Illinois Plumbing License Requirements
Yes. Illinois licenses plumbers through the Illinois Department of Public Health, Plumbing Program. It issues apprentice, journeyman and contractor credentials.
State plumber license · By BrazeJobs Team · Updated
License tiers
| Apprentice | Apprentice license (age 16+) |
| Journeyman | Plumber license (one level) |
| Master | None statewide (Chicago separate) |
| Contractor | Plumbing Contractor registration |
Requirements
| Journeyman experience | 48-72 months as licensed apprentice |
| Exam | State exam |
| Minimum age | 16 (apprentice) |
| Renewal | Annual |
| Continuing education | 4 hours/year |
| Local license | No (state license covers) |
| Board | Illinois Department of Public Health, Plumbing Program |
Exam
| Exam provider | Illinois Department of Public Health |
IDPH runs the plumber license exam; application due 30 days before the exam date.
- Source: dph.illinois.gov · checked November 6, 2026
Apprenticeship
| Registering agency | U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship (no state agency) |
Programs register through the Office of Apprenticeship; use the Partner Finder for local sponsors.
- Source: apprenticeship.gov · checked November 6, 2026