Plumber Licensing in Colorado

Colorado Plumber License Verification

In Colorado, all individuals performing plumbing work must hold a valid state-issued license. The governing body for plumber licensing and regulation is the Colorado State Plumbing Board, which operates under the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) Division of Professions and Occupations. The state issues several levels of licenses, including Apprentice, Residential Plumber, Journeyman Plumber, and Master Plumber, with specific experience and examination requirements for each.

To become a licensed plumber, applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a criminal background check. Key experience requirements include 3,400 hours (2 years) for a Residential Plumber, 6,800 hours (4 years) for a Journeyman Plumber, and 8,500 hours (5 years) for a Master Plumber. All license applicants must pass an examination administered by PSI Testing Services, based on the 2018 International Plumbing Code and International Residential Building Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings. Licenses typically renew every two years, on odd-numbered years. To maintain an active license, plumbers are required to complete sixteen hours of continuing education (CE) during each two-year licensing period, with at least eight hours completed annually. A minimum of four CE hours must be related to plumbing codes.

Insurance and Bonding Mandates

While a general liability insurance policy is not a statewide requirement for plumbing licensure in Colorado, it is highly recommended to protect against claims of property damage or injuries. Self-employed plumbers often aim for coverage such as $100,000 for property damage and $300,000 for general liability. For plumbing contractors who employ others, workers' compensation insurance is mandated by the state. Additionally, businesses utilizing vehicles for plumbing work must carry commercial auto insurance with state-mandated minimum coverages.

Unlike some other states, Colorado does not have a universal statewide contractor license bond requirement for plumbers. However, many cities, counties, and sanitation districts within Colorado have specific bonding requirements for local contractor licensing or permitting. Plumbing contractors must register with the Colorado State Plumbing Board, and if employing others, provide unemployment and workers' compensation insurance information.

Permitting and Local Regulations

A valid Colorado State Plumbing permit must be obtained prior to the commencement of most plumbing or gas piping installations, including new construction, remodeling, or significant repairs. Small repairs, such as fixing a leaky faucet, typically do not require a permit. Permits are generally valid for one year from the date of issue. In emergency situations, the required permit may be obtained on the following business day after work has started.

Colorado's plumbing code is primarily based on the 2018 International Plumbing Code (IPC), the International Residential Code (IRC), and the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), along with state-specific amendments. The State Plumbing Board issues and inspects permits for state-inspected areas, public schools, and state buildings. For other projects, local building departments in incorporated towns or cities, counties, or city and counties are responsible for issuing permits and conducting inspections. All plumbing work must comply with the currently adopted plumbing code.

Official Colorado Resources

For the most current and detailed information regarding plumbing licenses, regulations, and resources in Colorado, plumbers should consult the following official sources:

Colorado State Plumbing Board (DORA)
Plumbing Permit and Inspection Information (DORA)

Directory of Plumber contractors serving Colorado