{"id":23693,"date":"2023-01-23T17:42:38","date_gmt":"2023-01-23T17:42:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.housecallpro.com\/?page_id=23693"},"modified":"2024-05-21T19:26:55","modified_gmt":"2024-05-21T19:26:55","slug":"colorado","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.housecallpro.com\/licensing\/plumbing\/colorado\/","title":{"rendered":"Plumbing License Requirements in Colorado"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Colorado plumbing industry is full of opportunity, and obtaining your plumbing license is the first step toward a successful career. This updated guide provides everything you need to know about licensing requirements, salary expectations, and staying compliant with state regulations.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"toc\"><ul class=\"toc-list\"><li><a href='#what-plumbing-work-can-be-done-without-a-license' class='toc-link'>What plumbing work can be done without a license?<\/a><\/li><li><a href='#what-are-the-different-types-of-plumbing-licenses-available-in-colorado' class='toc-link'>What are the different types of plumbing licenses available in Colorado?<\/a><\/li><li><a href='#average-hourly-rates-for-plumbers-in-colorado' class='toc-link'>Average hourly rates for plumbers in Colorado<\/a><\/li><li><a href='#how-to-get-a-plumbing-license-in-colorado' class='toc-link'>How to get a plumbing license in Colorado<\/a><\/li><li><a href='#checklist-for-getting-a-plumbing-license' class='toc-link'>Checklist for Getting a Plumbing License<\/a><\/li><li><a href='#should-i-join-a-union' class='toc-link'>Should I join a union?<\/a><\/li><li><a href='#insurance-for-plumbers-in-colorado' class='toc-link'>Insurance for plumbers in Colorado<\/a><\/li><li><a href='#how-to-get-my-first-plumbing-apprenticeship' class='toc-link'>How to get my first plumbing apprenticeship<\/a><\/li><li><a href='#is-my-plumbing-license-only-valid-in-colorado' class='toc-link'>Is my plumbing license only valid in Colorado?<\/a><\/li><li><a href='#how-do-i-stay-up-to-date-with-plumbing-codes' class='toc-link'>How do I stay up to date with plumbing codes?<\/a><\/li><li><a href='#what-resources-are-available-in-the-plumbing-industry' class='toc-link'>What resources are available in the plumbing industry?<\/a><\/li><li><a href='#how-often-do-i-need-to-renew-my-plumbing-license-in-colorado' class='toc-link'>How often do I need to renew my plumbing license in Colorado?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n<h2 id=\"what-plumbing-work-can-be-done-without-a-license\">What plumbing work can be done without a license?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In Colorado, you cannot legally work as a plumber without a valid license. While apprentices are allowed to work under the supervision of a licensed plumber, performing plumbing tasks independently without a license is prohibited.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"what-are-the-different-types-of-plumbing-licenses-available-in-colorado\">What are the different types of plumbing licenses available in Colorado?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are three types of plumbing licenses in Colorado: residential plumbing license, journeyman plumbing license, and a master plumbing license.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As an apprentice, you must register with the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dpo.colorado.gov\/Plumbing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> within 30 days of taking a plumbing job. The fee is $30.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Apprentices work under the direction of a master plumber and assist with a variety of plumbing jobs, including pipe installation, plumbing repairs, and sewage repairs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The requirements for plumbing licenses in Colorado include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><strong>Residential Plumber License<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Requirements:<\/span>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Complete 3,400 hours of plumbing work under the supervision of a master plumber.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submit proof of experience and an application to the state.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pay the application fee ($100).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Scope of Work: Residential installations, repairs, and fittings.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><strong>Journeyman Plumber License<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Requirements:<\/span>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Accumulate 6,800 hours of plumbing experience.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pass the journeyman plumber exam.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submit proof of experience and pay the application fee ($120).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Scope of Work: Both residential and commercial plumbing projects.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><strong>Master Plumber License<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Requirements:<\/span>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gain 9,780 hours of plumbing experience.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pass the master plumber exam.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submit proof of eligibility and pay the application fee ($140).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Scope of Work: All plumbing work, including supervising and training apprentices.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2 id=\"average-hourly-rates-for-plumbers-in-colorado\">Average hourly rates for plumbers in Colorado<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In Colorado, plumbers benefit from higher-than-average wages, making the state an attractive location for plumbing professionals at all levels. With the demand for skilled trades continuing to grow, Colorado offers competitive salaries that reflect both the expertise required and the high cost of living in certain areas. Here\u2019s a breakdown of <\/span><a href=\"\/resources\/news-press\/plumber-salary\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">average hourly rates<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Colorado alongside <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/oes\/current\/oes472152.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">national comparisons<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Average Salary in Colorado:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Apprentice Plumber<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: $18.31 per hour<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(National Average: $15.31 per hour)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Apprentice plumbers in Colorado earn about 20% more than the national average, highlighting the value of entry-level skills in a state with diverse plumbing needs.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Journeyman Plumber<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: $28.64 per hour<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(National Average: $25.37 per hour)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Journeyman plumbers in Colorado earn approximately 13% above the national average, a reflection of the advanced skills and independence expected at this level.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Master Plumber<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: $30.93 per hour<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(National Average: $30.46 per hour)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Master plumbers in Colorado make slightly more than their peers nationwide, recognizing their expertise in managing complex projects and overseeing teams.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With salaries consistently above national averages, Colorado remains a competitive and rewarding state for plumbers seeking both fair compensation and opportunities for advancement.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-get-a-plumbing-license-in-colorado\">How to get a plumbing license in Colorado<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don\u2019t need formal education to apply for a Colorado plumbing license, but trade school programs can provide valuable skills. For example, Red Rock Community College offers an 18.5-credit plumbing certificate program. Courses include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Basic plumbing math<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Residential plumbing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Journeyman exam preparation<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tuition costs are $221.55 per credit hour, and financial aid is available.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Apprenticeships are also essential for gaining practical experience. You can apply directly to plumbing companies or join a program like the 5-year apprentice program at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.emilygriffith.edu\/programs\/plumber-apprenticeship\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emily Griffith Technical College<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which teaches pipe fitting, repair, and system assembly.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"checklist-for-getting-a-plumbing-license\">Checklist for Getting a Plumbing License<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To become a licensed plumber in Colorado, you\u2019ll need to progress through three key licensing levels, each with specific experience and examination requirements. Here\u2019s a breakdown of the steps and qualifications needed for each license:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Residential Plumber License:<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Complete 3,400 hours of plumbing work experience under a master plumber.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submit application with proof of experience.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pay the application fee ($100).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Journeyman Plumber License:<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Complete 6,800 hours of plumbing work experience.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pass the journeyman plumber exam.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submit application with proof of experience.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pay the application fee ($120).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Master Plumber License:<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Complete 9,780 hours of plumbing work experience.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pass the master plumbing license exam.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submit application with proof of experience.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pay the application fee ($140).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2 id=\"should-i-join-a-union\">Should I join a union?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plumbing unions offer several benefits that can enhance your career. Here are a few advantages of becoming a union member:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Higher Salaries: Unions advocate for competitive wages, and union plumbers typically earn 20% more than non-union plumbers.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Job Security: Unions work to protect their members from workplace harassment, offering stronger job security and protections.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Job Benefits: Union members often receive additional benefits, such as health insurance, pension plans, and access to job training opportunities.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Joining a union can be a great way to secure a stable, well-compensated career in the plumbing industry.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"insurance-for-plumbers-in-colorado\">Insurance for plumbers in Colorado<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Self-employed plumbers must carry:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$100,000 in property damage insurance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$300,000 in general liability coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Employees of plumbing companies are typically covered under their employer&#8217;s policy.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-get-my-first-plumbing-apprenticeship\">How to get my first plumbing apprenticeship<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are two main ways to begin your plumbing apprenticeship in Colorado:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Apply to Plumbing Companies: You can directly apply to plumbing companies or search for plumbing job listings online.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enroll in an Apprenticeship Program: Many educational institutions, such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.emilygriffith.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emily Griffith Technical College<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, offer apprenticeship programs. Emily Griffith provides a 5-year plumber apprentice program. To be eligible, you must:<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have a high school diploma or GED.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Be at least 18 years old.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">During the program, you will learn to install, repair, and assemble plumbing fixtures and systems. When preparing for your interview, wear professional attire and bring your resume and educational credentials. You&#8217;ll also need your own tools to successfully perform your apprenticeship tasks.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"is-my-plumbing-license-only-valid-in-colorado\">Is my plumbing license only valid in Colorado?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No, your license is only valid within Colorado. If you plan to work in another state, you must check its specific licensing requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"how-do-i-stay-up-to-date-with-plumbing-codes\">How do I stay up to date with plumbing codes?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To stay informed about updates to plumbing codes, check resources like:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/up.codes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">UpCode<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sos.state.co.us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Colorado Secretary of State<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Code of Colorado Regulations<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dpo.colorado.gov\/Plumbing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Colorado State Plumbing Board<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Laws, Rules and Policies<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iccsafe.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">International Code Council<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"what-resources-are-available-in-the-plumbing-industry\">What resources are available in the plumbing industry?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The following resources will help you prepare for a career in the plumbing industry:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/housecallpro1.wpengine.com\/learn\/top-plumbing-specialties-in-2019\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plumbing Specialties<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/housecallpro1.wpengine.com\/learn\/plumbing-industry-trends\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plumbing Industry Trends<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/housecallpro1.wpengine.com\/learn\/11-best-plumbing-blogs\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plumbing Blogs<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/housecallpro1.wpengine.com\/learn\/plumbing-trade-shows\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plumbing Trade Shows<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"how-often-do-i-need-to-renew-my-plumbing-license-in-colorado\">How often do I need to renew my plumbing license in Colorado?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Colorado plumbing licenses expire on February 28 of odd-numbered years. To renew:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Log in to your account on the DORA website.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submit the renewal fee and meet any continuing education requirements.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Colorado plumbing industry is full of opportunity, and obtaining your plumbing license is the first step toward a successful career. This updated guide provides everything you need to know about licensing requirements, salary expectations, and staying compliant with state regulations. What plumbing work can be done without a license? In Colorado, you cannot legally [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":30,"featured_media":0,"parent":39908,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"templates\/template-license.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":true,"footnotes":""},"industry":[557],"resource_type":[562],"topic":[],"class_list":["post-23693","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","industry-plumbing","resource_type-licensing"],"acf":{"page_partner":""},"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.housecallpro.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/23693","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.housecallpro.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.housecallpro.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.housecallpro.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/30"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.housecallpro.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=23693"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.housecallpro.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/23693\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.housecallpro.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/39908"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.housecallpro.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=23693"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.housecallpro.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=23693"},{"taxonomy":"resource_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.housecallpro.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/resource_type?post=23693"},{"taxonomy":"topic","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.housecallpro.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/topic?post=23693"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}