Plumber license planning guide for New York
No state-level plumber license; regulated at city/county level (NYC Master Plumber License, etc.)
Typical requirements to verify
- No state-level plumber license — New York delegates to local jurisdictions
- NYC: Master Plumber License required (7+ years experience, pass exam)
- NYC: Journeyman Plumber License (5+ years experience)
- Most upstate cities and counties require local plumber licenses
- Check with your local building department for specific requirements
Experience and exam
Experience: NYC: 5+ years for journeyman, 7+ years for master; varies elsewhere
Exam indicated: Yes
Insurance and renewal
Insurance: Liability insurance required by most local jurisdictions
Renewal: Varies by jurisdiction (NYC: biennial)
Local requirements
New York has NO state-level plumbing license. NYC has its own Master/Journeyman Plumber License through the Department of Buildings. Other cities (Buffalo, Rochester, Albany) have their own local licensing. Always check with your local building department.
Common exemptions to verify
- Property owners on own residence (with permits)
- Minor repairs under local thresholds