Journeyman Plumber Test

The Journeyman Plumber Exams are a group of state-specific examinations that are used to determine whether or not an individual possesses the skills and knowledge necessary to work as a certified or licensed plumber at the journeyman level within a particular state.

These exams are designed to assess the individual’s knowledge and understanding of federal plumbing codes, plumbing codes and regulations of the state in which the individual is pursuing a career, basic maintenance and repair of plumbing systems, and the installation of plumbing systems. The exact format of each exam and the exact requirements that are necessary to receive licensure or certification within each state varies from state to state.

However, in most states, an individual interested in becoming a licensed or certified plumber must take and pass the plumber exam administered by the state in which he or she wishes to work, have completed a certification program administered by a training institute or university, and completed a plumbing apprenticeship or have plumbing work experience at least equal to the minimum length set by the state.

The standard amount of work experience that is usually required prior to taking a state plumber exam is approximately 4 – 5 years and most states require that the individual work under the supervision of a master plumber during that time. Some states do not require that an individual become certified or licensed in order to work as a plumber at the journeyman level so it is important to check with the local licensing authority to determine what laws and regulations are present in a particular jurisdiction.

Individuals that receive a journeyman plumbing license or certification or are not required to have a license or certification in that particular state, but meet any other requirements set by the state to work as a plumber at the journeyman level are usually allowed to repair, maintain, and install any plumbing system. Plumbers at the journeyman level are usually not allowed to manage plumbing projects that may require a large group of other plumbers to complete.