If you’re a working plumber or plumbing contractor in Illinois—or just beginning your journey as a plumbing apprentice—understanding the licensing and certification requirements is absolutely essential. Whether you’re looking to step up from apprentice to journeyman, or you’re a seasoned pro ready to operate your own contracting business, it’s critical to comply with all Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) regulations.

Types of Plumbing Licenses in Illinois

In the state of Illinois, the plumbing profession is regulated under the Illinois Plumbing License Law, administered by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). There are three main types of plumbing licenses you need to know about:

1. Apprentice Plumber License

This is the entry point for individuals wishing to learn the plumbing trade. Apprentices must work under the direct supervision of a licensed plumber.

Requirements:

• Must be at least 16 years old.
• Must be employed by a licensed plumbing contractor.
• Must register with the IDPH as an apprentice within 30 days of employment.
• Must renew annually.

Note: Apprentices may not perform plumbing work unsupervised.

2. Licensed Plumber / Journeyman Plumber

Once an apprentice has gained sufficient training, they may register to take the plumber licensing exam in Illinois.

Requirements:

• A minimum of 4 years of apprenticeship or equivalent training approved by the IDPH.
• Pass the Illinois plumber’s licensing exam.
• Submit exam application with required fees.
• Must renew license annually with proof of continuing education.

3. Plumbing Contractor License

Plumbing contractors are plumbing professionals who operate a plumbing business or oversee other plumbers. A plumbing contractor must either be a licensed plumber or have a licensed plumber on staff.

Requirements:

• Must have business insurance and a surety bond.
• At least one licensed plumber must be designated as the supervising plumber.
• Must submit a plumbing contractor application form and annual contractor fee to the IDPH.
• Maintain current licenses and proper records for employed plumbers.

For more detailed definitions and license applications, visit the IDPH Plumbing Licensing page: IDPH Plumbing Licensing

Application and Renewal Process

The Illinois plumbing license process is broken down by license type, but in general, applicants must follow these steps and timelines:

Steps to Get a Plumber’s License in Illinois

1. Complete Apprenticeship Training
   Spend a minimum of four years under supervision or via a certified program.
2. Apply to Take the Plumbing Exam
   Submit an application for the plumber’s licensing exam via the IDPH, including transcripts and documentation of training.
3. Pass the Exam
   The Illinois plumber’s exam includes both written and practical components.
4. Submit Final Application for License
   After passing the exam, file documentation proving that all qualifications are met.
5. Pay Associated Fees
   Current fees for exams and licenses are listed on the official IDPH site.

License Renewal

All plumbing licenses in Illinois must be renewed annually:

• License Period: May 1 – April 30
• Renewal Deadline: Licenses must be renewed by May 1 to remain in good standing.
• Continuing Education Proof: Journeyman and contractors must submit proof of required CEUs (Continuing Education Units).
• Renew Online: IDPH License Renewal Portal

Required Exams, Training, and Continuing Education

Illinois takes plumbing safety and professional practice seriously. Before you can earn or renew your plumbing license or plumbing contractor certification in IL, you’ll need to meet strict training and education criteria.

Plumber Licensing Exam

The plumber licensing exam consists of two parts:

• A written exam covering Illinois Plumbing Code, occupational safety, construction regulations, and plumbing design standards.
• A practical exam involving hands-on piping assembly and system identification.

Candidates must score a passing grade on both components to be licensed.

Training Requirements

• A 4-year apprenticeship or equivalent.
• Documentation of employment history, hours worked, and types of plumbing tasks completed.
• Approved trade school training may reduce apprenticeship time.

Continuing Education for Plumbers in IL

To renew your plumbing license in Illinois, you must complete continuing education each year by an IDPH-approved provider.

CEU Requirements:

• At least 4 hours of CEU annually.
• Courses must be approved and focus on plumbing code updates, job safety, or emerging technologies.

You can search for approved CEU courses and providers on the IDPH Continuing Education page

Penalties for Operating Without a License

Operating as a plumber without a valid Illinois plumbing license is illegal and subject to serious consequences—for both you and your business.

Common Penalties:

• Cease and Desist Orders from IDPH
• Monetary Fines exceeding $5,000 per violation
• Criminal Charges for repeat offenses or fraudulent representation
• Public Disclosure – Unlicensed practitioners may be publicly listed for violating state regulations
• Loss of Reputation – Regulatory non-compliance can harm customer trust

Don’t take risks. Even small plumbing tasks require oversight by a licensed professional.

Tip: Always keep your physical license card and digital records up to date and accessible.

Why Licensing Protects You and the Homeowner

Plumbing systems are vital to public health. A poorly installed or repaired plumbing system can lead to contaminated drinking water, property damage, gas leaks, and other hazards. That’s why Illinois strictly enforces its licensing rules under the IDPH guidelines.

Here’s how licensing helps everyone:

For Plumbing Contractors:

• Legal Protection: A license verifies you meet Illinois legal standards, protecting your business from citations or lawsuits.
• Professional Credibility: A license builds trust with potential clients, general contractors, and inspection authorities.
• Insurance and Bonding Access: Most insurers and bonding agencies require a valid plumbing license.

For Homeowners and Clients:

• Verified Expertise: Licensing proves the plumber has passed exams, received proper training, and is held to industry standards.
• Accountability: Licensed contractors are answerable to the IDPH, and clients can report unprofessional or unlawful conduct.
• Health and Safety Assurance: Projects done by a licensed plumber are more likely to meet code and avoid costly repairs or threats.

Summary: Keys to Plumbing Licensing Compliance in Illinois

Whether you’re searching for “how to get a plumber’s license in Illinois” or investigating the renewal process for your contractor business, here’s a concise checklist to stay on track:

🔧 Illinois Plumbing Licensing Checklist:

• Register with IDPH as an apprentice within 30 days of employment
• Complete a 4-year apprenticeship under supervision of a licensed plumber
• Submit application and sit for the Illinois plumber’s licensing exam
• Pass both written and practical portions
• Apply for your plumber or contractor license with proper documentation
• Complete 4 hours of continuing education each year
• Renew your license annually via the IDPH renewal portal
• ❌ Never operate plumbing services without proper licensing

Take Action: Stay Compliant, Connected, and Informed

Keeping up with your Illinois plumbing license obligations takes focus and organization. But doing so ensures you’re not only staying legal—you’re protecting your livelihood, your customers, and your professional reputation.

Are you unsure where to start on your path to becoming a licensed plumber or running a certified plumbing business in Illinois? Reach out to a local plumbing trade association, mentor, or training center for guidance.

Helpful Resources:

• Illinois Department of Public Health – Plumbing Program
• Plumbing Contractors Association of Chicago & Cook County
• Illinois Plumbing Inspectors Association

Whether you’re searching for information on plumbing contractor certification IL, IDPH plumber rules, or continuing education for plumbers IL — staying educated is your competitive edge.

Have questions or need help navigating your licensing path? Contact our office today at (312) 555-PLMB, or find us on social media — we’re here to help every step of the way.

📞 Phone: (312) 555-PLMB
📘 Facebook: @IllinoisPlumbingExperts
📸 Instagram: @IllinoisPlumbers
🖥️ Website: IllinoisPlumbersPros.com

Stay licensed. Stay trusted. Grow your reputation the right way.

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