Do I Need a License or Certification to Operate a Plumbing Business?

Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
Oct 13, 2025
3 min read

If you're planning to start a plumbing business, one of the first questions you’ll face is: Do I need a license or certification to operate legally? The answer is yes—in most U.S. states, plumbing work is regulated and requires proper licensing and sometimes certifications to ensure safety, compliance, and professionalism.

At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping plumbing contractors protect their businesses with tailored Plumbing Contractor Insurance. In this guide, we’ll break down the licensing and certification requirements, why they matter, and how insurance plays a critical role in operating legally and safely.

Why Licensing Is Required for Plumbing Businesses

Plumbing involves working with water systems, gas lines, and sanitation infrastructure. Mistakes can lead to:

Water damage
Health hazards
Structural issues
Legal liability

Licensing ensures plumbers are trained, tested, and qualified to perform work safely and up to code. Most states require plumbers to be licensed at various levels before they can operate independently or run a business.

Common Plumbing License Types

Most U.S. states recognize these career stages:

1. Apprentice Plumber

Entry-level role
Works under supervision
Usually requires registration, not a license

2. Journeyman Plumber

Can work independently
Requires 4,000–8,000 hours of experience
Must pass a written exam

3. Master Plumber

Can supervise projects and pull permits
Requires additional experience and a higher-level exam

4. Plumbing Contractor License

Required to operate a plumbing business
Must employ at least one master plumber
Often requires passing a business law exam
Must carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation

Certifications for Plumbing Contractors

In addition to licensing, some states and municipalities require or offer certifications for specialized plumbing work. These may include:

Gas piping certification
Backflow prevention certification
Green plumbing or water conservation certification
Fire sprinkler system certification
Solar water heating certification

Certifications can help you:

Expand your service offerings
Meet local code requirements
Win commercial contracts
Build credibility with clients

State and Local Variations

Licensing and certification requirements vary by state—and sometimes by city or county. For example:

California, Texas, and Florida have strict licensing systems
Kansas, Missouri, and Wyoming leave licensing to local governments Always check with your state plumbing board or local regulatory office to confirm what’s required in your area.

Why Insurance Is Just as Important as Licensing

Most states require plumbing contractors to carry insurance before issuing a license. Wexford Insurance offers coverage tailored to plumbing businesses, including:

General Liability Insurance – Covers property damage and injuries.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Required if you hire employees.
Commercial Auto Insurance – Covers your work vehicles.
Equipment Breakdown Insurance – Protects your tools and machinery.
Commercial Property Insurance – Covers your office or storage space.

Final Thoughts

Yes, you do need a license or certification to operate a plumbing business in most states—and it’s a critical step toward building a trustworthy, compliant, and successful company. Pair your license with the right insurance coverage to protect your business and meet legal requirements.

At Wexford Insurance, we help plumbing contractors get insured and stay protected. Whether you're just starting or expanding, we’re here to support your journey.

👉 Contact us today.