Overview

Plumbers install and repair water, gas, and drainage systems. Most states require a license for any plumbing work beyond minor repairs.

State plumber license plus local municipality permits. Chicago has separate licensing requirements.

License tiers and what each allows

LicenseWhat you can doExam required
Apprentice Training level. Work under supervision. No independent work. Registration only
Journeyman Plumber Install, repair, and maintain systems under supervision or independently in most states. Yes. State licensing exam (~$65 fee)
Master Plumber Full independent work, supervise others, pull permits, design systems. Yes. Advanced state exam
Plumbing Contractor Run a plumber business. Employ others. Bid on contracts. Business license + proof of Master

Step-by-step path

1

Register as an apprentice

Register with Illinois Department of Public Health - Plumbing before starting work. This is required to legally accumulate supervised hours toward your journeyman qualification. Some states charge a small registration fee.

2

Accumulate 8,000 hours of supervised experience

Work under a licensed journeyman or master plumber. This takes approximately 4 years at full-time hours. Your employer is required to verify your hours when you apply for the journeyman exam.

3

Pass the journeyman licensing exam

The exam covers Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) or International Plumbing Code (IPC) requirements and state-specific rules. Exam fee is $65. Most candidates study 4-8 weeks using a state-approved prep guide before sitting for the test.

4

Apply for your journeyman license

Submit your application to Illinois Department of Public Health - Plumbing after passing the exam. License fee is $65. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Your employer's verification of your hours is required at this stage.

5

Renew annual

Your Illinois license renews annual. Renewal fee is $65. Some states require continuing education at renewal. Always renew on time to avoid a lapse in licensure.

Fee summary

ItemFee
Apprentice registrationVaries (check board)
Journeyman exam$65
Journeyman license$65
License renewal (annual)$65
Fees change. Confirm current amounts directly with Illinois Department of Public Health - Plumbing before applying. The figures above were verified in April 2026.
Illinois Department of Public Health - Plumbing official site

Frequently asked questions

Can I transfer my plumber license from another state to Illinois?
Most states do not have formal reciprocity agreements. However, Illinois may consider out-of-state experience during your application review. Contact Illinois Department of Public Health - Plumbing directly to discuss your situation before applying.
How long does it take to get a journeyman license in Illinois?
Minimum 4 years of full-time supervised work (8,000 hours), plus exam prep time (typically 4-8 weeks), plus Illinois Department of Public Health - Plumbing processing time (2-4 weeks).
Can AI replace a licensed plumber?
Plumbing requires physical access to confined and structural spaces, judgment on-site, and state-licensed sign-off. Remote execution is structurally impossible. State licensing laws require a human licensee to be responsible for this work. That structural requirement protects this trade from automation.
What is the median salary for a plumber in Illinois?
The national median is $59,880/yr. Illinois salaries vary based on metropolitan area, union membership, and specialization. Master-level licenses and contractor status can significantly increase earnings.