In the U.S., it’s been more than two centuries since the first indoor plumbing system was installed. Back then, indoor plumbing systems were rare and only available to the wealthy. Plumbers are needed across the nation to fix everything from leaking faucets to installing complete pipe systems.
Plumbers in Michigan earn an average salary of $63,460 per year, which is slightly higher than the national average for electricians.
You’ll first need to obtain your license if you plan on working as a Michigan plumber. This guide will help you get your Michigan plumber’s license. Continue reading to learn more about these topics:
- Is a plumber’s license required?
- How do I get a Michigan plumber’s license
- Michigan plumber license requirements
- Requirements for plumber license renewals
- Michigan plumber license reciprocity
- What type of insurance is required for a Michigan plumber?
Is a plumber’s license required?
You can choose between journey plumber and master plumbing licenses.
You’ll first need experience as an apprentice plumber before you can pursue your license. Within 30 days after starting as an apprentice, you must register with LARA (Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs) and pay a $15 fee.
How to obtain a Michigan plumber’s license
For both a journey and master plumber, the same instructions are followed. Michigan plumber license applications must be submitted by mail or electronically.
Include all required documentation along with the license fee.
- Journey plumber license fee: $40
- Master plumber license fee: $300
Michigan plumber license exam
After your application is approved, PSI, the third-party testing agency that the State of Michigan uses will send you instructions for scheduling your exam. When scheduling your exam, you must pay $100 for the examination fee.
The computer-based exams for the plumber license are administered in testing centers located in Dearborn, Gaylord, Grand Rapids, Holt, Marquette, and Southfield. The applicant can select the date and location of the test according to their preferences.
Open-book exams take 180 minutes and cover the following topics.
- Plumbing theory
- Plumber Practice
- Michigan Plumbing Code Update Class
To pass, you must score 70% or more on your exam. PSI will give you your score as soon as you finish the test.
Michigan plumber license requirements
License applicants for plumbers must be at least 18 years old. You must also meet the following work experience requirements when applying for a Michigan plumbing license.
Journey plumber experience requirements
You must have accumulated at least 6,000 registered hours as an apprentice plumber over three years while working under the supervision and guidance of a master.
Master plumber experience requirements
You must have a journey plumbing license and at least 4,000 working hours as a plumber, earned over at least two years before applying for a master license.
To document work experience, all applicants must provide notarized letters of reference from their current and previous employers.
Requirements for plumber license renewals
Michigan journey plumbers are required to renew their licenses annually by April 30. Renewal is required only every three years for master plumbers. You will be notified by the plumbing division approximately three months before your license expires.
You must pay the renewal fee and submit a completed renewal form.
- Renewal fee for journey plumbers: $40 per year
- Renewal fee for master plumbers: $300 every 3 years
To maintain your master plumber license, you need to take a Michigan Plumbing Code Update Class within the year whenever a new code goes into effect. You will receive a notification from the plumbing division when this requirement is due.
Michigan plumber license reciprocity
Michigan has no reciprocity agreements. To obtain a Michigan plumbing license, you must complete the application and pass an exam.
What type of insurance is required for a Michigan plumber?
You may wish to purchase self-employed insurance as soon as you are licensed. There are several types of Michigan Business Insurance available to professionals in the plumbing field.
General Liability Insurance
General Liability Insurance in Michigan provides coverage for third-party accidents or property damage that are work-related.
Workers Compensation Insurance
Most Michigan employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance. This insurance will cover medical costs and lost wages if you, or an employee of yours, are injured on the job.
Insurance for Tools and Equipment
Tools & Equipment Insurance will help you cover the cost of repairs or replacements in case your equipment is damaged or stolen.
Commercial Auto insurance
Plumbing contractors who drive to multiple job sites might need commercial car insurance. This can cover costs such as property damage, medical expenses, and other accident-related costs.
Commercial Property Insurance
Michigan Commercial Property Insurance will cover your buildings, plumbing equipment, and inventory in the event of theft or damage.
How BizInsure supports Michigan plumbing professionals
BizInsure is 100% committed to the small business community. We have helped thousands of contractors and plumbers get insurance at affordable rates to protect their businesses.
Get a quote with BizInsure today.
