Massachusetts renewal guide
Plumbing Contractor License (State)
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 24 months
Renewal fee
$78.00
Late penalty
$57.00
Bond requirement
No
Insurance requirement
Yes — General Liability, Workers' Compensation
Continuing education
12 hours
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
Finish the CE first
Complete the 12 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 Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters and pay the $78.00 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.
If you miss the deadline, the late penalty is $57.00, with a 30-day grace period.
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
Massachusetts Plumbing Contractor License
The Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters licenses plumbing contractors. A valid master plumber license is required to contract for plumbing work in Massachusetts.
Requirements
- Examination: Must pass the Massachusetts master plumber exam
- Experience: Minimum 4 years as a journeyman plumber
- Insurance: General liability and workers' compensation insurance required
- Continuing Education: 12 hours per renewal cycle
- Application Fee: $78
Renewal Information
- Renewal Period: Every 2 years (biennial)
- Renewal Fee: $78
- Continuing Education: 12 hours required each cycle
- Late Penalty: $57 additional fee
- Grace Period: 30 days after expiration
Scope of Work
Licensed master plumbers may install, alter, repair, and maintain plumbing systems and gas piping in residential and commercial buildings throughout Massachusetts.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Performing plumbing work without a valid license is subject to fines up to $500 per offense and potential criminal prosecution.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the MA Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Proof of Insurance
- Examination Results
- continuing_education_certificate
Source notes
Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters . Verified March 2026 via mass.gov and DPL fee schedule.
Rules move. Check Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
Related content
Keep exploring.
Next steps
Turn it into a handoff.
Once the rule is clear, these tools help you hand it off cleanly or turn it into a cost plan.
Printable checklist
Massachusetts checklist
Use the checklist when you need the board link, required documents, and renewal notes in one handoff.
Open checklistCost planning
Estimate this renewal cost
Start the calculator with this state and license selected so you can review the fee, late-risk, bond, insurance, and CE work faster.
Open calculatorTrack the next renewal.
Keep Plumbing Contractor License (State) dates, proof, and official links with the rest of your license work.