Yes, plumbers must be licensed to work legally in Vancouver, WA, and Portland, OR. Both states have strict requirements to ensure plumbers meet safety and quality standards before performing work on residential and commercial properties.
In Vancouver, WA, plumbing licenses are issued by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). Plumbers must complete training, gain work experience, and pass an exam to become certified.
In Portland, OR, plumbing licenses are managed by the Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD). Oregon requires plumbers to go through an apprenticeship, complete classroom training, and pass a state licensing exam.
Without a valid license, plumbers in either state cannot legally perform plumbing work or pull necessary permits for jobs. Hiring a licensed plumber ensures compliance with local building codes and protects homeowners from substandard work.
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Who Regulates Plumbing Licenses in Vancouver, WA?
In Vancouver, WA, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) oversees plumbing licenses. The L&I ensures that plumbers meet the necessary education, training, and examination requirements to maintain public safety and code compliance.
Plumbing Certification Requirements in Vancouver, WA
To become a licensed plumber in Vancouver, WA, an individual must:
- Register as a plumber trainee and work under a licensed plumber.
- Complete 8,000 hours of supervised on-the-job training (4,000 must be in commercial or industrial plumbing).
- Take at least 4 years of approved classroom instruction.
- Pass the Washington State Journeyman Plumber (PL01) Exam.
Specialty plumbers, such as residential service plumbers (PL02) and medical gas installers (MG01), require fewer training hours but still need to pass exams.
Licensed plumbers in Washington must renew their certification periodically and may need continuing education credits depending on their license type.
Who Regulates Plumbing Licenses in Portland, OR?
In Portland, OR, plumbing licenses are issued by the Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD). The BCD ensures that plumbers receive proper training, complete work experience, and pass competency exams before they can work legally.
Plumbing License Requirements in Portland, OR
To get licensed in Portland, plumbers must:
- Complete a 4-year registered apprenticeship program or gain 8,000 hours of work experience.
- Finish 576 hours of classroom training covering plumbing codes, safety, and system installation.
- Pass the Oregon Journeyman Plumber Exam.
- Pay the required licensing fees.
Oregon also requires continuing education for certain license types. All plumbing work must be performed by a licensed plumber or an apprentice under direct supervision.
Types of Plumbing Licenses in Vancouver, WA
Washington offers different plumbing licenses based on experience and the type of work a plumber performs.
| License Type | Scope of Work | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Journeyman Plumber (PL01) | All types of plumbing work | 8,000 hours of experience + Exam |
| Medical Gas Piping Installer (MG01) | Installs medical gas systems | Journeyman license + additional training |
| Residential Plumber (PL02) | Limited to residential plumbing | 6,000 hours of experience + Exam |
| Pump & Irrigation (PL03) | Installs and repairs water pumps and irrigation systems | 4,000 hours of experience + Exam |
| Backflow Specialist (PL04) | Installs and maintains backflow prevention systems | Certification course + Exam |
All plumbing licenses in Vancouver must be renewed every three years, and some require continuing education credits.
Types of Plumbing Licenses in Portland, OR
Oregon offers multiple plumbing licenses, allowing individuals to work in different areas of the trade. The Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD) oversees licensing, ensuring plumbers meet training and experience requirements.
| License Type | Scope of Work | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Journeyman Plumber (JP) | Installs, alters, and repairs plumbing in residential and commercial buildings | 8,000 hours of experience + 576 hours of classroom training + Exam |
| Solar Heating and Cooling Installer (STL) | Installs solar heating and cooling systems | 2,000+ hours of training and experience + Exam |
| Water-Treatment Installer (WTI) | Installs and services water treatment systems | 3,000+ hours of experience + Exam |
| Residential Water-Heater Installer (WHI) | Installs and replaces water heaters | 8-hour training course + Employer sponsorship |
| Plumbing Business Contractor (PB) | Owns and operates a plumbing business | Journeyman license + Business training + Insurance requirements |
All licenses require renewal every three years, and certain licenses need continuing education to stay valid.
How to Become a Licensed Plumber in Vancouver, WA
Becoming a plumber in Vancouver, WA requires a combination of on-the-job training, classroom education, and certification exams. The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) regulates the process.
Steps to Get a Plumbing License in Vancouver, WA
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Register as a Plumber Trainee
- Find a licensed plumber or apprenticeship program.
- Register with Washington L&I as a trainee.
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Gain Work Experience
- Complete 8,000 hours (about 4 years) of supervised work.
- At least 4,000 hours must be commercial or industrial plumbing.
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Complete Classroom Training
- Take approved plumbing courses while working.
- Training must cover code compliance, safety, and system design.
-
Pass the Washington State Journeyman Exam
- Once training is complete, apply for the PL01 Journeyman Exam.
- The test is open book and requires a 75% passing score.
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Apply for Your License
- Submit the application and fees to Washington L&I.
- After approval, you can legally work as a journeyman plumber.
Those interested in specialty licenses, like residential plumbing (PL02) or medical gas installation (MG01), follow similar steps but require fewer hours of training.
How to Become a Licensed Plumber in Portland, OR
Oregon has strict licensing requirements for plumbers, ensuring they meet education, experience, and exam standards before working independently. The Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD) manages the licensing process.
Steps to Get a Plumbing License in Portland, OR
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Join a Registered Apprenticeship Program
- Most plumbers start through an approved apprenticeship.
- Programs require on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
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Complete Work Experience Requirements
- Gain 8,000 hours (about 4 years) of supervised experience.
- Work must include both commercial and residential plumbing.
-
Finish Classroom Training
- Complete 576 hours of coursework at a trade school or community college.
- Courses cover state plumbing codes, system installation, and safety protocols.
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Pass the Oregon Journeyman Plumber Exam
- Once training is finished, apply for the JP Exam.
- The test is open book, based on Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code (OPSC).
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Obtain Your License
- Submit your application and pay the licensing fee.
- Once approved, you can legally work as a Journeyman Plumber (JP).
For those looking to specialize in solar heating, water treatment, or water heaters, the process is similar but with adjusted training hours.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Plumbing License?
The time it takes to get licensed depends on the type of license and the required training hours.
| License Type | Vancouver, WA | Portland, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Journeyman Plumber | 4 years (8,000 hours) + Exam | 4 years (8,000 hours) + Exam |
| Residential Plumber | 3 years (6,000 hours) + Exam | Included in Journeyman training |
| Specialty Plumber (Medical Gas, Backflow, etc.) | Varies (2,000–4,000 hours) | Varies (2,000–3,000 hours) |
| Water Heater Installer | Short course + employer sponsorship | 8-hour training course |
| Plumbing Contractor | Additional business training + Journeyman License | Business certification + Journeyman License |
Most plumbers take 4 years to become fully licensed. However, specialty licenses may take 18 months to 3 years, depending on the area of focus.
Plumbing License Reciprocity: Can You Work in Both States?
Plumbers licensed in Washington or Oregon cannot automatically work in the other state without meeting additional requirements. Each state has its own licensing system, and plumbers must obtain a license for the state where they plan to work.
Can a Washington Plumbing License Be Used in Oregon?
No, Washington does not have a full reciprocal agreement with Oregon. If a licensed Washington plumber wants to work in Oregon, they must:
- Apply for an Oregon Journeyman Plumber (JP) license.
- Provide proof of work experience and education.
- Pass the Oregon Journeyman Plumber Exam.
Can an Oregon Plumbing License Be Used in Washington?
No, Oregon plumbers must apply separately for a Washington license. However, Washington offers reciprocal licensing for certain specialties:
- Journeyman Plumbers (JP) from Idaho and Montana can apply for Washington’s PL01 license.
- Plumbers from other states, including Oregon, must meet Washington’s full licensing requirements.
For those who want to work in both states, the best option is to get licensed in each state separately by meeting their specific requirements.
Do Plumbers Need Continuing Education?
Yes, both Washington and Oregon require continuing education to renew plumbing licenses. This ensures that plumbers stay updated on building codes, safety regulations, and best practices.
Washington Continuing Education Requirements
Washington plumbers must complete continuing education (CE) credits every 3 years to renew their licenses. Requirements include:
- 16 total hours of continuing education.
- 8 hours on plumbing code updates.
- 4 hours on industry-related training.
- 4 hours on general education or plumbing topics.
Specialty plumbers, such as medical gas installers, may have different CE requirements.
Oregon Continuing Education Requirements
Oregon also requires continuing education every 3 years. Requirements depend on the license type:
- Journeyman Plumbers (JP): 24 hours of CE, including code changes and safety training.
- Solar Heating and Cooling Installers (STL): 8 hours of CE.
- Water-Treatment Installers (WTI) and Water-Heater Installers (WHI): No continuing education required.
Plumbers must take state-approved courses to fulfill CE requirements. Failure to complete CE credits can lead to license suspension or additional renewal fees.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing License?
The cost of becoming a licensed plumber varies based on the type of license, exam fees, and training costs. Below is a breakdown of the estimated costs for Washington and Oregon.
| Expense | Vancouver, WA | Portland, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Apprenticeship Tuition | $4,000–$5,000 per year | $4,000–$5,000 per year |
| Journeyman Plumber (JP) License | $189 (exam + application fee) | $100 (application fee) |
| Specialty Plumber Licenses | $55–$100 | $100 |
| Plumbing Contractor License | $306 | $250 |
| Continuing Education (per cycle) | $100–$250 | $100–$300 |
| Renewal Fees | $189 (every 3 years) | $100 (every 3 years) |
Some additional costs include:
- Exam preparation courses ($100–$500).
- Study materials and books ($50–$200).
- Business license costs for plumbing contractors.
These costs can vary depending on training providers, licensing agencies, and additional business requirements.
Plumbing Training Schools in Vancouver, WA
Vancouver, WA has several training programs to help aspiring plumbers meet state licensing requirements. These schools provide a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on apprenticeship training.
Top Plumbing Training Schools in Vancouver, WA
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Clark College – Vancouver, WA
- Offers construction trades training, including plumbing basics.
- Provides pre-apprenticeship courses to help students qualify for apprenticeships.
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UA Local 26 Plumbers & Pipefitters Apprenticeship Program
- A state-registered plumbing apprenticeship program.
- Requires on-the-job training under a licensed plumber.
- Includes classroom education on plumbing codes and safety.
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Washington State Apprenticeship & Training Council (WSATC)
- Maintains a list of approved plumbing apprenticeships.
- Helps connect trainees with union and non-union programs.
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Northwest College of Construction
- Offers plumbing courses and pre-apprenticeship programs.
- Prepares students for Washington State Journeyman Exam.
Most apprenticeship programs last 4 years, with trainees earning hourly wages while they learn. After completing the required hours, trainees can take the Washington journeyman exam to get licensed.
Plumbing Training Schools in Portland, OR
Portland, OR has multiple training programs that help aspiring plumbers meet state licensing requirements. These programs combine classroom education with hands-on apprenticeship training, preparing students for the Oregon Journeyman Plumber Exam.
Top Plumbing Training Schools in Portland, OR
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Portland Community College (PCC) – Trades & Apprenticeship Program
- Offers construction trades courses related to plumbing.
- Helps students prepare for apprenticeship programs.
- Covers plumbing codes, safety, and system installation.
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Area I Plumbers Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee (JATC)
- A union-based plumbing apprenticeship program.
- Requires 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with a licensed plumber.
- Includes 576 hours of classroom education.
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Chemeketa Community College – Salem, OR
- Offers a registered apprenticeship program for plumbers.
- Works with the Area II Plumbers JATC to provide training.
- Covers Oregon plumbing codes, system design, and safety protocols.
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Clackamas Community College – Plumbing Apprenticeship Program
- Works with local unions and employers to provide training.
- Helps students meet Oregon’s licensing requirements.
- Offers hands-on experience in plumbing installation.
Oregon requires plumbers to complete an apprenticeship program before taking the Journeyman Plumber (JP) Exam. Most programs last 4 years, and apprentices earn wages while they learn.
Plumbing Exams: What to Expect
Passing a state plumbing exam is required to become a licensed journeyman plumber in both Washington and Oregon. These exams test a plumber’s knowledge of plumbing codes, system installation, and safety procedures.
Washington Plumbing Exam
- Administered by: Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I).
- Exam type: Open book.
- Subjects covered:
- Washington State Plumbing Code.
- System installation and repairs.
- Safety regulations.
- Passing score: 75%.
- Study resources:
- Washington State Plumbing Code Book.
- Approved exam prep courses.
Oregon Plumbing Exam
- Administered by: Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD).
- Exam type: Open book.
- Subjects covered:
- Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code (OPSC).
- Water supply, drainage, and venting systems.
- Plumbing fixture installation.
- Passing score: 75%.
- Study resources:
- Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code Manual.
- Oregon Journeyman Plumber Exam Prep Courses.
Most plumbing exams are multiple-choice and require test-takers to identify and apply plumbing code regulations. Plumbers should study reference materials and take practice tests to prepare.
Benefits of Getting a Plumbing License
Getting a plumbing license in Vancouver, WA, and Portland, OR has multiple advantages. It ensures legal compliance, increases job opportunities, and protects customers.
Why a Plumbing License Matters
– Required by Law – Plumbers must be licensed to work legally in Washington and Oregon.
– Higher Earning Potential – Licensed plumbers earn more than unlicensed workers.
– Better Job Opportunities – Many employers only hire licensed plumbers.
– Ability to Start a Business – A plumbing license is required to own and operate a plumbing company.
– Legal Protection – Licensed plumbers can obtain permits, bid on jobs, and carry insurance.
– Consumer Trust – Homeowners prefer to hire licensed professionals for plumbing work.
Without a valid license, plumbers cannot legally perform work, and businesses cannot advertise plumbing services. Getting licensed ensures career growth and financial stability.
Plumbing Business License Requirements
Plumbers who want to start their own business in Vancouver, WA, or Portland, OR must meet additional licensing requirements. Each state requires business registration, liability insurance, and bonding before issuing a plumbing contractor license.
Plumbing Business License in Vancouver, WA
- Get a Journeyman Plumber (PL01) License – Required before applying for a business license.
- Apply for a Washington Plumbing Contractor License – Issued by Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I).
- Obtain General Liability Insurance – Coverage must meet state requirements.
- Secure a Surety Bond – Plumbers must carry a $6,000 bond.
- Register a Business with Washington State – File a business license application with the Washington Department of Revenue.
- Comply with Local Permitting Rules – Some cities require additional business permits and tax registration.
Plumbing Business License in Portland, OR
- Hold an Oregon Journeyman Plumber (JP) License – Required before applying for a contractor license.
- Apply for an Oregon Plumbing Business Contractor (PB) License – Issued by the Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD).
- Complete Business Training – Oregon requires 16 hours of business and law education.
- Get General Liability Insurance – Minimum coverage is $500,000.
- Secure a Surety Bond – Oregon requires a $15,000 bond.
- Register a Business with the Oregon Secretary of State – Businesses must file for a business license and tax registration.
- Obtain Local Permits – Portland may have additional permitting requirements.
Owning a plumbing business requires state licensing, insurance, and financial protection. Plumbers should check state and city regulations before starting a company.
FAQs About Plumbing Licensing in Vancouver, WA & Portland, OR
Do I Need a License to Work as a Plumber in Vancouver, WA?
Yes, all plumbers in Vancouver, WA must have a state-issued license from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). Even apprentices must register with the state before working under supervision.
Is a Plumbing License Required in Portland, OR?
Yes, Oregon law requires plumbers to complete an apprenticeship, pass an exam, and obtain a license from the Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD). Unlicensed plumbing work is illegal.
Can I Use My Washington Plumbing License in Oregon?
No, Washington and Oregon do not have full reciprocity. A licensed Washington plumber must apply for an Oregon Journeyman Plumber (JP) license, show proof of experience, and pass the state exam.
Can an Oregon Plumbing License Be Used in Washington?
No, Oregon plumbers must apply for a Washington plumbing license to work legally. Some specialty licenses may have reciprocal agreements, but standard journeyman licenses do not.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Licensed Plumber?
- Journeyman Plumber: 4 years (8,000 hours of work + classroom training).
- Specialty Licenses: 1.5–3 years, depending on the field.
- Water-Heater Installer: Short training course.
What Are the Renewal Requirements for Plumbing Licenses?
Both Washington and Oregon require license renewal every three years. Continuing education is mandatory for some licenses to stay up to date with plumbing codes and safety standards.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Plumbing License?
- Washington Journeyman License: $189
- Oregon Journeyman License: $100
- Apprenticeship Training: $4,000–$5,000 per year
- Plumbing Business License: $250–$306
- Exam Fees: Vary by state and license type
Need Licensed Plumbing Services in Vancouver, WA or Portland, OR? Contact Us Today!
Looking for licensed plumbing services in Vancouver, WA, or Portland, OR? We’ve got you covered! Our expert team at Sound Plumbing & Drain is available 24/7 to handle all your plumbing needs.
We serve multiple areas, including:
✔ Vancouver, WA – Hazel Dell, Clark County, Camas, Ridgefield, Washougal, and more.
✔ Portland, OR – Beaverton, Gresham, Hillsboro, Lake Oswego, Tigard, and surrounding areas.
Business Name: Sound Plumbing & Drain
Address: 7720 NE Hwy 99 D, Vancouver, WA 98665, United States
Hours: Open 24/7
Phone: +1 360-768-6857
Email: info@soundplumbers.com
Call us now or email us to schedule a service appointment with our licensed professionals!
Additional Reading
For more insights into the plumbing history and water quality efforts in the Vancouver, WA, and Portland, OR areas, consider the following resources:
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Portland’s Municipal Water System Development
In the late 19th century, Portland faced challenges with private water companies failing to meet the city’s growing demand for clean water. This led to the establishment of a municipal water system, sourcing from the Bull Run Watershed. The system, developed in the 1890s, continues to supply high-quality drinking water to Portland residents today.
2.
Understanding Lead in Vancouver’s Drinking Water
Vancouver sources its water from groundwater, which naturally lacks lead. However, older household plumbing may contain lead components, posing potential health risks. The city conducts regular testing and offers guidance to residents on minimizing lead exposure from home plumbing systems.
City of Vancouver
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