Plumbing is a highly regulated trade in Idaho, with strict licensing requirements designed to ensure safety, quality, and professionalism across the state. Whether you’re considering a career in plumbing or are a homeowner seeking reliable service, understanding Idaho’s licensing process is essential.
Who Needs a Plumbing License in Idaho?
In Idaho, anyone performing plumbing work—whether as an individual, business, or contractor—must hold a valid state-issued license. This applies to all forms of plumbing installations, repairs, and alterations in both residential and commercial settings. The state’s licensing system is overseen by the Idaho Division of Building Safety, which enforces regulations and administers exams to uphold industry standards.
Types of Plumbing Licenses in Idaho
Idaho offers several categories of plumbing licenses, each with specific scopes of work and requirements:
- Plumbing Apprentice Registration: Entry-level position for those learning the trade.
- Journeyman Plumber License: For individuals who have completed apprenticeship requirements and passed the state exam.
- Plumbing Contractor License: For journeymen seeking to operate their own business and supervise other plumbers.
- Specialty Licenses: Including specialty apprentice, specialty journeyman, and specialty contractor licenses, which cover more focused areas of plumbing work.
Steps to Becoming a Licensed Plumber in Idaho
1. Register as an Apprentice
The first step is to register as a plumbing apprentice with the Idaho Division of Building Safety. Apprentices must be at least 16 years old and enroll in a recognized apprenticeship program.
These programs typically last four years and require:
- 8,000 hours of supervised, on-the-job training under a licensed journeyman
- 144 hours of classroom instruction each year
Apprentices must renew their registration annually for their experience to count toward journeyman eligibility.
2. Complete Apprenticeship Requirements
During the apprenticeship, individuals gain hands-on experience in various aspects of plumbing, from installations and repairs to code compliance. The combination of classroom learning and fieldwork ensures apprentices are well-prepared for the demands of the trade.
3. Obtain a Journeyman Plumber License
After completing the apprenticeship, candidates may apply to take the Idaho journeyman plumber exam. Requirements include:
- Four years of approved education
- 8,000 hours of supervised work experience
- Successful completion of a written and practical exam
The journeyman exam consists of 100 questions and a practical component, assessing knowledge of plumbing codes, installation practices, and safety protocols. Upon passing, applicants submit their licensing fee and receive their journeyman license, which must be renewed every three years.
4. Advance to Plumbing Contractor License
Journeymen who wish to operate their own plumbing business or supervise other plumbers can apply for a contractor license after holding a journeyman license for at least 2.5 years. The process involves:
- Submitting proof of experience as a journeyman
- Passing the contractor exam (also 100 questions)
- Providing a compliance bond upon successful exam completion
Contractor licenses also require renewal every three years, along with proof of continuing education.
Continuing Education and License Renewal
Idaho requires ongoing education to maintain plumbing licenses. Journeymen must complete eight hours of continuing education every three years, with half focused on code updates and half on industry-related topics. Contractors need sixteen hours in the same period. Keeping up with these requirements ensures plumbers remain current with evolving standards and technologies.
Specialty Plumbing Licenses
For those interested in a more focused scope of work, Idaho offers specialty licenses. These cover areas such as appliance installation, water treatment devices, and specific residential systems. Specialty licenses typically require less experience than a full journeyman license but are limited in the type of work that can be performed.
Why Licensing Matters for Homeowners
Licensed plumbers in Idaho are trained to adhere to strict safety codes and industry best practices. For homeowners, this means peace of mind—knowing that plumbing work is performed to the highest standards, reducing the risk of leaks, water damage, or code violations. Licensed professionals are also required to carry insurance and bonds, providing additional protection for property owners.
Plumbing Services Requiring Licensed Professionals
Two of the most common and essential plumbing services that require licensed professionals in Idaho are water line installation and repair, and water heater installation and repair.
Water Line Installation & Repair
Proper installation and maintenance of water lines are crucial for ensuring a safe and reliable water supply. Licensed plumbers use advanced diagnostic tools to locate leaks, assess pipe conditions, and perform repairs or replacements using methods that minimize disruption to your property. The process often involves inspection, excavation (or trenchless repair), installation of new lines, and thorough testing to guarantee system integrity.
Water Heater Installation & Repair
Water heaters are vital for daily comfort and sanitation. Licensed plumbers are trained to diagnose issues, perform repairs, and install new units in compliance with safety codes. Whether it’s addressing sediment buildup, replacing faulty components, or ensuring proper venting, professional installation and repair help extend the lifespan of your water heater and maintain energy efficiency.
Hire Burkhart Plumbing for Idaho-Certified Plumbing Services
Every plumbing license in Idaho is earned through years of training, testing, and oversight—so when you hire a licensed professional, you’re getting more than a service; you’re getting peace of mind. At Burkhart Plumbing, our certified team proudly serves Bayview, Post Falls, Coeur d’Alene, and surrounding areas, delivering code-compliant plumbing solutions backed by deep expertise.
Speak with an expert today to schedule a licensed plumber for your water heater installation, leak repair, or water line replacement.