Becoming a plumber can be a rewarding and diversified career with plenty of room for growth, especially in fast-growing states like Florida. However, you are required to have a plumbing license to work in Florida, and the licensing process can be complicated.  

The entire process takes a minimum of four years, but the time commitment is worth it. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 6% job growth over the next decade, and Florida has the third highest demand for plumbers – behind California and Texas.  

In Florida, you will find certified plumbers who can work anywhere in the state and registered plumbers who are restricted to working in the local municipality where registered. The steps to becoming certified or registered are essentially the same and include a combination of work experience and education before taking and passing an exam.   

What Does a Plumber Do?  

Plumbers do a lot more than connect pipes—they install, maintain, repair, and design plumbing systems in residential and commercial spaces. Plumbers can perform any of these functions for sewer or storm drainage facilities, private water systems, septic tanks, swimming pool piping, irrigation, solar heating systems, gas line piping, and pneumatic control piping systems.   

Successful plumbers are expert problem-solvers with advanced troubleshooting skills, know how to read and interpret construction drawings and blueprints, and have technical and mechanical know-how to correctly install, fit, and connect piping to avoid leaks and maintain adequate flow.  

Plumbers work in residential and commercial settings. Within those settings, some plumbers choose to specialize in service or construction plumbing.   

Residential Plumbers  

Residential plumbers work on plumbing systems in single- and multifamily housing. The work entails installing, maintaining, and repairing water, drain, and sewer lines and installing and troubleshooting appliances such as dishwashers, toilets, bathtubs, and water heaters.    

Commercial Plumbers  

The scope of work for commercial plumbers is like that of residential plumbers, but on a much larger scale. They work with a complex network of water supply and drainage systems in commercial buildings, large multifamily dwellings, schools, retail outlets, and other public spaces. Commerical plumbing systems handle much larger volumes of flow, have more fixtures, and complex layouts.    

Service Plumbers  

Service plumbers are expert troubleshooters who spend most of their day making repairs to existing plumbing systems. These plumbers navigate the challenges of retrofitting older and outdated systems with new materials when replacing or repairing broken pipes and fixtures. Service plumbers also install new systems when the old one can no longer be patched.    

New Construction Plumbers 

Plumbers who specialize in new construction work with a blank slate. They are experts at reading and interpreting blueprints. They understand the construction process and where their role as plumbers fits into the overall project. New construction plumbers are excellent communicators and well-versed in all aspects of residential or commercial plumbing, depending on their setting of interest. 

Types of Plumbing Licenses in Florida 

There are two types of licensed plumbers in Florida:  

• Certified Plumbers  

• Registered Plumbers  

A certified plumber can work statewide. Their license is issued by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). To become certified, you must meet the education and experience requirements and pass a written test. Certified plumbing contractors must meet a background check, have adequate insurance, and pay licensing fees. Their occupation code is designated with the letter “C.”   

A registered plumbing contractor is restricted to working within the jurisdiction where the registration was issued. They are required to meet education and experience requirements and pass a test showing competency in the profession and local regulations where they intend to work. Registered plumbers are designated by the letter “R” on their license. 

These two designations apply to your license whether you’re a journeyman level or master level plumber. The same designation applies to those who get their plumbing contractor’s license.  

Basic Requirement to Becoming a Licensed Plumber in Florida 

Whether you’re going for a “C” or “R” on your license, the steps to becoming licensed in Florida are essentially the same. You must be physically fit enough to do the job, able to squeeze into tight spaces, and work in hot and humid conditions. You must also meet some basic requirements:   

1. Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.  

1. Complete the required experience and education.  

1. Verify on-the-job experience.  

1. Pass an exam.  

1. Acquire liability insurance.  

1. Demonstrate financial responsibility.  

1. Complete a criminal background check. 

Obtain the Required Education and Training  

Before you can get your license as a journeyman plumber, you need to prove you meet the education and experience requirements. While you’re not required to attend a vocational training program or community college, you are required to get a minimum of four years of documented experience before you can take the exam. However, education counts toward experience.  

Here is a look at the different methods you can use to qualify to sit for your journeyman plumbing license exam: 

• A four-year construction related degree from an accredited college and one year of proven experience.  

• Three years of credits from accredited college-level courses and one year of experience as a plumbing foreman.  

• Two years of credits from accredited college-level courses, one year of experience as a plumbing foreman, and one year as a worker.  

• One year of credits from accredited college-level courses, one year of experience as a plumbing foreman, and two years as a worker. 

• Four years of documented experience with one of those years as a plumbing foreman.  

Journeyman plumbers work under the supervision of a master plumber. To obtain your master plumbing license, you need an additional two years of experience as a journeyman plumber and pass an exam. Master plumbers work independently. However, if you wish to hire employees, you will need your plumbing contractor’s license.  

To open a business where you intend to hire employees, you will apply for the Certified Plumbing Contractor Qualifying Business license. The requirements are the same for getting your journeyman license with the exception of carrying workers’ compensation insurance.  

How to Find a Vocational Training Program 

The state does not maintain a list of approved vocational training programs or colleges. So, when you’re searching for a program, you want to ensure you will get the training you need to excel as a plumber. Your coursework should include a mix of classroom and hands-on laboratory hours. Practical experience should include all phases of assembly, installation, and repair to pipes, fittings, and fixtures with an emphasis on safety. Many programs offer job placement assistance, which allows you to start working—and earning—while going to school. Tuition varies considerably, but most two-year programs cost roughly $5,000. 

Some of the top programs in Florida and their tuition costs at time of publication include:  

• Fort Meyers Technical College; tuition $3,941 

• Sheridan Technical College; tuition $4,955 

• Osceola Technical College; tuition $4,988 

How to Find an Apprenticeship Program 

Apprenticeships combine work experience and classroom instruction. One of the benefits of joining an apprenticeship program is that you begin to make money right away without the costs of paying for an education. A plumbing apprenticeship program is offered through the UA Local 234 union in Jacksonville, Florida. To participate, you will be required to join the union. 

Gain On-the-Job Experience 

On-the-job experience is required to get your license. Most trade schools will offer job placement services. The benefits of beginning to work in the field include learning about the day-to-day work as a plumber and gaining valuable experience that will help you pass the written portion of your exam.  

Apprenticeship programs are an excellent way to start working right away. Another option is finding a master plumber or plumbing contractor willing to hire someone new to the industry. Keep in mind, apprenticeship programs often include an educational component. That doesn’t mean you can’t get your license without classroom hours; it just means that you will need four years or 8,000 hours of experience.  

The number of working hours you need to sit for your journeyman license depends on how many classroom credits you earn.  

Pass the Florida Plumbing Licensing Exams 

The two-part exam includes the Plumbing General Trade Knowledge test and the Business and Financial Management test. You’re required to pass both parts with a 70% or better. The Business and Financial Management exam has 120 questions and is completed at a testing center.  

The Plumbing General Trade Knowledge portion is a written test. The trade exam is divided into a morning session consisting of 45 equally weighted questions and five isometric drawings worth 10 points each and an afternoon session with 65 equally weighted questions. Both sessions have a four and a half hour time limit to complete. The exam tests your knowledge in: 

• Drainage (20%) 

• Water distribution (20%) 

• Natural gas piping (15%) 

• Medical gas piping (20%) 

• Industrial piping (10%) 

• Swimming pools, wells, and irrigation (5%) 

• Solar (5%) 

• Fire protection (5%) 

The trade exam covers reading and interpreting plans and specifications, interpreting codes, basic math, plumbing components and installation techniques, maintenance techniques, OSHA regulations, tools and equipment, and isometric drawing and interpretation.  

Only designated reference materials listed on the DBPR website are allowed. This includes bound pdf reference material or bound books. Referenced books can be permanently tabbed and highlighted; however, no removal tabs (Post-it notes) or handwritten notes are allowed. Additionally, test takers cannot take notes in the reference material during the examination.  

Test preparation courses, like ours, include bound, tabbed, and highlighted reference materials you can bring with you to the exam. Test prep courses also include multiple practice exams to help you study. Practice tests simulate testing conditions, so you are prepared on exam day. 

Applicants apply online to take the exam. Candidates are approved by Professional Testing, Inc. Once approved, you can set a date to take the business and finance portion at a Pearson VUE site. The in-person Plumbing General Trade Knowledge exam is offered in February, April, June, August, October, and December in Orlando, Florida.  

There are three fees associated with the exam, including $135 to Professional Testing, Inc., $80 payable to the Florida DBPR for the written exam, and $80 to Pearson VUE for the Business and Finance exam. 

Applying for a Plumbing License in Florida 

After passing the exam, you will submit an application to the DBPR showing proof of education and experience, financial stability, insurance, and criminal history. There is an application fee depending on when you submit your application and whether that is an even or odd year. The fee ranges from $95 to $245. Your license is valid for two years and renews every August of every even-numbered year. It should be noted that HB 1091 reduced licensure fees by 50% for Fiscal Years 2023/2024 and 2024/2025.  

Education and Experience 

On the application, you will document your work experience and education, indicating the method of qualification. You are required to list your employer(s) name, license number, and contact information.  

Financial Stability  

This is determined by submitting a credit report and showing a credit score of at least 660. If you do not meet the required credit score, you must show proof of completion of an approved 14-hour financial responsibility course.  

Insurance  

You’re required to carry general liability insurance of $100,000 and property damage of $25,000. If you’re applying for your plumbing contractor’s license and intend to have employees, you’re required to provide worker’s compensation insurance within 30 days of issuance of your license.  

Criminal History  

Your criminal history is obtained from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). The FDLE will take your fingerprints and process your criminal background for the state.   

Continuing Education and License Renewal 

Continuing education (CE) is part of maintaining your license—whether you’re a certified or registered journeyman or master plumber or have your plumbing contractor’s license.  

A total of 14 hours of CE are required with a minimum of one hour each of specialized or advanced training, workplace safety, business practices, worker’s compensation, and rules and laws. The remaining CE hours can be any board-approved construction-related courses.  

If you applied for your license between September 1st of an even year and April 30th of an odd year, your license will renew the first August. If you apply between May 1st of an even year and August 31st of an odd year, your license will renew a year later. In these instances, your license will renew every two years after your first renewal.  

In all other instances, your license renews on August 31st of every even year. CE must be completed prior to renewing your license.  

The renewal fee is $130 or $180 with a qualified business. Note that these fees have also been reduced by 50% through Fiscal Year 2024/2025.   

Career Opportunities for Licensed Plumbers in Florida 

The plumbing field offers a range of career opportunities. As a journeyman or master plumber, you can work for small or large companies, or you can become a licensed plumbing contractor and call your own shots.   

Service plumbers can work irregular hours unclogging drains at the most inopportune times, but rake in extra spending money with after-hours pay. Construction plumbers maintain a fairly regular 40-hour week schedule and often work for large companies that offer competitive benefits packages.  

Starting your own plumbing business in Florida can be incredibly lucrative for a business savvy plumber. There are higher costs associated with owning your own business, but you are awarded with freedom to go after the jobs you want and build your legacy.  

How much you make depends on where in the state you work, what type of work you perform, and whether you have any additional experience or certifications, such as solar water heating or gas piping. The average salary for a journeyman plumber in Florida is $51,830, and the average annual salary for a master plumber is $102,000. How much you make as a licensed plumbing contractor depends a lot on how ambitious you are. 

Conclusion 

It takes some leg work to become a licensed plumber in Florida. But it starts with education and experience. When you’re ready to take your exam, it’s important to have the resources you need to pass. That’s where Gold Costs School of Construction comes in—we’re your partner to help you study and pass your plumbing contractor’s exam.  

Right now is an excellent time to become a licensed plumber in Florida. If you have any questions about how to get your plumbing license, please contact one of our career counselors (800-732-9140), or visit Gold Coast’s course info page to learn more about the plumbing program. We look forward to showing you why contractors trust Gold Coast School of Construction for all their educational needs. 

The post How to Become a Plumber in Florida: A Complete Guide appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.

Plumbers play a vital role in residential and commercial settings. They’re an integral part of the construction process and continue to work to maintain the system long after construction ends. In California, a plumbing contractor’s license is needed. But before you can take the exam to get your license, you’ll need to meet the experience requirements. The entire process takes a minimum of four years, but the time commitment is worth the effort. 

The job outlook for plumbers is better than average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 6% job growth with California having the highest employment rates. New housing is not only increasing demand for skilled trades but also giving California a population boost.  

Job Responsibilities of a Licensed Plumber 

To work as a plumber in California—whether as journeyman or master plumber—you’re required to have a C-36 Plumbing Contractor’s license or work under someone who does. As a licensed plumber your primary responsibility is to supply safe water and disposal of fluid waste. 

The day-to-day responsibilities depend primarily on the setting and type of plumbing. Plumbers work in industrial, commercial, and residential settings and can specialize in new construction, service plumbing, or specialty plumbing such as pools and solar. In general, plumbers install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair water, sewer, gas, and other piping systems. Plumbers also install fixtures such as toilets, bathtubs, and appliances, and work on water heating and solar systems.  

Plumbers have a range of hard and soft skills. They have specific knowledge of building and construction, mathematics, and reading and interpreting blueprints and construction drawings. Plumbers have technical and mechanical know-how using tools and machinery and are adept in customer service. Above all else, plumbers are expert problem-solvers. 

Types of Plumbing Licenses in California 

California has only one license, but you can work as a journeyman and master plumber with or without a license. Project cost dictates whether a license is needed—any projects valued over $500 require that you have a C-36 Plumbing Contractor’s license or work under a plumbing contractor with a C-36 license. It is illegal to break up the job into parts to get around the $500 limit.  

The California State Licensing Board (CSLB) does not distinguish between journeymen and master plumbers. The board clearly delineates that a journeyman plumber is a fully qualified person who can work independently or has completed an apprenticeship program. A journeyman plumber is not a trainee, laborer, assistant, or apprentice. Master plumbers generally have experience as a journeyman plumber. Both journeyman and master plumbers can become licensed.  

The Steps to Becoming a Licensed Plumber 

To become a licensed plumbing contractor in California takes a minimum of four years and includes meeting eligibility requirements, getting work experience, submitting an application, and passing a two-part exam. Here’s a closer look at each step.  

Basic Eligibility Requirements 

You must be at least 18 years old and have a valid social security number or tax identification number.  

Work Experience, Education, Technical Training, and Apprenticeships  

Work experience is defined as having a minimum of four years of journeyman-level experience within the last 10 years. Credit is only given for experience as a journeyman, foreman, supervising employee, or contractor. A journeyman is described as someone who can perform the trade without supervision. Work experience must be documented on the application.  

Education, technical or vocational training, and apprenticeships are not required. However, you can receive up to three years’ worth of credit toward the four-year experience requirement. Here is how the California State Licensing Board (CSLB) grants credit for education, training, and apprenticeships:  

• A maximum of one and a half years is granted for an associate’s degree in building or construction management from an accredited school or college.  

• A maximum of two years is granted for a four-year degree in accounting, architecture (B-General Building classification only), business, economics, mathematics, physics, or areas related to the specific trade or craft for which application is being made. A professional law degree or substantial coursework in any of the subjects listed.  

• A maximum of three years is granted for a certificate of completion from an apprenticeship from a qualified apprenticeship program in California or a four-year degree in engineering directly related to plumbing. 

Contact your local community college, the California Apprenticeship Coordinators Association, or find apprenticeship programs through a local union.  

Application for Licensure   

You must complete your application and pay the nonrefundable $450 fee before getting your fingerprints for the background check or being approved to take the C-36 Plumbing Contractor’s licensing exam. It’s important to spend extra time ensuring the application is completed correctly. Incomplete or insufficient applications will be returned. If this happens, you’ll have 90 days to amend your application. Once your application is complete, you will receive instructions for fingerprinting and taking your exam. You will also receive a free study guide for the exam. 

All contractors are required to have a $25,000 bond filed with the CLSB and workers’ compensation insurance for any employees. 

Criminal Background Check  

Applicants are required to submit fingerprints for a criminal background check. A criminal record is not an automatic denial. Each case is evaluated individually.   

The Plumbing License Exams 

The C-37 Plumbing Contractor’s license exam has two parts: Law and Business and Trade. Both exams are closed book with a three and a half hour time limit. The exams are multiple-choice, and a calculator is provided by the testing center for the mathematics portion. You need at least 73% to pass the exam. 

The Law and Business exam has questions covering the following topics:  

• Business Organization and Licensing (13%) 

• Business Finances (15%) 

• Employment Requirements (20%) 

• Insurance and Liens (12%) 

• Contract Requirements and Execution (21%) 

• Safety (14%) 

The trade portion covers:  

• Planning and Estimating (22%) 

• Underground and Rough Systems (24%) 

• Finish Plumbing Installations (18%) 

• Service, Repair, and Remodeling Plumbing Systems (19%) 

• Safety (17%) 

The best way to prepare for the test is to take an exam prep course. While it is a closed book exam, there are multiple practice exams to get you “test-ready” come exam day. 

All new licensees must also complete the open book asbestos exam prior to licensure. 

Your License is Issued 

Once you pass the exam, you will be issued your license after paying an additional $200 fee. Your license is valid for two years.  

How to Renew Your Plumbing License 

Continuing education is not required to renew; however, it’s always a good idea to stay up to date with current trends in the industry.  

If your license is active, you can renew online by completing the renewal application and paying the renewal fee of $450.  

Career Opportunities as a Licensed Plumber 

The plumbing field offers a wide range of career opportunities. As a plumbing contractor, you can open your own business, work independently, or hire plumbers to work under you. How much you earn depends on how hard you work. 

Plumbers are some of the highest paid contractors in the state. A recent Associated General Contractors of America reported that plumbers in California earn an average wage of $72,000.  

Conclusion 

California, like most states, requires experience or a combination of experience and education to apply for a plumbing contractor’s license. You’re required to have documented work experience or a combination of experience and classroom education. Unlike a lot of other states, California does not distinguish between journeyman and master plumbers—both can become licensed. 

The post How to Become a Plumber in California: A Step-by-Step Guide appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.

Reviewed by: Chris Clausing 

HVAC Continuing Education License Renewal in Florida 

Introduction 

For HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) professionals in Florida, keeping your license current is not only a requirement, but the number one way to ensure you’re providing the best service to your clients. We want you to have the best career possible, which is why we’re covering everything you need to know about HVAC Continuing Education (CE) license renewal in Florida.  

Read along as we discuss requirements, available courses, and the importance of staying compliant with your Air A, Air B, or Mechanical license. 

Why HVAC Continuing Education is Important 

Let’s kick things off with why continuing education matters. CE is a regulatory requirement that helps HVAC professionals stay up to date with the latest industry standards, technologies, and best practices. No matter your level of expertise, CE will help you remain competitive and knowledgeable in an ever-evolving industry. 

Florida HVAC License Renewal Requirements 

Now it’s time to dive into the details of license renewal. In Florida, HVAC professionals are required to renew their license every two years. To keep your license active, you must complete a certain amount of continuing education hours. Here are some of the requirements you need to know: 

Key Requirements: 

• CE Hours: HVAC professionals must complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years. 

• Course Topics: These hours must cover specific topics such as workplace safety, workers’ compensation, business practices, and advanced code training. 

• Approved Providers: CE courses must be completed through providers approved by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). 

Finding the Right CE Courses 

So, you know the requirements, but you might be wondering how to choose the right CE courses. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!  

The first thing you need to know is that the right continuing education courses won’t just fulfill the renewal requirements; they will also enhance your skills.  

We recommend looking for courses that cover all the essential topics thoroughly, are taught by experienced instructors, and genuinely interest you. 

Recommended Course Topics: 

1. Workplace Safety: Understanding safety protocols to prevent accidents. 

1. Workers’ Compensation: Navigating the legal aspects and responsibilities. 

1. Business Practices: Enhancing your business acumen to run your HVAC business efficiently. 

1. Advanced Code Training: Staying updated with the latest building code updates that affect your industry. 

Benefits of Completing HVAC Continuing Education 

It’s important to remember that completing your CE requirements not only keeps your license active but benefits your career in a multitude of ways, including: 

• Professional Growth: Continuing education supports your professional growth by expanding your skill set, boosting knowledge, and enhancing confidence on the job. 

• Compliance: Adhering to state regulations is crucial for a successful career. It not only demonstrates to customers that you operate ethically but also shields you from potential financial penalties. 

• Professional Reputation: Building credibility through knowledge allows you to deliver superior work, fostering trust with customers and potentially increasing your client base. 

• Competitive Edge: Staying updated with industry advancements through ongoing education gives you more opportunities to be the preferred HVAC professional in your area. It positions you as a leader capable of delivering impeccable service. 

How to Renew Your HVAC License in Florida 

Renewing your HVAC license in Florida is simple. Just follow the steps below: 

Steps to Renew: 

• Complete Required CE Hours: Complete your 14 hours of approved continuing education courses. 

• Submit Renewal Application: Fill out and submit the renewal application through the Florida DBPR website. 

• Pay Renewal Fees: Pay the required renewal fees to finalize the process. 

• Maintain Records: Keep records of your completed CE courses in case of an audit. 

Conclusion 

Keeping your Florida HVAC license current isn’t just about compliance and state regulations, it’s about staying knowledgeable and reliable in your trade. These 14 hours of continuing education are key to building and maintaining a successful career. They keep your skills fresh and make sure customers trust you as their HVAC expert. 

For more information on available courses and renewal processes, visit the Colibri Group’s course catalog and start your journey towards a seamless license renewal today. 

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