Montana plumbing licensing and regulations that affect plumbers and homeowners
The Yahoo Local team researched plumbing regulations in Montana. Here's what you need to know about licensing, whether you're a plumber or homeowner.
This article is AI-assisted. Here's what that means . See a mistake? Let us know .
If you need plumbing work done in Montana, it's essential to hire a properly licensed plumber. Montana has strict licensing requirements for plumbers to ensure they have the training and experience necessary to complete your plumbing work safely and effectively. Understanding these requirements can help you make an informed decision when selecting a plumber for your home.
Montana is also undergoing significant regulatory changes. In 2025, the Montana Legislature passed HB239 , which will transition the state's contractor registration program to a Contractors License administered by the Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) beginning January 1, 2026. Existing contractor registrations will automatically be converted to contractor licenses on that date.
Montana plumbing licensing requirements
In Montana, plumbers are regulated and licensed by the Montana Board of Plumbers , which operates under the Montana Department of Labor and Industry (DLI). The board oversees licensing standards and ensures compliance with state plumbing regulations to protect public safety.
Montana has three primary levels of plumbing credentials: Registered Apprentice, Journeyman and Master. Each level has specific requirements that plumbers must meet to obtain and maintain their licenses.
Montana Registered Apprentice program
Montana's Registered Apprentice program is hosted by the DLI and provides structured training for those entering the plumbing trade. Upon program completion, apprentices earn a nationally-recognized Apprenticeship Completion Certificate from the Montana Department of Labor & Industry. This certificate serves as the foundation for advancing to higher levels of licensure.
Montana Plumber Journeyman
A Plumber Journeyman license allows plumbers to work independently on plumbing projects. To obtain this license, applicants must complete a registered apprenticeship program and provide an experience verification affidavit documenting five years of legally obtained experience in the plumbing field. This experience must be vouched for by an active licensed master plumber or plumbing contractor. Candidates must also pass both written and practical examinations with a score of 70% or better. To maintain an active license, journeymen must complete four hours of code-related continuing education annually, with courses requiring prior approval from the Board.
Montana Plumber Master
A Plumber Master license represents the highest level of plumbing licensure in Montana. Master plumbers can supervise other plumbers and take on more complex projects. To qualify, applicants must have either four years of legally obtained experience as a licensed journeyman (with three of those years working in a supervisory capacity or with a licensed master plumber) or nine years of experience verified by notarized statements or letters. Candidates must successfully complete the master examination in Montana with a grade of 70% or better. Testing is provided by IAPMO . Like journeymen, master plumbers must complete four hours of code-related continuing education annually with Board-approved courses.
Verifying a plumber's license in Montana
Man doing sanitary installations in bathroom.
Montana makes it straightforward to verify whether a plumber is properly licensed. The state operates a public license database where you can search for individual plumbers and check their license status. This tool allows you to confirm that a plumber holds an active, valid license before hiring them for your project.
Filing complaints and consumer protection
The Montana Department of Labor & Industry and Professional and Occupational Licensing Boards are charged with taking appropriate action for unprofessional, incompetent or unlawful practice. If you experience issues with a plumber, you can file a complaint using an online complaint form .
More state licensing articles from Yahoo Local
It's important to note that the process for unlicensed practice complaints differs from the process for complaints against licensees. Legal actions against unlicensed persons, if warranted, may include an injunctive action by the Board or referral to a county attorney for criminal prosecution. This underscores the importance of verifying a plumber's license before hiring them.
What to look for when hiring a Montana plumber
While verifying that your plumber is properly licensed is crucial, it shouldn't be your only consideration. Take time to research potential contractors through customer reviews and ask for recommendations from friends and family who have had plumbing work done. You can also request references from previous customers to get a better sense of the plumber's work quality and professionalism.
Plumbing projects can be costly, so it's worth investing time upfront to thoroughly vet potential contractors. Hiring an unlicensed plumber can expose your home to significant risks, including substandard work and potential safety hazards. By performing your due diligence and ensuring your plumber holds the appropriate Montana license, you can have confidence that your plumbing work will be completed properly and in compliance with state regulations.
