Plumbing License Montana: How to Become a Plumbing Contractor in MT

To become a plumbing contractor in Montana, you must follow these steps:

1. Meet the eligibility requirements: To become a plumbing contractor in Montana, you must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED.
2. Gain work experience: You must have at least two years of experience working as a journeyman plumber before you can apply to become a plumbing contractor in Montana.
3. Complete an apprenticeship program: To become a journeyman plumber, you must complete an apprenticeship program that consists of at least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of classroom instruction. You can find a list of approved apprenticeship programs in Montana on the Montana Department of Labor and Industry website.
4. Pass the licensing exam: To become a licensed plumbing contractor in Montana, you must pass the Montana Contractor Licensing Exam. The exam consists of two parts: a business and law exam and a trade exam. You must score at least 70% on each part to pass the exam.
5. Obtain liability insurance: Before you can apply for a plumbing contractor license in Montana, you must obtain liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $300,000.
6. Submit your application: Once you have met all of the requirements, you can submit your application to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. Your application must include proof of insurance, proof of work experience, and proof of completion of an approved apprenticeship program.
7. Pay the licensing fee: The licensing fee for plumbing contractors in Montana is $150. You must pay this fee when you submit your application.

Once your application is approved and you have received your license, you can begin working as a plumbing contractor in Montana.

Requirement to obtain Plumbing License in MT

To obtain a plumbing license in Montana, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Education: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
2. Work Experience: You must have at least two years of experience working as a journeyman plumber. Alternatively, you can substitute one year of experience with the completion of a plumbing trade program.
3. Apprenticeship: You must complete a plumbing apprenticeship program that consists of at least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of classroom instruction.
4. Pass a Licensing Exam: You must pass the Montana Contractor Licensing Exam, which includes a business and law exam and a trade exam.
5. Liability Insurance: You must obtain liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $300,000.
6. Submit Application: You must submit an application to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. The application must include proof of work experience, proof of completion of an apprenticeship program, and proof of insurance.
7. Pay Licensing Fees: You must pay a licensing fee of $150 to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry when you submit your application.

After you meet all the requirements and your application is approved, you will receive your plumbing license in Montana, and you will be authorized to work as a plumbing contractor in the state.

Types of Plumbing Licenses in MT

In Montana, there are three types of plumbing licenses:

1. Apprentice License: An apprentice license allows you to work under the supervision of a licensed journeyman or master plumber. This license is issued by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry and is valid for up to four years.
2. Journeyman License: A journeyman license allows you to work independently as a plumber. To obtain a journeyman license, you must have at least two years of work experience and complete an apprenticeship program or a plumbing trade program. You must also pass the Montana Contractor Licensing Exam. This license is valid for two years and can be renewed.
3. Master License: A master license allows you to work as a plumbing contractor and supervise other plumbers. To obtain a master license, you must have a journeyman license and have at least one year of experience as a journeyman plumber. You must also pass the Montana Contractor Licensing Exam. This license is valid for two years and can be renewed.

It’s important to note that Montana does not have a statewide plumbing contractor license. However, some local municipalities may require plumbing contractors to obtain additional licenses or permits.

Benefits of becoming an MT Plumbing Professional

There are several benefits of becoming a plumbing professional in Montana, including:

1. High Demand: Plumbing services are always in high demand, and as a plumbing professional, you will always have work. This means that you will have a steady stream of income and job security.
2. Good Pay: Plumbing professionals in Montana earn a good salary, with an average hourly rate of $25.74, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Master plumbers can earn even more.
3. Opportunities for Advancement: Plumbing professionals in Montana have the opportunity to advance their careers by becoming a master plumber or starting their own plumbing business.
4. Independence: Plumbing professionals can work independently and enjoy the freedom of setting their own schedules and choosing their own clients.
5. Fulfilling Work: Plumbing professionals provide an essential service that is vital to the health and safety of the community. As a plumbing professional, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are making a positive impact on people’s lives.
6. Job Variety: Plumbing professionals work on a variety of projects, from installing new plumbing systems to repairing leaks and clogs. This variety keeps the work interesting and challenging.

Overall, becoming a plumbing professional in Montana can provide a stable and fulfilling career with good pay and opportunities for growth and advancement.

Mean Salary for a Plumbing Technician in MT

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in Montana is $56,330 as of May 2020. The mean hourly wage for this occupation is $27.07. However, it’s important to note that the salary for a plumbing technician can vary based on factors such as experience, education, industry, and location within Montana. Additionally, the BLS data may not reflect the wages of self-employed plumbing technicians or those who work for smaller companies.

Cost to become a Plumbing Technician in MT

The cost to become a plumbing technician in Montana can vary depending on the education and training path you choose. Here are some typical costs associated with becoming a plumbing technician in Montana:

1. High School Diploma or GED: The cost of obtaining a high school diploma or GED varies, but it typically ranges from free to a few hundred dollars.
2. Plumbing Trade Program: If you choose to attend a plumbing trade program, the cost can vary depending on the school and the length of the program. Programs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
3. Apprenticeship Program: Apprenticeship programs are typically paid positions, meaning that you will earn a salary while you learn on the job. However, you may be responsible for some costs associated with the program, such as textbooks or tools.
4. Licensing Exam: The Montana Contractor Licensing Exam costs $105 for the business and law exam and $105 for the trade exam, for a total of $210.
5. Liability Insurance: Liability insurance can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per year, depending on the level of coverage you choose.

Overall, the total cost to become a plumbing technician in Montana can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the education and training path you choose.

How long does it take to become a Plumbing Technician in MT?

The length of time it takes to become a plumbing technician in Montana can vary depending on the education and training path you choose. Here are the typical time frames for each path:

1. High School Diploma or GED: This typically takes four years to complete if you attend high school full-time. If you obtain a GED, the time frame can vary depending on how long it takes you to pass the test.
2. Plumbing Trade Program: Plumbing trade programs can range in length from a few weeks to several months, depending on the school and the program’s intensity.
3. Apprenticeship Program: Apprenticeship programs typically last four to five years, consisting of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of classroom instruction.
4. Licensing Exam: The Montana Contractor Licensing Exam takes a few hours to complete.

Overall, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several years to become a plumbing technician in Montana, depending on the education and training path you choose. Becoming a journeyman plumber typically takes a minimum of two years of work experience, while becoming a master plumber can take an additional year of experience.

MT Plumbing Training Programs and Schools

There are several plumbing training programs and schools in Montana. Here are some options:

1. Montana Plumbing Institute: The Montana Plumbing Institute offers a 16-week plumbing trade program that covers plumbing basics, math, and code requirements. The program costs $4,000 and includes both classroom and hands-on training.
2. Helena College: Helena College offers a plumbing apprenticeship program that consists of four years of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. The program is offered in partnership with the Montana Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors Association.
3. Flathead Valley Community College: Flathead Valley Community College offers a plumbing apprenticeship program that includes on-the-job training and classroom instruction. The program is approved by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.
4. Montana State University-Northern: Montana State University-Northern offers a plumbing technology program that leads to an associate’s degree. The program includes courses in plumbing, electrical, and heating and cooling systems.
5. ABC Plumbing & Heating Apprenticeship Program: The ABC Plumbing & Heating Apprenticeship Program offers a four-year apprenticeship program that includes on-the-job training and classroom instruction. The program is approved by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.

These are just a few of the plumbing training programs and schools in Montana. It’s important to research and compare options to find the program that best fits your needs and career goals.

MT Plumbing Licensing Exam Details and EPA Certification

The Montana Contractor Licensing Exam is administered by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. The exam consists of two parts: a business and law exam and a trade exam.

The business and law exam covers topics such as business management, financial management, and Montana laws and regulations. The trade exam covers plumbing concepts and code requirements. Both exams are multiple-choice and computer-based.

To pass the Montana Contractor Licensing Exam, you must score at least 70% on each part of the exam. The cost of the exam is $105 for the business and law exam and $105 for the trade exam, for a total of $210.

Regarding EPA certification, plumbing technicians who work with refrigerants are required to obtain EPA Section 608 certification. This certification is necessary to handle and dispose of refrigerants safely and properly. The certification exam consists of four parts, and there are four different levels of certification based on the type of equipment you will be working with. The cost of the exam varies depending on the level of certification.

Core Exam details in MT for Plumbing Professional

The “core” exam for plumbing professionals in Montana is the Montana Contractor Licensing Exam. This exam is required for all plumbing professionals who wish to become licensed contractors in the state of Montana. The exam consists of two parts: a business and law exam and a trade exam.

The business and law exam covers topics such as business management, financial management, and Montana laws and regulations. The purpose of this exam is to ensure that plumbing professionals have a basic understanding of business principles and the laws and regulations governing their profession.

The trade exam covers plumbing concepts and code requirements. The purpose of this exam is to ensure that plumbing professionals have a thorough understanding of plumbing principles and can apply these principles in the field. The trade exam covers topics such as plumbing systems, plumbing codes, and safety practices.

Both exams are multiple-choice and computer-based. To pass the Montana Contractor Licensing Exam, you must score at least 70% on each part of the exam. The cost of the exam is $105 for the business and law exam and $105 for the trade exam, for a total of $210.

Overall, the Montana Contractor Licensing Exam is designed to ensure that plumbing professionals in Montana have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality plumbing services while also adhering to business and legal requirements.

Obtain Insurance For Plumbing License in MT

To obtain insurance for your plumbing license in Montana, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Contact an insurance provider: Start by contacting an insurance provider that specializes in providing liability insurance for plumbing contractors. You can search online for insurance providers or ask for recommendations from other plumbing professionals in Montana.
2. Request a quote: Once you have identified a few potential insurance providers, request a quote for liability insurance coverage. The quote will depend on factors such as the level of coverage you require and the size of your business.
3. Compare quotes: Compare the quotes you receive from different insurance providers to find the best coverage for your needs and budget.
4. Purchase insurance: Once you have chosen an insurance provider and coverage level, you can purchase the insurance policy. You will typically need to provide proof of insurance when you apply for your plumbing license in Montana.
5. Renew insurance annually: Liability insurance policies typically last for one year, so you will need to renew your policy annually to maintain your insurance coverage.

It’s important to note that liability insurance is a requirement for obtaining a plumbing license in Montana. The minimum coverage required is $300,000, but you may choose to obtain a higher level of coverage based on the size and scope of your business.

Who issues Plumbing Licenses in MT?

Plumbing licenses in Montana are issued by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. The Department’s Business Standards Division is responsible for overseeing the licensing of plumbing professionals in the state. This division is also responsible for regulating the plumbing industry and ensuring that plumbing professionals adhere to the standards and regulations set forth by the state of Montana.

To obtain a plumbing license in Montana, you must meet the state’s education, experience, and examination requirements, as well as obtain liability insurance. Once you have met these requirements, you can apply for a plumbing license through the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. The department will review your application, verify your qualifications, and issue your plumbing license if you meet all the requirements.

Does my MT registration allow me to work in any other state?

No, your plumbing registration in Montana does not automatically allow you to work in other states. Each state has its own requirements for becoming licensed as a plumbing professional, and you must meet those requirements in each state where you wish to work.

However, some states have reciprocity agreements with Montana that allow licensed plumbers from Montana to obtain a license in another state without having to complete additional training or testing. It’s important to research the specific requirements in each state where you wish to work to determine whether reciprocity is an option.

If you plan to work as a plumbing professional in another state, you should research that state’s licensing requirements and contact the appropriate licensing board to determine what steps you need to take to become licensed in that state.

National Plumbing Certifications

There are several national plumbing certifications available for plumbing professionals in the United States. Here are some of the most common certifications:

1. Journeyman Plumber: A journeyman plumber certification is typically awarded by a state or local licensing agency after an individual has completed a plumbing apprenticeship program and passed a licensing exam.
2. Master Plumber: A master plumber certification is typically awarded to individuals who have several years of experience as a journeyman plumber and have passed a master plumber exam.
3. Plumbing Inspector: A plumbing inspector certification is awarded by the International Code Council (ICC) to individuals who have passed the plumbing inspector exam.
4. Green Plumber: The Green Plumbers USA program offers certification for plumbing professionals who have completed training in sustainable plumbing practices.
5. Backflow Prevention: The American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE) offers certification for plumbing professionals who specialize in backflow prevention.
6. Certified Plumbing Designer: The American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) offers certification for plumbing professionals who design plumbing systems.

These national plumbing certifications can help demonstrate a plumbing professional’s knowledge and expertise in a specific area of the plumbing industry. Some certifications may be required by state or local licensing agencies, while others may be optional but can help set a plumbing professional apart from their peers.

Continuing Education and Renewal of MT License for Plumbing

Plumbing professionals in Montana are required to renew their licenses every two years. To renew a plumbing license in Montana, the following steps must be taken:

1. Complete Continuing Education: Plumbing professionals must complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years. The continuing education must be approved by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry and cover topics such as plumbing codes, safety practices, and new technology.
2. Submit Renewal Application: Plumbing professionals must submit a renewal application to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. The application must be submitted along with proof of completion of the required continuing education and proof of liability insurance.
3. Pay Renewal Fee: Plumbing professionals must pay a renewal fee of $150 to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.

It’s important to note that failure to renew a plumbing license on time can result in late fees or suspension of the license. Therefore, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the renewal requirements and submit the renewal application and fees on time.

Additionally, plumbing professionals may choose to pursue additional education or certifications to enhance their skills and knowledge. These additional education opportunities can help plumbing professionals stay current with new technologies, codes, and best practices in the industry.