How to get a Plumbing license in Virginia

The full Virginia plumbing licensing path — experience hours, required exam, fees, and where to apply. Verified 6/12/2026.

Career prep, not a license.

Prep for the Virginia Plumbing exam

Plumbing 101 — Start Here (Free) — self-paced lessons, practice exam, certificate of completion.

Start prep
License details

Virginia Tradesman — Plumber (Journeyman / Master)

Verified 6/12/2026
Experience required
Journeyman: 4 yrs (8,000 hrs) + 240 hrs vocational training. Master: 1 additional yr as Journeyman.
Required exam
Virginia Master Plumber Exam (IPC + VA USBC + business law) (PSI Services)
Notes & fees
Tradesman card + separate Class A/B/C Contractor license needed to bid. Exam ~$110, Tradesman license $90/2yrs. Reciprocity with NC, WV, KY for Journeyman.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get a plumbing license in Virginia?

You need journeyman: 4 yrs (8,000 hrs) + 240 hrs vocational training. master: 1 additional yr as journeyman.. Then pass the Virginia Master Plumber Exam (IPC + VA USBC + business law) administered by PSI Services. Applications go through the Virginia DPOR — Board for Contractors / Tradesman Section.

What exam do I need to pass?

Virginia Master Plumber Exam (IPC + VA USBC + business law) — administered by PSI Services.

How much experience do I need?

Journeyman: 4 yrs (8,000 hrs) + 240 hrs vocational training. Master: 1 additional yr as Journeyman.

What about fees, insurance, and continuing education?

Tradesman card + separate Class A/B/C Contractor license needed to bid. Exam ~$110, Tradesman license $90/2yrs. Reciprocity with NC, WV, KY for Journeyman.

Other plumbing licensing guides

Browse by state or trade.