Limited Licensed Plumbers

How To Become A Limited Licensed Plumber (LLP)

Plumbing Licensing

This section primarily covers the Limited Licensed Plumber (LLP) license requirements which is required in many counties to perform work on a project where the cost is less than $25,000. The LLP license is issued to the individual passing the LLP trade exam. Before applying for an LLP license, check with the local code enforcement to make sure this license is accepted for obtaining permits for inspections. An LLP cannot advertise as a "contractor" without having a contractor's license.

Plumbing is regulated at various levels in Tennessee (state and local government). The need for a state LLP license is based upon the following:

  • The total cost is less than $25,000; (amount includes materials and labor, unless supplied by the owner (cannot be supplied by the prime/general contractor). [See Rule 0680-1-.13]
  • Location of the project; check with the local government in the city and county's Local Codes Enforcement office to see if the LLP is accepted for permits and inspections, or if they have their own local plumbing journeyman/master license required.
    • A "Business" tax license may also be required by local government

A state Contractor license with a plumbing (CMC or CMC-A) classification is required to perform projects $25,000 or more and they would not be required to obtain a separate state license as a LLP. However, they must obtain whatever local licenses are required by local government or the code enforcement, for permits and inspections. The LLP exam is not reciprocal with other states license exams. The Division of Fire Prevention adopts codes and their law covers residential inspections for LLP's for some local governments without code enforcement agencies.

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