Plumber License in Washington
Quick Answer
To become a licensed plumber in Washington, pass the state plumbing exam ($151.90) based on the UPC with WA amendments, plus the Backflow specialty exam. CE required. No criminal record prohibitions. Both state and third-party exams needed.
- Exam
- State plumbing exam (UPC with WA amendments) + Backflow specialty exam
- Total Cost
- $152 (est.)
- Timeline
- 4-5 years apprenticeship + licensing
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every Biennial
Requirements
Plumber license in Washington
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $152
- Total Estimated Cost
- $152
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Plumber license in Washington. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Washington licensing board.
Plumber Salary in Washington
Entry Level
$47,570
Median
$79,070
Experienced
$139,280
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Plumber in Washington.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Both state and third-party exams required — State plumbing exam (UPC with WA amendments) + Backflow specialty exam
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$151.9.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 4-5 years apprenticeship + licensing.
Plumber Licensing in Washington: What to Know
Washington explicitly lists the fee at $151.90. The exam covers technical and general trade knowledge, code application for wastes and vents, and code application for water piping, based on the 2012 Uniform Plumbing Code with Washington State amendments. Applicants must also pass the Backflow specialty examination. CE and specific course required. Both state and third-party exams required. No criminal record prohibitions. The Department of Labor and Industries oversees plumber licensing. Washington's booming Seattle-Tacoma construction market and statewide growth drive strong plumbing demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Plumber license cost in Washington?
- The estimated total cost is $152, including application fees, and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Plumber license in Washington?
- The process typically takes 4-5 years apprenticeship + licensing, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Plumber license in Washington?
- You need to pass the State plumbing exam (UPC with WA amendments) + Backflow specialty exam. Both state and third-party exams required
Considering another state?
Compare Plumber requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.