Kentucky renewal guide
Master 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
Renewal period
Every 12 months
Renewal fee
$250.00
Bond requirement
No
Insurance requirement
Yes — General Liability, Workers' Compensation
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
Check the insurance certificates
Make sure the required policies are current and match what the board or agency expects before you file.
- 3
File with the board
File through Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC) — Division of Plumbing and pay the $250.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online - 4
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 Master Plumber License
The Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC) Division of Plumbing issues the Master Plumber license under KRS 318 and 815 KAR 20:030. A Master Plumber is authorized to plan, design, and supervise the installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing systems.
What This License Authorizes
A Master Plumber may contract for and supervise the installation, alteration, and repair of plumbing systems in Kentucky. Any person, firm, or corporation engaged in plumbing must employ a licensed Master Plumber who is responsible for all plumbing work performed.
Insurance Requirements
- General Liability Insurance: Minimum $250,000 per occurrence required
- Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees per KRS Chapter 342
Examination Requirements
Applicants must pass the state plumbing examination administered by the DHBC. Candidates must demonstrate at least five years of experience as a journeyman plumber before applying.
Renewal Process
- Renewal Period: Annual (expires last day of birth month)
- Renewal Fee: $250
- Continuing Education: 6 hours annually from a DHBC-approved provider
- Application Fee: $250 (initial)
- Grace Period: 60 days after expiration to file late renewal with restoration fee
Consequences of Operating Without a License
Performing plumbing work without a valid DHBC license violates KRS 318. Penalties include fines, and unlicensed plumbing work may be subject to mandatory removal or correction at the violator's expense.
*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.
Required documents
- Proof of Insurance
- 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.
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Next steps
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Printable checklist
Kentucky checklist
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