Plumbing license requirements in Rhode Island
The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Board of Examiners for Plumbers issues plumbing licenses in Rhode Island. Here's what each license level takes, from the official rules.
Issued by
Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Board of Examiners for Plumbers
Official siteRequirements checked October 21, 2026
License levels
In order, from the first license to the top one.
- 1
Journeyperson Plumber
8,000 hours of on-the-job training as a Rhode Island apprentice over five years, including 576 hours of related instruction.
Official source - 2
Master Plumber
At least one year as a licensed journeyperson plumber employed by a master plumber.
Official source
Rules, fees and exam schedules change. Confirm the details with the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Board of Examiners for Plumbers before you apply.
Plumbers in Rhode Island
From the Bureau of Labor Statistics. See a city for local wages and contractor counts.
- Plumbers employed
- 1,820
- Median hourly wage
- $36.77
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 Rhode Island: common questions
Who issues plumbing licenses in Rhode Island?
The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Board of Examiners for Plumbers. 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 Rhode Island?
At least one year as a licensed journeyperson plumber employed by a master plumber.
What's the first plumbing license in Rhode Island?
The Journeyperson Plumber. 8,000 hours of on-the-job training as a Rhode Island apprentice over five years, including 576 hours of related instruction.
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.