Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Trades
Plumber Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for plumber in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky
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
Department of Housing, Building and Construction
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$62,370 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#26 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 62,370, Plumbers in Kentucky earn 1% below the national median of $62,970. Kentucky ranks #26 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$62,370Hourly estimate
$29.991% below national median
Difference: -$600
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPlumber Salary Ranking
#26 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $62,370 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $64,560 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $62,530 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $49,630 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $59,560 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $57,730 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $62,090 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $96,200 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| West Virginia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Tennessee | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
Department of Housing, Building and Construction
500 Mero Street, First Floor, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5025732002
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $50,860 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $59,490 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $43,500 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $58,880 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Plumber in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Plumbers.
What education do you need to become a Plumber in Kentucky?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Plumber licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Plumber salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Plumbers in Kentucky is 62,370. Salaries range from $39,210 (10th percentile) to $92,970 (90th percentile).
How does the Plumber salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Plumbers in Kentucky earn 1% below the national median of $62,970, with a state median of 62,370.
How many Plumbers work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 5,500 Plumbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Plumber license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Department of Housing, Building and Construction. Review agency details at http://dhbc.ky.gov/.