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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Plumber in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 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 |
| Georgia | $56,290 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $54,840 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| 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. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $47,630 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $54,070 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $102,310 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $51,940 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Plumber in North Carolina?
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 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. License status indicator: Active. 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.