Georgia licenses plumbers statewide, so yes, you need a plumbing license in Georgia before you can legally do plumbing work. Licensing runs through the Division of Master and Journeyman Plumbers, one of the divisions of the State Construction Industry Licensing Board under the Georgia Secretary of State.
Who runs plumbing licensing in Georgia
The Division of Master and Journeyman Plumbers (Georgia Secretary of State, Professional Licensing Boards) handles applications, exams, and renewals for the whole state.
License types
- Journeyman Plumber: requires documenting at least 1 year of experience in plumbing work covered by the Georgia State Plumbing Code, plus passing the exam.
- Master Plumber Class I: limited to single-family dwellings, one-level two-family dwellings, and commercial structures up to 10,000 square feet.
- Master Plumber Class II: unrestricted plumbing work.
Master plumber requirements
- Document a minimum of 5 years of experience in plumbing work under the Georgia State Plumbing Code, with at least 2 of those years as a licensed Journeyman.
- Submit three references from professional licensees attesting to your qualifications, at least one of them a licensed Master Plumber.
- Pass the state exam for your class.
How to apply
Applications, exam info, and the board rules are on the Georgia Secretary of State site. Apply well ahead of the exam window you want.
FAQ
Can I skip journeyman and go straight to master?
The master route requires 5 years of experience including 2 as a licensed journeyman, so plan on holding the journeyman card first.
Which master class should I get?
If you plan to stay residential and light commercial, Class I covers it. If you want unrestricted commercial work, you need Class II.
What about the business side?
The license is step one. Read how to start a plumbing business, compare states on the plumbing license by state index, or start with the plumbing license overview.
Requirements change. Always confirm current rules, fees, and forms with the board before you apply. This page is a guide, not legal advice.
