Plumbing license requirements in Massachusetts
The Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters issues plumbing licenses in Massachusetts. Here's what each license level takes, from the official rules.
Issued by
Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters
Official siteRequirements checked October 21, 2026
License levels
In order, from the first license to the top one.
- 1
Journeyman Plumber
At least 6,800 hours of practical experience and 550 hours of plumbing theory as an apprentice, then the exam.
Official source - 2
Master Plumber
At least one year (1,700 hours) as a Massachusetts journeyman, plus the 110-hour tier five course. Then the exam.
Official source
Rules, fees and exam schedules change. Confirm the details with the Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters before you apply.
Plumbers in Massachusetts
From the Bureau of Labor Statistics. See a city for local wages and contractor counts.
- Plumbers employed
- 13,460
- Median hourly wage
- $45.14
Plumbing market data by city
Once you're licensed
Tradesman runs the business side for plumbers: estimates, scheduling, invoicing and payments in one app.
Plumbing licensing in Massachusetts: common questions
Who issues plumbing licenses in Massachusetts?
The Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters. The license levels and what each takes are listed above, with a link to the official source for each.
What does the Master Plumber license take in Massachusetts?
At least one year (1,700 hours) as a Massachusetts journeyman, plus the 110-hour tier five course. Then the exam.
What's the first plumbing license in Massachusetts?
The Journeyman Plumber. At least 6,800 hours of practical experience and 550 hours of plumbing theory as an apprentice, then the exam.
Licensed and ready for more customers?
Tradesman handles estimates, scheduling and invoicing so you can spend your time on the work. Now in early access.