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License Types

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners is the state agency responsible for licensing plumbers in Texas and has the authority to issues licenses, endorsements, and registrations. Below is general information about licensing. You can click on the name of the license, endorsement, or registration you are interested in to get more detailed information.

Licenses

There are four types of plumbing licenses: Tradesman Plumber-Limited, Journeyman, Master, and Plumbing Inspector. To obtain a license, you must meet all eligibility requirements, take and pass an examination, and pay a fee. Licenses renew annually. When you are issued your license for the first time, you will be assigned a random expiration date anywhere from 6-18 months from the date you passed your licensure exam…unless you are a Plumbing Inspector. All licensees must complete six hours of continuing professional education to be eligible to renew.

You may hold both a Journeyman and a Master Plumber License at the same time. When you receive your Master License, it is automatically assigned an expiration date that matches the expiration date of your Journeyman License. When you renew your licenses, you only have to pay the renewal fee for the Master License. You may also hold a Plumbing Inspector License in addition to your Journeyman or Master Plumber License, or both. However, your Plumbing Inspector License will renew in January instead of syncing up with the expiration date of your other license(s). If you hold all three licenses, and you are an unaffiliated Plumbing Inspector, you have to pay the renewal fee for both the Master and Plumbing Inspector Licenses. If you hold all three licenses, and you are an affiliated Plumbing Inspector, you only have to pay the renewal fee for the Plumbing Inspector License.

IMPORTANT: You cannot renew a license, registration, or endorsement that has been expired for more than two years. Instead, you must reinstate it. When your license or registration goes into reinstate, it is like you never held that license or registration at all. Therefore, reinstating your license requires registering as a Plumber’s Apprentice and applying for and passing all applicable exams. To take an exam, you must meet all CURRENT eligibility requirements even if those requirements were not in effect the first time you obtained your license. For example, if you received your Journeyman Plumber License prior to February 1, 2010, and did not complete an Apprenticeship program, you would be required to take the 48-hour training program in order to be eligible to take the Journeyman Plumber Examination.

Endorsements

There are three types of endorsements: Medical Gas Piping Installation, Multipurpose Residential Fire Protection Sprinkler Specialist, and Water Supply Protection Specialist. An endorsement is a certification that you can add to a Journeyman, Master, or Plumbing Inspector License. To obtain an endorsement, you must meet all eligibility requirements, take and pass an examination, and pay a fee. Endorsements renew once every three years. When you obtain an endorsement for the first time, it is automatically assigned an expiration date that matches the expiration date of the license you added the endorsement to.

Individuals who hold the Medical Gas Piping Installation Endorsement must complete at least two hours of continuing professional education to be eligible to renew.

Registrations

There are four types of registrations: Plumber’s Apprentice, Drain Cleaner-Restricted, Drain Cleaner, and Residential Utilities Installer. The Drain Cleaner-Restricted, Drain Cleaner, and Residential Utilities Installer Registrations function just like an endorsement because they are certifications that you can add to a Plumber’s Apprentice Registration. To obtain a registration, you must meet all eligibility requirements, fill out an application, and pay a fee. Registrations renew annually. When you are issued your Apprentice Registration for the first time, you will be assigned a random expiration date anywhere from 6-18 months from the date your application was approved. When you obtain an additional registration for the first time, it is automatically assigned an expiration date that matches the expiration date of your Apprentice Registration. Individuals who hold the Drain Cleaner-Restricted, Drain Cleaner, or Residential Utilities Installer Registration must complete six hours of continuing education to be eligible to renew.

Plumbing Inspector

Eligibility Requirements

You may take the Plumbing Inspector Examination if:

  • you are a citizen or national of the United States or an alien or non-immigrant eligible for
    licensure by the State of Texas;
  • you have a high school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED); and
  • you have completed 500 hours of training and experience in the plumbing industry; or
  • you are currently licensed as:
    • a Master Plumber in Texas;
    • a Journeyman Plumber in Texas;
    • a Professional Engineer in Texas;
    • an Architect in Texas; or
    • a Plumbing Inspector in another state that has licensing requirements substantially
      equivalent to the licensing requirements of the TSBPE.

How to Apply for the Examination

To apply for the Plumbing Inspector Examination you must submit a completed application with all supporting documentation, your completed Plumbing Inspector Employment Certification Form(s), and a $55 fee to the TSBPE. If you have been convicted of a felony, you must also submit a Supplemental Criminal History Information Form (SCHIF).

Plumbing Inspector Examination Application
Plumbing Inspector Employer’s Certification Form
Supplemental Criminal History Information Form (For Applicants Who HAVE SUBMITTED Fingerprints)

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you must submit a $55 fee to obtain your certificate of licensure. To obtain your pocket card, you must submit documentation showing your affiliation with a political subdivision.

Fingerprints

All applicants and examinees in the state of Texas are required by law to submit fingerprint data. This is a one-time requirement; applicants who have previously submitted fingerprint data to the TSBPE are not required to re-submit per application. If the TSBPE has not received fingerprint data for a Plumbing Inspector Applicant, however, the application will remain deficient until the issue has been resolved. For more information on fingerprints or to download instructions for applicants seeking to submit their fingerprints, please see this page.

Scope of Work Permitted

A Plumbing Inspector may inspect plumbing work performed within the jurisdiction of any political subdivision with which the inspector is affiliated. An affiliation is established if the inspector is employed by, or under contract with, a political subdivision to perform plumbing inspections. Proof of affiliation may be submitted using the Plumbing Inspector Employer Certification Form or in the form of a letter signed by an authorized representative of a political subdivision. An affiliated Plumbing Inspector may not have a financial or advisory interest in any plumbing company.

A Plumbing Inspector may also perform a customer service inspection certification for a public drinking water system pursuant to 30 Tex. Admin. Code Chapter 290.

Possible Endorsements

A Plumbing Inspector who meets the eligibility requirements may obtain a Medical Gas Piping Installation Endorsement, a Multipurpose Residential Fire Protection Sprinkler Specialist Endorsement, or a Water Supply Protection Specialist Endorsement. Visit this page to learn more about endorsements.

Fees

Exam Fee: $55
Initial License Fee: $55
Renewal Fee: $55
Late Renewal Fee (expired less than 90 days): $27.50
Late Renewal Fee (expired more than 90 days): $55

Tradesman Plumber-Limited

Eligibility Requirements

You may take the Tradesman Plumber-Limited Examination if:

  • you are a citizen or national of the United States or an alien or non-immigrant eligible for
    licensure by the State of Texas;
  • you are registered as a Plumber’s Apprentice in Texas or hold a current Journeyman
    Plumber or Master Plumber license issued in another state;
  • you have at least 4,000 hours of experience working in the plumbing trade; and
  • you have completed a 24-hour training course* approved by the TSBPE or you are enrolled and in or have completed a training program approved by the United States Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship.

*If you hold a Journeyman or Master Plumber License issued in another state, you do not have to complete the 24-hour training program.

How to Apply for the Examination

To apply for the Tradesman Plumber-Limited Examination you must submit a completed application with all supporting documentation, your Employer Certification Form(s), and a $36 fee to the TSBPE. If you have been convicted of a felony, you must also submit a Supplemental Criminal History Information Form (SCHIF).
Tradesman Plumber-Limited Examination Application
Employer Certification Form
Supplemental Criminal History Information Form (For Applicants Who HAVE SUBMITTED Fingerprints)

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you must submit a $35 fee to obtain your certificate of licensure and pocket card.

Fingerprints

All applicants and examinees in the state of Texas are required by law to submit fingerprint data. This is a one-time requirement; applicants who have previously submitted fingerprint data to the TSBPE are not required to re-submit per application. If the TSBPE has not received fingerprint data for a Tradesman-Limited Exam Applicant, however, the application will remain deficient until the issue has been resolved. For more information on fingerprints or to download instructions for applicants seeking to submit their fingerprints, please see this page.

Scope of Work Permitted

A Tradesman Plumber-Limited may construct, install, repair, service, or renovate plumbing for one and two-family dwellings under the supervision of a Responsible Master Plumber. A Tradesman may also directly supervise a Plumber’s Apprentice on job sites for one and two-family dwellings. If you are a licensed Tradesman and want to work on a job that involves a structure other than a one or two-family dwelling, you may do so only under the direct supervision of a licensed Journeyman or Master Plumber. Direct supervision means that the Journeyman or Master is on the job site with you at all times you are performing plumbing work.

Possible Endorsements

A Tradesman Plumber-Limited may obtain a Drain Cleaner Registration. Visit this page to learn more about the Drain Cleaner Registration.

Fees

Exam Fee: $36
Initial License Fee: $35
Renewal Fee: $35
Late Renewal Fee (expired less than 90 days): $17.50
Late Renewal Fee (expired more than 90 days): $35

Journeyman Plumber

Eligibility Requirements

You may take the Journeyman Plumber Examination if:

  • you are a citizen or national of the United States or an alien or non-immigrant eligible for licensure by the State of Texas;
  • you are currently registered as a Plumber’s Apprentice or currently licensed as a Tradesman Plumber-Limited in Texas or currently licensed as Journeyman Plumber or Master Plumber in another state;
  • you have at least 8,000 hours of experience working in the plumbing trade; and
  • you have completed a 48-hour training course* approved by the TSBPE or you are enrolled and in or have completed a training program approved by the United States Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship.

*If you hold a Journeyman or Master Plumber License issued to you by another state, you do not have to complete the 48-hour training program.

How to Apply for the Examination

To apply for the Journeyman Plumber Examination you must submit a completed application with all supporting documentation, your Employer Certification Form(s), and a $40 fee to the TSBPE. If you have been convicted of a felony, you must also submit a Supplemental Criminal History Information Form (SCHIF).

Journeyman Plumber Exam Application
Employer’s Certification Form
Supplemental Criminal History Information Form (For Applicants Who HAVE SUBMITTED Fingerprints) 

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you must submit a $40 fee to obtain your certificate of licensure and pocket card.

Fingerprints

All applicants and examinees in the state of Texas are required by law to submit fingerprint data. This is a one-time requirement; applicants who have previously submitted fingerprint data to the TSBPE are not required to re-submit per application. If the TSBPE has not received fingerprint data for a Journeyman Plumber Exam Applicant, however, the application will remain deficient until the issue has been resolved. For more information on fingerprints or to download instructions for applicants seeking to submit their fingerprints, please see this page.

Scope of Work Permitted

A Journeyman Plumber may install, change, repair, service, or renovate plumbing under the supervision of a Responsible Master Plumber.  A Journeyman may also directly supervise a Plumber’s Apprentice on all job sites or a Tradesman Plumber-Limited on job sites for structures other than one and two-family dwellings.

Possible Endorsements

A Journeyman Plumber who meets the eligibility requirements may obtain a Medical Gas Piping Installation Endorsement, a Multipurpose Residential Fire Protection Sprinkler Specialist Endorsement, or a Water Supply Protection Specialist Endorsement.  Click here to learn more about endorsements.

Fees

Exam Fee: $40
Initial License Fee: $40
Renewal Fee: $40*
Late Renewal Fee (expired less than 90 days): $20
Late Renewal Fee (expired more than 90 days): $40

*If you hold both a Journeyman and a Master Plumber License, you only have to pay the renewal fee for your Master License.

Master Plumber

Eligibility Requirements

You may take the Master Plumber Examination if:

  • you are a citizen or national of the United States or an alien or non-immigrant eligible for licensure by the State of Texas;
  • you have a high school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED); and
  • you are currently licensed as:
    • a Journeyman Plumber in Texas or another state and have held your license for at least four years;
    • a Journeyman Plumber in Texas or another state, have held your license for at least one year, and have successfully completed a training program approved by the United States Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship;
    • a Master Plumber in another state and previously held a Journeyman Plumber License for at least four years;
    • a Master Plumber license in another state, previously held a Journeyman Plumber License for at least one year, and have successfully completed a training program approved by the United States Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship.


How to Apply for the Examination

To apply for the Master Plumber Examination you must submit a completed application with all supporting documentation and a $175 fee to the TSBPE. If you have been convicted of a felony, you must also submit a Supplemental Criminal History Information Form (SCHIF).
Master Plumber Examination Application
Supplemental Criminal History Information Form (For Applicants Who HAVE SUBMITTED Fingerprints)

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you must submit a $75 fee to obtain your certificate of licensure and pocket card.

Fingerprints

All applicants and examinees in the state of Texas are required by law to submit fingerprint data. This is a one-time requirement; applicants who have previously submitted fingerprint data to the TSBPE are not required to re-submit per application. If the TSBPE has not received fingerprint data for a Master Plumber Exam Applicant, however, the application will remain deficient until the issue has been resolved. For more information on fingerprints or to download instructions for applicants seeking to submit their fingerprints, please visit this page.

Scope of Work Permitted

A Master Plumber may install, change, repair, service, or renovate plumbing under the supervision of a Responsible Master Plumber. A Master may also directly supervise a Plumber’s Apprentice on all job sites or a Tradesman Plumber-Limited on job sites for structures other than one and two-family dwellings.

Possible Endorsements

A Master Plumber who meets the eligibility requirements may obtain a Medical Gas Piping Installation Endorsement, a Multipurpose Residential Fire Protection Sprinkler Specialist Endorsement, or a Water Supply Protection Specialist Endorsement. Visit this page to learn more about endorsements.

Fees

Exam Fee: $175
Initial License Fee: $75
Renewal Fee: $75
Late Renewal Fee (expired less than 90 days): $37.50
Late Renewal Fee (expired more than 90 days): $75

Empty desks in TSBPE Exam Center.

TSBPE Achieves Over 50% Growth in Plumbing Examinations Conducted from Fiscal Year 2022 to Fiscal Year 2023

Agency News, Featured / By
Dramatic Increase in Exam Capacity is a Direct Response to Public Feedback and Legislative Mandate. 

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) proudly announces a remarkable achievement in its examination and licensure program for fiscal year 2023. Building on public feedback and directives from the 88th Texas Legislature, the TSBPE has dramatically increased the number of written and practical examinations conducted, alongside an impressive rise in pass rates. 

In fiscal year 2022, the TSBPE administered 4,963 examinations with a 70% pass rate. In a striking advancement, fiscal year 2023 saw this number soar to 9,616 examinations, accompanied by an enhanced pass rate of 72.3%. This growth is a direct response to the public’s need for more qualified plumbers and the legislative mandate to strengthen the plumbing industry in Texas. 

TSBPE Board Chair Frank S. Denton reflects on these milestones, saying, “The progress we’ve made this past year is a testament to our commitment to elevating the plumbing profession in Texas. By listening to public feedback and adhering to the legislative mandate, we’ve not only increased our examination capacity but also enhanced the quality of our licensure process. This success signifies our dedication to ensuring the highest standards in plumbing services for the people of Texas.” 

A significant factor in this achievement is the opening of the TSBPE’s Exam Center in Waco, a venture made possible through a collaborative partnership with Texas State Technical College (TSTC). 

TSTC Chancellor Mike Reeser commends this effort, stating, “Our inter-agency efforts have been a model for how government in Texas can get stuff done by working together. Our common mission of supplying a high-quality workforce made it a possibility, but the TSBPE’s willingness to work together toward tangible results was the secret weapon in achieving a meaningful outcome. We’re making a difference statewide!” 

Another pivotal development contributing to this success is the implementation of Computer-Based Testing with partner, Pearson VUE. This initiative has expanded the availability of TSBPE examinations to more than 60 testing centers across Texas, significantly increasing accessibility for aspiring plumbers. 

The TSBPE remains dedicated to its mission of protecting the health and safety of Texans by ensuring the integrity and proficiency of licensed plumbers. These achievements mark a significant stride towards a future where every Texan can trust in the quality and reliability of plumbing services in our great state. 

TSBPE Seal behind the Texas State Capitol Building

88th Texas Legislature

Agency News, Featured / By

The following is a list of TSBPE-related bills being considered by the 88th Session of the Texas Legislature which convenes from January 10, 2023 to May 29, 2023. The bill numbers are linked to the relevant Texas Legislature Online page for each bill where you’ll find the text of the bill as well as a detailed history of all actions taken on the legislation to date. For more information on the legislative process and how a bill becomes a law, visit the Texas Legislature Online.

Bill NumberAuthorDescription
SB 2446PaxtonRelating to an exemption from the plumbing licensing law for plumbing work performed on certain private property.
SB 1659SchwertnerExtends the existence of the agency from 2027 to 2033 subject to review under the Texas Sunset Act.
SB 939KingRelating to statutes of limitation and repose for certain claims arising out of residential construction.
SB 734HinojosaRelating to the consequences of a criminal conviction on a person’s eligibility for an occupational license.
HB 1747LeachRelating to the consequences of a criminal conviction on a person’s eligibility for an occupational license.
HB 2024LeachRelating to statutes of limitation and repose for certain claims arising out of residential construction.
HB 2334BurnsRelating to an exemption from the plumbing licensing law for plumbing work performed on certain private property.
HB 2408ReynoldsRelating to building codes applicable in the unincorporated areas of a county; authorizing a fee.
HB 2422LozanoRelating to an exemption from sales and use taxes for tools and equipment of skilled trade workers for a limited period.
HB 2424
Romero, Jr.		Relating to training and certification requirements for public swimming pool and spa inspectors.
HB 2689
Bell, Cecil		Relating to the adoption of a certain plumbing code by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners.
HB 3407SpillerRelating to requiring commercial automobile insurance for Responsible Master Plumbers (RMP).

Computer-Based Testing – Frequently Asked Questions

Agency News, Computer-Based Testing, Featured / By

Now that Computer-Based Testing (CBT) is in full swing, here are answers to the most common questions we’ve received. Note: this post is a living document and will be continually updated as necessary. Newly added or changed sections are designated “UPDATED.”

How do I know that I meet an exam’s requirements before I apply? – DO THIS FIRST
The best way to confirm that you have met all of the requirements for the exam you’re applying for is to check your current license page using the TSBPE’s Public License Search. This page lists everything the TSBPE has on file for the licensee including: fingerprint status, training classes and even hours certified by your employer (if they’re on file). Because the TSBPE does not process or approve incomplete applications, it is very important that you make sure you meet each of the requirements of the exam you’re applying for on this page before submitting your application to the TSBPE.

What is Computer-Based Testing (CBT) and Who is Pearson VUE?
The TSBPE recently began rolling out a convenient and efficient new way to take what was previously referred to as the “written” plumbing license examination. The new exams are administered via computer by our partner, Pearson VUE, a leader in Computer-Based Testing in Texas. Pearson VUE has over 40 locations statewide, including multiple locations in every major metro area.

So no more written exams?
Yes. Computer-Based Tests (CBTs) will eventually replace all written examinations. The practical (hands-on) examinations will continue to be administered at TSBPE locations in Austin and Waco.

How do I apply for an examination now that CBT has been introduced?
The application process has not changed; exam applications can be submitted online via the Online Licensing System or in person through US Mail using a printable form. Please include all required documents as we do not process incomplete applications.

How do I schedule a computer-based examination once I’ve submitted my application to the TSBPE?
Once the TSBPE approves your exam application, Pearson VUE will email everything you’ll need to schedule and complete your CBT. For this reason, it’s crucial that you make sure the email address you’ve submitted to the TSBPE is correct. If you need to change your email address, please go to tsbpe.texas.gov and choose “Update Your Address” in the Contact Us menu.

How much different are the new Computer-Based Tests from the old written exams? Do I have to study for an entirely new test now?
The tests themselves remain the same length and the same format; if you prepped for the TSBPE-administered written exam, you prepped for the CBT.

My application was approved but I have lost the email from Pearson VUE, what do I do now?
1. Search for the words “Authorization to Test” in your inbox, junk/spam, and trash folders to make sure it’s not in your email.
2. Are you positive that your application was complete? Remember, the TSBPE does not process or approve incomplete applications. Please login to your account on the Online Licensing System and look for the application in the Quick Start Menu. If it is listed, then it is still open and requires more information to be approved.
3. If you’re still convinced that your application was approved and that you should have received an email, please call Pearson VUE Customer Service: 888-304-3589. Hours of operation and more information is available on the Pearson VUE website.

Are the new application(s) updated and online now?
Yes, right now the exams that are computer-based are the Tradesman-Limited, Journeyman, Med Gas Piping Installation and Water Supply Protection Specialist (WSPS) exams. These applications have been updated in the Online Licensing System and can be accessed right now. More exam types are coming soon.

What happens once I pass/fail the computer-based exam?
You’ll receive your results immediately upon completion of the Computer-Based Test. Don’t forget to check out with Pearson VUE staff before leaving the testing center. Failure to do so could prevent you from receiving your pass/fail letter. If the exam you applied for includes a practical portion, your practical exam will not be scheduled until you have passed the computer-based portion.

If you passed: Your test results will be posted to your TSBPE online account within 2 business days. If the exam you applied for includes a practical exam (Apprentice to Journeyman, Apprentice to Tradesman and MedGas), allow approximately 30 days to receive your TSBPE email regarding your scheduled practical exam.*

If you passed the Tradesman to Journeyman: a “Journeyman Initial” license application will be opened and added to your TSBPE online account within 2 business days. Simply login to your account and pay the fees associated with the Journeyman Initial license application and your plastic card will be mailed in 7-10 business days.

If you did not pass: You are allowed up to five attempts at passing your Computer-Based Test and you must pass the exam within one year from the initial TSBPE application authorization. Do not reapply for additional authorizations through the TSBPE until you have exhausted all five of these attempts. Study up while waiting the required 30 days from your initial failure, then reschedule with Pearson VUE and try again. After a second failure you’re required to wait 60 days, 90 days after a third attempt and so on. If the exam you applied for includes a practical portion, your practical exam will not be scheduled until you have passed the computer-based portion.

*Please have patience as we are currently transitioning a large amount of existing applicants to this new program.

What can I do to make sure my exam application is approved quickly so that I can reduce my wait time?
Make sure you have prepared all necessary documents (government-issued photo ID, additional forms, etc.) before you submit an application. Submitting an incomplete exam application will significantly delay or even nullify your application.

I submitted an application but I haven’t heard from anyone… should I submit another application?
No. If you’ve submitted an application that you know is complete (see next question and answer), please allow time to process. Submitting a second application will only delay the process more.

How do I know that my application has processed?
If you submitted a complete application but can no longer see the open application in your TSBPE account, then it has processed and you should see an invitation email from Pearson VUE.
Important hint: If you are certain you have submitted all of your documents and met all requirements, search for your license using the TSBPE’s Public License Search. If you see your hours posted in the training section, your application has been processed. The last item to post to complete the process is your verified hours.

Is there a fee associated with Computer-Based Tests?
Yes. The fee for a CBT is $68.50 which is paid directly to Pearson VUE. For those exams that also include a practical or “hands-on” exam (Tradesman-Limited from Apprentice, Journeyman from Apprentice, MedGas), the standard TSBPE examination fee is still applicable in addition to the $68.50 Pearson VUE CBT Fee.

NEW: Are the new Computer-Based Tests available in Spanish?
Not currently. We are working with Pearson VUE to provide CBTs in Spanish but for now they are only available in English. If you would like to take an exam in Spanish, please send an email to exam.scheduler@tsbpe.texas.gov after submitting your completed application, and you will be scheduled to take the written exam in Austin. Please only email this address if you would like to take a Spanish language written exam.

¿Están disponibles en español las nuevas pruebas basadas en computadora?
No actualmente. Estamos trabajando con Pearson VUE para proporcionar CBT en Espanol, pero por ahora solo están disponibles en inglés. Si desea realizar un examen en español, envíe un correo electrónico a exam.scheduler@tsbpe.texas.gov después de enviar su solicitud completa y se programará para tomar el examen escrito en Austin. Envíe un correo electrónico a esta dirección solo si desea realizar un examen escrito de español.

Compact with Texans

Mission

The mission of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) is to protect Texas citizens against the health and safety hazards that can result from improperly installed plumbing, gas, and medical gas systems.

Customer Service Standards

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) strives to ensure members of the public have a positive experience with us by providing the highest level of customer service possible. For quick and easy access, we maintain detailed up-to-date information on our web site and continually work to increase the number of online services available. Under our Compact with Texans we commit to:

  • Treat you with courtesy and respect.
  • Be fair, ethical and professional.
  • Provide timely and responsive service.
  • Give you clear, accurate and consistent information.
  • Follow through on our commitments.
  • Strive for continuous improvement in all of our services.

We are honored to serve you and welcome your feedback. Please send comments, suggestions, or complaints regarding customer service to info@tsbpe.texas.gov.

SERVICES

The TSBPE is responsible for regulating the plumbing industry in Texas through the administration and enforcement of the Plumbing License Law (Chapter 1301 of the Texas Occupations Code). The services provided by the TSBPE fall into four categories: examination, licensing, enforcement, and education.

The TSBPE issues the following types of licenses, endorsements, and registrations:

  • Master Plumber License
  • Journeyman Plumber License
  • Tradesman Plumber-Limited License
  • Plumbing Inspector License
  • Medical Gas Piping Installation Endorsement
  • Multipurpose Residential Fire Protection Sprinkler Specialist Endorsement
  • Water Supply Protection Specialist Endorsement
  • Plumber’s Apprentice Registration
  • Drain Cleaner-Restricted Registration
  • Drain Cleaner Registration
  • Residential Utilities Installer Registration

EXAMINATION

The TSBPE’s examination function ensures that all those who hold a plumbing license or endorsement have met or exceeded minimum standards of competency and have the knowledge and experience needed to perform plumbing work properly. The Examination Department is primarily responsible for:

  • Writing examinations and updating exam questions and content
  • Developing examination review materials
  • Processing applications for all licensure and endorsement examinations
  • Processing applications for the Drain Cleaner-Restricted, Drain Cleaner, and Residential Utilities Installer Registrations
  • Scheduling exams
  • Administering and grading exams
  • Notifying applicants of their exam results
  • Responding to customer inquiries

Licensing

The TSBPE’s licensing function ensures that those working in the plumbing trade are staying current with changes in the plumbing codes, knowledgeable about technical advances in the industry, and improving their skill as plumbers through continuing education. The registration of Plumber’s Apprentices is vital to the growth of the industry because it provides a clear career path for obtaining a license. The Licensing Department is primarily responsible for:

  • Processing initial applications for registration as a Plumber’s Apprentice Registration
  • Issuing initial licenses and endorsements, including licensure certificates and pocket cards
  • Processing renewals for all licenses, registrations, and endorsements
  • Providing information and answering questions about continuing professional education requirements
  • Providing technical support regarding online user accounts
  • Testing improvements to the TSPBE’s online system
  • Responding to customer inquiries


enforcement

Proactive enforcement of the Plumbing License Law, rules adopted by the Board, and plumbing codes protects both consumers and the plumbing industry. Identifying and penalizing individuals and companies offering or performing plumbing services without the proper license reduces the risk posed to consumers by improperly installed plumbing. Penalizing business owners, licensees, and registrants who fail to abide by the laws, rules, and ordinances regulating plumbing keeps industry standards high. The Enforcement Department is primarily responsible for:

  • Processing consumer complaints
  • Investigating consumer complaints
  • Imposing administrative penalties for violations of the Plumbing License Law and Board Rules
  • Reviewing exam applications and Plumber’s Apprentice Registration applications submitted by individuals with criminal convictions
  • Conducting random, jobsite compliance checks
  • Monitoring continuing professional education courses

The department also has an attorney who is responsible for:

  • Advising the Enforcement Committee
  • Representing the TSBPE at contested case hearings
  • Drafting agency rules
  • Assisting with the training of instructors of continuing professional education courses
  • Drafting Final Orders and Agreed Final Orders for consideration by the Board

Education

Although not expressly required by statute, the TSBPE believes an education component is inherent in all of its functions. Without the TSBPE’s efforts to educate licensees and registrants about what is expected regarding compliance, many plumbers would find themselves in unintentional violation of the laws, rules, ordinances, and plumbing codes that regulate the industry. Educating consumers about the regulations helps them to understand what is expected of a licensed plumber, which in turn helps them to make better decisions when choosing who to hire. Raising awareness about the dangers of incorrectly installed plumbing systems also helps to deter consumers from hiring unlicensed individuals.

Other Registrations

There are three different registrations that may be added to a Plumber’s Apprentice Registration. They include:

  • Drain Cleaner-Restricted Registration;
  • Drain Cleaner Registration; and
  • Residential Utilities Installer Registration.

The Drain Cleaner Registration may also be added to a Tradesman Plumber-Limited License.

Eligibility Requirements

Drain Cleaner-Restricted

You may register as a Drain Cleaner-Restricted if:

  • you are currently registered as a Plumber’s Apprentice in Texas; and
  • you receive a passing score on the Drain Cleaner-Restricted Registrant Verification of Training Affidavit

Drain Cleaner

You may register as a Drain Cleaner if:

  • you are currently registered as a Plumber’s Apprentice in Texas;
  • you have at least 4,000 hours working in the plumbing trade as a Drain Cleaner-Restricted; and
  • you receive a passing score on the Drain Cleaner Verification of Training Affidavit.

Residential Utilities Installer

You may register as a Residential Utilities Installer if:

  • you are currently registered as a Plumber’s Apprentice in Texas;
  • you have at least 2,000 hours working in the plumbing trade as a Plumber’s Apprentice; and
  • you receive a passing score on the Residential Utilities Installer Verification of Training Affidavit.

Scope of Work Permitted

Drain Cleaner-Restricted
A Plumber’s Apprentice who holds a Drain Cleaner-Restricted Registration may clear obstructions in building drains and sewers through any existing code-approved opening under the general supervision of a Responsible Master Plumber. All other plumbing work performed by a Drain Cleaner-Restricted must be performed under the direct supervision of a licensee.

Drain Cleaner
A Plumber’s Apprentice or Tradesman Plumber-Limited who holds a Drain Cleaner Registration may install cleanouts and remove and reset p-traps for the purpose of eliminating obstructions in building drains and sewers under the general supervision of a Responsible Master Plumber. All other plumbing work performed by an Apprentice with a Drain Cleaner Registration must be performed under the direct supervision of a licensee. All other plumbing work performed by a Tradesman with a Drain Cleaner Registration must be performed under the direct supervision of a licensee unless the work is for a one or two-family dwelling.

Residential Utilities Installer
A Plumber’s Apprentice who holds a Residential Utilities Installer (RUI) Registration may construct and install yard water service piping and building sewers for one and two-family dwellings under the general supervision of a Responsible Master Plumber. All other plumbing work performed by a RUI must be performed under the direct supervision of a licensee. A RUI may not install piping for gas service or supervise a Plumber’s Apprentice.

How to Apply for a Registration

To obtain a registration you must submit a completed application, a Verification of Training Affidavit, and an $18 fee to the TSBPE. Applicants for the Drain Cleaner and Residential Utilities Installer Registrations must also submit Employer Certification Form(s). If you have been convicted of a felony, you must submit a Supplemental Criminal History Information Form (SCHIF).
Drain Cleaner-Restricted Registration Application
Drain Cleaner Restricted Verification of Training Affidavit*
Drain Cleaner Registration Application
Drain Cleaner Verification of Training Affidavit*
Residential Utilities Installer Registration Application
Residential Utilities Installer Verification of Training Affidavit*
Employer’s Certification Form (ECF)
Supplemental Criminal History Information Form

*If you do not receive a passing score on the Verification of Training Affidavit, you will have to submit a new affidavit before your application can be approved.

Fees

The fees are the same for all three registrations:
Registration Application Fee: $18
Renewal Fee: $18
Late Renewal Fee (expired less than 90 days): $9
Late Renewal Fee (expired more than 90 days): $18