Washington 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
$139.10
Late penalty
$69.50
Bond requirement
Yes — $6,000.00
Insurance requirement
Yes — General Liability, Workers' Compensation
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
Make sure the bond still clears
The $6,000.00 bond requirement needs to stay active through 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 Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) and pay the $139.10 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 $69.50, with a 30-day grace period.
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
Washington Plumbing Contractor License
The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) licenses plumbing contractors under the state Plumbing Code. A valid license is required to perform plumbing work in Washington.
Requirements
- Examination: Must pass the L&I plumbing contractor exam
- Experience: Minimum 2 years as a journeyman plumber
- Insurance: General liability and workers' compensation insurance required
- Bond: $6,000 surety bond required
- Application Fee: $139.10
Renewal Information
- Renewal Period: Every 2 years
- Renewal Fee: $139.10
- Late Penalty: $69.50 reinstatement fee
- Grace Period: 30 days after expiration
Continuing Education Note
Continuing education requirements apply to individual plumbers (journeymen and masters), not to the plumbing contractor license itself.
Scope of Work
Licensed plumbing contractors may install, alter, repair, and maintain plumbing systems including water supply, drainage, waste, and vent piping throughout Washington.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Performing plumbing work without a valid license is subject to fines and enforcement action by L&I.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with Washington L&I.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Proof of Insurance
- Examination Results
- Bond Certificate
Source notes
WAC 296-400A-045 . Verified March 2026.
Rules move. Check Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) 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
Washington checklist
Use the checklist when you need the board link, required documents, and renewal notes in one handoff.
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Keep Plumbing Contractor License (State) dates, proof, and official links with the rest of your license work.