Find Licensed Plumbers Across the United States
Connect with qualified, state-licensed plumbing professionals across all 50 states. From water heater installations to emergency repairs, find trusted contractors who meet national codes and state requirements.
50
States Covered
4,231
Licensed Contractors
4,231
Verified Plumbers
1,975
Cities & Towns
Why Choose Licensed US Plumbers
State Licensing
All contractors hold valid state licenses with journeyman or master plumber credentials
IPC & UPC Compliant
Work follows International or Uniform Plumbing Code standards adopted by your state
EPA WaterSense
Installation of water-efficient fixtures meeting EPA WaterSense certification standards
Lead-Free Certified
All installations meet Safe Drinking Water Act lead-free requirements (0.25% max)
Browse Plumbers by State
Select your state to find licensed plumbing contractors in your area
Alabama
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Idaho
Illinois
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Iowa
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Kentucky
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New Jersey
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Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
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Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
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Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
US Plumbing Licensing System
Plumbing licensing in the United States operates at the state level, with each state setting its own requirements for apprentice, journeyman, and master plumber credentials. Most states require 4-5 years of on-the-job experience under a licensed master plumber before eligibility to test for journeyman status.
The United States follows two primary model plumbing codes: the International Plumbing Code (IPC), adopted in 37 states, and the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), designated as an American National Standard by ANSI. States like California base their codes on the UPC, while Alabama, Arizona, and Arkansas use the IPC. Some states like New Jersey use the National Standard Plumbing Code (NSPC).
Licensed plumbers must carry appropriate liability insurance and workers compensation coverage. Some states offer reciprocity agreements allowing license transfers, while others require contractors to apply for new licenses when moving between states. Always verify current licensing with your state's regulatory board.
Common Plumbing Services
EPA WaterSense & Safe Drinking Water Act
Federal standards protecting health and promoting water efficiency
The EPA WaterSense program is a voluntary certification encouraging water efficiency across the United States. Products bearing the WaterSense label have been independently tested to use at least 20% less water than federal requirements while maintaining performance standards. WaterSense-certified fixtures include toilets, faucets, showerheads, and urinals that help homeowners reduce water consumption and utility costs.
The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) establishes the federal definition of "lead-free" plumbing. Since the 2014 amendment, all pipes, fittings, and fixtures used in drinking water systems must meet a weighted average of 0.25% lead or less across wetted surfaces, with solder and flux limited to 0.2% lead. As of September 2023, all plumbing products must be certified by an ANSI-accredited third-party body to verify compliance.
Licensed plumbers ensure all installations meet both EPA WaterSense efficiency standards and SDWA lead-free requirements. This dual focus protects public health while reducing water waste, addressing concerns ranging from lead contamination to drought conditions affecting many US regions. When hiring a plumber, confirm they use only certified, compliant products for drinking water applications.
US Plumbing Industry Overview
Key statistics and employment data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
504,500+
Plumbers, Pipefitters & Steamfitters
$62,970
Median Annual Wage (2024)
44,000
Annual Job Openings Projected
Employment is projected to grow 4% from 2024-2034, driven by new construction, infrastructure upgrades, and replacement of aging plumbing systems. California, Texas, and Florida lead in plumbing employment.
Plumbing Across US Climate Zones
The United States spans multiple climate zones, each presenting unique plumbing challenges. Northern states experience freezing temperatures requiring extensive freeze protection for exterior pipes, hose bibs, and water service lines. Plumbers in these regions specialize in insulation techniques, heat tape installation, and proper pipe depth to prevent costly freeze damage.
Southern and coastal states face hurricane risks and high humidity. Plumbers in these areas focus on backflow prevention, sump pump systems, and moisture-resistant materials to prevent mold growth. Gulf Coast and Atlantic states require robust drainage systems to handle heavy rainfall and storm surge flooding.
Western states dealing with drought conditions emphasize water conservation. Plumbers install rainwater harvesting systems, greywater recycling, drip irrigation, and EPA WaterSense fixtures to maximize efficiency. Hard water is common across the Midwest and Southwest, making water softener installation and maintenance a primary service. Licensed plumbers understand regional codes and climate-specific best practices for your area.
National Plumbing Codes & Standards
While plumbing licensing occurs at the state level, most states adopt one of two primary model codes as their foundation. The International Plumbing Code (IPC), published by the International Code Council (ICC), is adopted in 37 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico. The IPC sets minimum regulations for plumbing systems to protect public health and safety.
The Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), is the only US plumbing code designated as an American National Standard by ANSI. Western states including California, Oregon, and Nevada typically base their state codes on the UPC. Both codes are updated on three-year cycles to incorporate new technologies and materials.
Individual states and municipalities may amend these model codes to address local conditions. Some states like New Jersey use alternative codes such as the National Standard Plumbing Code (NSPC). Regardless of which code your jurisdiction follows, licensed plumbers must stay current with local amendments and continuing education requirements to maintain their credentials and ensure code-compliant installations.
Find Your Local Licensed Plumber
Browse verified plumbing contractors across all 50 US states. Get quotes, compare ratings, and connect with state-licensed professionals for your plumbing project.
Browse All StatesImportant: Always verify current state licensing through your state's licensing board or regulatory authority before hiring. Confirm contractors carry appropriate liability insurance and workers compensation coverage. Gas line work may require separate licensing from general plumbing in your state.