What Is the Difference Between a Licensed and Certified Plumber?

When hiring a plumbing professional, many homeowners assume that “licensed” and “certified” mean the same thing. However, they are different. A licensed plumber is someone who holds a valid plumbing license to perform plumbing work. On the other hand, a certified plumber has training or has passed additional certification exams.

So, what do you need? It depends on your project. Understand the difference between the two and choose the right professional. 



The key highlights of the blog are:

• A licensed plumber meets state legal requirements
• A certified plumber has specialized training or credentials
• Gas line work often requires a certified plumber for gas line services
• Large projects typically require a licensed plumbing contractor
• Always verify credentials before hiring
  

Plumbing issues range from simple faucets to complex gas installations, and you need the right professional to avoid mistakes. Thus, you must understand the difference between a licensed and certified plumber, and whether you need both for the underlying job. 

This blog discusses the differences between the two in detail so you can protect your home and ensure code compliance. 

Plumbing professionals handle:

• Installing pipes and fixtures
• Repairing leaks and drains
• Working on water heaters and boilers
• Handling gas lines
• Ensuring systems meet building codes

You can choose a professional depending on your specific needs.

Understand what a licensed plumber is: 

Definition and Legal Standing

A licensed plumber has met state or local government requirements to perform plumbing work legally. 

It means they have:

• Completing an apprenticeship
• Passing exams
• Meeting experience requirements
• Carrying insurance



Having a license means they have legal authority to operate and are knowledgeable about compliance codes.

Responsibilities of a Licensed Plumber

A licensed plumber is responsible for:

• Pull permits for plumbing work
• Perform installations and repairs
• Supervise apprentices
• Ensure code-compliant work
  

When Do You Need a Licensed Plumbing Contractor?

Here is when you need a licensed plumber:

• Major renovations
• New construction
• Water heater installations
• Gas line modifications
• Any job requiring permits

Hiring a licensed plumber is crucial for needs that require major changes.

Check out what a certified plumber is:

Definition and Professional Certification

A certified plumber has completed additional training or passed certification exams beyond basic licensing requirements. Certification often focuses on specialized skills.



For example, a certified plumber for gas line work has specific training in safely handling gas systems.

Types of Plumbing Certifications

Here are the common types of certifications:

• Gas line installation and repair
• Backflow prevention
• Tankless water heater systems
• Medical gas systems

A certified gas plumber is specifically trained to handle gas-related plumbing safely.

Benefits of Hiring Certified Plumbers in My Area

Here is why you should hire a certified plumber:

• Advanced expertise
• Specialized safety knowledge
• Up-to-date industry training
• Better handling of complex systems



If you need gas-related expertise, then a certified plumber is the best choice.

The main differences between the two are:

• Legal authority: A licensed plumber is legally authorized by the state.
• Specialized training: A certified plumber has additional credentials in specific areas.
• Scope of work: Licensing covers broad plumbing work; certification focuses on specialties.



In many cases, a plumber can be both licensed and certified. So, it’s easier to choose.

The answer is, it depends on your project.

• For general repairs, a licensed plumber is typically sufficient.
• For gas installations, you may need a certified plumber for gas line work.
• For large projects, hiring a licensed plumbing contractor with certified technicians is ideal.

Choose a plumber who is both licensed and certified, so you get both expertise and specialization in a single professional.

A plumbing contractor can work on their own or be part of a company. When working on large-scale projects, contractors rely on subcontractors for specialized tasks.

Here is how it works:

• The contractor manages permits and project coordination.
• Subcontractors perform specific tasks under supervision.
• Certified professionals may be brought in for specialized services.

This structure ensures efficiency and expertise on complex jobs.

Here are a few questions to ask before you hire:

• Are you a licensed plumber?
• Are you certified for this type of work?
• Can you provide proof of insurance?
• Do you pull permits if required?
• What experience do you have with similar projects?

Red Flags to Avoid

Avoid a contractor where you notice the following traits:

• Refusal to show license credentials
• No proof of certification for gas work
• Extremely low quotes
• Lack of insurance



Ask the right questions, and clear your doubts before you hire anyone.

Costs vary depending on their qualifications, expertise, and the type of service required. Certified plumbing services may cost slightly more due to advanced training and specialization. However, paying for expertise often prevents expensive repairs later.



Gas-related work, in particular, should always be handled by a properly certified gas plumber to ensure safety.

So, you have now understood the difference between a licensed and a certified plumber, which will help you make smarter decisions.

Choose Garot Plumbing & Heating for licensed and certified plumbing professionals. Whether it’s a simple plumbing job or an extensive project, we offer services for every scale. 

Book your service today!