Plumbing company License Requirements in Orlando, FL
Last reviewed: September 2026
Quick Answer
Florida requires plumbing contractors to hold one of three licenses issued by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR): Apprentice Plumber, Journeyman Plumber, or Master Plumber. In Orlando, you must also obtain a local plumbing permit from either the City of Orlando Building and Code Enforcement Division or Orange County depending on jurisdiction. The specific license type depends on your experience and supervisory responsibilities.
Key Facts
- •Florida plumbing licenses are issued by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
- •Three license levels exist: apprentice, journeyman, and master plumber with specific hour requirements.
- •Orlando plumbers must pass the Florida plumbing exam and meet experience hour requirements.
- •Local permits from Orange County or City of Orlando are required before starting work.
- •Operating without a license carries fines up to $500 per violation plus potential cease-and-desist orders.
State Licence Requirements
Licence name
Florida Plumbing License (Apprentice, Journeyman, or Master Plumber)
Issued by
Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Division of Professions
Cost
$325-$725
Processing time
2-4 weeks for initial review; exam scheduling typically 1-2 weeks after application approval
How to apply
Apply through the DBPR online licensing portal at https://dlsds.lsds.myfloridalicense.com. You must first determine your license class based on experience: Apprentice Plumber requires 10,000 documented work hours under supervision; Journeyman Plumber requires 20,000 documented work hours; Master Plumber requires 25,000 documented work hours plus two years managing plumbing operations (Florida Statutes § 489.505).
Submit the appropriate application form with proof of required work hours documented by employers, a valid photo ID, and payment of the application fee ($325-$425 depending on license type). You must pass the Florida plumbing exam administered by Pearson VUE at approved testing centers in the Orlando area. The exam costs approximately $125-$175. Fingerprinting for background check is required and can be completed at any DBPR office or authorized vendor.
Once you receive your apprenticeship or journeyman license, you may apply for contractor licensure if you meet additional requirements. Master plumbers can directly apply for contractor status. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks after submission of complete application. You can track your application status online through the DBPR portal using your application reference number.
Federal Requirements
Federal requirements for plumbing companies focus on worker safety, tax obligations, and environmental compliance. You must obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (26 U.S.C. § 6011) if you plan to hire employees. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) under 29 U.S.C. § 651 et seq. requires compliance with workplace safety standards including proper handling of tools, equipment, and hazardous materials commonly encountered in plumbing work.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates lead-based paint disclosure requirements under the Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule (40 CFR Part 745) if your work involves pre-1978 homes or buildings. The EPA's Safe Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C. § 300f et seq.) establishes cross-connection control requirements to prevent contamination of public water supplies, which plumbers must follow. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) under 42 U.S.C. § 12101 requires that your business facilities be accessible to individuals with disabilities.
The Department of Transportation regulates any vehicles you use for commercial purposes, requiring proper vehicle registration and commercial liability insurance. If you transport hazardous waste materials, you must comply with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) under 42 U.S.C. § 6901. Additionally, the Fair Labor Standards Act (29 U.S.C. § 201) governs minimum wage, overtime, and other employment practices if you hire workers.
Local & County Requirements
The City of Orlando and Orange County both require plumbing permits for any plumbing work performed within their jurisdictions. In the City of Orlando, you must obtain a plumbing permit from the Building and Code Enforcement Division (407-246-2444 or online at the City of Orlando website) before starting any plumbing installation, repair, or alteration work.
Orange County requires plumbing permits through the Orange County Construction Contractors Licensing and Permit Board (407-836-7550). Permits typically cost $100-$350 depending on project scope and value. You must submit completed permit applications with detailed plans showing the plumbing design, material specifications, and project scope. Plans must be prepared by the licensed plumber or a registered design professional.
Inspections are mandatory at specific stages: rough-in inspection (before walls are closed), final inspection (upon project completion), and pressure testing inspection. Inspectors verify code compliance with the Florida Building Code and local amendments. Additional local requirements include zoning compliance verification, notification of work location, and proof of workers' compensation insurance. Some residential areas may have homeowners association approval requirements. Commercial plumbing projects may require additional permits from the Department of Health and Environmental Protection (DHEP) if they involve medical gas systems or specialized water systems.
Total Cost Breakdown
The total first-year cost to start a plumbing business in Orlando ranges from $1,450-$2,325, depending on license class and whether you require contractor licensing.
State License Costs: Apprentice Plumber license application and exam: $325-$425 (application) plus $125-$175 (exam) = $450-$600 total. Journeyman Plumber license: $375-$500 (application) plus $125-$175 (exam) = $500-$675 total. Master Plumber license: $425-$525 (application) plus $125-$175 (exam) = $550-$700 total. Contractor license endorsement: $250-$350 additional.
Local Permits and Fees: City of Orlando business tax receipt: $50-$100. Initial plumbing permit for first project: $100-$350. Orange County permits (if applicable): $100-$300 per project. Local business registration: $25-$75.
Additional First-Year Costs: Workers' compensation insurance (minimum): $400-$800 annually depending on payroll. General liability insurance: $300-$600 annually. Tools and equipment: $500-$1,500 (basic startup). Background check/fingerprinting: $50-$100. Business license and registration: $50-$150. Continuing education courses (if not included in exam prep): $200-$400 for 14 contact hours.
Total Realistic First-Year Range: $1,450-$2,325 for licensing, permits, and registration alone, plus $1,200-$3,000 for insurance and initial equipment, bringing total startup costs to approximately $2,650-$5,325.
Licence Renewal
Florida plumbing licenses expire every two years from the date of issue (Florida Statutes § 489.511). You must renew your license before the expiration date shown on your wallet card by submitting a renewal application through the DBPR online portal. Renewal fees are $375-$425 depending on your license class. You can renew online, and processing typically takes 1-2 weeks.
Continuing education requirements mandate completion of 14 contact hours of approved continuing education courses during each two-year renewal cycle (Florida Administrative Code Rule 61G15-14.004). At least four hours must cover Florida Building Code updates, and the remaining hours can address plumbing techniques, safety, water conservation, or related professional topics. Courses must be provided by DBPR-approved providers.
If you fail to renew before the expiration date, your license becomes inactive. You cannot legally perform plumbing work on an inactive license. To reinstate an expired license after 90 days, you must pay a reinstatement fee plus late penalties and provide evidence of continuing education completion. If your license expires more than six months prior, you may be required to retake the examination. Renewal reminder notices are sent approximately 60 days before expiration, available through your online DBPR account or by mail.
Penalties for Operating Without a Licence
Operating as a plumbing company without a valid Florida plumbing license is prohibited under Florida Statutes § 489.119 and § 489.533. Violations carry significant civil and criminal penalties. Operating without a license on a single project or job can result in a fine of up to $500 per violation, plus an additional $500 for each day the violation continues (Florida Statutes § 489.533).
The DBPR can issue a cease-and-desist order immediately upon discovery of unlicensed plumbing work, requiring you to stop all plumbing operations until you obtain proper licensure. Violations are discovered through complaint investigations, routine inspections, permit audits, and citizen reports. If a homeowner or contractor reports unlicensed work, the DBPR will investigate and take enforcement action.
Criminal penalties apply for egregious violations. Engaging in unlicensed plumbing as a primary business activity constitutes a second-degree misdemeanor under Florida Statutes § 489.119, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and fines up to $500. Repeat violations within five years can elevate charges to a first-degree misdemeanor with enhanced penalties.
Unlicensed operation creates additional liability risks. Homeowners and customers injured or financially harmed by substandard unlicensed work can pursue civil lawsuits. Your liability insurance may be voided for work performed without proper licensing, leaving you personally liable for damages. Local jurisdictions may also levy additional fines for permit violations and unpermitted work. The City of Orlando can impose fines up to $250 per day for unpermitted construction work.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a plumbing license in Orlando, Florida?
The timeline varies based on your experience level and whether you must complete required work hours. If you already have the required work hours documented, the application and exam process typically takes 4-6 weeks from submission to license issuance. This includes 1-2 weeks for DBPR initial review, scheduling your exam (1-2 weeks), taking the exam, and receiving results (1-2 weeks). However, if you are working toward accumulating the required 10,000-25,000 work hours as an apprentice, that process can take 2-5 years depending on your employment hours and job availability. The exam itself can be scheduled within 1-2 weeks of approved application. Once you pass the exam and complete background checks, your license is typically issued within 7-10 business days.
Do I need both a state plumbing license and a local Orlando plumbing permit?
Yes, you need both. The Florida state plumbing license from the DBPR is required to legally perform plumbing work and is your credential as a licensed professional. The local plumbing permit from the City of Orlando or Orange County is required for each specific plumbing job or project you undertake. The state license authorizes you to practice plumbing; the local permit authorizes the specific work at a specific location to proceed. You cannot legally start any plumbing work without both your state license and a valid local permit for that job. Failure to obtain either results in violations and fines. Think of the state license as your professional credential and the local permit as the job authorization.
Can I transfer my plumbing license from another state to Florida?
Florida does not have formal reciprocity agreements with other states for plumbing licenses, but you may be able to apply for endorsement if you hold a valid license from another state with equivalent requirements. You must submit an application to the DBPR with proof of your current license, proof of work experience meeting Florida requirements, and verification from your previous state's licensing board. The DBPR will evaluate whether your previous state's requirements are substantially similar to Florida's requirements. Even with endorsement, you will likely need to pass the Florida plumbing exam or provide evidence of continuing education. The process takes 4-8 weeks. Your best option is to contact the DBPR directly at (850) 487-1395 with your specific situation to determine whether you qualify for endorsement without retesting. Most out-of-state applicants must pass the Florida exam to ensure knowledge of Florida-specific Building Code requirements.
What happens if I start a plumbing job in Orlando without a license?
Operating without a license exposes you to significant legal and financial consequences. The DBPR can immediately issue a cease-and-desist order halting all your work. You can be fined up to $500 per violation, plus an additional $500 for each day the violation continues—meaning a multi-day job could result in fines of $2,000-$5,000 or more. If prosecuted, unlicensed plumbing activity is a second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days jail time and $500 in criminal fines. Customers you worked for can sue you in civil court for the cost of correcting your work. Your liability insurance will not cover unlicensed work, leaving you personally responsible for all damages. The City of Orlando can also fine you up to $250 per day for unpermitted construction. Your customers may file complaints with the DBPR and local authorities, triggering investigations that can expose your business to additional regulatory action. Starting without a license is never worth the risk.
How much does continuing education cost and how do I complete it for license renewal?
Continuing education is required every two years and costs approximately $200-$400 for the 14 contact hours mandated by Florida Statutes § 489.511. You must complete 14 total contact hours, with at least 4 hours covering Florida Building Code updates. Remaining hours can cover plumbing techniques, safety, water conservation, mechanical systems, or other DBPR-approved topics. Courses must be provided by DBPR-approved continuing education providers, which include online platforms, trade associations (such as the Florida Plumbing and Pipefitting Association), community colleges, and vocational schools. Many providers offer online courses that can be completed at your own pace before your renewal deadline. When you renew your license through the DBPR portal, you must provide proof of course completion (certificates of attendance or participation). Costs vary by provider and delivery method—online courses typically cost $150-$300, while in-person classroom courses may cost $250-$400. Some professional organizations bundle continuing education with membership benefits, potentially reducing costs. Plan to complete your continuing education within 90 days before your license expiration date to ensure completion and documentation before your renewal deadline.
Other Business Types in Orlando, FL
plumbing business Licensing in Other States
See plumbing business licensing in every state →Sources & References
- Florida Statutes § 489.505 — Defines plumbing contractor license requirements and classes
- Florida Statutes § 489.529 — Establishes exam requirements for plumbing licenses
- Florida Statutes § 489.533 — Sets forth disciplinary penalties for unlicensed plumbing practice
- Florida Administrative Code Rule 61G15-14 — Details continuing education requirements for plumbers
Licence requirements change. Verify current requirements with the issuing agency before applying.
Editorial standards: This guide is reviewed against primary government sources and cites 4 statutes. Last reviewed September 2026. Scheduled for re-verification by September 2027.
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