Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Trades
Plumber Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for plumber in Virginia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Plumber in Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation • Board for Contractors
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$59,560 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#37 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 Virginia
With a median salary of 59,560, Plumbers in Virginia earn 5% below the national median of $62,970. Virginia ranks #37 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$59,560Hourly estimate
$28.635% below national median
Difference: -$3,410
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPlumber Salary Ranking
#37 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $59,560 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $63,270 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $49,630 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $62,370 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $57,730 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $50,990 | Varies by state board | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- 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 Professional and Occupational Regulation • Board for Contractors
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 400, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043672785
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $50,220 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $61,610 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $102,720 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $60,630 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Plumber in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Plumbers.
What education do you need to become a Plumber in Virginia?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Plumber licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Plumber salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Plumbers in Virginia is 59,560. Salaries range from $41,050 (10th percentile) to $76,650 (90th percentile).
How does the Plumber salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Plumbers in Virginia earn 5% below the national median of $62,970, with a state median of 59,560.
How many Plumbers work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 13,190 Plumbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Plumber license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation / Board for Contractors. Review agency details at https://www.dpor.virginia.gov/Boards/Tradesmen/.