How to Get a Connecticut Plumbing License? Plumber’s Go-To Guide

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Do you intend to work as a plumber in Connecticut? 

The plumbing sector in Connecticut is a fantastic choice for people looking for a secure and fulfilling career because of the state’s growing population and growing need for trained trades experts. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average annual wage for plumbers in Connecticut is over $70,000 and that employment in the sector will increase by 5% over the following ten years. 

A plumbing and pipefitting license in Connecticut is also a great asset because it shows prospective employers are knowledgeable and skilled in the industry. 

So why not start today by getting your Connecticut plumbing license and go toward a rewarding career in plumbing?

Connecticut Plumbing License Requirements

The general requirements for becoming licensed plumbers in Connecticut are as follows:

  • Four years of experience in plumbing and pipefitting
  • One year of experience as a plumbing Journeyperson
  • Score more than 80% in plumbing contractor exam
  • Provide liability and worker’s compensation insurance proof
  • Complete criminal history check
  • Complete continuing education every three years
  • Four years of Connecticut state-approved apprenticeship program

Upon eligibility, you must also know that Connecticut state has eight different types of licenses under two categories. What are those licenses, and what are the eligibility requirements for those licenses are all discussed in our next section.

Types of Plumbing Licenses in Connecticut

Unlike other states, Connecticut has eight plumbing contractor license types, which are issued by the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) in Connecticut. The same department maintains rules and regulations related to plumbing, including plumbers licensing and certifications.

Types of plumbing licenses in connecticut

Talking about Connecticut plumbing licensing, there are two types of plumbing license issues in Connecticut:

Contractor application & requirements

You must attach the following documents with your application to successfully process it. Failing to do so would return your application, leading to a delay in finalization.

Connecticut state residents application requirements

  • Attach a copy of the current Journeyman license and issued date

Non-residents of Connecticut state application requirements

  • Attach a copy of each out-of-state Journeyman plumber license you are issued with
  • Bonafide certificate from each state and date the plumbing contractor license was originally issued
  • Provide proof of at least one of the states license requirements that you meet or to exceed
  • Provide proof of Department of Labor registered apprenticeship program, including training

Let’s discuss Connecticut Plumbing Contractor types in detail. So, this is one of the types which has four sub-types; let’s discuss them in detail.

P-1 Unlimited Plumbing Contractor

Eligibility Requirement

  • 2 years of experience as Unlimited Licensed Journeyperson or equivalent experience and training.

Scope of Work

  • Work on all the plumbing and piping tasks defined in 20-330 of the Connecticut General Statutes.

P-7 Limited Sewer, Storm, And Water Contractor

Eligibility Requirement

  • 2 years of experience as an Unlimited Licensed Journeyman or equivalent experience and training.

Scope of Work

  • Work permits to repair, install, modify, and maintain piping limited to water, sewer, or storm.

J-1 Limited Contractor

Eligibility Requirement

  • 2 years of experience as an Unlimited Licensed Journeyman or equivalent experience and training.

Scope of Work

  • Duties limited to domestic water pumps and water conditioning.

J-3 Limited Lawn Sprinkler & Contractor

Eligibility Requirement

  • 2 years of experience as an Unlimited Licensed Journeyperson or equivalent experience and training.

Scope of Work

  • Work permits to repair, install, modify, and maintain lawn sprinkler systems.

Journeyperson application & requirements

Just like plumbing contractors, you must attach the following documents as asked to speed up the application process. Failing to do so would return your application with all the documents, resulting in delaying getting a plumbing license.

Connecticut state residents application requirements

When completing Connecticut plumbing apprentice jobs:

  • Attach an original copy of the Apprenticeship completion issued by the Apprenticeship training division of the Department of Labor in Connecticut.

When having equivalent experience:

  • Letter from existing or previous employer
  • Proof of completion of required classes and hours for the plumbing license you’re applying for
  • Provide certificate of apprenticeship if completed from another state
  • Provide other state plumbing licenses, if allotted with following documents:
    1. Photocopies of all trade licenses if allotted in other states
    2. Documentation indicating other states’ requirement meeting to get license
    3. Provide scope of work

P-2 Unlimited Journeyperson Plumber

Eligibility Requirement

  • Complete apprenticeship program or equivalent experience & training.

Scope of Work

  • Allowed to work on all plumbing and piping under the employer’s supervision.

P-6 Limited Sewer, Storm, Water Journeyperson

Eligibility Requirement

  • One year of an apprenticeship program or equivalent experience or training.

Scope of Work

  • Allowed to repair, replace, maintain, modify piping limited to the storm, sewer, and water lines.

J-2 Limited Well Pumps & Piping Journeyperson

Eligibility Requirement

  • One year of an apprenticeship program or equivalent experience or training.

Scope of Work

  • Allowed to work limited to water conditioning and pumps under the supervision of a licensed contractor.

J-4 Lawn Sprinkler & Maintainer

Eligibility Requirement

  • One year of an apprenticeship program or equivalent experience or training.

Scope of Work

  • Allowed to repair, replace, maintain, and modify lawn sprinkler systems under the licensed contractor.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Certificate From a Licensed Plumber in Connecticut?

The time it takes to get a certificate from a licensed plumber in Connecticut depends on the particular requirements and the applicant’s credentials. However, the procedure for getting a plumbing license might typically take several months.

    In Connecticut, you must have at least 

    • Four years of experience in the plumbing industry, including at least one year working as a journeyman plumber
    • Passing a plumbing exam, showing that you have liability insurance, and completing a criminal history records check using fingerprints.

Opt for Connecticut Plumbing License Exam & Get Certified

Here is the Candidate information bulletin packet that contains an Occupational trade license application on page 3. Fill out this along with the exam application form attached on page 4. 

Moreover, attach the original copy of the Letter of Apprenticeship Completion Certificate (to sit for the Journeyperson license exam) and a photocopy of your existing plumbing license (to apply for a contractor license).

Apply by paying $90 for a Journeyperson license and $150 for contractor candidates. Besides, Journeyperson plumber aspirants will have to pay $65 as an exam fee, while full-time contractor aspirants will have to pay $130. 

You can mail them to the below address with all the necessary documents and payments:

    PSI Licensure: Certification
    3210 East Tropicana
    Las Vegas, NV 89121

Once the post is delivered and verified, you can schedule a licensing exam or call (800)-733-9267. On page 6 of the candidate information bulletin, you can find the six different license examination locations.

Passing Criteria: Score at least 70% marks to become a licensed plumber.

    Things need to carry on the exam day:

    • Two identification forms
    • Government-issued ID
    • ID with your photograph and signature
    • Approved reference materials

That’s how you would be able to opt for a plumbing licensing exam. Now let’s discuss the insurance 

Apply for Plumbing Insurance

Another major factor to consider to obtain a plumbing license in Connecticut is having liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. 

Apply for plumbing insurance

Liability insurance protects you and your plumbing business from the financial losses incurred from the property damage or injury caused during plumbing and piping work. With the help of liability insurance, you would be compensated against any legal defense or settlements.

Worker’s compensation insurance takes care of your employees if they fall ill due to the plumbing and piping work. 

So, these are the two types of insurance that you must have to run a plumbing business in Connecticut.

Now let’s see what happens if your plumber’s license expires. What’s next, then?

Renewal of Plumbing License in Connecticut

Firstly, all the plumbing and pipefitting licenses expire every year on October 31. Renewing them would require you to spend:

  • Contractor: $150
  • Journeyperson: $120

Before expiration, the state licensing board informs 30-45 days before every license holder. It is sent via mail or regular mail.

Frequently Asked Questions
  1. How do I become a licensed plumber in Connecticut?

    You are required to meet the following requirement to become a licensed plumbing contractor in Connecticut:

    • Possess a minimum of four years of experience in the plumbing industry, including at least one year working as a journeyman plumber.
    • Pass a plumbing test.
    • Show evidence of your worker’s compensation and liability insurance (if you have employees).
    • Conduct a criminal history check using fingerprints.
    • Every three years, fulfill the requirements for continuing education.

  2. What is the mean salary of plumbers in Connecticut?

    Plumbing contractors in Connecticut may earn more or less on average based on their region, expertise, and credentials. The mean annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in Connecticut was $67,863 in 2023, according to salary.com.


  3. Do plumbers need a license in Connecticut?

    Yes, the Department of Consumer Protection in Connecticut makes it mandatory to have a plumber’s license. Plumbing business owners must fulfill specific standards in order to receive a plumbing license, including having a particular amount of experience, passing an exam, and presenting evidence of liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance (if they have employees).


  4. Can I do my plumbing job in Connecticut?

    Yes, you can perform your plumbing job on your property as long as it is not done for a business or to make money. The installation or modification of a public water supply or sewer system, for instance, requires the expertise of a certified professional, so it’s crucial to keep that in mind while you perform plumbing work.

    It’s also crucial to remember that even if you’re permitted to perform your own plumbing repairs, you must still adhere to state plumbing laws and regulations. This entails obtaining the required license and inspections and abiding by the regional construction regulations.


  5. Can I work as a plumber in another state with Connecticut’s plumbing license?

    No, you cannot work as a plumber in other states while having Connecticut’s plumbing license since there are no reciprocity agreements in place between Connecticut and other states. The reciprocity agreement allows one state plumber to transfer their license to other states.


  6. Who is authorized to issue plumbers’ licenses in Connecticut?

    The State of Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection is responsible for issuing licenses for plumbers in Connecticut (DCP). The DCP is in charge of policing the state’s plumbing business, and they have the power to grant, renew, and revoke plumbing licenses.

    The licensing procedure for plumbers in Connecticut is managed by the DCP’s Plumbing and Gas Fitters Examining Board. They are in charge of evaluating candidates’ qualifications, conducting exams, and issuing and renewing licenses.


  7. What are plumbing licensing fees?

    The plumbing license application fee is $150. An initial license fee is $150, and the renewal fee is $150.

Set the Flow of Estimates & Invoices With InvoiceOwl

A licensed plumber gets a huge flow of customers, and so does estimates and invoices. Use InvoiceOwl to streamline the process.

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Conclusion

Obtaining a Connecticut plumbers’ license is an essential first step for any professional plumber wishing to work there. It guarantees that the plumber has the credentials and expertise required to carry out excellent service and abide by industry standards. 

But running a plumbing company may be challenging, particularly when it comes to estimating and billing. We suggest using estimating and invoicing software for plumbers to improve these procedures and streamline them. Plumbing contractors can use this software to generate precise estimates, keep track of spending, and produce invoices all in one location. Plumbers can save time and concentrate on what they do best by employing such software, which is offering excellent plumbing services.

Author Bio
Jeel Patel
Jeel Patel
Founder

Jeel Patel is the founder of InvoiceOwl, a top-rated estimating and invoicing software that simplifies the invoicing and estimating processes for contractor businesses. Jeel holds a degree in Business Administration and Management from the University of Toronto, which has provided him with a strong foundation in business principles and practices. With understanding of the challenges faced by contractors, he conducted extensive research and developed a tool to streamline the invoicing and estimating processes for contractors. Read More

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