Plumbing Journeyman License

State Licensing Board Commonly Funded

$300 Exam Cost $100-$500 depending on state

$60,000 Average Salary

$48,000–$85,000 Salary Range

1-2 Prep Weeks

2 years / $150 Renewal

About the Plumbing Journeyman License

State-issued license authorizing plumbers to work independently on residential and commercial plumbing systems.

Prerequisites

8,000-10,000 hours documented apprenticeship (state-dependent)

Testing Format

In-person written exam (plumbing code-based)

How VR&E Funds the Plumbing Journeyman License

VR&E funds apprenticeship programs and licensing exams. Strong earning potential with pathway to master plumber and business ownership.

What VR&E Typically Covers:

Exam fee ($300) — funded through Purchase Orders
Preparation courses and training programs
Study materials, practice exams, and lab access
Exam vouchers and retake fees when approved
Initial renewal fees may be covered during your plan period

All funding is subject to individual VRC approval as part of your Individualized Written Rehabilitation Plan (IWRP).

Career Paths with the Plumbing Journeyman License

Journeyman PlumberCommercial PlumberResidential PlumberPlumbing Foreman

VR&E vs GI Bill® for the Plumbing Journeyman License

VR&E Chapter 31

Exam fee covered in full ($300) — no per-test cap
Prep courses and materials funded separately
No upfront payment — funded through Purchase Orders
Part of your career rehabilitation plan

GI Bill®

$2,000 per-test reimbursement cap
Veteran pays upfront, gets reimbursed
This exam ($300) falls within the GI Bill® cap
Does not cover prep courses or study materials

Related Certifications

Ready to Get the Plumbing Journeyman License Funded Through VR&E?

Get Your Free Eligibility Checklist VR&E Application Toolkit — $197

Need help preparing for your VRC meeting? Explore the Counselor Meeting Prep Session — $497