Public License Search
Public License Search
Online Login
TEXAS STATE BOARD OF PLUMBING EXAMINERS Protecting the health and safety of Texans since 1947

Quick Links:

Online Login

Quick Links:

Printable Forms
CE Providers

Author name: TSBPE

Empty desks in TSBPE Exam Center.

TSBPE Prepares for Plumbing Workforce Boom After Record Exam Growth

Agency News, Featured / By
Strategic Partnerships and New Facilities Support Plumbing Industry Across Texas

Austin, TX – April 15, 2025 – The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) is proud to announce major growth in plumbing licensing exams over the past three calendar years, reflecting ongoing efforts to strengthen the plumbing workforce across Texas.

Since 2022, the number of licensing exams administered by the TSBPE has risen by 111%, jumping from 4,953 exams in 2022 to 10,447 in 2024. In just one year, between 2022 and 2023, exams increased by 94%, reaching 9,616 — a strong sign of expanded access to, and interest in, the plumbing profession in Texas.

“This growth shows how much work we’ve put into making it easier and more convenient for people to become licensed plumbers in Texas,” said Lisa G. Hill, Executive Director of the TSBPE. “By opening new testing locations and offering more flexible options, we’re making sure the plumbing industry continues to thrive and meet the needs of our growing communities.”

In addition to the hard work of TSBPE’s dedicated staff, much of this success is thanks to partnerships with Texas State Technical College (TSTC) and Pearson VUE. In Waco, the TSBPE and TSTC teamed up to open a full-time testing center, giving more candidates the opportunity to take their practical exams. Meanwhile, Pearson VUE’s computer-based testing services have made written exams more accessible than ever across the state.

Even more growth is just around the corner. Beginning in May of this year, students who have enrolled in plumbing programs developed by the TSBPE and the Texas Education Agency (TEA) — currently in place at 60 high schools and seven trade schools — will begin graduating and entering the workforce. These new graduates represent the next generation of licensed plumbing professionals ready to serve communities across Texas.

To keep up with the increasing demand, the TSBPE will be further leveraging its strategic partnership with TSTC to open a third testing facility on the TSTC campus in Harlingen. The Board is also developing a mobile testing unit that will allow practical exams to be offered anywhere in Texas — bringing even more flexibility to future plumbers.

“We are focused on the future,” said Frank S. Denton, Chairman of the TSBPE. “By expanding access and meeting candidates where they are, we’re making it easier for Texans to join a critical and rewarding profession. The work we’re doing today will pay off for years to come.”

TSBPE continues to focus on improving services for the plumbing industry and the public, supporting the state’s economy and maintaining high standards of public health and safety.

###

About Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) is the regulatory body responsible for licensing qualified individuals in the plumbing sector and ensuring they abide by the established laws and best practices, all in the interest of safeguarding the health and safety of Texas residents. TSBPE media contact: Kevin.Dick@tsbpe.texas.gov

Ask Kevin Logo / Facebook Logo

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners Launches “Ask Kevin” on Facebook

Agency News, Featured, Social Media / By

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners Launches “Ask Kevin” on Facebook

Groundbreaking Knowledgebase now Just Clicks/Touches Away on Facebook Messenger

[AUSTIN, TEXAS, September 10, 2024] — The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) is pleased to announce the launch of “Ask Kevin” on Facebook Messenger. Visitors to the Official TSBPE Facebook page can now enjoy a seamless experience by simply clicking the “message” button, allowing them to instantly chat with Ask Kevin. This intelligent resource is here to provide comprehensive, accurate, and current information about Texas plumbing regulations and industry queries.

Since its inception, Ask Kevin has become an indispensable customer service tool for the TSBPE, successfully completing nearly 20,000 conversations with the public on the TSBPE website in less than a year. Now, this wealth of knowledge is available to the Facebook community with just a couple of quick clicks or touches. Whether it’s inquiries about the industry’s policies or the nuances of plumbing licensing and regulation in Texas, Ask Kevin offers fast, thorough and precise answers in just minutes.

Lisa G. Hill, Executive Director of TSBPE, shares her enthusiasm: “Ask Kevin provides an immediate source of answers to every facet of the plumbing industry in Texas. We encourage users not only to utilize this service but also to share Ask Kevin’s responses in relevant discussions on Facebook, as these answers are rooted in the most reliable and up-to-date information.”

Frank S. Denton, Chairman of the TSBPE Board, adds: “With the introduction of Ask Kevin on Facebook, we are making this effective use of human intelligence available to the plumbing industry in an even more accessible format. It’s an exciting step forward in our ongoing commitment to customer service and education.”

As the TSBPE marks the one-year anniversary of Ask Kevin’s original launch on the TSBPE website this month, the agency is excited to bring this enhanced level of service and transparency to its Facebook followers.

Ask Kevin is available 24/7 on Facebook by visiting facebook.com/TSBPE_Official and clicking “message.”

DISASTER RECOVERY

Disaster Recovery Assistance: Hurricane Beryl

Agency News, Disaster Recovery, Featured / By

Agency Response to Hurricane Beryl

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) understands the challenges posed by Hurricane Beryl. We are in the process of deploying Field Investigators to affected areas to ensure that plumbing services are provided by licensed professionals and to prevent exploitation by unlicensed contractors.

Rebuilding Efforts

TSBPE welcomes licensed Plumbers and Apprentices from other states to assist in the recovery. The TSBPE reciprocates plumbing licenses from both Arkansas and Louisiana as well as a streamlined licensure process for plumbers from other states.
Reciprocal License Verification Request (Louisiana and Arkansas ONLY)
Out-of-State Examination Request

Additional TSBPE Resources

Online Licensing System
Public License Search

Contact the TSBPE

Please use the following form for expedited assistance with questions related to disaster assistance. You may also call us at 512-936-5200 from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday – Friday. PLEASE ONLY USE THIS CONTACT METHOD FOR DISASTER RECOVERY PURPOSES.








    This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

    DISASTER RECOVERY

    Hurricane Beryl Resources

    Texas Division of Emergency Management
    Office of the Governor Disaster Declaration for Hurricane Beryl
    Texas Hurricane Center: Office of the Texas Governor
    Ready.gov Hurricane Preparation
    National Hurricane Center

    Hundreds of plumbers at the TSBPE's San Antonio Townhall.

    San Antonio Meeting Marks Notable Success for TSBPE’s Townhall Initiative

    Agency News, Featured, Townhall Meeting Series / By

    San Antonio Meeting Marks Notable Success for TSBPE’s Townhall Initiative

    Community Engagement Soars as Over 200 Plumbers and Plumbing Industry Staff Converge at TSBPE’s Latest Townhall Event
    Hundreds of plumbers at the TSBPE's San Antonio Townhall.
    Hundreds of plumbers at the TSBPE's San Antonio Townhall.

    SAN ANTONIO, TX, March 6, 2024 – The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) welcomed a significant turnout at its latest Townhall meeting in San Antonio, with well over 200 industry professionals in attendance. Hosted by the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) of San Antonio and the Mechanical & Sheet Metal Contractors Association (MCA-SMACNA) of San Antonio, the event stands as the most attended TSBPE Townhall Meeting thus far.

    Frank S. Denton, Chairman of the TSBPE, shared his thoughts on the meeting’s impact: “We had a great time in San Antonio. The level of engagement and the incredible turnout tells us that our community outreach efforts are headed in the right direction.”

    That “incredible turnout” was noteworthy not just for its size, but also for its role diversity. Apprentices, Responsible Master Plumbers (RMPs), inspectors, continuing education and career high school administrators from all over the greater San Antonio region engaged in dialogues about the plumbing industry’s current policies and future direction. Topics covered included agency statistical information, its evolving examination policies and processes, artificial intelligence and the TSBPE’s new “Ask Kevin” tool, as well as the usual friendly pushback and grievance airing befitting the event’s true Townhall meeting-style setting.

    Heidi Trimble, Executive Director of PHCC San Antonio, commented on the event’s atmosphere, “PHCC was very happy to provide our members and the San Antonio community at large the opportunity for open discussion with their regulatory body. And the turnout exceeded our expectations on every level.”

    Mr. Denton’s introduction of the 2-hour long session was followed by TSBPE Executive Director Lisa Hill’s presentation of practical information related to agency statistics and policies. Ms. Hill’s portion covered everything from the raw numbers of licensees in Texas to the TSBPE’s new self-scheduling option, a feature licensed plumbers and inspectors have been requesting for years. At the conclusion of Ms. Hill’s portion, Mr. Denton joined her for the event’s Q and A section in which attendees were told “no topic is off limits.” The candid discussion that followed emphasized the TSBPE’s dedication to transparency and helped attendees parse through the significant noise and hearsay that inevitably challenges an industry with more than 70k licensees.

    “Our aim for these Townhall meetings is to ensure that we remain approachable and responsive to the industry we serve,” said TSBPE Executive Director Lisa Hill. “We achieved that goal in San Antonio and are looking forward to communicating the same message at future Townhalls.”

    The TSBPE’s Townhall Series has several more cities slated for events in 2024, including upcoming trips to Lubbock, Amarillo and Beaumont, Texas. More information is available on the Townhall Meeting Series page on the TSBPE’s website: tsbpe.texas.gov/townhallmeetings/

    How-To How-To Apply for and Take an Examination (includes Self-Scheduling)

    How-to Apply For and Take an Exam with the TSBPE (Includes Self-Scheduling)

    Featured, How-To / By

    How-to Apply For and Take an Exam with the TSBPE (Includes Self-Scheduling)

    When it comes to applying for an exam with the TSBPE, a lot has changed in the past couple years. Exam wait times have decreased, a new testing center has been added, and you can finally schedule your own test (!). This next installment in our How-To series seeks to take some of the complication out and give you a clear, step-by-step reference for whatever exam you’re taking with the TSBPE. Download a printable version of this How-To here.

    TSBPE_HowTo_ApplyForAndTakeAnExam

    Frozen Texas

    Frosty Forecast? Protect Your Home with Licensed Texas Plumbers

    Featured, Front Page, News / By

    With cold weather on the horizon, it’s more important than ever to ensure you’re choosing a licensed plumber for your needs. Hiring a licensed professional not only guarantees they’ve met specific standards, but it also means they’re accountable to our state regulatory board.

    To better prepare for the impending cold weather, consider utilizing our downloadable Responsible Master Plumber (RMP) Spreadsheet. This list contains comprehensive information about Responsible Master Plumbers (RMPs) and their associated companies:

    1. Access The RMP Spreadsheet: Click here to access the downloadable RMP spreadsheet.
    2. Download the File: Click on the link to download the file. It’s available in .csv format, compatible with any spreadsheet program.
    3. Search Within the Spreadsheet: Use your spreadsheet program’s search function (usually Ctrl+F or Command+F) to find plumbing companies in your area.

    Additionally, individuals employed by plumbing companies can be found using the TSBPE’s Public License Search:

    1. Access The Public License Search: Click here to access the Public License Search tool.
    2. Search by Location: Select “Search by Location” from the drop-down menu. Enter your city or zip code, and you’ll see a list of licensed plumbers in your area.
    3. Review License Details: Click on a plumber’s name to view their license details, including their license type and status. This information can help you determine if the plumber is qualified for your specific cold weather concerns.
    4. Check Disciplinary History: You have the option to review the disciplinary history of any licensee, which could influence your hiring decision.

    Please note: while the TSBPE recommends obtaining bids for plumbing projects, we understand that emergencies might necessitate immediate action. Be aware that the TSBPE doesn’t regulate the pricing of plumbing services, which can result in different hourly rates and pricing strategies across individual plumbers and firms. However, we do require that all plumbers and plumbing companies provide accurate portrayals of their prices and services. Should you need our assistance, we encourage you to email our Enforcement department: complaints@tsbpe.texas.gov.

    As we prepare for the cold weather and the new year, we at TSBPE want to wish you a warm and Happy New Year!

    TSBPE Investigator checking IDs on a job site.

    TSBPE Clamps Down on Unlicensed Plumbing

    Agency News, Featured / By

    45% of Disciplinary Actions Targeted the Illegal Practice in Fiscal Year 2023.

    The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) is pleased to announce significant progress in combatting unlicensed and other illegal plumbing activities for Fiscal Year 2023. Demonstrating its steadfast commitment to industry regulations and public safety, the TSBPE’s Enforcement Division conducted a notable total of 646 investigations during Fiscal Year 2023.

    Steve Davis, the TSBPE’s Director of Enforcement, offered a closer look at the year’s Enforcement strategies: “Our team is focusing significant effort on curbing unlicensed plumbing practices throughout Texas. In FY 2023, we executed a total of 292 enforcement actions against unlicensed individuals including 189 agreed orders and 103 cease and desist letters—that’s nearly 50% of our total enforcement activity aimed directly at unlicensed plumbing.”

    Lisa G. Hill, Executive Director of the TSBPE, commented on the year’s achievements: “Our approach this year as it has been every year is about ensuring the health and safety of Texans. The significant number of investigations and our targeted efforts against unlicensed activities highlight our dedication to maintaining high standards in the plumbing industry.”

    Building on the significant achievements in tackling unlicensed activity in 2023, the TSBPE is poised for an even more impactful year ahead. The groundwork laid by this year’s enforcement actions has set the stage for a 2024 agenda with broader initiatives aimed at further suppressing illegal plumbing practices.

    The TSBPE’s Enforcement Division’s performance in fiscal year 2023 serves as assurance to lawmakers and the public at large that the TSBPE remains committed to maintaining a safe and reliable plumbing infrastructure in Texas. The Enforcement team’s success is a testament to that commitment and serves as a compelling reminder of the importance of continued support and investment in the regulation of the plumbing trade in Texas.