Pennsylvania renewal guide
Master Plumber License (Philadelphia)
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
$253.00
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 City of Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) and pay the $253.00 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.
Philadelphia Master Plumber License
Philadelphia requires plumbing contractors to hold a Master Plumber license issued by the Department of Licenses and Inspections. Pennsylvania does not have a state-level plumbing license.
Requirements
- Examination: Must pass the Philadelphia Master Plumber exam
- Experience: Must hold a Journeyman Plumber license and have supervisory experience
- Insurance: General liability and workers' compensation insurance
Renewal Information
- Renewal Period: Annual
- Continuing Education: 6 hours per year
- Documentation: Updated insurance and CE certificates
- Renewal Fee: $253
- Late Renewal Penalty: $100
- Application Fee: $50
Pittsburgh Plumbing Fees
For comparison, Pittsburgh plumbing license fees are:
- Journeyman Plumber: $125 annual renewal, $133 exam fee
- Master Plumber: $375 annual renewal, $265 exam fee
Important Notes
Pennsylvania leaves plumbing licensing entirely to municipalities. Each city has its own fee schedule, exam requirements, and renewal process. Always verify local requirements before performing plumbing work.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with your local licensing authority.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Proof of Insurance
- Examination Results
- Experience Documentation
- continuing_education_certificate
Rules move. Check City of Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) 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
Pennsylvania 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 Master Plumber License (Philadelphia) dates, proof, and official links with the rest of your license work.