Journeyman Plumber

Maine Journeyman Plumber License

The Maine Plumbers' Examining Board's Journeyman Plumber license authorizes you to perform plumbing installations under the general supervision of a Master Plumber. Working without a valid license violates Title 32, Chapter 49 — fines run $1,000–$5,000 per violation, and municipalities may add their own penalties on top.

What the License Lets You Do

Journeyman Plumbers install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems across residential, commercial, and industrial projects under a Master Plumber's general supervision. You cannot independently operate a plumbing contracting business unless you hold a Master Plumber license or your employer does.

Application: Two Years of Trainee Experience, Then an Exam

To qualify for the Journeyman exam, you need at least 2 years (4,000 hours) as a licensed Trainee Plumber under a Master Plumber, or at least 2,000 hours as a licensed Journeyman-in-Training. The exam requires a passing score of 70%. The application fee is $221 — $200 for the license plus a $21 background check — filed with the Maine Plumbers' Examining Board.

Renew Every Two Years for $200

Journeyman Plumber licenses are valid for two years from the date of first licensure and renew for $200. A late renewal filed within 90 days carries a $50 late fee. Beyond 90 days but within two years, reinstatement costs $100 in penalty fees on top of the $200 renewal fee. No continuing education is required.

Path to Master Plumber

With at least 1 year and 2,000 hours at the Journeyman level, you can qualify for the Master Plumber exam. The Master license is required to operate a plumbing contracting business or independently supervise plumbing installations.