The steps to becoming a licensed plumber in the state of Kentucky are relatively straightforward, with each step laid out in detail by the Kentucky State Plumbing Code Book. Other general contracting licenses in the state follow simple paths as well, including electrical contractors. This is due to Kentucky’s state-wide licensing process and procedure.
Kentucky Plumbing License Reciprocity
License reciprocity in Kentucky is done on a case-by-case basis. It is in the opinion of the state’s Plumbing Code Committee whether or not the other state’s exam is of equal difficulty to that of Kentucky. The other state must also agree to reciprocity.
Kentucky Master Plumber License Requirements
Master plumbers are responsible for supervising journeymen as well as performing all duties associated with the trade. Such duties include installing and repairing pipes used to distribute water supply, the fixtures for using water, and other apparatus necessary for plumbing.
Requirements for becoming a master plumber in the state of Kentucky include:
- Have a valid journeyman plumbing license for at least two of the last five years;
- Been actively employed as a journeyman plumber for at least two years;
- Provide proof of experience;
- Have completed the designated exam with an overall score of at least 80%, and have scores of 75% or higher per each section of the exam;
- Be a citizen of the U.S. or authorized to work in the U.S.;
- General liability insurance of at least $250,000;
- Be a citizen of the U.S. or authorized to work in the U.S.;
- Be of good moral character;
- Be at least 18 years old.
Fees associated with obtaining master plumber licensure include:
- Exam Fee: $150;
- License Fee: $250.
All fees are to be established by the Department of Housing, Buildings, and Construction.
Kentucky Journeyman Plumber License Requirements
Journeyman requirements are the same as they are for master plumbers in the state of Kentucky. Below are those requirements:
- Have completed two consecutive years’ experience as an apprentice plumber,
- Completion of a committee-approved course may substitute one year of experience, and no more;
- Provide proof of experience;
- Have completed the designated exam with an overall score of at least 75%, and have scores of 70% or higher per each section of the exam;
- General liability insurance of at least $250,000;
- Be a citizen of the U.S. or authorized to work in the U.S.;
- Be of good moral character;
- Be at least 18 years old.
Fees are to be established by the Department of Housing, Buildings, and Construction.
Journeyman Plumber Exam
The plumbing journeyman exam is to be administered by the State Plumbing Examining Committee. Comprised of a practical and a written portion, the exam is designed to demonstrate a candidate’s knowledge of necessary plumbing standards and procedures.
Fees associated with obtaining a journeyman plumber license include:
- Exam Fee: $50;
- License Fee: $60.
All fees are to be established by the Department of Housing, Buildings, and Construction. Refer to the department’s Division of Plumbing for specific exam dates and times, as well as the appropriate contact information. For application forms or further information refer to the department’s address:
Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction
Division of Plumbing
500 Mero Street, First Floor
Frankfort, KY 40601
Plumbing Apprenticeship Requirements
An apprentice in the state of Kentucky learns the trade of plumbing while under the direct supervision of a licensed journeyman or master plumber. Only state-approved apprenticeships will allow aspiring plumbers to move up the ranks. While an apprentice needs to complete two consecutive years in order to apply for a journeyman license, one of those years can be substituted by a state-approved college course.
Kentucky Plumbing Apprentice Jobs
Plumbing apprenticeships in Kentucky can be found by utilizing the job finding website Indeed.
Plumbing Trade Schools in Kentucky
Kentucky has various trade schools for aspiring plumbers to choose from, with many of them offering affordable tuition rates and financial aid coverage. Below are a few options:
- Elizabethtown Community and Technical College
- Location: Elizabethtown, KY
- Tuition: Interested parties should call to request more information
- Contact: (270) 706-8745
- Gateway Community and Technical College
- Location: Florence, KY
- Tuition(in-state): $174 per credit
- Contact: (859) 442-1116
- Jefferson Community and Technical College
- Location: Louisville, KY
- Tuition: $174 per credit
- Contact: (502) 213-5333
Kentucky Professional License Search
Utilize Kentucky’s professional license search to verify plumbing licenses as well as those of other contracting jobs.
For More License and Career Guides
To find out how to become a Plumbing Contractor in another state, start here.
For information on other trades in Kentucky, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
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