How often do I need to renew my Journeyman Plumber in Kentucky?

The Journeyman Plumber in Kentucky must be renewed every 12 months.

How much does it cost to renew a Journeyman Plumber in Kentucky?

The renewal cost for a Journeyman Plumber in Kentucky is $60.00.

What happens if my Journeyman Plumber expires in Kentucky?

Performing plumbing work without a valid journeyman license in Kentucky is a violation of KRS 318. Penalties include fines and the work may be subject to removal or correction.

Kentucky renewal guide

Journeyman Plumber

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

Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC) — Division of Plumbing

Renewal period

Every 12 months

Renewal fee

$60.00

Bond requirement

Insurance requirement

Continuing education

6 hours

Before you renew

Get the filing straight.

1
Finish the CE first

Complete the 6 required hours before you start the renewal.
2
File with the board

File through Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC) — Division of Plumbing and pay the $60.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online
3
Leave room for processing

Typical processing time is 30 days, so do not wait until the last minute.

Detailed notes

The fine print is here.

Kentucky Journeyman Plumber License

The Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC) Division of Plumbing issues the Journeyman Plumber license under KRS 318 and 815 KAR 20:030. A Journeyman Plumber is qualified to perform plumbing installations, maintenance, and repairs under the supervision of a Master Plumber.

What This License Authorizes

A Journeyman Plumber may install, alter, and repair plumbing systems under the general supervision of a licensed Master Plumber. Journeyman plumbers work for employers who hold a Master Plumber license.

Examination Requirements

Applicants must pass the state journeyman plumbing examination. Candidates typically need at least four years of plumbing experience or completion of a recognized apprenticeship program.

Renewal Process

Renewal Period: Annual (expires last day of birth month)
Renewal Fee: $60
Continuing Education: 6 hours annually from a DHBC-approved provider
Application Fee: $60 (initial)
Grace Period: 60 days after expiration to file late renewal with restoration fee

Consequences of Operating Without a License

Working as a plumber without a valid DHBC license violates KRS 318. Penalties include fines and the work may be ordered removed or corrected.

*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the Kentucky DHBC Division of Plumbing.*

Official links

Check the board or agency directly.

Official website Apply online Renew online

Required documents

exam_results
experience_verification

Source notes

Kentucky DHBC Division of Plumbing, 815 KAR 20:030, KRS 318 . Verified March 2026. https://dhbc.ky.gov

Rules move. Check Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC) — Division of Plumbing again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.