Application Fee
See agencyPlumber Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for plumber in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Plumber in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
There is some indication that this license exists in Iowa, but it has not yet been confirmed by state experts
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$61,230 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#33 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Iowa
With a median salary of 61,230, Plumbers in Iowa earn 3% below the national median of $62,970. Iowa ranks #33 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$61,230Hourly estimate
$29.44Difference: -$1,740
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPlumber Salary Ranking
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $61,230 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $83,280 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $78,510 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $96,200 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $62,090 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $62,880 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $50,790 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Illinois | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
There is some indication that this license exists in Iowa, but it has not yet been confirmed by state experts
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $54,080 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $62,880 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $107,010 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $59,490 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Plumber in Iowa?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Plumbers in Iowa?
Iowa lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Plumbers.
What education do you need to become a Plumber in Iowa?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Plumber licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Plumber salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Plumbers in Iowa is 61,230. Salaries range from $41,840 (10th percentile) to $92,690 (90th percentile).
How does the Plumber salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Plumbers in Iowa earn 3% below the national median of $62,970, with a state median of 61,230.
How many Plumbers work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 6,350 Plumbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Plumber license to Iowa from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Plumbers in Iowa?
The licensing agency is There is some indication that this license exists in Iowa, but it has not yet been confirmed by state experts.