Journeyman Plumber License

Georgia Journeyman Plumber License

Georgia's Division of Master and Journeyman Plumbers licenses journeyman plumbers through the Secretary of State under O.C.G.A. §43-14. This credential authorizes plumbing installation and repair work on residential and commercial systems. As a journeyman, you cannot independently own or qualify a plumbing contracting business entity — a Master Plumber license is required to qualify a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation for plumbing contracts.

Renew every 2 years — $35 renewal, 8 CE hours

Renew through the GOALS portal by November 30 of even-numbered years (Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 295-2-.09):

• Biennial renewal fee: $35
• Late window: December 1–31 — $45 late renewal fee (GA Division fee schedule, confirmed 2023)
• CE: 8 hours per renewal cycle (Rule 121-4-.04) — 4 hours annually from Board-approved providers

Exam required — score 70 minimum

Pass the Journeyman Plumber examination with a minimum score of 70 (Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 121-3-.02). Candidates must document plumbing work experience; most applicants complete a plumbing apprenticeship program or demonstrate equivalent on-the-job hours.

Application requirements

• Application fee: $40 (mail-in: $30 application + $10 processing; confirmed from official GA plumbing application form)
• Required documents: notarized application, local law enforcement background check, experience documentation, three notarized reference forms (at least one from a licensed Master Plumber), Affidavit of Citizenship, Secure & Verifiable Document
• Apply through the GOALS portal at secure.sos.state.ga.us
• Processing time: approximately 30 days

Journeymen cannot independently qualify a plumbing business

A journeyman plumber performs plumbing work and may be employed by any licensed plumbing contractor — but to contract for work or qualify a business entity, you need a Master Plumber license. Performing plumbing contracting without a valid license is a misdemeanor under O.C.G.A. §43-14-14, punishable by a fine up to $1,000.

Path to Master Plumber

After accumulating documented experience as a journeyman, pass the Master Plumber examination to gain independent contracting authority and permit-pulling privileges.