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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Plumber in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
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 Kentucky eligibility requirements for Plumber licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Housing, Building and Construction and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
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 | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $64,560 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $62,530 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $49,630 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $59,560 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $57,730 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $62,090 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $96,200 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Indiana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $72,320 | Degree required | 1 month |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $39,940 | Degree required | 1 month |
| Carpenter | $50,860 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $63,770 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Plumber in Kentucky?
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 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Plumber license in Kentucky?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.