Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a plumbing contractor in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania.

$700 -- $2200 6–12 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits 5 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Philadelphia / Philadelphia County Requirements

2 requirements
1

City of Philadelphia Master Plumber License

Philadelphia requires its own Master Plumber License issued by the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I). This is separate from any state license. Applicants must pass a Philadelphia-specific plumbing exam, have 5 years of plumbing experience, and provide proof of insurance and a $10,000 surety bond.

$225 application fee; $100/year renewal4–8 weeks (exam scheduling)
Official government source
2

Philadelphia Business Privilege License

All businesses operating in Philadelphia must obtain a Business Privilege License from the Philadelphia Department of Revenue. Also required: registration for Philadelphia's Business Income and Receipts Tax (BIRT).

$300 one-time registration fee1–5 days (online registration)
Official government source

Pennsylvania State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Pennsylvania — No Statewide Plumber License

Pennsylvania does not issue a statewide plumbing contractor license. Licensing is handled at the local/municipal level. Philadelphia has its own Master Plumber exam and license. In other parts of Pennsylvania, county or municipal licensing may apply. Statewide, contractors must comply with the PA Uniform Construction Code.

N/A (licensing is local)N/A
Official government source
2

Pennsylvania Business Entity Registration (if applicable)

LLCs and corporations must register with the Pennsylvania Department of State.

$125 (LLC filing fee)3–5 business days (online filing)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

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