Guide to Plumbing License in Illinois – Steps to Becoming a Licensed Plumber
Types of Plumbing Licenses in Illinois
In Illinois, the plumbing industry is regulated by the IDPH, and there are three primary levels of plumbing licenses:
1. Apprentice Plumber License
This entry-level license is required for anyone learning the plumbing trade under the supervision of a licensed plumber.
Who Should Apply: Individuals just beginning their careers in plumbing.
Key Details:
- Apprentices must register with the IDPH.
- Apprentices must work under the direct supervision of a licensed plumber.
- Apprenticeship must be approved and typically lasts four to six years.
- Apprentices are required to attend classroom education and practical on-the-job training.
2. Licensed Plumber (Journeyman Equivalent)
After completing an apprenticeship, individuals must pass the Illinois Plumbing Licensing Exam.
Who Should Apply: Those finishing their apprenticeship and ready to work independently.
Key Details:
- Must pass the Illinois Plumbing Licensing Exam administered by the IDPH.
- Once licensed, plumbers can install and repair plumbing systems independently.
- Must renew license annually.
3. Plumbing Contractor License
To operate a plumbing business in Illinois and take on projects independently, plumbers need to be licensed as plumbing contractors.
Who Should Apply: Plumbers looking to start or operate a business.
Key Details:
- Must have a current Illinois plumber’s license.
- Must obtain additional insurance and bonding.
- Must register with the Illinois Department of Public Health as a plumbing contractor.
- Business-level state licensing for those hiring workers or subcontractors.
Application and Renewal Processes for Illinois Plumbing Licenses
Understanding how to apply for and renew licenses is essential for maintaining compliance and avoiding penalties.
Application Process
Apprentice License
- Complete an apprenticeship application through IDPH.
- Provide proof of employer sponsorship.
- Pay the required application fee.
Plumber License
- Complete an application to sit for the state exam.
- Submit verification of apprenticeship completion, educational hours, and work experience.
- Pay the exam and license fees.
Plumbing Contractor License
- Already be a licensed plumber in Illinois.
- Submit a contractor license application with proof of:
- General liability insurance (minimum of $100,000 coverage)
- Surety bond ($20,000 minimum)
- Business entity registration
- Pay the applicable registration and licensing fees.
License Renewal
All Illinois plumbing licenses must be renewed annually through the IDPH website or by mail. Delays in renewal can lead to license lapse and legal consequences.
Steps to Renew:
- Log in to your IDPH account.
- Submit renewal application.
- Pay the renewal fee.
- Provide proof of continuing education (if applicable).
For renewal assistance, visit: Illinois Department of Public Health – Plumber Licensing
Exams, Training Requirements & Continuing Education for Illinois Plumbers
Licensing Exams
To become a licensed plumber in Illinois, passing the state examination is mandatory. This test covers a broad range of topics.
Exam Prerequisites:
- Completion of a certified apprenticeship.
- Minimum 4 years of practical experience.
- Submission of apprenticeship log and coursework details.
Registration:
- Must be approved by IDPH prior to scheduling the exam.
- Applications typically open in January with testing each spring.
For a current exam schedule, visit: Plumbing License Exam Information – IDPH
Continuing Education Requirements
Licensed plumbers in Illinois are required to complete continuing education (CE) hours annually to stay current on plumbing codes and industry practices.
Continuing Education For Plumbers IL – Requirements:
- Must complete 4 hours of approved CE training each year.
- Courses must be IDPH certified.
- Topics typically include:
- Code changes
- New technology in plumbing
- Safety regulations
- Water conservation methods
Proof of completion must be submitted as part of your license renewal application.
Penalties for Operating Without a Plumbing License in Illinois
Operating without a valid Illinois plumbing license can result in severe penalties for individuals and businesses. The IDPH enforces the Illinois Plumbing License Law.
Violations Include:
- Advertising plumbing services without a valid license
- Performing plumbing work without a license
- Failing to renew a license
- Falsifying qualifications or using another person’s license
Possible Penalties:
- Cease and desist orders
- Daily fines ranging from $1,000 to $10,000
- Revocation or suspension of license
- Legal action or criminal charges for repeat offenders
Protect your livelihood and reputation—always work under the proper licensing category and ensure renewals are submitted on time.
More penalty information is detailed under: Illinois Plumbing License Law – IDPH
Why Plumbing Licensing Matters—for Contractors and Customers
Licensing isn’t just bureaucracy—it’s a layer of protection and professionalism that:
- Ensures plumbers are trained and qualified
- Protects the health and safety of Illinois residents
- Reduces liability in the event of a system failure or accident
- Helps homeowners verify trustworthy contractors
- Promotes fair competition and discourages unqualified workers
For plumbing contractors, maintaining your license signals credibility, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence. Homeowners are increasingly checking a plumber’s license status before hiring—make sure you’re on the right side of trust and compliance.
Requirements Summary Checklist
Here’s a quick list of everything you need to know whether you’re a new apprentice or an established contractor:
To Become an Apprentice Plumber in Illinois:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Complete the apprentice registration with IDPH
- Work under a licensed plumber
- Enroll in classroom and on-the-job training
To Become a Licensed Plumber:
- Complete 4–6 years of apprenticeship
- Fulfill minimum training and education requirements
- Pass Illinois Plumbing Examination
- Meet annual continuing education requirements
- Renew license each year
To Become a Licensed Plumbing Contractor:
- Hold an active plumber license
- Submit proof of insurance and bonding
- Register your business with IDPH
- Pay contractor licensing fees yearly
Renewing Licenses:
- Log into IDPH portal and submit renewal
- Provide proof of CE hours (if required)
- Pay renewal fees by the deadline
Stay Compliant — Join a Plumbing Association or Contact a Mentor
Whether you’re just starting your plumbing career or running a successful contracting business, staying up-to-date with Illinois licensing requirements is critical.
Need help?
- Join a local trade association like the Illinois Plumbing Inspectors Association (IPIA) or Illinois Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (IL PHCC)
- Seek mentorship from experienced, licensed plumbers
- Contact the IDPH directly for licensing support
Remember: Getting your Illinois plumbing license is not just a one-time event—it’s an ongoing responsibility. Stay educated, remain compliant, and solidify your legacy as a trusted professional in the industry.
Want more resources on how to get a plumber’s license in Illinois or meet continuing education for plumbers IL? Contact us at 📞 1-800-555-PLUMB or follow us on:
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