Exam Information

Description of the Journeyman & Master Plumber Exam

The Journeyman and Master Plumber Examination is based on the most current adopted Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). The exam consists of two parts.

Part One – Open Book

• 50 multiple-choice questions
• Open book format
• Questions derived from all chapters, illustrations, tables, charts, and drawings within the UPC
• Time limit: Two (2) hours

Part Two – Closed Book

• 100 multiple-choice questions
• Closed book format
• Questions derived from all chapters and illustrations related to DWV sizing, gas pipe sizing, storm drainage, and water pipe sizing
• Time limit: Two (2) hours

After completing the exam, applicants must leave the testing facility and will not be permitted to reenter for any reason.

Passing Requirements

Applicants must achieve a minimum score of 75% or a total of 113 cumulative points to pass. Successful candidates will receive a color-coded picture identification card and certificate. Journeymen are required to carry their identification card during work hours. Certification is valid for three (3) years from the date of issuance.

Exam Content Areas

Journeyman Examination

1. Installation Standards, Administration, Definitions & General Regulations – 20%
2. Fixtures and Fixture Fittings, Water Heaters, Indirect Wastes, and Traps & Interceptors – 17.33%
3. Sanitary Drainage, Vents, & Storm Drainage Related Drawings – 39.99%
4. Water Supply & Related Drawings – 10.67%
5. Fuel Gas & Related Drawings – 12.67%

Master Plumber Examination

1. Installation Standards, Administration, Definitions & General Regulations – 14%
2. Fixtures and Fixture Fittings, Water Heaters, Indirect Wastes, and Traps & Interceptors – 24.67%
3. Sanitary Drainage, Vents, & Storm Drainage Related Drawings – 34.67%
4. Water Supply & Related Drawings – 18.67%
5. Fuel Gas & Related Drawings – 8%

Exam Scoring

Each exam is scored individually based on the number of correct answers. Unanswered questions, questions with multiple answers selected, or improperly marked responses will not receive credit.

• Computer-Based Exam: Results are provided immediately upon completion.
• Written Exam: Results are mailed within thirty (30) days of the exam date.

For confidentiality, exam scores will not be released by any other method. Applicants who do not pass will receive information regarding retesting.

Challenging Exam Questions or Answers

All questions, answers, and illustrations have been reviewed and certified by a panel of plumbing professionals for accuracy and compliance with the UPC. Each question has only one (1) correct answer.

Applicants who wish to challenge a question or answer must complete a Question and Answer Challenge Form and submit it to the proctor before leaving the testing facility. All challenges are forwarded to NBOPE, and applicants will receive a response within thirty (30) days.

Exam Reference

The primary reference for the exam is the current adopted edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), published by the International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials (IAPMO). The illustrated UPC code book is not permitted during testing.

Test Day Requirements

Applicants must bring the following:

1. Current adopted edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)
2. Admission letter and valid photo identification

Suggested items:

• Hand-held pencil sharpener
• Eraser
• Silent, battery-operated, non-printing, non-programmable calculator (must not have a full alphabetical keyboard)

No materials will be provided at the testing site. The following items are prohibited:

• Handbooks, computers, notebooks, notes, drawings, or papers of any kind
• Audio/visual devices, recorders, or electronic devices (including cell phones and tablets)
• Illustrated plumbing books
• Food, drinks, or smoking materials

Friends, relatives, and children are not permitted in the testing facility. Applicants may not leave the facility until their exam is completed and all materials have been returned to the proctor.