Plumber Licensing in Tennessee

Tennessee Plumber License Verification

In Tennessee, plumbers are primarily regulated by the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors, which operates under the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. The state issues different classifications of licenses based on the project's monetary value. For projects valued at $25,000 or less, individuals may obtain a Limited Licensed Plumber (LLP) license. Requirements for an LLP license include being at least 18 years old, having at least one year of plumbing experience (or 2,000 hours), and passing the open-book LLP trade exam with a score of 73% or higher. There is no state-mandated continuing education for this license.

For plumbing projects valued at $25,000 or more, a contractor's license with a plumbing classification, specifically CMC-A (Plumbing and Gas Piping) or CMC (Full Mechanical), is required. To qualify for a CMC-A or CMC license, applicants must demonstrate at least three years of verifiable plumbing experience. This pathway also necessitates passing both a trade exam and a business and law exam, each with a minimum score of 73%. A pre-approval request form must be submitted to the Board for Licensing Contractors before taking these exams. Additionally, applicants for a contractor's license must submit CPA/PA-prepared financial statements, which determine their monetary limit, typically ten times the lesser of their net worth or working capital. While Tennessee does not have statewide journeyman or master plumber licenses, local municipalities may have their own specific licensing and testing requirements. It is crucial for plumbers to verify local regulations in their intended service areas, as some counties and cities may not accept the LLP license.

Insurance and Bonding Mandates

Plumbing professionals in Tennessee are subject to specific insurance and bonding requirements to ensure financial responsibility and consumer protection. General Liability insurance is generally required, with coverage amounts varying based on the contractor's monetary limit. For instance, a monetary limit up to $500,000 requires $100,000 in general liability coverage. For businesses with employees, Workers' Compensation insurance is mandatory. Commercial auto insurance is also necessary for vehicles used for business purposes.

Surety bonds may be required for state and local licensing. For state contractor licenses, a bond of $500,000 or $1,000,000 may be necessary, especially if the applicant does not meet the net worth requirements based on their financial statement. Home improvement contractors, working on projects between $3,000 and $25,000 in certain counties, must post a $10,000 bond. Local jurisdictions also frequently mandate surety bonds for permits, with amounts varying by city or county. These bonds ensure compliance with laws and building codes.

Permitting and Local Regulations

Plumbing work in Tennessee typically requires permits. While the state sets minimum codes, the enforcement and adoption of code cycles, such as the International Plumbing Code, can vary by local jurisdiction. Permits are generally issued only to licensed plumbing contractors or homeowners performing work on their primary residence. It is essential to contact local code enforcement offices to determine specific permitting requirements, accepted licenses (such as LLP), and any additional local journeyman or master licenses that may be required for inspections.

Official Tennessee Resources

Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors - Plumbing Licensing

Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors

Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors - Application Requirements & Process

Directory of Plumber contractors serving Tennessee