Understanding Illinois Plumbing Licensing: A Complete Guide

Table of Contents

• Types of Plumbing Licenses in Illinois
• Application and Renewal Process for Plumbing Licenses in Illinois
• Exams & Required Training to Become a Licensed Plumber
• Continuing Education for Plumbers in Illinois
• Penalties for Operating Without a Plumbing License in Illinois
• Why Licensing Matters: Protecting Both the Contractor and the Homeowner
• Summary: Requirements for Illinois Plumbing Licenses

Types of Plumbing Licenses in Illinois

Illinois is one of the few states where all licensed plumbers must register through the same authority: the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). There are three main types of plumbing licenses under the IDPH:

1. Plumbing Apprentice

A plumbing apprentice in Illinois is someone registered and actively learning under the direction of a licensed plumber. Apprenticeship is the first crucial step toward licensure as a journeyman or licensed plumber.

Key facts:

• Must register with IDPH before beginning any plumbing work.
• Apprentices must be at least 16 years old.
• Must work under the direct supervision of a licensed plumber.
• Must complete a minimum of 4 years of apprentice training before applying to take the licensed plumber’s exam.

2. Licensed Plumber (Often referred to as Journeyman or Licensed Plumbing Professional)

This is the main plumbing license in Illinois required to perform plumbing work without direct supervision.

To become a licensed plumber:

• Must complete an apprenticeship program approved by the IDPH.
• Must pass the IDPH plumber licensing exam.
• Requires in-depth training including hands-on experience and classroom hours.

3. Plumbing Contractor License

The plumbing contractor certification in Illinois is required to own and operate a plumbing business or contract out plumbing work.

Requirements include:

• Must hold a valid Illinois plumbing license.
• Submit business information to the IDPH including bond and insurance documentation.
• Must register annually with the IDPH and comply with contractor rules.

Application and Renewal Process for Plumbing Licenses in Illinois

Each license type has its own application procedures. All licenses are issued and maintained through the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), and strict deadlines and documentation procedures apply.

Apprentice Registration:

• Submit an Apprentice Application to the IDPH.
• Provide your supervising plumber’s details.
• Include proof of employment and education.
• Annual renewal required.

Licensed Plumber Application:

• Submit proof of apprenticeship completion.
• Apply to take the plumbing license exam through the IDPH.
• Pay the examination fee.
• Upon passing, receive your license. Renewal occurs every year.

Plumbing Contractor Registration:

• Submit proof of holding a valid Illinois plumber’s license.
• Provide business information including:
• Certificate of insurance
• Surety bond ($20,000 minimum)
• Corporate registration (if applicable)
• Renew contractor registration annually.

Exams & Required Training to Become a Licensed Plumber

To transition from apprentice to licensed plumber, candidates must pass the Illinois Plumber Licensing Examination conducted by the IDPH or an approved testing agency.

What’s on the Exam?

• Plumbing theory
• Illinois plumbing code
• Blueprint reading
• Math and calculations
• Fixtures, water supply systems, drainage, venting

Training and Prep:

• 4+ years of approved apprenticeship training.
• Complete education hours through an accredited plumbing apprenticeship program.
• Hands-on experience is key: apprentices must learn layout, installation, repair, safety, and compliance.

Continuing Education for Plumbers in Illinois

To keep your Illinois plumbing license active and up to date, the IDPH requires continuing education (CE) for all licensed plumbers.

Continuing Education Requirements:

• 4 hours of CE annually for licensed plumbers.
• Must be completed through an IDPH-approved provider.
• CE topics include safety, plumbing code updates, environmental regulations, water system technologies.

Failure to submit proof of CE can result in a paused or invalid license. IDPH tracks plumber CE completion, so ensure documentation is submitted ahead of your renewal deadline.

List of IDPH-approved CE providers: IDPH Continuing Education Providers

Penalties for Operating Without a Plumbing License in Illinois

Operating without the proper Illinois plumbing license is a serious offense under state law. Unlicensed activity is not only illegal—it puts clients and workers at risk and undermines public health.

Consequences include:

• Fines of up to $5,000 per violation.
• Cease & desist orders.
• Civil or criminal charges.
• Revocation of future licensing opportunities.
• Listing on public online violation reports via the IDPH.

Why Licensing Matters: Protecting Both the Contractor and the Homeowner

Plumbing is essential work that directly affects water safety, sanitation, and public health. Licenses are more than a formality—they protect everyone involved.

For Contractors:

• Legal ability to work and get insured.
• Bids on public projects require a license number.
• Boosts your business credibility with clients.

For Homeowners:

• Assurance that the plumber is qualified and trained.
• Reduces the risk of water damage or health hazards.
• Licensed plumbers are held to a code of conduct and can be penalized for poor work.

Promoting your license status is a great way to stand out in a crowded marketplace and build long-term trust with customers.

Summary: Requirements for Illinois Plumbing Licenses

Here’s a quick summary checklist for those pursuing or maintaining an Illinois plumbing license:

• ✅ High school diploma or GED
• ✅ Register as a Plumbing Apprentice with the IDPH
• ✅ Complete an IDPH-approved apprenticeship program (minimum 4 years)
• ✅ Pass the IDPH plumbing license examination
• ✅ Renew your plumbing license annually
• ✅ Complete 4 hours of continuing education per year
• ✅ Register as a Plumbing Contractor if operating a business
• ✅ Maintain insurance and bond (Contractors)
• ✅ Stay compliant with IDPH rules and regulations

Need Help Navigating the Licensing Process?

If you’re unsure how to get a plumber’s license in Illinois or need help staying compliant, consider reaching out to:

• Your local plumbing union or trade association
• Approved plumbing apprenticeship programs in Illinois
• The Illinois Department of Public Health’s Plumbing Program office

Call to Action: Stay Current. Stay Certified.

If you’re an apprentice, journeyman, or plumbing contractor in Illinois, staying up to date with IDPH plumber rules and training is a must. Whether you’re learning how to get a plumber’s license in Illinois or managing an established business, meeting certification and continuing education requirements keeps you competitive and legal.

Looking to connect with professionals or mentor organizations to streamline your licensing journey? Reach out to your local union or apprenticeship program—or contact us today for assistance with maintaining your credentials.

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