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When it comes to becoming a master plumber in Kentucky, you must follow a few guidelines. Fortunately, there are various online resources (like this one) that dispel much of the mystery and make the process much easier.

If you are curious about how to get a Kentucky Master Plumbing license, read on. This post will lay out everything required to become a master plumber in Kentucky.

What Is a Master Plumber?

Kentucky law states that a master plumber is responsible for directing and supervising journeyman plumbers, plumbers’ apprentices, or anyone who has obtained authorization or advertises that they are qualified to engage in plumbing endeavors.

As the name indicates, the role of master plumber carries a lot of responsibility and a lot of prestige. As such, licensure is an involved process that requires extensive experience and knowledge.

Obtaining a License

To become a master plumber, an applicant must do the following:

• Pass the Kentucky master plumber exam
• Hold a general liability policy of $250,000 or more (unless their role operates under another person, firm, or corporation)
• Be able to provide proof of compliance with applicable laws

The laws mentioned above pertain to workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance. Applicants must be in compliance with these laws and rules in order to obtain a license.

But Wait, There's More

In addition to the above qualifications, an applicant must submit proof of one of the following conditions:

• They hold a Kentucky-certified engineer license and have sufficient experience with mechanical engineering

• They have acted in a capacity that is equivalent to that of a master plumber in a state that does not issue licenses for at least four consecutive years

• They have held a journeyman plumbing license for at least two out of five years before the application date and have worked under the supervision of a master plumber for at least two years

• They hold a verifiable plumbing license from another state for at least two out of five years before the application date

If you meet one of the above conditions, you’re ready to apply for your license. After contacting the DHCB, you will need to provide proof of insurance.

How to Pass the Exam

The Kentucky master plumber exam is a written test that takes under three hours to complete. It is an open-book test, meaning the applicant can refer to approved materials throughout the exam. That being said, it’s best to prepare and study for the exam beforehand rather than rely on references in the heat of test-taking.

What Topics Are Covered During the Exam?

Topics covered during the exam include the basic principles of plumbing, KRS Chapter 318, and 815 KAR Chapters 2 and 20.

During the exam, you will be required to reference a drawing with indicators for stacks, wastes, vents, and other plumbing fixtures. You will use this drawing to insert the applicable pipe size, and points will be deducted for each undersized or oversized pipe.

What Resources Are Available?

Fortunately, there are a variety of resources available to help applicants pass the master plumber exam. Some resources include online courses that provide helpful exercises, the exam book, and other services and learning materials. Once enrolled, applicants can access materials using their computers, cell phones, tablets, and other devices.

Even better, the best courses enable applicants to learn at their own pace, allowing them to achieve a work-life balance and take all the time they need to review and understand the material.

If you are thinking of becoming a master plumber, you can use the information in this post to kickstart your journey. Don’t wait until tomorrow. Start your future today.