Important Wisconsin distinction: The Journeyman Plumber is an individual license, not an independent contractor-business credential. Under SPS 305.93, a journeyman performs plumbing under the general supervision of a Master Plumber, Master Plumber Restricted, or Utility Contractor license holder, with scope restrictions where applicable. Do not confuse the journeyman exams with a contractor licensing exam.
What Is the Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber License?
The Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber license is a professional credential for people qualified to work on plumbing systems under the supervision required by state law. It marks a step beyond apprenticeship and requires familiarity with installation standards, building drainage and vent systems, fixture connections, potable water, and jobsite regulations.
Candidates entering through Wisconsin's apprenticeship route must finish a recognized plumbing apprenticeship and upload completion proof. Candidates using another pathway, such as an approved out-of-state apprenticeship, should follow the appropriate DSPS application route.
Credentialing authority: Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).
Exam structure: Journeyman Plumber Part 1 and Part 2.
Part 1: 87 questions, 3 hours.
Part 2: 120 questions, 3 hours.
Passing score: 70%.
Format: Open book, DSPS-authorized references only.
Exam vendor: Pearson VUE computer-based sites and DSPS sites, per state instructions.
Current posted fees: $90 to Pearson and $20 to DSPS for each part; verify before scheduling.
License type: Individual Journeyman Plumber license, not a separate contractor-business license.
For review questions and guided study, see 1 Exam Prep's Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber course. Use DSPS's official licensing page for exam-authority instructions.
Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Licensing Path
The journeyman route is based on apprenticeship, state authorization, two exams, and credential issuance.
| Step | Requirement | What to Verify |
|---|---|---|
| Finish Qualifying Apprenticeship | Eligibility | Complete an apprenticeship recognized under Wisconsin law or qualify through a DSPS alternative pathway. |
| Gather Completion Proof | Documentation | Wisconsin apprentices upload the Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards completion letter. |
| Apply Through LicensE | DSPS Application | Select Journeyman Plumber and the correct application method. |
| Await Exam Authorization | State Approval | DSPS gives scheduling instructions once your qualifications are accepted. |
| Organize Wisconsin References | Open-Book Preparation | Prepare Wisconsin statutes and codes plus the specialty references DSPS authorizes. |
| Take Journeyman Part 1 | 87 Questions | Three-hour Pearson seat time; meet the 70% passing standard. |
| Take Journeyman Part 2 | 120 Questions | Another three-hour exam; meet the 70% passing standard. |
| Complete Credential Issuance | Final Approval | Meet remaining state fee and licensing requirements. |
| Follow Supervision Rules | Practice | Understand when a Master Plumber or other qualifying supervisor is required. |
Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber 2026 Exam Snapshot
Use the official Wisconsin DSPS examination and fee schedule for each part's time, question count, exam costs, and current rules.
| Verified Point | Authority | Current Result |
|---|---|---|
| Licensing Authority | Wisconsin DSPS | Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services |
| Credential | Wisconsin DSPS | Journeyman Plumber (individual license) |
| Qualifying Pathway | Wisconsin DSPS | Recognized plumbing apprenticeship, or another eligible method |
| Testing Administrators | Wisconsin DSPS | Pearson VUE and DSPS |
| Exam Part 1 | Wisconsin DSPS | 87 questions / 3 hours |
| Exam Part 2 | Wisconsin DSPS | 120 questions / 3 hours |
| Overall Total | Wisconsin DSPS | 207 questions across both parts |
| Passing Standard | Wisconsin DSPS | 70% |
| Exam Format | Wisconsin DSPS | Open book |
| Pearson Exam Fee | Wisconsin DSPS | $90 per part on current DSPS schedule |
| DSPS Exam Fee | Wisconsin DSPS | $20 per part on current DSPS schedule |
| Official Plumbing Regulations | Wisconsin DSPS | Wis. Admin. Code SPS 381–387 |
| Licensing Regulations | Wisconsin DSPS | Wis. Admin. Code SPS 305 |
| Additional State Authority | Wisconsin DSPS | Wis. Stats. 145 and 106; SPS 302 and 325 |
| Additional References | Wisconsin DSPS | NFPA 13D-2019, NFPA 24-2019, POWTS and MPP manuals |
| Printed Notes | Wisconsin DSPS | Allowed only when three-hole punched and kept in an authorized binder |
| Renewal Term | Wisconsin DSPS | 4 years; Wisconsin DSPS lists March 31 expiration |
Check the exam authorization: Pearson VUE and DSPS both administer trade exams, and you should follow the scheduling instructions DSPS sends after eligibility approval.
Do not mix up codes: the 2024 International Plumbing Code in the 1 Exam Prep practice package is supplementary learning material, not an officially listed Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber exam-room reference.
Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Exam Breakdown
Wisconsin uses a two-part examination for the standard Journeyman Plumber license. The official DSPS trades schedule lists 87 questions in Part 1 and 120 in Part 2, both with a three-hour examination period.
That is 207 questions total across two separate exams. There is no reason to cram every subject into one giant practice test. Instead, prepare for each part using the state references and timed question sets.
Key study subjects include Wisconsin plumbing rules, drainage, venting, potable water systems, fixture units and plumbing fixtures, materials, cross-connection protection, pipe sizing, plan reading and isometric layouts. POWTS topics, NFPA standards and related manuals also appear in the list of authorized resources.
The DSPS page does not provide a published topic-by-topic question allocation in the materials reviewed. The study emphasis bars below are recommended practice priorities, not claimed official exam weights.
Pacing works out to about 2 minutes and 4 seconds per question for Part 1 and 90 seconds per question for Part 2. Learn your reference binder before exam day.
Primary SEO TargetWisconsin Journeyman Plumber Contractor Exam Prep
Actual CredentialJourneyman Plumber, individual license
Licensing AuthorityWisconsin DSPS
TestingPearson VUE and DSPS
Exam PartsPart 1 and Part 2
Part 1 Questions87
Part 2 Questions120
Time Per Part3 hours / 180 minutes
Passing Score70%
FormatOpen book
Primary State Plumbing CodeWis. Admin. Code SPS 381–387
Licensing CodeWis. Admin. Code SPS 305
Other Approved MaterialsState statutes, NFPA standards and POWTS manuals, as listed by DSPS
Exam Vendor Fee$90 to Pearson per part (posted schedule)
DSPS Exam Fee$20 per part (posted schedule)
1 Exam Prep Study Product Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Study Guide & Course
How to Study for the Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Exam
Use Wisconsin's official references first. Practice finding the applicable state code rule, then answer plumbing calculations without spending half the exam looking for a formula.
Wisconsin Code Navigation: Review SPS 381–387, definitions, reference organization, tables, and cross-references.
Sanitary Drainage: Practice drain sizing, fixture-unit calculations, slopes, traps, branches, and building drains.
Venting: Understand vent types, wet venting, vents for fixtures and traps, and system layout.
Water Supply and Protection: Study piping, pressure, distribution, backflow prevention, and cross-connections.
Fixtures and Equipment: Review fixture installation, water heaters, clearances, connection methods, and approved materials.
POWTS and Site Concepts: Understand onsite wastewater terminology and the component manuals named by DSPS.
Math and Isometrics: Practice conversions, flow and volume calculations, pipe sizing, and interpreting 3-D piping sketches.
Supervision and Licensing: Know Wisconsin Chapter 145, SPS 305, and journeyman practice limits.
For additional plumbing practice, explore the 1 Exam Prep Wisconsin-labeled guide and course. Its IPC examples can build general skills, but always cross-check Wisconsin state requirements.
Wisconsin Plumbing Code, Isometrics, and Calculation Strategy
An open-book test is only helpful when you can locate the correct rule quickly. Wisconsin's SPS 381–387 references deserve repeated practice, especially on sizing, fixtures, drainage, and vents.
Plumbing code navigation, water supply, sanitary drainage, and drawing interpretation.
- Start with the right jurisdiction: Use Wisconsin code and laws, not an assumed IPC or UPC edition.
- Separate the exam parts: Build practice sessions that match 87 and 120 questions.
- Draw the pipe layout: Simple isometrics help track fixture connections, vents, and flow.
- Check every calculation: Write units before converting and check table notes.
- Build a compliant binder: Organize printed Wisconsin references and permitted notes.
- Know specialty references: POWTS and NFPA standards appear on the DSPS reference list.
- Practice timed lookups: Part 2 allows an average of only 90 seconds per question.
Your Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Licensing Roadmap
A practical path from apprenticeship completion to state licensing.
1
Complete Recognized Plumbing Training
Document your completed Wisconsin plumbing apprenticeship or another DSPS-approved route.
2
Submit a LicensE Application
Apply under the Journeyman Plumber credential with correct records.
3
Receive Examination Authorization
Wait for DSPS instructions confirming eligibility and registration steps.
4
Prepare Wisconsin Plumbing References
Organize the state codes, statutes, and other authorized manuals.
5
Practice Part 1
Build confidence for 87 questions and a three-hour testing period.
6
Practice Part 2
Prepare for 120 questions and a three-hour testing period.
7
Pass Exams and Complete State Fees
Meet 70%, follow credential issuance steps, and verify the latest fees.
8
Follow Journeyman Supervision Rules
Work within Wisconsin's journeyman plumbing supervision and scope requirements.
Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Study Topic Priorities
Illustrative study emphasis, NOT an official DSPS question-weighting chart. DSPS publishes separate exam-part counts but no topic-by-topic weights in the pages reviewed.
Wisconsin SPS 381–387 Code Navigation Study focus: 100%
Drainage and Venting Study focus: 92%
Water Distribution and Backflow Study focus: 88%
Fixture Units and Sizing Math Study focus: 82%
Plumbing Fixtures and Materials Study focus: 75%
Isometric Drawings and Plans Study focus: 70%
POWTS Component Manuals Study focus: 68%
NFPA and Specialty Systems Study focus: 55%
Wisconsin Licensing and Safety Rules Study focus: 50%
Important: These bars help distribute study effort; they are not published official exam percentages or question counts. Use your actual exam authorization and the DSPS reference list to shape final preparation.
Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Official Exam References
Wisconsin DSPS authorizes one code-and-notes binder plus eight additional individually listed references. Review the state requirements before testing.
| Reference | DSPS Category | Primary Study Use |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Statutes Ch. 145 | In authorized binder | Plumbing laws, definitions, registration and licensing |
| Wis. Admin. Code SPS 305 | In authorized binder | Plumbing credentials and supervision |
| Wis. Admin. Code SPS 381–387 | In authorized binder | Wisconsin plumbing system design and installation code |
| Wis. Stats. Ch. 106; SPS 302; SPS 325 | In authorized binder | Apprenticeship, fees and related state rules |
| NFPA 13D (2019) | Separate listed reference | One- and two-family sprinkler systems |
| NFPA 24 (2019) | Separate listed reference | Private fire service mains and appurtenances |
| At-Grade, Holding Tank, In-Ground Soil Absorption, Mound, Pressure Distribution Manuals | Five listed component manuals | POWTS components and wastewater systems |
| Multi-Purpose Piping Systems Design Manual | Separate listed reference | Multipurpose piping-system design |
Wisconsin reference rule: Only the listed authorized materials may enter Pearson and DSPS exam locations. Notes may be printed, three-hole punched, and secured in the binder; loose pages, removable tabs and practice exams are not allowed.
2024 IPC distinction: 1 Exam Prep's Wisconsin-labeled course is based on the International Plumbing Code, but DSPS does not list that 2024 IPC book as one of its nine authorized exam-room references.
How to Prepare for Wisconsin's Open-Book Plumber Exams
Build These Habits
- Check DSPS's exact reference list for your exam.
- Create the authorized three-ring code-and-notes binder.
- Print and three-hole punch permitted notes.
- Study SPS 381–387 with practice lookups.
- Prepare both 87-question and 120-question simulations.
- Practice isometrics and plumbing math.
- Review POWTS and listed NFPA material.
- Confirm tabs and dividers meet DSPS rules.
Avoid These Mistakes
- Bringing loose notes or loose printed code.
- Using Post-it notes or movable tabs.
- Bringing previous exams or practice tests into the testing room.
- Treating the 2024 IPC book as an authorized Wisconsin reference.
- Leaving the POWTS manuals entirely out of study.
- Ignoring the individual journeyman supervision rules.
- Assuming each part has the same question count.
- Using the exam materials of a different state.
DSPS-specific rule: Unlike some other states, Wisconsin allows printed notes when they are three-hole punched and held in a proper binder. Loose materials and past or practice exams remain prohibited.
What Can a Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Do?
A journeyman plumber can perform plumbing activities covered by the credential, but Wisconsin requires that work to be under the general supervision of a licensed Master Plumber, Master Plumber Restricted, or Utility Contractor, as applicable. Certain supervising credentials limit the kinds of projects the journeyman may perform.
Work may involve sanitary drains, vents, fixtures, water distribution piping, approved materials, repair work, and other plumbing activities that meet current state code. Plumbing installation should follow permit, inspection, and code requirements.
This is why the user-facing phrase Journeyman Plumber Contractor Exam Prep needs a careful explanation. The journeyman credential demonstrates plumbing qualifications but should not be mistaken for an unrestricted business or independent master plumber license.
State supervision rule: See SPS 305.93 and the Wisconsin DSPS Journeyman Plumber requirements . Ask DSPS what additional registration and master-level responsibility apply before operating a plumbing business.
Wisconsin Plumbing Credential Comparison
Choose the license that matches the work and the credential holder's actual responsibilities.
| Credential | Main Scope | Examination / Eligibility | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Apprentice | Learning under required oversight | Complete recognized apprenticeship | Typical entry route to journeyman eligibility |
| Journeyman Plumber | Licensed individual plumbing work | Two-part Journeyman exam or another approved route | Requires applicable general supervision |
| Master Plumber | Higher-level plumbing responsibility | Separate master-credential eligibility and exams | Different credential and broader responsibility |
| Restricted Journeyman | Limited service or appliance scope | Separate restricted application/testing | Not the standard two-part journeyman license |
| Plumbing Business / Contractor | Business activities and registration | Verify registration and responsible master arrangements | Not replaced simply by a Journeyman Plumber card |
Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Exam and Credential Requirements
Journeyman Exam Part 1
87 Questions • 3 Hours
- Wisconsin plumbing regulations
- Open-book navigation
- Plumbing construction principles
- Drainage and venting
- Water and fixture systems
- Plumbing calculations
- 70% passing standard
Journeyman Exam Part 2
120 Questions • 3 Hours
- State-authorized references
- System installation decisions
- Isometric and drawing interpretation
- Code and component-manual lookups
- Problem solving under time pressure
- Separate exam authorization
- 70% passing standard
State License and Ongoing Compliance
DSPS Individual Credential
- Recognized apprenticeship or eligible alternate path
- Completion evidence
- LicensE application
- Both exam parts as required
- Credential issuance
- General supervision requirement
- Renewal and continuing education requirements
Official DSPS timing: The department's current schedule separately lists Part 1 and Part 2. Do not treat the two together as a single three-hour exam.
Six-Week Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Exam Prep Plan
Build Wisconsin-specific code knowledge first, then finish with timed two-part exam practice.
Week 1
Eligibility and Wisconsin Codes
- Verify your application pathway
- Start SPS 305 and SPS 381–387 review
- Build a reference index
- Take a baseline quiz
Week 2
Drainage, Traps, and Venting
- Study drain configuration and fixture units
- Practice vent-layout questions
- Work slope and sizing calculations
- Locate key Wisconsin code tables
Week 3
Water Supply and Fixtures
- Water distribution and backflow protection
- Fixtures, valves, and equipment
- Material rules and workmanship
- Timed code lookups
Week 4
POWTS and Specialty References
- Review listed component manuals
- Study NFPA 13D and NFPA 24
- Practice system sketches
- Organize approved reference binder
Week 5
Math, Isometrics, and Part 1
- Review units and conversions
- Draw and read isometric layouts
- Complete an 87-question timed simulation
- Repair weak knowledge areas
Week 6
Part 2 and Exam Readiness
- Complete a 120-question timed simulation
- Recheck official allowable references
- Practice rapid Wisconsin code navigation
- Confirm ID, fees, and test appointments
How Hard Is the Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Exam?
The exam can feel demanding because it has two separate parts, a broad state-specific reference list, and important plumbing calculations. You need more than worksite experience: you also need to recognize which Wisconsin rule applies to a question.
Part 1 covers 87 questions in three hours. Part 2 covers 120 in three hours. That means your pace must speed up for Part 2. Checking every question against five different books is not a winning plan.
The open-book rules can help, especially because DSPS allows correctly bound printed notes. However, a binder stuffed with uncategorized paper may slow you down instead of saving time.
Spend time on code navigation, isometric drawings, water and drain sizing, venting, and specialty reference recognition. Then test what you know without relying on answer-key memorization.
A Wisconsin-specific final review is essential. An IPC-based video or question bank can reinforce general concepts, but the state plumbing codes and official test instructions control your actual exam.
Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Exam Day Checklist
Do This
- Confirm whether you are scheduled for Part 1 or Part 2.
- Bring identification accepted by the exam administrator.
- Bring only DSPS-approved reference materials.
- Use permitted tabs or three-ring paper dividers.
- Secure printed notes in an approved binder.
- Bring permitted architect or engineer scales if needed.
- Track the time according to each part.
- Follow all current Pearson or DSPS instructions.
Do Not Do This
- Bring an unapproved 2024 IPC book into the testing room.
- Bring loose printed pages.
- Bring Post-its, removable tabs, or paperclips.
- Bring practice tests or previous exams.
- Assume your two test parts have equal question counts.
- Use another state's open-book instructions.
- Assume a passed exam instantly issues a credential.
- Ignore the official credential supervision requirements.
Exam-day rules: Wisconsin DSPS determines authorized references and exam materials. Always verify them shortly before your appointment.
Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Exam Prep Options
Wisconsin Study Guide & Online Course
2024 IPC-Based Supplemental Training
- 700+ exam-style practice questions advertised
- 8+ hours of video training advertised
- Isometric and plumbing math review
- Simulated computer-based practice
- Mobile-friendly course access
- Cross-check everything against Wisconsin code
Wisconsin Journeyman Study Guide
Practice Questions & Answer Explanations
- Wisconsin-labeled 2026 study product
- 2024 IPC-based general code review
- Plumbing systems and installation
- Calculations and test strategy
- Use separately from DSPS test references
Complete Books, Tabs & Course Package
Practice Books + Digital Prep
- 2024 IPC book and quick tabs
- Study guide and online course
- 200 flashcards advertised
- Plumbing math and isometric practice
- Check Wisconsin DSPS reference restrictions before buying for test day
Codebook warning: These 1 Exam Prep products are based on the 2024 IPC. They are optional supplemental materials, not a substitute for Wisconsin DSPS's authorized references. The official state code and other listed manuals should guide your final practice.
Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Exam Prep
This topic-related image shows 1 Exam Prep's Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber study guide and online course. It is a study product image, not a Wisconsin DSPS license or credential.
• Two-part Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber examination
• 87 questions in Part 1
• 120 questions in Part 2
• Three hours per part
• 70% passing standard
• State plumbing code SPS 381–387
• Drainage, vents, and water supply
• Isometric drawings and plumbing math
• Master-level supervision rules
• Separate DSPS-approved exam references
The 1 Exam Prep course features IPC-based general plumbing review. Keep Wisconsin DSPS rules as your final authority for code editions, exam-room materials, licensing requirements, and allowable references.
Frequently Asked Questions
Licensing and Eligibility
The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) issues the individual Journeyman Plumber credential.
No. It is an individual plumbing license and does not replace other requirements for operating a plumbing business.
The standard Wisconsin exam pathway requires completion of a recognized plumbing apprenticeship. DSPS also lists certain alternative application methods.
The journeyman's plumbing activities are subject to general supervision by the master plumber, restricted master, or utility contractor credentials specified in SPS 305.93.
Two-Part Journeyman Examination
The standard Journeyman Plumber examination has two parts.
The DSPS trades schedule lists 87 questions.
The DSPS trades schedule lists 120 questions.
Each part is listed as three hours.
The published passing score is 70%.
Yes, but only DSPS-authorized books, binders and notes are permitted.
The current DSPS table lists $90 to Pearson and $20 to DSPS per part. Check the newest fee schedule.
Books and Wisconsin Plumbing Code
DSPS does not list the 2024 IPC among the permitted exam-room references. The state lists Wisconsin codes and specific NFPA and POWTS materials.
The official reference list includes Wisconsin Administrative Code SPS 381–387.
Wisconsin Administrative Code SPS 305 and Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 145 are on the official reference list.
Yes, when printed, three-hole punched, and placed in the approved binder.
No. DSPS prohibits loose papers, movable tabs, sticky notes and paperclips.
No. DSPS explicitly excludes practice and previous exams from permitted notes.
Yes. DSPS lists several POWTS component manuals and the Multi-Purpose Piping Systems Design Manual.
1 Exam Prep and Study Strategy
Yes. It offers a Wisconsin-labeled 2026 study guide and online course based on the 2024 IPC.
No. Use it for supplementary study and use the official DSPS list to determine what you may bring to the actual exams.
Yes. They reinforce pipe layouts, conversions, sizing and practical question interpretation.
Apply through Wisconsin's LicensE portal and wait for DSPS instructions after your qualifications are approved.
Watch: Pass the 2026 Journeyman Plumber Exam by 1 Exam Prep
This video comes from the 1 Exam Prep YouTube channel and covers general journeyman-plumber study topics such as drainage, vents, piping systems, water supply, fixtures, and licensing preparation.
Wisconsin-specific tip: This is a general 1 Exam Prep journeyman video, not an official DSPS tutorial. Use it to review plumbing concepts, then practice finding related requirements in Wisconsin's approved codes and manuals.
Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Exam Prep Resources
Combine 1 Exam Prep practice resources with the DSPS licensing and testing instructions. Wisconsin-authorized references, not general IPC study products, control your exam-room preparation.
Wisconsin Study Guide & Online Course Wisconsin Journeyman Study Guide Wisconsin Complete Prep Package General IPC Journeyman Online Course Wisconsin DSPS Journeyman Exam Out-of-State / Other Licensing Paths Wisconsin Official Exam Fees and Counts Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Credential Wisconsin Master Plumber Requirements Wisconsin LicensE Portal 1 Exam Prep Journeyman Video Contact 1 Exam Prep
Final verification: Always confirm eligibility, test authorization, question counts, fees, reference books, and binder rules on the official DSPS pages.
Ready for Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Exam Prep?
Build your knowledge of Wisconsin plumbing rules, drainage and vent systems, potable water supply, fixtures, calculations, isometrics, and approved specialty references. Practice separately for the 87-question Part 1 and the 120-question Part 2, and prepare the exam binder according to Wisconsin DSPS rules.
Questions? Call 877-775-9400 or email sales@1examprep.com .
Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber Exam Prep
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