Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Trades
Plumber Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for plumber in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Plumber in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- No exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Department of Environmental Quality • Waste Management
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$50,990 median (19% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#46 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Carolina eligibility requirements for Plumber licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: No exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to NC Department of Environmental Quality~Waste Management and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of $50,990, Plumbers in North Carolina earn 19% below the national median of $62,970. North Carolina ranks #46 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median annual salary
$50,990Hourly estimate
$24.5119% below national median
Difference: -$11,980
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPlumber Salary Ranking
#46 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $50,990 | Varies by state board | No 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 |
| Georgia | $56,290 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Carolina | $54,840 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 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. |
| Georgia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 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
NC Department of Environmental Quality • Waste Management
217 West Jones Street, Raleigh, NC, 27603
Phone: 9197078200
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $69,320 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $48,530 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $47,630 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $65,830 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Plumber in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Plumbers.
What is the typical Plumber salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Plumbers in North Carolina is $50,990. Salaries range from $37,690 (10th percentile) to $72,650 (90th percentile).
How does the Plumber salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Plumbers in North Carolina earn 19% below the national median of $62,970, with a state median of $50,990.
How many Plumbers work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 14,300 Plumbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Plumber license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Department of Environmental Quality / Waste Management. Review agency details at https://deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/waste-management/waste-management-permits.
How often do you renew a Plumber license in North Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.