Navigating plumbing licensure in North Dakota begins with understanding that all plumbing professionals, from apprentices to master plumbers, are licensed at the state level by the North Dakota State Board of Plumbing. This is a key advantage, as it means your license is valid statewide without needing separate local approvals. This guide provides the definitive, step-by-step process for obtaining both Journeyman and Master plumber licenses in the state.
Do You Need a Plumbing License in North Dakota?
A state-issued plumbing license is required for any individual performing plumbing work in North Dakota. The industry is regulated by the North Dakota State Board of Plumbing under North Dakota Century Code (NDCC) Chapter 43-18, which defines plumbing and sets the requirements for licensure. Homeowners performing plumbing work on their own property may be exempt, but all individuals offering plumbing services to the public must be licensed.
North Dakota Plumbing License Classifications
North Dakota issues three primary plumbing license classifications: Master Plumber, Journeyman Plumber, and Apprentice Plumber, each with distinct scopes of practice and requirements.
Master Plumber License
A Master Plumber is an individual who has the experience and knowledge to plan, lay out, supervise, and install plumbing systems. They are authorized to contract for plumbing jobs and employ Journeyman and Apprentice plumbers.
Journeyman Plumber License
A Journeyman Plumber is an individual qualified to install and repair plumbing systems under the supervision of a Master Plumber. After gaining sufficient experience, a Journeyman may be eligible to apply for a Master Plumber license.
Apprentice Plumber Registration
An Apprentice Plumber is an individual learning the trade by working under the direct supervision of a licensed Master or Journeyman Plumber. Apprentices must be registered with the state and follow a structured experience path to qualify for the Journeyman examination.
How to Get a Journeyman Plumber License in North Dakota
To obtain a Journeyman Plumber license in North Dakota, applicants must complete a registered apprenticeship program, satisfy specific experience requirements, pass the Journeyman examination, and submit an application to the North Dakota State Board of Plumbing.
Journeyman Plumber Experience Requirements
The primary path to becoming a Journeyman Plumber is through a registered apprenticeship.
- Experience: Applicants must have worked as a registered apprentice under a licensed Master or Journeyman Plumber. Apprentices work under the direct supervision of a master or journeyman plumber for the first three years and may work independently in the fourth and fifth years.
- Registration: You must be registered as an apprentice with the North Dakota State Board of Plumbing to begin accumulating qualifying experience.
Journeyman Plumber Examination
The North Dakota State Board of Plumbing administers the licensing examination for Journeyman Plumbers.
- Administrator: The exam is given directly by the Board.
- Content: The exam covers topics related to the state plumbing code, installation practices, and practical knowledge required for safe and effective plumbing work.
- Scheduling: Exam scheduling is handled through the Board. Confirm the current process and available dates when submitting your application.
Journeyman Plumber Application Process and Fees
Follow these steps to apply for your Journeyman Plumber license:
- Verify Experience: Ensure you have completed the required apprenticeship experience.
- Complete the Application: Obtain and fill out the Journeyman Plumber license application from the North Dakota State Board of Plumbing.
- Submit Fees: Include the required fees with your application.
- Examination Fee: $50.00
- Application Fee: Per NDCC 43-18, the application fee is set by the Board and cannot exceed one hundred dollars. Confirm the current application fee with the Board before applying.
- Initial License Fee: The fee for the initial license is set by the Board. Confirm the current fee with the Board.
- Schedule and Pass the Exam: Once your application is approved, schedule and pass the Journeyman examination.
- Receive Your License: Upon passing the exam and paying all fees, the Board will issue your Journeyman Plumber license.
How to Get a Master Plumber License in North Dakota
To qualify for a Master Plumber license in North Dakota, candidates must hold a valid Journeyman license, accumulate additional licensed experience, successfully pass the Master examination, and apply to the North Dakota State Board of Plumbing.
Master Plumber Experience Requirements
Applicants for the Master Plumber license must meet the following criteria:
- License Prerequisite: You must hold a valid Journeyman Plumber license.
- Work Experience: You must demonstrate at least two years of work experience as a licensed Journeyman Plumber.
Master Plumber Examination
The North Dakota State Board of Plumbing also administers the Master Plumber exam.
- Administrator: The exam is administered directly by the Board.
- Content: The Master exam is more comprehensive than the Journeyman test, covering advanced plumbing code, system design, business practices, and supervisory responsibilities.
- Scheduling: Contact the Board to schedule your exam after your application has been approved.
Master Plumber Application Process and Fees
The application process for a Master Plumber license is as follows:
- Verify Eligibility: Confirm you have at least two years of experience as a licensed Journeyman.
- Submit Application: Complete the Master Plumber license application available from the Board.
- Pay Fees: Submit the required fees with your application.
- Examination Fee: $50.00
- Application Fee: Per NDCC 43-18, the application fee is set by the Board and cannot exceed one hundred dollars. Confirm the current fee directly with the Board.
- Initial License Fee: The fee for the initial license is published by the Board. Confirm the current amount before applying.
- Pass the Exam: Schedule and pass the Master Plumber examination.
- License Issuance: After passing the exam and paying all fees, you will be issued a Master Plumber license.
North Dakota Plumbing License Renewal and Continuing Education
North Dakota plumbing licenses must be renewed on a schedule set by the Board, requiring payment of a renewal fee and completion of mandatory continuing education hours.
Renewal Cycle and Fees
- Renewal Period: North Dakota plumbing licenses are renewed on the Board's schedule. Confirm the current renewal period and deadline with the North Dakota State Board of Plumbing.
- Renewal Fee: The renewal fee is set by the Board. Confirm the current renewal fee for your license tier before the deadline.
Continuing Education Requirements
According to NDCC chapter 43-18, licensed plumbers must complete continuing education for renewal.
- Credit Hours: A minimum of two (2) and a maximum of four (4) credit hours are required per renewal cycle.
- Approved Courses: The Board approves specific course topics and providers. Ensure any courses you take are approved for credit in North Dakota.
North Dakota Plumbing Reciprocity and Endorsement
North Dakota offers a path to licensure for Journeyman and Master Plumbers licensed in other states, provided applicants meet specific requirements set by the North Dakota State Board of Plumbing. An applicant licensed in another state may qualify for a North Dakota license if they meet the Board's criteria. Because requirements can vary, you should contact the Board directly to discuss your specific situation and obtain the correct application forms for licensure via reciprocity.
North Dakota Plumbing Contractor Bonding and Insurance Requirements
North Dakota plumbing contractors may be subject to bonding or insurance requirements. These requirements can be set by the North Dakota State Board of Plumbing or by local city or county jurisdictions. Before beginning work, contractors should confirm current bonding and general liability insurance requirements with both the state Board and the local building department in the area where the work will be performed.
North Dakota State Board of Plumbing Contact Information
For the most current applications, fee schedules, and regulations — including the Board's mailing address, phone, and email — visit the official website:
- Website: ndplumbingboard.gov
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs a plumbing license in North Dakota?
Any individual who performs plumbing work for the public in North Dakota must be licensed by the North Dakota State Board of Plumbing. This includes Master Plumbers, Journeyman Plumbers, and registered Apprentice Plumbers.
What are the types of plumbing licenses available in North Dakota?
North Dakota offers three main classifications for plumbers: Master Plumber, Journeyman Plumber, and Apprentice Plumber. Each has a different scope of work and set of requirements.
How do I become a registered apprentice plumber in North Dakota?
To become a registered apprentice, you must work under the supervision of a licensed Master Plumber and register with the North Dakota State Board of Plumbing. Contact the Board for the specific registration forms and requirements.
What is the difference between a Journeyman and Master Plumber license in North Dakota?
A Journeyman Plumber is qualified to perform plumbing installations and repairs under the supervision of a Master Plumber. A Master Plumber has additional experience, has passed a more comprehensive exam, and is legally authorized to contract for plumbing work and supervise other plumbers.
What fees are associated with becoming a plumber in North Dakota?
Fees include an examination fee of $50.00 for both Master and Journeyman exams. There are also application and initial license fees set by the Board, capped by state law. Per NDCC 43-18, the application fee cannot exceed one hundred dollars. Always confirm current fees with the Board.
Does North Dakota have plumbing license reciprocity with other states?
Yes, North Dakota may grant a license to a plumber licensed in another state if the applicant meets the Board's requirements. The specific terms for reciprocity are determined by the Board, so out-of-state applicants should contact them directly to verify eligibility.
What continuing education is required to renew my North Dakota plumber license?
Plumbers in North Dakota are required to complete between two and four credit hours of approved continuing education for each renewal cycle, as mandated by NDCC 43-18. Confirm the exact number of hours and approved course topics with the Board.