Getting a plumbing license in Tennessee
The plumbing trade in Tennessee requires you to have your license first before you can work as a plumber. Regardless of whether you are new to the field or are an experienced plumber, the process of getting your plumbing license is the same. What you need is a Limited License Plumber or LLP License. Here’s what you need to know in order to obtain one.
What state entity/department regulates plumbers in Tennessee?
The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance oversees the plumbing trade Tennessee.
There are some counties in Tennessee that don’t require you to have a license before you can work as a plumber. These are Benton, Dickson, Decatur, Henderson, Giles, Hickman, Henry, Lake, Humphries, Lewis, Lawrence, Perry, Obion, Weakley, and Stewart. The counties not mentioned will likely ask for plumber licenses.
What is the process required to obtain a plumber’s license in Tennessee?
The process of obtaining a plumber’s license is straightforward.
First, you have to get an apprenticeship, which is normally provided by plumbing companies, building alliances, and local unions. This takes about four to five years. As long as you are 18 years old and above, have a high school diploma or GED, and likely to pass a math aptitude exam, you will qualify for an apprenticeship. There is also an option to take the 12-month program at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology for a shorter journey.
The second step is sending your application by filling out the application form, paying a fee of $75, and attaching proof of your plumbing experience of at least one year. These are the main requirements for getting the LLP license.
The last step is passing the LLP exam. This is an open book exam with 40 questions covering different subjects such as drainage waste and vents, general math, and water supply and distribution. You should be able to pass the exam with a score of 73% or higher. An additional $57 fee is required to take the exam.
What website provides details on obtaining the license?
You may refer to the official website of the Department of Commerce & Insurance at https://www.tn.gov/commerce/regboards/llp.html for the details on obtaining the license.
Where can I download the license application?
You can download your license application at https://www.tn.gov/commerce/regboards/llp.html
What different types of plumbing licenses are there in Tennessee?
There are two types of plumbing licenses in Tennessee–LLP and CMC-A. LLP or the Limited License Plumber is given to individuals who want to work as plumbers in different counties while the CMC-A is a license for those who want to put up a company of plumbers. These two licenses require different documentation before you can take the exam.
How long does the process take?
You will be able to complete the process to obtain the license in just a short period of time if you have completed the apprenticeship already. Remember that the apprenticeship takes four to five years. This is the only process that would take your time.
Is there an exam?
Yes, taking the exam to get the LLP or CMC-A license is required.
Where can practice exams be found?
There are a lot of websites offering practice exams. You can search on Google to find materials you can study before taking the actual exam.
Are there study courses?
Study courses are available for those who will take the apprenticeship. The Tennessee College of Applied Technology offers a certificate program that can be taken for 12 months.
How much does it cost to take the course?
The certificate program offered by Tennesse College costs about $5,300 including tuition, supplies, and textbooks.
Is there a fee for the license?
The fee for the license is $75 equivalent to 2 years of validity already.
Is there an ongoing license fee for renewals? How much? Every year?
The LLP license can be renewed. According to the Renewal Notice provided by the Department of Commerce & Insurance, the fees payable include $50 as the renewal fee and $5-15 as a penalty for late renewal. Make sure to check the expiration date of your license to avoid additional fees.
Is the exam difficult?
The exam covers different areas such as general math, drainage waste and vents, and water supply and distribution. If you will take practice exams and read study materials before the exam, it will be easier for you to pass the test.
What are other online resources that can help somebody wanting to obtain a plumber’s license in Tennessee?
There are websites on the internet offering free study materials for you to pass the license exam. Just browse through them and download as much as materials as you can and you are good to go.
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