Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA

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

Updated 2026-02-15 5 stops $700–$2,200 est. 6–12 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Pennsylvania

2 stops

  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.

    Official government source

    N/A (licensing is local)N/A

  2. Pennsylvania Business Entity Registration (if applicable)

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

    Official government source

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

City of Philadelphia / Philadelphia County

2 stops

  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.

    Official government source

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

  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).

    Official government source

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

Terminus

Open for business — est. $700–$2,200 · 6–12 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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