Becoming a certified plumber in the state of Maine is a relatively straightforward process. Aspiring plumbers begin as journeymen-in-training, often enrolled in a technical program, then move up from there to trainee to journeyman then finally to master. There are further requirements, different from those for general contractors in Maine. Below are the further requirements dependent on the level of experience:
Maine Plumbing License Reciprocity
Maine does not have reciprocity agreements with specific states. However, they do consider license reciprocity in accordance with the licensing standards and experiential requirements unique to the applicant’s state of origin. Under the laws and rules of the Plumbers’ Examining Board, reciprocity shall be granted if the state in which an applicant received their license holds at least equal standards and requirements.
Maine Master Plumber License Requirements
Master plumbers in Maine are licensed by the board to complete any plumbing needs on their own accord.
Obtaining a master plumber license in the state of Maine requires the following fees:
- Application fee: $25;
- License fee: $200;
- Criminal background check fee: $21.
Further requirements include:
- Having performed 2,000 hours of work as a licensed journeyman plumber in at least one year;
- OR, having performed at least 8,000 hours of work as a licensed trainee plumber in at least four years.
Maine Journeyman Plumber License Requirements
Journeymen in the state of Maine perform all duties required of a plumber while under the direct supervision of a master plumber.
The following fees are required to receive a journeyman plumber license in the state of Maine:
- Application fee: $25;
- License fee: $200;
- Criminal background check fee: $21.
Further requirements include:
- Having performed 4,000 hours of work as a licensed trainee plumber in at least two years;
- OR, having performed at least 2,000 hours of work as a licensed journeyman-in-training within four years of obtaining that license.
Journeyman Plumber Exam
Under the Candidate Information Bulletin, aspiring plumbers can find all of the rules and procedures surrounding the journeyman plumber exam, including how to register for the test, testing facilities, and costs, among other inquiries.
Plumbing Trainee Requirements
Maine uses the name “plumber trainee” rather than “plumbing apprentice” to describe professionals pursuing full licensure. A plumber trainee is a person who is actively involved in learning the trade while under the direct supervision of a journeyman or master plumber. Trainees may either assist their supervisor or make plumbing installations themselves.
Requirements for aspiring plumbers include a completed trainee application, alongside the following fees:
- Application fee: $25;
- License fee: $200;
- Criminal background check fee: $21.
Plumber Journeyman-in-Training Requirements
Unlike trainees, journeymen-in-training may only assist in plumbing installations. Journeymen-in-training must work under the direct supervision of a journeyman or master plumber.
In order to become a journeyman-in-training, the following requirements must be met:
- Completion of a 1-year (2-semester) plumbing program at a board-approved community college;
- A passing grade of 70% on the required exam.
Maine Plumbing Jobs
For individuals looking for plumbing jobs, utilize Indeed’s job finder. There you will find positions as a master, journeyman, trainee, and journeyman-in-training plumber.
Plumbing Trade Schools in Maine
Plumbing trade schools come at a fairly low price for Maine residents. With programs often under $4,000, attending trade school in Maine will not leave you in debt like other college programs may. Below are a few college and high school programs to consider:
Southern Maine Community College, South Portland and Brunswick
- Program: Certification program;
- Tuition(in-state): $2,820;
- For more information, visit the Southern Maine Community College contact page.
Eastern Maine Community College, Bangor
- Program: Certification program;
- Tuition(in-state): $94 per credit hour;
- For more information, visit the Eastern Maine Community College contact page.
Lewiston Regional Technical Center, Lewiston
- Program: Technical high school;
- Tuition(in-state): N/A;
- For more information, visit their page on plumbing training.
Maine Professional License Search
Utilize Maine’s professional license search to find certified plumbers throughout the state.
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 Maine, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
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