Iowa renewal guide
Journeyperson Plumber License
If this license is up for renewal, this page gives you the fee, the timeline, and the items that usually hold the filing up.
Start here
What matters before you file.
Check the fee, the renewal window, and the documents or insurance records that can slow approval down.
Issuing authority
Renewal period
Every 36 months
Renewal fee
$180.00
Bond requirement
No
Insurance requirement
No
Continuing education
8 hours
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
Finish the CE first
Complete the 8 required hours before you start the renewal.
- 2
File with the board
File through Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board (PMSB) and pay the $180.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online - 3
Leave room for processing
Typical processing time is 42 days, so do not wait until the last minute.
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
Iowa Journeyperson Plumber License
The Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board (PMSB) issues the Journeyperson Plumber license to qualified plumbers who have completed an approved apprenticeship program and passed the state examination. This is the standard working-level plumbing license in Iowa.
What This License Authorizes
Journeyperson Plumbers may perform plumbing installations, alterations, and repairs under the general oversight of a Master Plumber when employed by a licensed plumbing contractor. They work independently on plumbing systems but cannot serve as the master of record for a contracting business.
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must complete at least four years of practical experience as an apprentice in a training program registered with the U.S. Department of Labor (2,000 hours hands-on and 144 hours classroom instruction per year)
- Must pass the Iowa Journeyperson Plumber examination
Application and Fees
The $180 application fee covers the three-year license period. Paper applications incur an additional $25 processing fee. A 30% multi-license discount is available when purchasing multiple active licenses on the same day.
Renewal Process
- Renewal Period: Every 3 years (next expiration: June 30, 2029)
- Renewal Fee: $180
- Continuing Education: 8 hours of classroom instruction required per three-year licensing term
Consequences of Operating Without a License
Performing plumbing work without proper licensure violates Iowa Code Chapter 105. The PMSB may impose administrative penalties, issue cease-and-desist orders, and initiate proceedings against violators.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- apprenticeship_completion_certificate
- exam_results
Source notes
Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board . Verified March 2026. https://dial.iowa.gov/licenses/building/plumbing-mechanical/plumbing-licensure-2
Rules move. Check Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board (PMSB) again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
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Next steps
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Printable checklist
Iowa checklist
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