How to Become a Licensed Plumber in Florida
So, you’re Thinking about how to become a plumber in Florida? Great choice. Plumbers are essential to every home and building-especially in a fast-growing, high-humidity state like Florida. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or changing careers, this guide lays out the steps to work as a licensed plumber in Florida, including license types, training paths, experience, the DBPR application, and the PSI exam.
Quick answers
At a glance
- Florida requires a plumbing license: Registered (local) or Certified (statewide through the Florida DBPR).
- Common training paths: apprenticeship (4-5 years) or trade school (9-24 months).
- Certified license experience: 4 years minimum, including 1 year in a supervisory role (up to 3 years of education may substitute).
- Exam: PSI; Business & Finance and Plumbing Trade; 70%+ passing score per section.
- Typical upfront costs: about $2,500-$17,000+ (school, fees, exams, background check, and optional tools).
Do you need a license to work as a plumber in Florida?
Yes. Florida plumbers must be licensed to work legally, either locally as Registered or statewide as Certified.
What is the difference between a registered and certified plumber license?
Registered licenses are valid only in the local jurisdiction that issues them. Certified licenses are valid statewide and are regulated through the Florida DBPR.
What training paths does this guide cover?
Most plumbers start with an apprenticeship (4-5 years) or a trade school program (9-24 months). Both routes can help you prepare for licensing.
How much experience do you need before applying for a certified license?
You will need at least 4 years of experience, including at least 1 year in a supervisory role. Up to 3 years of education can substitute for experience if it is in a DBPR-approved program.
What is on the Florida plumbing license exam?
The Florida plumbing contractor exam is delivered by PSI. It includes Business & Finance and Plumbing Trade sections, with a 70%+ passing score on each section.
Do You Need a License to Be a Plumber in Florida?
Yes. All plumbers in Florida must be licensed to work legally-either at the local level (Registered) or statewide (Certified).
| License Type | Scope of Work | Regulated By |
|---|---|---|
| Registered | Local jurisdiction only | Local Authorities |
| Certified | Valid statewide across all of Florida | Florida DBPR1 |
Registered licenses apply only in the local jurisdiction that issued them. Certified licenses apply statewide and are regulated through the Florida DBPR.
“To legally perform plumbing services in Florida, you must hold a certified or registered license through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).” - DBPR Construction Licensing Unit1
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Plumber in Florida
1. Meet Basic Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- High school diploma or GED
- U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Able to pass a criminal background check2
2. Complete Plumbing Training or Apprenticeship
There’s no one-size-fits-all path, but most plumbers start with an apprenticeship or technical school program.
| Training Path | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 4-5 years | Paid, hands-on experience + classroom hours |
| Trade School | 9-24 months | Structured programs with certification prep |
“Florida apprenticeship programs are registered through the Florida Department of Education and allow you to earn while you learn.” - FLDOE3
3. Gain Work Experience
Before applying for a Certified Plumbing Contractor license, you’ll need to prove at least 4 years of experience, with at least 1 year in a supervisory role.
Up to 3 years of education can substitute for experience if it’s in a DBPR-approved program.
4. Apply for a License with the Florida DBPR
You can apply for either a Registered or Certified Plumbing Contractor License depending on where you want to work.
| Step | Notes |
|---|---|
| Submit application | myfloridalicense.com |
| Pay licensing fees | ~$249-$309 (certified), varies for registered |
| Submit proof of experience | Verified work history or education+experience combo |
| Pass background screening2 | Required for all DBPR licensees |
5. Pass the Florida Plumbing License Exam
| Exam Details | Info |
|---|---|
| Provider | PSI Exams4 |
| Sections | Business & Finance + Plumbing Trade |
| Format | Computer-based |
| Passing Score | 70%+ on each section |
Study materials are available directly from the exam provider and most plumbing schools.
What Drives the Cost
| Item | Cost profile |
|---|---|
| Technical school or program | The biggest variable - tuition differs widely by program, and apprenticeship routes with paid training cost far less out of pocket |
| DBPR License Application | Set by the state - check the current DBPR fee schedule |
| PSI Exam Fee | Charged per exam part - see PSI’s current schedule |
| Fingerprinting & Background Check | Small one-time cost |
| Tools & Materials (optional) | Modest startup cost that grows with your work |
Training is the cost driver; the fees are minor by comparison. Confirm current fees with the DBPR and current tuition with any school directly.
Plumber Wages by Metro Area in Florida
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Wages by Metro Area in Florida
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics ( OES data), plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters wages in Florida vary by metro area.
| Metro Area | Employment | Median Annual Wage | Avg. Annual Wage | Entry Level (10th pctile) | Experienced (90th pctile) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | 5,930 | $57,760 | $57,830 | $40,360 | $75,010 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | 4,180 | $52,000 | $55,600 | $41,610 | $66,830 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | 4,040 | $55,380 | $55,990 | $39,900 | $72,950 |
| Jacksonville | 2,380 | $58,920 | $58,230 | $40,020 | $75,310 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | 1,950 | $51,690 | $54,480 | $36,670 | $67,590 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | 1,390 | $58,150 | $57,570 | $40,100 | $75,840 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | 940 | $59,780 | $58,690 | $41,800 | $73,820 |
| Naples-Marco Island | 810 | $57,830 | $57,780 | $38,880 | $76,640 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | 740 | $51,220 | $54,270 | $38,130 | $69,430 |
| Port St. Lucie | 730 | $50,990 | $55,280 | $39,320 | $74,090 |
| Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach | 710 | $50,490 | $55,100 | $37,380 | $75,910 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent | 650 | $49,670 | $53,590 | $37,810 | $69,390 |
| Panama City-Panama City Beach | 510 | $47,800 | $49,630 | $32,000 | $69,700 |
| Gainesville | 490 | $51,600 | $51,200 | $31,750 | $67,200 |
| Tallahassee | 480 | $48,540 | $52,490 | $37,750 | $69,870 |
| Ocala | 420 | $49,910 | $53,110 | $37,520 | $70,790 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin | 370 | $52,020 | $57,600 | $43,730 | $74,920 |
| Punta Gorda | 260 | $55,490 | $56,210 | $38,830 | $73,950 |
| Wildwood-The Villages | 230 | $50,140 | $53,000 | $38,200 | $72,560 |
| Sebastian-Vero Beach-West Vero Corridor | 210 | $55,900 | $58,390 | $39,740 | $76,270 |
| Homosassa Springs | 150 | $48,140 | $52,090 | $37,640 | $69,940 |
| Sebring | 70 | $50,650 | $51,810 | $37,420 | $61,350 |
Wages reflect survey data and vary based on experience, credentials, employer, and local market conditions. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May .
Other Florida Trades
- Electrician in Florida
- HVAC in Florida
- Welder in Florida
- Carpenter in Florida
- Solar Installer in Florida
- Mold Inspector in Florida
FAQs
Do plumbers need to be licensed in Florida?
Yes. Florida plumbers must hold either a local Registered license or statewide Certified license.
How long does licensed plumber in Florida training take?
Most people take 4-5 years via apprenticeship or 2 years of school + experience to qualify.
Is plumbing a good career in Florida?
Absolutely. Demand is rising due to housing growth and a shortage of licensed tradespeople.