How to Become a Plumber in Texas
In Texas, a Plumber license typically requires 48 hours of pre-license education, a state exam, and a $40 exam fee.
Installs and repairs water, gas and drainage systems. Journeyman plumber licenses vary by state and locality; many require apprenticeship hours plus an exam. Requirements change — always confirm with Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) before paying.
Licensing steps in Texas
- 1Meet the basic requirements
Minimum age 18; a criminal background check is required.
- 2Complete pre-license education
48 hours of approved training is the documented requirement in Texas.
- 3Register and pass the exam
The exam is administered by Pearson VUE.
- 4Pay fees and get licensed
Exam fee $40 · application $40 · license $40
- 5Stay current
License renews every 1 years with 6 hours of continuing education.
Plumber requirements — Texas at a glance
| Education hours | 48 hrs |
| Exam vendor | Pearson VUE |
| Questions (national/state) | — / — |
| Passing score | — |
| Exam fee | $40 |
| Application fee | $40 |
| License fee | $40 |
| First-attempt pass rate | not published |
| Retake rule | 30 days after a failed attempt, increasing with each retake; up to 5 attempts within 1 year |
| Renewal | every 1 years · 6 CE |
| Reciprocity | No blanket reciprocity — TSBPE reviews each case; holding a journeyman/master license from another state waives the 48-hour training requirement |
Official source: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) ↗
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get a Plumber license in Texas?
After completing 48 hours of education, most candidates need 4-12 weeks of study before the exam. Total timeline depends on scheduling.
How hard is the Plumber exam in Texas?
Official first-attempt pass rates are not published by Texas; check the state board.
What does the Plumber license cost in Texas?
The exam fee is $40, the application fee is $40, and the license fee is $40
Can I transfer my Plumber license to Texas?
Reciprocity: No blanket reciprocity — TSBPE reviews each case; holding a journeyman/master license from another state waives the 48-hour training requirement.
Plan your Plumber licensing in Texas
This guide is informational and not legal advice. Requirements change frequently — verify all figures with Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) (retrieved 2026-08-20).