LicenseCompass

PLUMBERS License in District of Columbia

Quick Answer

To become a licensed plumber in DC, pass the state plumbing exam. No CE required for renewal. Specific conviction types prohibited. Contact DCRA for current fees and experience requirements.

Exam
State plumbing exam
Timeline
4-5 years apprenticeship + licensing
Background Check
Required
Renewal
Every Biennial

Requirements

PLUMBERS license in District of Columbia

gold
Education
No educational requirements
Exam
State exam required
Background Check
Specific type of conviction prohibited
Continuing Education
No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs~Occupational & Professional Licensing Administration

PLUMBERS Salary in District of Columbia

Entry Level

$48,730

Median

$81,950

Experienced

$107,270

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed PLUMBERS in District of Columbia.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    No educational requirements

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    Specific type of conviction prohibited

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    State exam required — State plumbing exam

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 4-5 years apprenticeship + licensing.

PLUMBERS Licensing in District of Columbia: What to Know

Washington DC licenses plumbers through the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs (DCRA), Occupational & Professional Licensing Administration. No CE required for renewal. The state exam is required. Specific conviction types are prohibited. DC's compact urban environment with dense commercial and residential buildings creates consistent plumbing demand. The city's aging infrastructure, particularly in older neighborhoods, drives renovation and repair work. DC plumbers must navigate both local building codes and federal regulations for government buildings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a PLUMBERS license in District of Columbia?
The process typically takes 4-5 years apprenticeship + licensing, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a PLUMBERS license in District of Columbia?
You need to pass the State plumbing exam. State exam required

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.