Journeyman Plumber License in Missouri
This guide outlines the steps to become a Journeyman Plumber in Missouri, requiring a total of 8000 training hours, including 576 classroom hours and 7424 clinical hours. The process involves meeting prerequisites, completing state-approved training, passing the licensure exam, and applying for certification. The path duration ranges from 4 to 5 years, with costs varying from $4,000 to $10,000.
Photo by mdreza jalali on Unsplash
In Missouri, a career as a Journeyman Plumber offers both stability and growth, with a median salary of $63,420 per year. The state reflects a strong demand for skilled plumbers, consistent with national trends projecting a 4.5% growth in the sector by 2034. This growth is driven by ongoing construction needs and infrastructure upgrades, as well as maintenance and repair of existing plumbing systems. Choosing a career as a Journeyman Plumber in Missouri not only promises financial rewards but also provides a reliable pathway to steady employment in a field where skilled labor is often in short supply.
Missouri presents unique characteristics that affect the plumbing profession. The state has specific regulations and licensing requirements that ensure plumbers meet high standards of professionalism and safety. Missouri's healthcare and construction sectors are significant employers of Journeyman Plumbers, influenced by regional growth in cities like Kansas City and St. Louis, where development projects continue to rise. Additionally, Missouri's climate and geography dictate specialized plumbing needs, particularly in areas prone to extreme weather conditions, which can impact the demand for plumbing services and the nature of the work performed.
This guide will provide detailed insights on how to obtain a Journeyman Plumber license in Missouri, including the necessary steps from education and apprenticeship to certification and licensing examinations. Readers will learn about salary expectations across different regions of the state, understand the job market trends, and get an overview of the major employers in the plumbing industry. This information is geared towards helping potential plumbers make informed decisions about their career paths, with clear facts on what it takes to succeed in this field in Missouri.
Licensing Authority
Local Municipality Boards
In Missouri, a Journeyman Plumber License requires completing an apprenticeship, passing an exam, and meeting specific educational criteria. The license is regulated by local municipalities rather than a state-wide governing body.
Official Resources
Missouri Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- 8000 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 576 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 7424 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Completion of a registered apprenticeship program
Certification Exam
- Exam
- Journeyman Plumber Exam
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Varies by locality
How to Become a Journeyman Plumber License in Missouri
tuition $3500-$9000, exam fee $100, background check $50, application fee $50, textbooks/supplies $300-$500
Fastest Path
4 years
Typical Timeline
4-5 years
Estimated Cost
$4000–$10000
Verify You Meet Missouri's Prerequisites
Before beginning your journey to become a Journeyman Plumber in Missouri, ensure you meet the basic prerequisites. These include being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma or GED, and being physically capable of performing the duties of a plumber. Visit the Missouri Division of Professional Registration website to confirm these requirements and download any necessary forms.
Tip
Keep digital copies of all your documents for easy submission during the application process.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Missouri requires a comprehensive background check, including an FBI fingerprint scan, before you can be admitted to a plumber training program. Visit your local police department or a third-party provider to get fingerprinted. This process can take up to 4 weeks to get results. Health screenings might also be required to ensure you're fit for the physical demands of plumbing work.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to avoid delays.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Selecting a state-approved training program is critical as it ensures your eligibility for licensure after completion. Visit the Missouri Division of Professional Registration's website to access a list of approved plumbing training programs. These programs must meet specific criteria, including the required 8000 hours of training, with 576 hours in the classroom.
Tip
Ensure the program's credentials are up to date and it covers all necessary aspects of plumbing training.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you've chosen an approved program, complete the enrollment process, which may include interviews and placement tests. The training comprises 576 classroom hours and 7424 clinical hours, focusing on various aspects of plumbing. Attendance and performance are crucial as they directly affect your eligibility for licensure.
Tip
Stay organized and maintain a good attendance record to ensure you meet all training hour requirements.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
After completing your training, you must pass the Journeyman Plumber Examination. Start by reviewing the study materials provided by your training program. Focus on areas such as plumbing codes, installation practices, and safety regulations. Practice tests are available online and can be a valuable resource in your exam preparation.
Tip
Regularly take practice exams to track your progress and identify areas needing improvement.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the Journeyman Plumber Examination through the Missouri Division of Professional Registration. The exam consists of written questions testing knowledge of the plumbing field. You can schedule your exam online, selecting a date and location that works best for you. Pay attention to the registration deadlines to avoid missing out.
Tip
Choose an exam date that gives you ample time for review and preparation.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive early with proper identification and any required materials. The exam will test your knowledge across various topics learned during your training. After completing the exam, results are typically available within a few weeks. If you do not pass, you can reschedule after a mandatory waiting period.
Tip
Ensure you have all necessary materials and arrive early to the testing center to avoid any last-minute issues.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the exam, apply for your Journeyman Plumber License through the Missouri Division of Professional Registration. Submit all required documents, including proof of training and exam results. The processing time can take several weeks. Once approved, your license will be issued, and you will be added to the state registry of licensed plumbers.
Tip
Double-check your application for any errors to avoid delays in processing.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your Journeyman Plumber License. Verify your license status on the Missouri Division of Professional Registration's online registry. This official confirmation is crucial for proving your credentials to potential employers.
Tip
Regularly check the online registry to confirm your license status and ensure there are no errors.
Find Your First Job
With your license in hand, you can begin your job search. Utilize online job portals such as Indeed or LinkedIn to find plumbing positions in Missouri. Networking with professionals in the industry through local trade associations can also help uncover job opportunities. Prepare for interviews by reviewing common plumbing scenarios and questions.
Tip
Tailor your resume to highlight specific plumbing skills and certifications that are most relevant to the job postings you apply for.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Missouri Board of Plumbing approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
Missouri Journeyman Plumber License Examination administered by International Code Council (ICC)
Written Test
Questions: 80
Time Limit: 3 hours
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: 70%
- • General Knowledge and Regulations: 20%
- • Fixtures and Fittings: 15%
- • Water Heaters: 10%
- • Water Supply and Distribution: 15%
- • Sanitary Drainage Systems: 20%
- • Vents and Venting: 10%
- • Traps, Cleanouts, and Interceptors: 10%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 0
Time Per Skill: N/A
The exam does not include a practical skills test; it is entirely written.
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport)
- ✓ Admission notice
- ✓ Approved calculator (non-programmable, non-graphing)
- ✓ Pencils
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Electronic devices (cell phones, smart watches, tablets)
- ✗ Notes or books
- ✗ Food or drink
- ✗ Personal items (bags, hats, coats)
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is 3 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are provided at the test center immediately after the exam. Pass or fail status is given.
If You Don't Pass
If you fail, you can retake the exam after 30 days. The cost of a retake is the same as the initial test fee. There is no limit on the number of retakes allowed in Missouri.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Focus on time management, aiming to answer each question within 2 minutes.
- 2. Prioritize familiar questions first, marking uncertain questions to review if time permits.
- 3. Use process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down choices.
- 4. Review calculations and code requirements, as these are frequent topics.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
Original issuing institution · Varies (typically $0-$50 for duplicates) · 1-4 weeks
Required to prove educational qualification
Background Check Authorization
Missouri State Highway Patrol or online service · Approximately $20 · 2-4 weeks
Criminal history must be clear for licensing
Application for Apprentice Plumber
Missouri Division of Professional Registration website · Approximately $25 · Immediate upon completion
Must be approved before beginning apprenticeship
Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results
Local clinic or healthcare provider · Approximately $30 · 1-3 days
Some apprenticeships require a recent TB test
CPR Certification
American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or other certified provider · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies; classes typically last 1 day
Essential for safety compliance; check if your program requires it
2During Training
Logbook of Apprenticeship Hours
Provided by employer or apprenticeship program · Issued at start of apprenticeship
Must be maintained accurately to document required hours
Interim Evaluation Reports
Apprenticeship supervisor or program coordinator · Periodically throughout training
Used to assess progress and skill development
3For the Exam
Application for Journeyman Plumber Examination
Missouri Division of Professional Registration website · Approximately $100
Must be submitted and approved prior to scheduling the exam
Examination Fee
Payable to the testing service (details provided upon application approval) · Approximately $150
Non-refundable; required to sit for the exam
Two Forms of Identification
State-issued ID, passport, or other government-issued ID · Varies
Required on the day of the exam for identity verification
4For Certification
Journeyman Plumber License Application
Missouri Division of Professional Registration website · Approximately $100
Submit after passing the exam to receive your license
Proof of Exam Passage
Issued by the examination body
Official results needed to process your license application
Fee for License Issuance
Payable to the Missouri Division of Professional Registration · Approximately $50
Required to issue the physical license
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your name on the Missouri Division of Professional Registration's online registry. Collect your physical Journeyman Plumber License certificate from the state board.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed.com, Monster.com, and local Missouri job boards like MoJobs. Attend job fairs and network with local plumbing companies.
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Local residential plumbing services, commercial construction firms, and government or municipal agencies. Expect varying work hours in residential services, while commercial and government jobs may offer more regular schedules.
Resume Tip: Highlight any hands-on experience, even from training or internships, list your Journeyman Plumber License, and focus on specific skills like pipe installation, compliance with safety standards, and ability to read blueprints.
Interview Tip: Describe a complex project you worked on during your apprenticeship.Explain how you handle unexpected complications on the job.Discuss how you ensure compliance with safety and building codes.
Expected First-Year Salary
The typical salary range for a new Journeyman Plumber in Missouri is between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location and employer.
Career Advancement Path
Master Plumber License
Requires additional years of experience and passing a further licensing exam.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Finding consistent work can be a challenge initially. Building a reputation and network is crucial. Managing customer expectations and dealing with complex plumbing issues under pressure are common hurdles.
Journeyman Plumber License Salary in Missouri
In Missouri, Journeyman Plumbers earn a median annual salary of $63,420, which is slightly higher than the national median. This reflects a competitive pay scale for plumbers within the state.
Entry Level
$38,690
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$63,420
$30.49/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$103,140
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$61,550 national · ++3.0% in Missouri
Salary by Metro Area
Large urban center with consistent demand
High construction activity boosts demand
Stable demand in a mid-sized city
Salary by Employer Type
Missouri's cost of living is generally lower than the national average, making the salary for Journeyman Plumbers more favorable in terms of purchasing power.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Union membership may offer additional perks.
Salary Growth Outlook
Steady growth expected with experience and specialization.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research typical salaries in your specific Missouri region
- •Consider the total compensation package including benefits
Job Market in Missouri
In Missouri, the journeyman plumber job market is adapting to both national trends and local demands. With a national employment growth rate of 4.5% from 2024 to 2034, Missouri's local market is influenced by aging infrastructure and new construction projects, particularly in urban areas. These factors are expected to drive demand for skilled plumbers.
Top Hiring Areas
Strong growth due to urban redevelopment projects.
Consistent demand linked to steady commercial construction.
Emerging market with increasing residential developments.
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with construction industry cycles
Opportunities
- Specialization in green plumbing techniques
- Positions in rapidly expanding suburban areas
Challenges
- Shortage of skilled labor
- High competition in major urban centers
Training Programs in Missouri
Missouri offers several pathways to obtain a Journeyman Plumber License, including community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored programs. Training focuses on practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for the plumbing certification exam.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2-4 years | $5,000 - $10,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 1-2 years | $3,000 - $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | 4-5 years | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
St. Louis, Missouri
High industry reputation and hands-on training
Online & Hybrid Options
Some community colleges offer hybrid formats combining online theory with in-person practical training.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's state approval and exam success rate.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Journeyman Plumber License program info for Missouri
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
Varies by locality
CE Hours
12 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Plumbing code updates, Safety practices
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Missouri allows reciprocity for Journeyman Plumbers from states with equivalent licensing requirements. Applicants must demonstrate compliance with Missouri's standards and may need to pass a local exam.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Proof of current license in another state
- Documentation of experience and training equivalent to Missouri's requirements
State Agreements
Missouri has reciprocity agreements with multiple states, specifics vary by local jurisdiction.
Additional Exams
Depends on local requirements
Application Process
Submit an application to the local licensing board along with proof of licensure and other required documents.
Fees
Varies by locality
Processing Time: Typically 4-6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents, especially proof of apprenticeship and previous licensure, are organized and complete before submission to avoid delays.
Check local municipal requirements as they can vary significantly from one locality to another.
Recommended Resources
Plumber's Licensing Study Guide, Third Edition
This guide offers extensive practice tests and review questions to prepare for the Journeyman Plumber's exam.
DEWALT Plumbing Licensing Exam Guide: Based on the IPC
Provides comprehensive practice exams and test-taking strategies specific to the IPC, useful for Missouri's licensing requirements.
International Plumbing Code Quick-Card by Builder's Book, Inc.
A laminated quick-reference guide summarizing key plumbing codes, ideal for study and field reference.
Plumbing Complete: Expert Advice from Start to Finish
This guide tackles common plumbing projects and repairs, offering detailed instructions and illustrations useful for practical knowledge.
RIDGID 31010 Model 10 Heavy-Duty Straight Pipe Wrench, 10-inch
Essential for fitting and assembly work; the 10-inch size is versatile for various pipe diameters.
Bernzomatic TS8000 - High Intensity Trigger Start Torch
Used for soldering and brazing of copper, brass, and aluminum pipes, a critical skill in plumbing.
As an Amazon Associate, CredentialGuide earns from qualifying purchases.
Stay Updated
Get notified when Journeyman Plumber License requirements change in your state.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Find Journeyman Plumber License Programs in Missouri
Get free program information sent to your inbox
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to Talk to a Career Counselor?
Get personalized guidance on training programs, licensing requirements, and career opportunities in Missouri.
Are You a Training Provider?
List your programs on CredentialGuide and connect with students actively researching training options in your area.
Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-12
- Missouri Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-12
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-12