EXPERIENCE: If you choose to pursue any of the master licenses, you will need to accrue additional work experience. The state says to apply for the master plumber/gas fitter license you must have been licensed as a journeyman for at least two years and have completed 3,750 hours of training under the direction and control of a licensed master plumber.
APPLY TO TAKE EXAMINATION: Once you’ve fulfilled the work experience requirements, you may apply to take the license exam through PSI. The MD Master Plumber/Gas Fitter exam costs $65. There is a second version of it listed on the PSI Testing site. It is labeled MD Master Plumber/Gas Fitter (IPC and IFGC version). As stated above, IPC stands for International Plumbing Code and IFGC stands for International Fuel Gas Code. Applicants who intend to work in Baltimore County, Prince George’s County, or Montgomery County may be required to submit to this or an additional examination by the local jurisdiction. Again, you may wish to contact the Baltimore County Plumbing Board or the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) before completion of the application.
Baltimore County: 410-887-3620
WSSC: 301-206-8587
TAKE LICENSING EXAM: The Candidate Information Bulletin provides all the information about the tests, the requirements, and the process. Every test requires a minimum passing grade of 70%.
PSI can be reached at:
PSI Examination Services3210 E Tropicana Las Vegas, NV 89121 855-746-8173
ACQUIRE APPROPRIATE INSURANCE: All master applicants are required to carry general liability and property damage insurance through a company approved by the Maryland State Insurance Administration. Applicants are required to provide this form to their insurance agent.
The following are also required:
Your name and permanent registration/certificate number must appear on the certificate of insurance.
Your general liability insurance coverage must be at least $300,000.
Your property damage liability insurance coverage must be at least $100,000.
The combined amount of the general liability and property damage insurance must be at least $400,000.
Any umbrella policy coverage is not acceptable for compliance with this requirement.
THE CERTIFICATE HOLDER SHALL BE:
Maryland State Board of Plumbing 500 N. Calvert Street, Room 201 Baltimore, MD 21202
Only insured master plumbers can enter into contracts to perform plumbing or gas services. Each master plumber must display the master plumber license and the license number conspicuously in the principal place of business of the master plumber. The license number of the master plumber must also be displayed on each vehicle used on the job for providing plumbing services.
APPLY FOR LICENSE: Those who pass the examination will NOT receive any additional notices from PSI. They will receive a registration card that is used in conjunction with electronic filing for the actual license. You can apply for your license online through Maryland’s Department of Labor Electronic Licensing online platform. This is a link to the plumbers license application. Questions regarding the license application should be directed to the State Board of Plumbing at 410-230-6231.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbers License in Maryland?
It takes four years to qualify to take the journeyman license exam in Maryland and an additional two years total to qualify to take the master license exam. However, since the path begins with an apprenticeship, you will be working and earning money the whole time.
Maryland 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 Maryland requires plumbing professionals to begin their career as a registered apprentice, you most likely will not choose to get a post-secondary degree. However, if you want to build your knowledge base before beginning as an apprentice, some community colleges offer programs intended to prepare you for an apprenticeship in plumbing. Options include:
The apprenticeships offered through the Maryland Apprenticeship and Training program will prepare you for all aspects of the plumbing trade.
Registered apprenticeship programs are available in every Maryland county. Some are offered through unions like UA Local 486 Plumbers and Steamfitters and others through community colleges.
You’ll learn about plumbing systems including:
Underground water supply
Stormwater
Sewer drainage
Fixture installation
Waste and vent piping both inside and outside of buildings
Residential and service plumbing
Any program should also 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, water heaters, plumbing appliances, and plumbing fixtures.
Though MATP guides you through the process, the Maryland Department of Labor does not place individuals into apprenticeship programs. Sponsors and/or employers hire apprentices directly. An apprenticeship program sponsor may not be hiring at the time of your search. You must contact the apprenticeship program sponsors directly to find out the application requirements. MATP offers personal assistance to guide you through it. You can call 410-767-2246 or email info@mdapprenticeship.com to connect with an apprenticeship navigator who will direct you to available apprenticeship opportunities.
Program Prerequisites: Most programs require you to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or a GED (General Educational Development) degree. However, some programs allow individuals 16 years and older with parental permission. Many require you to pass a physical and a drug test. You must also be physically able to perform required tasks and have access to transportation.
Expense: There is often an application fee for apprenticeships, but it is typically less than $100. If selected for training, you will receive an apprentice scholarship for your training. You will, however, be responsible to pay for your books and tools. These materials are approximately $500 for the first year and about $350 on average for the next four years. If it is a union apprenticeship, you are required to pay union dues of about $30 a month once you are actively working on a job site. However, you’ll be earning as you learn. You’ll be paid a percentage of a journeyman wage and that percentage will increase every year of your apprenticeship.
On-the-Job Experience: While on the job, you will need to have good customer service skills, be detail-oriented, have mechanical capability, and be physically fit because the job can include some heavy lifting and hours of walking, standing, and working in tight spaces.
Maryland Plumber Licensing Exam Details
The Maryland State Board of Plumbing has contracted with PSI to conduct its examination program. All the details of the exam, the process to apply, and the scheduling procedures are explained on the PSI website. To sign up for an exam, you must submit an application online at https://test-takers.psiexams.com/mdplu.
You may also contact PSI at 855-746-8173 with any questions. You should receive notice of your eligibility to test within 10 business days from the day you mail your application.
Exam Questions and Time Limits: The Master Plumber/Gas Fitter and the Journeyman Plumber/Gas Fitter examinations are each made up of 100 questions and have a time limit of 240 minutes. They will cover:
Plumbing fundamentals and safety
Materials, uses, and specifications
Traps, interceptors, and backwater valves
Plumbing fixtures, fixture fittings, and plumbing appliances
Water supply systems
Backflow prevention
Drain, waste, and vent systems
Gas appliances and piping
Plumbing mathematics
The exams are open-book. PSI provides a detailed list of the references allowed in the testing room. You must receive at least a 70% to pass the exam.
Fees: Each exam costs $65. Payment can be made by money order, certified check, cashier’s check, personal check, or company check made payable to PSI. Cash is not accepted. Include your name and/or Social Security number on your money order or check to ensure that your fee is properly assigned.
Applicants who intend to work in Baltimore County, Prince George’s County, or Montgomery County may be required to submit to an additional examination by the local jurisdiction. You may wish to contact the Baltimore County Plumbing Board or the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) before completion of this application.
Baltimore County: 410-887-3620
WSSC: 301-206-8587
Exam Dates: Examinations for master and journey plumbing/gasfitter are given at least weekly at PSI's computerized testing centers in Baltimore, College Park, Salisbury, Lanham, Crofton, and Hagerstown.
Who Issues Plumbers Licenses in Maryland?
The Maryland Board of Plumbing issues every level of plumbing licenses. The licensing requirements are posted on its website.
You can contact the Board at the address and phone number below:
Maryland Board of Plumbing 500 N. Calvert Street, Room 481 Baltimore, Maryland 21202-3651 410-230-6231 (Baltimore area) or 1-888-218-5925 (toll free)
Does My Maryland Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
Yes, Maryland and Delaware have a reciprocity agreement in place, but only for the master level license. That means if you hold a master plumber license, you won’t need to document work experience or take the exam in Delaware, though you still need to fill out the application.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Maryland?
The State Plumbing Board reciprocates with the state of Delaware for the master plumber/gas fitter license. The state also reciprocates with the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission and Baltimore County. There’s a reciprocal license application online.
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. The state also offers a Plumbing Inspector certificate.
Other Requirements Specific to Maryland
All licenses and certificates issued by the State Board of Plumbing expire two years from the date of issue. The Board automatically issues an electronic renewal notice and instructions on completing the renewal. This notice is mailed to licensees approximately 60 days prior to the expiration date of the current license. The notice is mailed to the individual's last address of record with the Board. If a licensee does not receive a renewal notice within a month of the expiration of the current license, the licensee must fax a written request to 410-333-6763 or call 410-230-6231 or 1-888-218-5925 to request a renewal application.
You may renew your license online by using this application.
Special Note: If an individual licensee allows his or her license/certificate to lapse and fails to renew it for more than four years, the individual must file a new application and pass the appropriate examination.
Are There Plumbing Scholarships in Maryland?
Yes, there are plumbing scholarships available in Maryland. Though not specifically for plumbing, students attending community college can apply for the Community College Promise Scholarship through the Maryland Higher Education Commission. The Maryland Plumbing & Mechanical Inspectors Association offers the James C. Windon Scholarship for plumbing apprentices.
In addition to these scholarships, plumbing students in Maryland 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 Maryland 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 Maryland?
Your plumbing license can be verified by potential clients or employees in Maryland through the Maryland Department of Labor Public Plumbers Query. Users can search by last name, city name, zip code, or license number.
When Can a Plumbing License Be Suspended in Maryland?
A suspended plumber’s license means that the plumber is temporarily prohibited from practicing their trade legally. Some of the common reasons that a Maryland 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 Maryland plumbing license regulations you can refer to the Maryland Board of Plumbing.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Maryland?
Performing plumbing work in Maryland without a license is illegal. According to the Maryland Board of Plumbing, “Failure to be properly licensed can result in a fine up to $100 or imprisonment up to six months or both for each day that the violation continues, or up to $5,000 for each violation.”
Continuing Education
The State of Maryland does not require any continuing education to renew your master or journeyman plumber/gas fitter license. However, the Maryland State Board of Plumbing requires eight hours of continuing education credits each calendar year to maintain a plumbing inspector identification card.
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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