Plumber license requirements in New York.
New York does not issue a statewide plumbing license. Plumbing is licensed city by city and county by county, so the rules depend on where you work. New York City is the largest jurisdiction: only a licensed Master Plumber may perform or supervise plumbing work there, licensed through the NYC Department of Buildings.
What New York requires.
NYC Master Plumber license
Issued by the NYC Department of Buildings. Required to perform or supervise plumbing work in the five boroughs.
NYC Journeyman Plumber registration
Registered with the Department of Buildings to work under a licensed master plumber in New York City.
Other municipalities
Cities and counties outside NYC set their own plumbing license requirements — some license plumbers, some do not.
- · There is no statewide reciprocity in New York — a license issued by one city or county generally does not authorize work in another.
- · Before quoting a job in a new town, check that jurisdiction’s building department for its own licensing rules.
The official board
New York City Department of Buildings (the largest licensing jurisdiction — other cities and counties license separately)
Visit the boardVerified 2026-08 against the sources below. Licensing rules change — confirm with the board before relying on this page.
New York plumbing licensing FAQ.
Does New York require a state plumbing license?
No. New York does not issue a single statewide plumbing license. Licensing is handled locally by cities and counties, so the requirement depends on the jurisdiction where the work happens.
Do you need a license to do plumbing work in New York City?
Yes. In New York City, only a licensed Master Plumber may perform or supervise plumbing work. The NYC Department of Buildings issues Master Plumber licenses and Journeyman Plumber registrations.
Does a New York plumbing license work in another city?
Usually not. There is no statewide reciprocity system in New York — a license issued by one city or county generally does not automatically authorize work in another, so plumbers working across jurisdictions often hold more than one license.
Who regulates plumbing work in New York?
Local building departments. New York City’s Department of Buildings is the largest such authority; other municipalities and counties set and enforce their own plumbing licensing rules.
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