Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in San Antonio, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a plumbing contractor in San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $700–$2,000 est. 6–10 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 Texas

3 stops

  1. Texas Master Plumber License

    Required to operate as a plumbing contractor in Texas. Issued by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE). Applicants must pass the Master Plumber examination, have at least 4 years of plumbing experience (including 1 year as a Journeyman Plumber), and provide proof of insurance. The license must be renewed annually.

    Official government source

    $175 exam fee + $135/year license fee4–8 weeks (exam scheduling + processing)

  2. Texas Plumbing Contractor Surety Bond

    Texas plumbing contractors are required to maintain a $25,000 surety bond filed with TSBPE.

    Official government source

    $150–$500/year (bond premium, varies by credit)1–3 days

  3. Texas Business Entity Registration (if applicable)

    If operating as an LLC or corporation, register with the Texas Secretary of State.

    Official government source

    $300 (LLC filing fee)3–5 business days (online filing)

City of San Antonio / Bexar County

2 stops

  1. City of San Antonio Plumbing Contractor Registration

    Plumbing contractors working within San Antonio city limits must register with the City of San Antonio Development Services Department. A Texas-licensed Master Plumber must be the qualifying license holder on file. Registration is required before pulling any plumbing permits.

    Official government source

    $75–$150/year1–2 weeks

  2. Bexar County Assumed Name (DBA) Certificate

    If operating under a trade name different from your legal name, file an Assumed Name Certificate with the Bexar County Clerk. Valid for 10 years.

    Official government source

    $231–3 days

Terminus

Open for business — est. $700–$2,000 · 6–10 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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