UPC 2021

California Plumber Licensing

Every plumber license type California issues, with continuing-education hours, renewal fees, bond requirements and approved courses. Updated for 2026.

License types

None

Max CE / cycle

Required

Bond at some tier

CE providers

Informational only — not legal advice, and not an official government resource. Licensing rules change; always confirm against the official board source linked on this page before you renew, apply, or make a business decision. Trade Cert Hub is independent and not affiliated with any state licensing board.

California plumbers licenses at a glance

C-36 Plumbing Contractor

contractor

CE: None
Fee: $450
Bond: $25,000

View full requirements

Getting started

How to become a plumber in California →

Moving states

Plumber license reciprocity →

Pay

Plumber salary in California →

CE courses in California

Plumber continuing-education providers offering courses for California license holders. Confirm a provider is on your board’s approved list before you buy.

Affiliate disclosure: the links below are affiliate links and may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.

360training

from $15

Cheapest, largest multi-trade catalog

Online self-paced · 350+ courses

View plumber courses

RedVector (Vector Solutions)

from $19

Broad catalog across all four trades

Online self-paced · 250+ courses

View plumber courses

TradeSchool.com

from $25

Multi-trade, Western states

Online self-paced · 140+ courses

View plumber courses

Need a California contractor bond?

Some plumber tiers in California require a license bond. Compare quotes in a few minutes.

Get a bond quote

Other trades licensed in California

Electrician in California HVAC Contractor in California General Contractor in California

California plumber licensing — FAQ

How many plumber license types does California issue?

California issues 1 plumber license type: C-36 Plumbing Contractor.

Does California require continuing education for plumbers?

California has no confirmed continuing-education requirement for plumber licenses at the tiers we track (or it is 0 hours). Confirm with the licensing board.

Do California plumber licenses require a bond?

At least one plumber license tier in California requires a license bond. Check the specific license page for the bond amount, then estimate the premium with our bond cost estimator.

Which UPC edition does California enforce?

California currently enforces the 2021 UPC for plumber work.

Official source

California Contractors State License Board

Official board site

Data compiled 2026-05-23. Confirm current figures with the board.

Never miss a renewal deadline

Get a reminder before your license expires, plus the year’s code and CE-rule changes for plumbers. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.