NBOPE Journeyperson Plumber study guide
NBOPE Journeyperson Plumber · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The Journeyperson Plumber credential examined by the National Board of Plumbing Examiners is a multiple-choice certification exam intended for working plumbers who have completed their apprenticeship or accumulated equivalent field experience and want documented proof of journeyman-level competence. It is used by tradespeople seeking employment advancement, by contractors screening hires, and by jurisdictions or employers that recognize the credential. The NBOPE Journeyperson Plumber study guide has 10 sections and about 2,929 words.
01General Plumbing Knowledge, Tools, and Safety
This domain tests whether you can select materials and tools correctly and work without creating hazards. Expect questions on joining methods, test equipment, trench and ladder safety, and fire protection during soldering or brazing.
335 words, about 2 min02Drainage Systems, Fixtures, and Fittings
This domain tests gravity drainage: slope, fitting selection, cleanouts, supports, and fixture connections. The exam asks you to recognize a code-compliant arrangement and to calculate fall.
308 words, about 2 min03Venting Systems and Traps
This domain tests trap seal protection and vent design. Expect questions on trap arm length, vent terminal height, wet venting, air admittance valves, and the difference between a vent and a drain.
342 words, about 2 min04Water Supply and Distribution Systems
This domain tests pressure, sizing, materials, and control devices. Expect questions on fixture-unit sizing, pressure-reducing valves, thermal expansion, water hammer, and protection of the potable supply.
285 words, about 1 min05Plumbing Fixtures and Fixture Fittings
This domain tests fixture selection, rough-in dimensions, flow rates, and fittings. Expect questions on water closets, lavatories, sinks, showers, and accessible installations.
280 words, about 1 min06Water Heaters and Hot Water Supply
This domain tests safe installation, venting, relief protection, and hot water distribution. Expect questions on T&P valves, expansion, combustion air, and recirculation.
294 words, about 1 min07Fuel Gas Piping and Appliance Connections
This domain tests gas piping sizing, materials, testing, and appliance connections. Expect questions on sediment traps, shutoff valves, connectors, and bonding.
287 words, about 1 min08Plumbing Mathematics, Sizing, and Fixture Units
This domain tests the calculations behind sizing and layout. Expect questions on fixture units, slope, fall, pressure, volume, and unit conversion.
264 words, about 1 min09Code Administration, Permits, and Inspection
This domain tests how work is authorized, inspected, and closed out. Expect questions on permits, plan review, rough-in and final inspections, and corrections.
257 words, about 1 min10Backflow Prevention, Cross-Connection Control, and Water Quality
This domain tests protection of potable water. Expect questions on air gaps, RPZ devices, test procedures, and water quality hazards.
277 words, about 1 min