Licensing Guides
Ohio Plumbing License: How to Become a Plumber in Ohio
Plumbing, OH
Joanne Bratton
Table of Contents
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing Contractor License in Ohio?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Ohio?
Does My Ohio Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Ohio?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Ohio?
You can’t rush through the training it takes to become a plumber, but time and effort leads to a career that is long-lasting, lucrative, and fulfilling. Almost every state requires plumbers to be licensed because it’s complicated work that affects the health and safety of our society.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 504,500 plumbers nationwide, and Ohio employs 14,490 of them. The national number is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, adding 44,000 to the ranks across the country. In Ohio, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is at 2% for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters.
Contractors struggle to find skilled tradesmen like plumbers, electricians, and HVAC or mechanical professionals while the demand for them continues to grow. According to the Associated General Contractors of America, construction employment in Ohio in July 2025 totaled 262,900, an increase of 13,600 (5.5%) from July 2024 and an increase of 30,200 (13%) from February 2020.
If you get the training you need, you should have a variety of jobs to choose from when you’re ready.
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Licensing requirements for plumbers vary from state to state and, in some cases, from locality to locality. Ohio has statewide standards for plumbing contractors, and in addition, many localities have requirements for journeyman plumbers and plumbing contractors.
Plumbing License Requirements for Plumbers in Ohio
Is a license required for plumbers in Ohio? Yes, depending on the work you perform and where you work. The state requires commercial plumbing contractors to hold a license. Many cities in Ohio require journeyman plumbers and plumbing contractors to obtain a local license.
The Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB), part of the Division of Industrial Compliance and a subdivision of the Ohio Department of Commerce, issues licenses for commercial plumbing, hydronics, electrical, and HVAC contractors. The state does not issue licenses for journeyman or master plumbers.
In addition, local jurisdictions set their own licensing requirements. For instance, Columbus requires journeyperson plumbers to obtain a city license and plumbing contractors to register their state license. In Cleveland, the city requires plumbing contractors to hold a city license in addition to the state license. In Cincinnati, journeyman plumbers must apply for a city license, and residential and commercial plumbing contractors must register with Hamilton County Public Health.
Types of Plumbing Licenses in Ohio
What are the types of plumber licenses in Ohio? The state issues one type of commercial plumbing license. This license is also referred to as a master license.
Commercial Plumbing Contractor License — A contractor is an individual or contracting company that performs commercial plumbing construction, improvement, renovation, repair, or maintenance, or employs tradespersons who perform plumbing work.
In Ohio, each city or county has its own requirements for plumbers or plumbing contractors. These are the plumbing licensing requirements in Columbus, the state’s most populous city.
City of Columbus Journeyperson Plumber License — A journeyperson plumber is a person with a journeyperson license to install, remove, alter, or repair plumbing and drainage systems.
City of Columbus OCILB Contractor Registration — Those who hold a OCILB specialty plumbing contractor license with the state must register with the city.
Each license has specific requirements.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
Commercial Plumbing Contractor License
Be at least 18 years old.
Have at least five years of experience as a plumbing tradesperson immediately prior to the date of submitting the application. Or, be a registered engineer with three years of business experience in the plumbing industry. You’ll need to show proof of your experience with tax documents such as W-2s, Schedule Cs, or Schedule K-1s.
New contractor applicants also must submit one of the following:
A minimum of one permit for each of the last five years obtained by the licensed contractor you worked for, reflected by your tax documents.
An active plumbing journeyman’s card.
A certificate of completion of an Ohio-approved or a U.S. Department of Labor registered apprenticeship program.
Complete 40 hours of a live or webinar-based virtual continuing education training in the appropriate trade from an approved OCILB training class and agency no more than one year from the date of application.
Never have been convicted of a disqualifying offense, as defined in Ohio law.
Submit a completed, notarized application and pay the $25 application fee.
Once the board approves your application, complete a state and federal background check.
Pass the plumbing contractor exam.
Obtain a minimum of $500,000 contractor liability insurance coverage.
Pay the $25 license fee.
City of Columbus Journeyperson Plumber License
Have a minimum of five full years of experience in the plumbing trade. Or, complete a U.S. Department of Labor registered plumbing apprenticeship. You may also be a registered engineer in Ohio.
Pass the National Standard Journeyman Plumber (F25-N) exam.
Submit a completed, notarized application.
Pay the $300 application fee.
Once the board approves your application, you will receive notification through certified mail with instructions on how to complete the remaining steps in the licensing process.
City of Columbus OCILB Registration
Hold a current Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board license.
Submit a copy of your OCILB license.
Obtain a minimum $25,000 surety bond.
Submit a completed, notarized OCILB contractor application to the city.
Pay the $350 registration fee.
Steps to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Ohio
Be at least 18 years of age.
Have at least five years of experience as a plumbing tradesperson. Those who are registered engineers must have at least three years of work experience in the plumbing industry.
Submit tax documents such as W-2s, Schedule Cs, or Schedule K-1s to show proof of your experience.
Submit one of the following: One permit for each of the last five years obtained by the licensed contractor you worked for; an active plumbing journeyman’s card; a certification of completion from an approved apprenticeship program; or complete 40 hours of a live or webinar-based virtual continuing education training from an approved OCILB training class.
Submit a completed, notarized application and pay the $25 application fee.
Once the board approves your application, complete a state and federal background check.
Pass the plumbing contractor exam.
Submit a copy of exam results to the OCILB.
Submit proof of a minimum of $500,000 contractor liability insurance coverage.
Pay all applicable fees.
Check with the locality where you plan to perform plumbing work, since cities and counties set their own licensing requirements. Many require plumbing journeymen and contractors to obtain a local license or registration.
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing Contractors License in Ohio
There are many benefits to obtaining your Ohio plumbing contractor license:
Most importantly, Ohio requires commercial contractors to hold state licensure to legally perform any plumbing work. Cities and counties set their own licensing requirements, and may also require journeyman plumbers or plumbing contractors to obtain a local license or registration.
A trade license is proof of your experience and skill.
Only licensed contractors can operate a business and advertise services, obtain commercial insurance, pull building permits and pass inspections, and bid on public and government projects.
Having a license protects your company and customers.
A license gives you a competitive advantage in the job market and increases your earning potential as you acquire more experience.
What Is the Mean Wage for a Plumber in Ohio?
The annual mean wage for a plumber in Ohio is $66,940, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, that salary increases, as you might expect, as you acquire more experience. A plumbing salary database, shared with ServiceTitan by Payscale.com, projects the median plumber salary will increase nationally in 2025 by 3.65% for entry-level workers, and 3.55% for both intermediate and senior level plumbers. In Ohio those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $51,900
Intermediate (2-4 years): $67,500
Senior (4-7 years): $73,100
Salaries vary widely depending on the city where you work and other factors like education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession.
What Business Owners Need to Know
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Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency.
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Sales presentations that make conversations with customers easier and drive up the average ticket.
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How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing License in Ohio?
The cost to get started as a plumber in Ohio is fairly low. If you choose to start as an apprentice to gain the required hands-on experience, you’ll have fees to cover course instruction, textbooks, and materials. Apprenticeship program costs vary depending on the program, but your employer or union typically will absorb these costs.
If you work as a journeyman plumber, different cities have different licensing requirements. Some cities do not require journeyman plumbers to hold a local license. Other cities, such as Columbus, require journeyman plumbers to pass an exam and hold a City of Columbus Journeyperson Plumber License. For this license, you’ll pay a $300 application fee and pay $115 to take an exam. The annual license renewal fee is $150.
For an Ohio commercial plumbing contractor license from the OCILB, the application fee costs $25; the license fee is $25. Some cities or counties may require plumbing contractors to obtain license or registration. License renewal is $60 for a one-year license or $180 for a three-year license. In Columbus, plumbing contractors holding an OCILB license must also register with the city and pay a $350 registration fee. The annual registration costs $350 to renew.
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How to Get a Plumbing License in Ohio
Becoming a plumbing professional in Ohio isn’t fast, but it is straightforward.You’ll also want to check with the local jurisdictions where you plan to work, as cities and counties have their own licensing requirements for journeyman plumbers or plumbing contractors. Follow these steps to obtain your commercial plumbing contractor license with the OCILB.
COMPLETE APPRENTICESHIP/WORK EXPERIENCE: To become a commercial plumbing contractor, you must have at least five years of experience as a plumbing tradesperson. If you’re a registered engineer, you must have three years of business experience in the plumbing industry.
APPLY FOR EXAM: Complete a notarized OCILB testing application. You’ll need to submit several documents with the notarized testing application. To show proof of your work experience, submit tax documents such as W-2s, Schedule Cs, or Schedule K-1s. You must also submit one of the following:
A minimum of one permit for each of the last five years obtained by the licensed contractor you worked for, reflected by the above tax documents.
An active plumbing journeyman’s card.
A certificate of completion of an Ohio-approved or a U.S. Department of Labor registered apprenticeship program.
Complete 40 hours of a live or webinar-based virtual continuing education training in the appropriate trade from an approved OCILB training class and agency no more than one year from the date of application.
PASS BACKGROUND CHECK: To be eligible to take the exam, you must never have been convicted of a disqualifying offense, as defined in Ohio law. Once the board approves your testing application, you must pass a state and federal background check. The background check agency must submit results to the OCILB.
PASS PLUMBING CONTRACTOR EXAM: Those who pass the background check will be notified of how to schedule the plumbing contractor exam with PSI. The exam consists of two parts, an Ohio business and law exam and an Ohio plumbing contractor exam. The exam costs $138.
OBTAIN CONTRACTOR LICENSE: Once you pass the exam, send a copy of your examination results, a certificate of liability insurance showing $500,000 coverage, and a $25 check for the license fee payable to “Treasurer, State of Ohio” to:
Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board 6606 Tussing Road Reynoldsburg, OH 43068.
The OCILB provides a list of forms on its contractors and contracting companies page.
Columbus
Follow these steps to obtain your journeyperson plumber license with the City of Columbus.
COMPLETE APPRENTICESHIP/WORK EXPERIENCE: To be eligible for a journeyperson plumber license in Columbus, you must have five years of experience in the plumbing trade or have completed a U.S. Department of Labor registered plumbing apprenticeship. You may also be a registered engineer in Ohio.
PASS EXAM: Take and pass the National Standard Journeyman Plumber (F25-N) exam. Applicants register with Pearson VUE. The exam costs $115.
APPLY FOR LICENSE: Complete the journeyperson plumber application. Submit the license application and $300 application fee no later than one week before a scheduled meeting of the City of Columbus Skilled Trades Review Board. Submit the application by emailing it to BZSLicensing@Columbus.gov; you will receive an email with a link to pay the fee online, or mail the application and fee to:
City of Columbus — Department of Building & Zoning Services 111 N Front St. Columbus, Ohio 43215
Upon board approval, the applicant will receive notification by certified mail with instructions on how to complete the remaining steps in the licensing process.
CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS: Columbus requires plumbing contractors to register with the city. Plumbing contractors must submit a copy of their current OCILB license and proof of a minimum $25,000 surety bond along with their OCILB contractor application to the email or mailing address listed above. The annual registration fee is $350.
Columbus provides a list of forms on its documents and forms page.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Plumbing Contractors License in Ohio?
It takes a minimum of five years of experience to obtain your state commercial plumbing contractor license. Each city and county in Ohio sets their own licensing regulations, so the experience requirement varies at the local level. Columbus requires those applying for a city journeyperson plumber license to have five years of experience in the plumbing trade, or complete a U.S. Department of Labor apprenticeship program.
The great news is that as an apprentice, you earn a wage from the very beginning and compensation increases each year as you acquire more training and knowledge, until you are a licensed plumber. Your salary increases again when you become a plumbing contractor. As a licensed plumbing contractor, you can be your own boss and grow your business as much as you want.
Ohio Plumber Training Programs and Schools
Plumbers are responsible for more than just fixing leaks or clogs. They design, install, and renovate systems that carry liquids or gasses. In addition to mechanics, they must know and follow plumbing code.
Since the state of Ohio requires plumbing professionals to begin their career with work experience or an apprenticeship, you may not choose to get a postsecondary degree. If you want to build your knowledge before beginning as an apprentice, there are a few programs intended to prepare you for an apprenticeship in plumbing. Columbus State Community College offers a plumbing apprenticeship readiness certificate; Franklin County offers a Building Futures Pre-Apprenticeship Program. The Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Contractors (PHCC) of Ohio also offers pre-apprenticeship training.
Trade Schools/Community Colleges
Plumbing training opportunities include:
Apprenticeship
Apprenticeship opportunities include:
Affiliated Construction Trades of Ohio — listing of plumbing Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committees (JACT)
Association of Plumbing and Hydronic Contractors (APHC) of Central Ohio
Program Prerequisites: For most apprenticeship plumbing programs, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED certificate.
On-the-Job Experience: While on the job, you will need to use good customer service skills, possess mechanical capability, pay attention to detail, and be physically fit. The job typically includes hours of walking, standing, and working in tight spaces, and includes some heavy lifting.
For more detailed information about plumbing school options, check out our Ultimate Guide to Plumbing Schools in Ohio.
Ohio Plumbing Contractor Licensing Exam Details
To obtain a commercial plumbing license with the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board, you must pass a contractor exam with PSI. To begin the process, submit your completed testing application to the OCILB. After the board approves your application, you must pass a state and federal background check before taking the exam. Once you pass the background check, the board notifies applicants how to schedule the plumbing contractor exam with PSI.
The exam consists of two parts: the Ohio business and law exam and an Ohio plumbing contractor exam. The exam costs $138. PSI provides a candidate bulletin with detailed exam information, including approved references.
Exam locations include:
Akron
Cambridge
Cincinnati
Cleveland
Dublin
Groveport
Hamilton
Macedonia
Maumee/Toledo
Troy
Wadsworth
The Ohio business and law exam is open book and consists of 50 questions. It has a two-hour time limit. Subject areas include:
Business organization
Licensing
Estimating and bidding
Contract management
Project management
Insurance and bonding
OSHA record keeping and safety
Personnel regulations
Financial management
Tax laws
Lien laws
Pretest items
The Ohio plumbing contractor exam is open book and consists of 100 questions. It has a four-hour time limit. Subject areas include:
General knowledge
General regulations
Plumbing fixtures
Water supply systems
Drainage, waste, and sanitary vents
Indirect wastes
Roof drain piping
Specialty plumbing
Isometric analysis
Pretest items
In the City of Columbus, journeyperson plumbers must pass a National Standard Journeyman Plumber (F25-N) exam. Applicants register with Pearson VUE. The exam costs $115. The International Code Council (ICC) publishes a contractor/trades examination information bulletin with detailed information.
The exam is open book and consists of 70 questions. It has a three-hour time limit. The exam is based on the 2015 International Plumbing Code and tests the candidate’s ability to assist in the installation of residential or commercial plumbing water supply, drainage, facilities, storm water, health care appliances, and appurtenances. For licensure in Columbus, exam scores are valid for one year from the date of the passing score.
Who Issues Plumbing Contractors Licenses in Ohio?
The Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board issues commercial plumbing contractor licenses and is located at 6606 Tussing Road, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068. Those with licensing questions may call the office at (614) 644-3493.
Each city or county has their own licensing requirements. In Columbus, the Department of Building and Zoning Services issues journeyperson plumber licenses and oversees plumbing contractor registrations. The City of Columbus Building and Zoning Services is at 111 N. Front St., Columbus, Ohio 43215. They may be contacted at (614) 645-7433.
Does My Ohio Plumbing Contractors License Work in Any Other State?
Ohio has reciprocity agreements for plumbing with Arkansas, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Tennessee. This means if you hold an OCILB plumbing contractor license, you may be eligible for an exam waiver. You will still need to apply for the license from the appropriate state licensing agency and follow the licensing process.
Arkansas: If your Ohio licensing examination included both plumbing and natural gas, your license is in good standing, and you meet all requirements of the Arkansas Committee of Plumbing Examiners, you may be eligible for an Arkansas Master Plumber’s License without taking an exam.
Mississippi: If you hold a current OCILB license, you may be eligible for a trade exam waiver for a Mississippi contractor license. You must have taken the Ohio exam and not have had any disciplinary action during the past three years. You will still need to take the Mississippi business and law exam.
South Carolina: If you hold an OCILB license in good standing, you may be eligible for a trade exam waiver for a contractor license. You must still pass the South Carolina commercial contractors business, law, and project management examination.
Tennessee: Those holding an OCILB license may be eligible for a trade exam waiver. You will need to complete a license verification form with your Tennessee contractor’s license application.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Plumbing License in Ohio?
Ohio has reciprocity agreements for plumbing with Arkansas, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Those with an out-of-state contractor license who wish to obtain a license from the OCILB must follow the guidelines in the out-of-state application process. Individual reciprocity applications listed by state are found at the bottom of the OCILB contractor page.
Applicants still will need to meet the five-year work experience requirement and submit required documentation with their application. Once the application and background check is approved, the board notifies applicants about which exam they must take before obtaining their Ohio contractor license.
Plumbing Certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. National Inspection Testing and Certification (NITC), International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (ASSE Certifications) and other professional certifications are not required but may make you a more attractive hire to prospective employers or can increase your marketability to customers.
Other Requirements Unique to Ohio
State plumbing requirements may be found in Ohio Revised Code Title 47, Chapter 4740 and in the Ohio Plumbing Code.
The state requires plumbing contractors to display their license number on all advertisements, business vehicles that display the company name, business cards, letterhead, and directory advertisements.
Are There Plumbing Scholarships in Ohio?
Yes, there are several plumbing or trade school scholarships in Ohio. They include:
Lake/Geauga Educational Assistance Foundation — Ohio Township Association Trade School Scholarship
The Troy Foundation — Road Less Traveled Scholarship of the Tipp City Foundation
Be sure to check with your high school or area community organizations for local scholarships.
How Can Someone Verify My Plumbing License in Ohio?
Potential clients or employees may verify your Ohio plumbing contractor license by using the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board’s license verification page. Search licenses by:
License type
Credential number
Business name
Individual name
Address
Individuals may also generate and download a roster of active licenses.
Columbus provides an online portal, where individuals may search for licensed and registered contractors. Search by license type, individual name, business name, or address.
When Can a Plumbing License Be Suspended in Ohio?
A suspended plumber’s license means the plumber is temporarily prohibited from legally practicing their trade. In Ohio, a plumbing license can be suspended or revoked for many reasons, including:
Being convicted of or pleading guilty to a crime of moral turpitude or disqualifying offense (as defined in section 4776.10 of the Ohio Revised Code).
Violating licensing rules.
Obtaining or attempting to obtain a license or a renewal by means of fraud, deception, or misrepresentation.
Engaging in fraud, misrepresentation, or deception in business.
Allowing an unlicensed individual to use a license.
Failing to comply with disciplinary action.
Failing to maintain insurance.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For specific information about state plumbing license regulations, refer to Ohio Revised Code.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Plumbing Work in Ohio?
Performing plumbing work as a contractor in Ohio without a license is a misdemeanor on the first violation and a fourth-degree misdemeanor on subsequent violations.
Violators may face a fine of up to $1,000 per violation per day. A complaint may be filed against the unlicensed individual with the local prosecutor for criminal prosecution. In addition, the state attorney general may bring a civil action for appropriate relief, including a temporary restraining order or permanent injunction.
Continuing Education
Those with an OCILB Plumbing Contractor License must complete eight hours of continuing education for a one-year renewal, or 24 hours of continuing education for a three-year renewal. The OCILB sends out renewal notices.
License holders may find approved continuing education courses on the OCILB eLicense Center. Licenses must be renewed online. Renewal cost is $60 for a one-year license or $180 for a three-year license.
License expirations and renewal fees for local licenses vary based on local requirements. In Columbus, journeyperson plumber licenses and contractor registrations must be renewed annually. A journeyperson plumber license costs $150 to renew, and contractor registration costs $350.
Resources
You can stay up to date on all plumbing industry news in several ways:
Check top plumbing blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends.
Listen to top plumbing podcasts like ServiceTitan’s Toolbox for the Trades podcast.
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