Apprentice Plumber License
An apprentice plumber license is required to work as an apprentice under the direct supervision and control of a licensed plumber.
City of Chicago apprentice plumber licenses are issued by the Board of Plumbing Examiners through the Department of Buildings. Apprentice plumber licenses issued by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) are also valid and recognized in the City of Chicago so long as the apprentice’s employer has a City of Chicago plumbing contractor license.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is an apprentice plumber license required?
An apprentice plumber license, issued by either the City of Chicago or State of Illinois, is required to work as an apprentice under the direct supervision and control of a licensed plumber within the City of Chicago.
Are there different types of apprentice plumber licenses?
No, there is only one type of City of Chicago apprentice plumber license.
Who may obtain an apprentice plumber license?
Apprentice plumber licenses are issued to individuals who can show that they will be working under the direct supervision and control of a licensed plumber.
What is required to obtain an apprentice plumber license?
To obtain an apprentice plumber license, an individual must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Have a letter from a licensed plumbing contractor or from an officer of an approved plumber apprenticeship program certifying that the applicant will receive training under the direct supervision and control of a licensed plumber
How do I apply for a new apprentice plumber license?
Continental Testing Services processes apprentice plumber license applications on behalf of the Department of Buildings.
Applications are submitted through the Continental Testing Services web site.
How do I renew an existing apprentice plumber license?
Existing apprentice plumber licenses are renewed through the Department of Buildings web portal.
How much does an apprentice plumber license cost?
Effective January 2, 2025:
| Fee Type | Amount |
| Initial License Fee | $100.00 |
| Renewal Fee (per year) | $100.00 |
| Reinstatement Fee (per year or fraction of a year expired) | $10.00 |
Miscellaneous Fees
Reinstatement of lapsed (expired) license: $100.00 per lapsed year
Duplicate or replacement license document: $50.00
How long is an apprentice plumber license valid?
An apprentice plumber license is valid for one year from issuance or renewal.
Ordinances and Rules
Municipal Code of Chicago, Chapter 4-332: Plumbers
| This information is provided to help you better understand licensing requirements in the City of Chicago. It may not reflect all conditions, limitations, or exceptions that may apply to a particular situation and is not intended as a substitute for legal advice. To the extent the information on this page differs from the Municipal Code of Chicago or applicable rules, the ordinance or rule controls. |