A new Louisiana law will require every person doing plumbing work—including your employees—to obtain a state license within three years.
Most Louisiana manufacturing owners don't realize that a bill focused on plumbing licenses contains a requirement that will affect their entire plumbing workforce. HB953, which became law, includes a provision that fundamentally changes who can legally perform plumbing work in the state.
Effective January 1, 2027, every individual performing plumbing work must hold a State Licensing Board for Contractors license. This applies to apprentices, journeymen, and master plumbers alike. The requirement is codified in §2156.1.1(A) on page 17 of the bill.
For small plumbing contractors and manufacturers with in-house plumbing operations, this means every worker who touches a pipe—not just supervisors or lead technicians—must now be licensed by the state.
If your business employs plumbers or has staff performing plumbing work, this applies to you. This includes:
There is one exception: anyone who held a State Plumbing Board license as of December 31, 2026, is grandfathered in and does not need to obtain the new State Licensing Board for Contractors license.
Before January 1, 2027, your plumbing employees will need to:
The burden falls on both employers and workers. Your team will need to budget time for licensing applications, exam preparation, and potentially exam fees. For smaller operations, this represents a direct compliance cost and administrative lift that didn't exist before.
You have until January 1, 2027, to ensure all plumbing staff are licensed. That's roughly three years from now to plan, budget, and execute. Starting the process early—verifying which employees need licenses, understanding the board's specific requirements, and building in time for exams—will reduce last-minute pressure.
The State Licensing Board for Contractors will set the specific application deadlines, exam schedules, and hour verification processes. Check their website regularly as the effective date approaches for detailed guidance.
This is a real compliance requirement with real deadlines. Unlike some regulatory changes, this one has teeth: unlicensed plumbing work after January 1, 2027, will be illegal.
For a detailed breakdown of licensing requirements and timelines specific to your operation, contact your state trade association or the State Licensing Board for Contractors directly.