In Texas, plumbers are licensed by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE). Knowing the license levels helps you understand who is actually working in your home.
The license levels
- Apprentice: registered with the state and learning the trade. Apprentices must work under the supervision of a licensed plumber.
- Journeyman plumber: licensed after required training hours and a state exam. Can do plumbing work under a master plumber's supervision.
- Master plumber: the highest plumbing license level. Requires additional experience and a state exam. A master plumber can run a plumbing company and is responsible for the work done under their license.
There are also endorsements for specialty work, like gas line work.
Why it matters who shows up
Many plumbing companies operate under one master plumber's license while the people at your house are journeymen or apprentices. That's legal. But it's fair to ask who will actually do your job.
At Honest Choice Plumbing, our standard is simple: Licensed MASTER Plumbers Only.
How to check any Texas plumber's license
- Go to the TSBPE website: tsbpe.texas.gov
- Use the "Find a Plumber" search
- Search by name or license number
- Confirm the license type, status, and any endorsements
Our company's Texas master plumber license number is M-44120.