Virginia renewal guide
Master Plumber License (Tradesman)
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 36 months
Renewal fee
$160.00
Late penalty
$50.00
Bond requirement
No
Insurance requirement
No
Continuing education
3 hours
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
Finish the CE first
Complete the 3 required hours before you start the renewal.
- 2
File with the board
File through Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) and pay the $160.00 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.
If you miss the deadline, the late penalty is $50.00, with a 30-day grace period.
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
Virginia Master Plumber License (Tradesman)
The Master Plumber license is issued under DPOR's Tradesmen Program. This is an individual tradesperson credential, separate from the contractor business license.
Requirements
- Examination: Must pass the Master Plumber exam
- Experience: Documented plumbing experience, including time as a Journeyman
- Application Fee: $150
Renewal Information
- Renewal Period: Every 3 years
- Renewal Fee: $160
- Continuing Education: 3 hours covering the International Plumbing Code (IPC)
- Expiration: License expires 3 years from the last day of the month issued
- Late Renewal Surcharge: $50 (reinstatement fee is $210 total if 30+ days late)
Tradesman vs. Contractor License
Plumbing professionals in Virginia typically need:
1. A Tradesman license (Master Plumber) proving individual competency
2. A Contractor license (Class A, B, or C with plumbing specialty) for the business
Scope
Master Plumbers can:
- Perform all types of plumbing work
- Supervise journeyman and apprentice plumbers
- Serve as the qualifying individual for a plumbing contractor license
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with DPOR.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Examination Results
- Experience Documentation
Source notes
Virginia DPOR - Tradesmen Program . Verified March 2026 via 18VAC50-30-90/120.
Rules move. Check Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
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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
Virginia checklist
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Keep Master Plumber License (Tradesman) dates, proof, and official links with the rest of your license work.