Indiana Plumber License Requirements

Official classification: Journeyman Plumber, Plumbing Contractor · Issued by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA).

🔧 PlumberIN ✔ Verified 2026-06-24

In Indiana, plumbers must hold the Journeyman Plumber, Plumbing Contractor, issued by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA), and no state surety bond is required. Full requirements — experience, exams, fees, insurance, renewal and reciprocity — are detailed below.

How to become a licensed plumber in Indiana

Follow these steps to earn your Journeyman Plumber, Plumbing Contractor. Every figure is verified against the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA); full detail for each step is further down the page.

Build the required experience. 4 years in state-approved apprenticeship program (576 classroom hours + 1,900 fieldwork hours per year, totaling 7,600 hours); alternatively, current out-of-state plumbing license with 4 years of experience
Pass the Journeyman Plumber Examination and Plumbing Contractor Examination exams. Providers, passing scores and fees are in the Exams section below.
Line up insurance. You'll need liability insurance (—), and workers' compensation coverage.
Submit your application and fees. Apply through the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA) — $30 (Journeyman), $50 (Contractor) application fee, plus a $15-$30 (Journeyman, depending on renewal year), $50-$100 (Contractor, depending on renewal year) license fee. Processing time: Approximately 3 months after application approval by the Plumbing Commission.
Keep the license active. Renew every 2 years.

License types

Journeyman Plumber — Can perform plumbing work under supervision or independently with proper permits
Plumbing Contractor — Can own and operate a plumbing business, supervise apprentices and journeymen

Requirements at a glance

Experience required	4 years in state-approved apprenticeship program (576 classroom hours + 1,900 fieldwork hours per year, totaling 7,600 hours); alternatively, current out-of-state plumbing license with 4 years of experience
Application fee	$30 (Journeyman), $50 (Contractor)
License fee	$15-$30 (Journeyman, depending on renewal year), $50-$100 (Contractor, depending on renewal year)
Renewal fee	$30 (Journeyman), $100 (Contractor)
Renewal period	Every 2 years
Continuing education	None required
Bond required	None required at state level
Liability insurance	—
Property damage	—
Workers' comp	Required if employees; minimum coverage varies by county and municipality
Background check	Not required for initial plumbing license applications
Credit requirement	None
Reciprocity	Kentucky; Ohio
Processing time	Approximately 3 months after application approval by the Plumbing Commission

Exams

Journeyman Plumber Examination	Provider: PROV · Passing: 75% · Fee: $75
Plumbing Contractor Examination	Provider: PROV · Passing: 75% · Fee: $100

Preparing for the Plumber exam? State-specific contractor exam-prep courses help you pass the first time. Start exam prep →

Local / municipal notes

Local jurisdictions may impose additional bond, insurance, or permit requirements. Indianapolis and other municipalities often require contractor bonds ranging from $10,000+. Renewal notices sent approximately 90 days before expiration. Late renewal fees: $15 if received before March 1; $100-$200 if after March 1.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Indiana plumber license cost?

Application: $30 (Journeyman), $50 (Contractor). License: $15-$30 (Journeyman, depending on renewal year), $50-$100 (Contractor, depending on renewal year). Renewal: $30 (Journeyman), $100 (Contractor).

Do plumbers in Indiana need a surety bond?

None required at state level

What experience is required for a Indiana plumber license?

4 years in state-approved apprenticeship program (576 classroom hours + 1,900 fieldwork hours per year, totaling 7,600 hours); alternatively, current out-of-state plumbing license with 4 years of experience

Is insurance required for plumbers in Indiana?

Liability: — Workers' compensation: Required if employees; minimum coverage varies by county and municipality

How often must a Indiana plumber license be renewed?

Every 2 years.

Fees and rules change frequently (often annually). This page was last verified on 2026-06-24 — always confirm current requirements directly with the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA) before applying. This is not legal advice.