Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Trades
Plumber Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for plumber in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Plumber in California
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Contractors State License Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$68,390 median (9% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#14 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Plumber licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Consumer Affairs~Contractors State License Board and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of $68,390, Plumbers in California earn 9% above the national median of $62,970. California ranks #14 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$68,390Hourly estimate
$32.889% above national median
Difference: +$5,420
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPlumber Salary Ranking
#14 of 50 statesfor Plumber median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Illinois | $96,200 |
| #2 | Oregon | $93,110 |
| #3 | Minnesota | $83,280 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | $83,260 |
| #5 | Alaska | $83,090 |
Nearby States Comparison
Plumber licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $68,390 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Oregon | $93,110 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $60,120 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Arizona | $61,940 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Consumer Affairs • Contractors State License Board
9821 Business Park Drive, Sacramento, CA, 95827
Phone: 8003212752
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $84,910 | Varies by state board | 1-17 years |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $63,370 | Varies by state board | 1-17 years |
| Carpenter | $74,820 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $101,160 | Varies by state board | 1-6 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Plumber in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Plumber salary in California?
The median annual salary for Plumbers in California is $68,390. Salaries range from $45,480 (10th percentile) to $126,790 (90th percentile).
How does the Plumber salary in California compare to the national average?
Plumbers in California earn 9% above the national median of $62,970, with a state median of $68,390.
How many Plumbers work in California?
California employs approximately 45,460 Plumbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Plumber license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Plumbers in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Contractors State License Board. Review agency details at http://www.cslb.ca.gov/.
How often do you renew a Plumber license in California?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.