Plumber license in Tennessee

Application requirements

Working as a plumber in Tennessee typically requires submitting an application packet to the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors — Limited Licensed Plumber (CMC-C) — including proof of experience, exam scores, and insurance.

• Proof of relevant trade experience or apprenticeship hours
• Passing score on the state trade exam(s)
• General liability insurance + workers' comp
• Surety bond filed with the board (when required)
• Business entity registration with the Secretary of State
• Background check + license fee submitted with packet

This is the standard packet most U.S. state boards require. Verify the exact list with the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors — Limited Licensed Plumber (CMC-C) before applying — requirements change by trade classification.

Fees and renewal cycle

Total cost to become a licensed plumber in Tennessee ranges from $175 to $7,000 (typical $1,200). The range covers application + exam fees, bond + insurance premiums, and the first year of business registration.

Most state boards renew on a 1-3 year cycle and require continuing education credits. Verify the exact renewal window and CE requirement with the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors — Limited Licensed Plumber (CMC-C) — late renewal typically triggers a reinstatement fee.

Reciprocity with neighboring states

Tennessee borders 8 other launched states ProFix Directory tracks. Reciprocity is set by each state board individually — check the destination state for the current rule before relying on it.

• Plumber license in Alabama →
• Plumber license in Arkansas →
• Plumber license in Georgia →
• Plumber license in Kentucky →
• Plumber license in Mississippi →
• Plumber license in Missouri →
• Plumber license in North Carolina →
• Plumber license in Virginia →

Where to apply

Why ProFix verifies every plumber

Every pro we list in Tennessee is matched against the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors — Limited Licensed Plumber (CMC-C) record, the Secretary of State business registry, and OSHA inspection data. We surface license status, revocation history, and bond filings on every profile so homeowners can shortlist verified pros without trusting a single review-platform score.

See the full verification methodology →

Common questions

Do I need a plumber license in Tennessee?

Tennessee requires plumber contractors to hold a Tennessee Plumber license from the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors — Limited Licensed Plumber (CMC-C). Apply through https://www.tn.gov/commerce/regboards/contractors.html with a typical $1,200 total fee (range $175-$7,000) and a 1-3 year renewal cycle. Verify the exact classification with the board before submitting.

Which board handles plumber licensing in Tennessee?

Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors — Limited Licensed Plumber (CMC-C) is the relevant authority shown in the Tennessee licensing seed for this page. The verification or application URL in the loader is https://www.tn.gov/commerce/regboards/contractors.html.

How much does a plumber license cost in Tennessee?

The recorded licensing cost range is $175-$7,000, with a typical total around $1,200. That range comes from the page loader and covers application, exam, bond, insurance, or registration costs where they apply.

What requirements should Tennessee plumber applicants verify?

Tennessee licenses contractors for projects of $25,000 or more (or any swimming pool $5K+) through the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors. Home Improvement is registered for residential projects between $3,000 and $25,000 in select counties.

Are TN plumbers licensed?

Yes. Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors issues plumbing classifications + limited licensed plumber for small jobs.