IL Plumber

It is a multiple-choice examination. IDPH does not publish the item count or time limit on its plumbing pages, so plan for a timed, closed-book sitting and confirm the specifics with the Department when your examination date is set. Bring only what the testing site permits.

File the "Plumber's License: Application for Examination" form at least 30 days before the exam date and pay the required fee. Applicants must also show at least 4 years of employment as a licensed apprentice plumber, at least 2 years of high school or equivalent, and approved course instruction through a college, university, or trade school.

You must complete the "Plumber's Licenses: Examination Retake Form" and submit the applicable fee to the Department. There is no published limit on attempts for the licensing exam itself, but an apprentice license cannot be renewed after the maximum 6-year apprenticeship period if the exam is not applied for or is failed.

IDPH describes a 48 to 72 month apprenticeship under a licensed plumber, plus the 4-year minimum employment requirement, 2 years of high school, and approved course instruction. Apprentice licenses stop being renewable after a maximum 6-year apprenticeship period if you have not applied for the licensing exam or have failed it.

Start with the Illinois Plumbing Code, since it drives most code-based items and underlies the installation and inspection material. Then read the Illinois Plumbing License Law and the Plumbers Licensing Code for licensing, advertising, and contractor rules. Finish with cross-connection control, water quality, and pathogen protection, which tie the code to its public health purpose.

Candidates lose points by answering from job-site habit instead of the code, by confusing fixture unit values and sizing tables, and by skipping the administrative chapters on licensing, sponsorship, advertising, and contractor registration. Another frequent problem is weak cross-connection knowledge, including backflow terminology, air gaps, and vacuum breakers.

Yes. IDPH states that licensed plumbers are obligated to maintain and improve their skills and knowledge related to plumbing by completing continuing education requirements annually. IDPH publishes a continuing education course listing and an electronic roster for plumbers, so verify approved providers before enrolling in any course.

Plumber licenses must be renewed by April 30th following the date of issuance via the online renewal page. Illinois law also requires all applicants, whether or not they have children, to certify whether they are delinquent in child support payments; the application is not approved until that certification is complete.

A retired plumber license is for those who wish to retire and do not anticipate continuing to practice. A retired plumber cannot sponsor or supervise apprentice plumbers and cannot inspect plumbing. Eligibility requires an active Illinois license, being at least 62 years old or physically unable to perform licensed plumber duties, and voluntary surrender of the current license.

Businesses and individuals offering plumbing services must display the plumbing license of at least one member at their place of business, keep a register of all licensed plumbers and apprentice plumbers employed, and include the plumbing license number in all advertisements. Failing to display the correct number or sharing license numbers can bring a Class A misdemeanor charge, a $1,000 fine, and suspension or revocation.