Plumber license requirements in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts licenses plumbers at the state level through the Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters. It runs a strict three-step ladder — apprentice, journeyman, master — with both classroom theory hours and documented work hours required at each step.
What Massachusetts requires.
Apprentice Plumber
The registered entry level — requires proof of employment under the supervision of a master plumber.
Journeyman Plumber
Requires 550 hours of plumbing theory education over at least four years plus 6,800 hours of work experience as a licensed apprentice.
Master Plumber
Requires 110 hours of advanced plumbing theory plus 1,700 hours of work experience as a licensed journeyman.
Getting the Apprentice Plumber
- Apprentice: show proof of employment under a licensed master plumber
- Journeyman: 550 hours of plumbing theory education across at least four years, plus 6,800 hours of work as a licensed apprentice — supervised by a master plumber, or by a journeyman employed by one
- Master: 110 hours of advanced plumbing theory plus 1,700 hours of work as a licensed journeyman
Renewal: Journeyman and master plumbers must complete 12 hours of mandatory continuing education every two-year cycle.
Verified 2026-08 against the sources below. Licensing rules change — confirm with the board before relying on this page.
Massachusetts plumbing licensing FAQ.
Do you need a license to do plumbing work in Massachusetts?
Yes. Massachusetts requires a state plumbing license from the Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters. Even apprentices must be licensed, and they work under the supervision of a master plumber.
How many hours do you need for a journeyman plumber license in Massachusetts?
6,800 hours of work experience as a licensed apprentice plumber, plus 550 hours of plumbing theory education completed over at least four years. Those hours must be earned under a master plumber, or under a journeyman employed by one.
How do you become a master plumber in Massachusetts?
After the journeyman license, complete 110 hours of advanced plumbing theory education and 1,700 hours of work experience as a licensed journeyman plumber.
What continuing education do Massachusetts plumbers need?
Journeyman and master plumbers must complete 12 hours of mandatory continuing education every two-year cycle to keep the license active.
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