PracticeVideosBlogFlashcardsEspañol
All Practice Exams

198+ Free Journeyman Plumber Practice Questions

Prepare for the Journeyman Plumber License Exam exam with instant access — no signup required.

✓ No registration✓ No credit card✓ No hidden fees✓ Start practicing immediately
Not published by ICC Pass Rate
198+ Questions
100% Free

Loading practice questions...

Same family resources

Explore More Plumber License

Continue into nearby exams from the same family. Each card keeps practice questions, study guides, flashcards, videos, and articles in one place.

Iowa Journeyman Plumber

Practice QuestionsStudy GuideFlashcards1 blog

Texas Journeyman Plumber

Practice QuestionsStudy GuideFlashcards1 video1 blog

Maryland Journeyman Plumber

Practice QuestionsStudy GuideFlashcards1 blog

Florida Journeyman Plumber

Practice QuestionsNational Study GuideFlashcards1 video1 blog

Colorado Journeyman Plumber

Practice QuestionsNational Study GuideFlashcards1 blog

Michigan Journeyman Plumber

Practice QuestionsNational Study GuideFlashcards1 blog

More From This Family

Videos and articles for deeper review.

VideoFree Journeyman Plumber Practice Test by State 2026: 4,600+ QuestionsArticleHow to Become a Plumber in 2026: License, Salary by State & Career Path16 min readArticleFree Journeyman Plumber Practice Test by State 2026: 4,600+ Questions24 min read
2026 Statistics

Key Facts: Journeyman Plumber Exam

70%

Passing Score

Most states

Not published by ICC

Pass Rate

Varies by state

70

Questions

Typical exam length

3 hrs (F25) / 4 hrs (G25)

Time Limit

ICC national

$120

Exam Fee

Pearson VUE

2024/2026

IPC/UPC Edition

Check your state

The Journeyman Plumber exam has a pass rate not published by ICC in most states. The exam requires 70% to pass and covers 5 content domains based on IPC/UPC codes. Most states allow code books during the exam but require thorough knowledge of pipe sizing, venting, and plumbing calculations. The exam tests both theory and practical applications including isometric drawings and DFU calculations.

Sample Journeyman Plumber Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your Journeyman Plumber exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 198+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1What is the minimum vertical distance required between a water service line and a sewer line when they cross each other?
A.6 inches
B.12 inches
C.18 inches
D.24 inches
Explanation: When water and sewer lines cross, the water line must be at least 12 inches above the sewer line. If this vertical separation cannot be maintained, the sewer line must be constructed of approved pressure-rated material and pressure tested to ensure watertightness. This requirement protects the potable water supply from potential contamination.
2Which organization publishes the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)?
A.International Code Council (ICC)
B.International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO)
C.National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
D.American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE)
Explanation: The Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) is published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO). The UPC is developed using ANSI-accredited consensus procedures and is widely adopted throughout the United States, particularly in western states. The International Plumbing Code (IPC) is published by the ICC.
3What is the definition of a "DFU" (Drainage Fixture Unit)?
A.A measure of the discharge rate from a fixture in gallons per minute
B.A measure of the probable discharge into the drainage system by various types of plumbing fixtures
C.The total volume of water used by a fixture in a 24-hour period
D.The diameter of the drain pipe required for a specific fixture
Explanation: A Drainage Fixture Unit (DFU) is a measure of the probable discharge into the drainage system by various types of plumbing fixtures. It is used to size drainage piping systems. One DFU is equivalent to 7.5 gallons per minute (gpm) of flow. Different fixtures are assigned different DFU values based on their typical discharge characteristics.
4At what depth must buried plastic water piping be installed to protect it from damage?
A.6 inches below grade
B.12 inches below grade
C.18 inches below grade
D.24 inches below grade
Explanation: Buried plastic water piping must be installed at least 12 inches below grade to protect it from damage due to surface activities, freezing, and other hazards. In areas subject to heavy vehicle traffic or where local conditions warrant, greater depths may be required. The piping should also be bedded in sand or fine soil free from rocks and debris.
5What is the maximum allowable water velocity in copper tubing for water distribution systems?
A.4 feet per second
B.6 feet per second
C.8 feet per second
D.10 feet per second
Explanation: The maximum allowable water velocity in copper tubing for water distribution systems is 8 feet per second. Velocities exceeding this limit can cause erosion corrosion, noise, and water hammer. For water pressures above 80 psi, the velocity should be reduced to 4-6 feet per second to minimize these issues.
6When is a plumbing permit required according to most plumbing codes?
A.Only for new construction
B.For installation, alteration, or repair of plumbing systems
C.Only for commercial projects
D.Only when connecting to the municipal sewer
Explanation: A plumbing permit is typically required for the installation, alteration, or repair of plumbing systems. This includes new construction, remodels, water heater replacements, sewer line repairs, and fixture replacements in most jurisdictions. Minor repairs like faucet washer replacements usually do not require permits, but requirements vary by locality.
7What is the minimum size cleanout required for a 4-inch drain pipe?
A.2 inches
B.3 inches
C.4 inches
D.6 inches
Explanation: Cleanouts must be the same size as the pipe they serve, up to 4 inches. For pipes larger than 4 inches, the cleanout can be 4 inches. Therefore, a 4-inch drain pipe requires a 4-inch cleanout. This ensures proper access for drain cleaning equipment and effective cleaning of the entire pipe diameter.
8Which of the following materials is NOT approved for use in a potable water supply system?
A.Type K copper tubing
B.CPVC pipe (Schedule 40)
C.Lead pipe
D.PEX tubing (NSF-certified)
Explanation: Lead pipe is NOT approved for use in potable water supply systems due to the health hazards associated with lead contamination. The Safe Drinking Water Act and modern plumbing codes prohibit lead pipe and limit lead content in solder and flux to not more than 0.2%. Type K copper, CPVC, and NSF-certified PEX are all approved materials for potable water systems.
9What is the purpose of an air gap in a plumbing system?
A.To allow air to enter the drainage system
B.To prevent backflow by providing a physical separation between the water supply and the fixture
C.To reduce water hammer
D.To increase water pressure
Explanation: An air gap is the physical separation between the water supply and the flood level rim of a fixture or receptor. It is the most effective backflow prevention method because it creates a visible, unobstructed vertical distance (typically twice the supply pipe diameter, minimum 1 inch) that prevents contaminated water from being siphoned back into the potable water supply.
10How many DFUs is a standard residential washing machine rated for?
A.1 DFU
B.2 DFUs
C.3 DFUs
D.4 DFUs
Explanation: A standard residential clothes washing machine is rated at 2 DFUs (Drainage Fixture Units). This value is used when sizing the drainage piping system. The washing machine standpipe must be at least 2 inches in diameter and extend between 18 and 30 inches above the trap weir.

About the Journeyman Plumber Exam

State licensing exam based on IPC/UPC plumbing codes covering drainage, waste, venting, water supply, systems. Tests 7 content areas including plumbing code general knowledge, DWV systems, water supply, and fixtures/equipment. Passing certifies competence to install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems under supervision.

Questions

70 scored questions

Time Limit

3 hours (F25, 2015 IPC) or 4 hours (G25, 2018 IPC), open book

Passing Score

70%

Exam Fee

$120 (International Code Council (ICC), delivered by Pearson VUE)

Journeyman Plumber Exam Content Outline

40%

Administration and General Regulations

Permits, approvals, inspections, materials, joints, testing, and general code administration

17%

Plumbing Fixtures

Fixture requirements, clearances, water heaters, and fixture fittings

14%

Water Supply and Distribution

Sizing, backflow protection, materials, and water service

13%

Sanitary Drainage

Drainage sizing, slopes, cleanouts, and sumps

7%

Plumbing Vent Requirements

Vent sizing, termination, and methods of venting

7%

Traps, Interceptors, and Separators

Trap seals, prohibited traps, and interceptor rules

2%

Storm Drainage

Roof and storm drainage fundamentals

How to Pass the Journeyman Plumber Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: 70%
  • Exam length: 70 questions
  • Time limit: 3 hours (F25, 2015 IPC) or 4 hours (G25, 2018 IPC), open book
  • Exam fee: $120

Keys to Passing

  • Work through all 198 available questions
  • Review every answer and explanation
  • Track weak areas and revisit them
  • Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

Journeyman Plumber Study Tips from Top Performers

1Master DFU and WSFU calculations - pipe sizing is heavily tested on every exam
2Practice isometric drawing interpretation - you will need to visualize pipe layouts
3Memorize minimum pipe sizes for common fixtures and applications
4Understand venting requirements - know when different vent types are required
5Study water heater installation requirements including temperature and pressure relief valves
6Practice with timed exams - time management is critical for the calculations portion
7Learn to navigate the IPC/UPC index quickly - know where to find common tables
8Focus on backflow prevention device selection and installation requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is the Journeyman Plumber exam?

The exam is moderately difficult with pass rates around 50-60% in most states. The exam requires knowledge of IPC or UPC codes, pipe sizing calculations, and venting requirements. Many candidates find the isometric drawing interpretation and DFU calculations challenging. Most states allow code books but the time limit requires efficient code navigation.

What is the passing score?

Most states require 70% to pass the Journeyman Plumber exam. Some jurisdictions may require 75%. The exam typically has 70 questions depending on the state, with the ICC F25/G25 exams use 70 questions.

Can I use code books during the exam?

Most states allow bound copies of the IPC or UPC during the exam. No loose papers, handwritten notes, or electronic devices are permitted. Some states provide code books while others require you to bring your own. Always check with your specific state board for approved reference materials.

What code edition is used?

Most states have adopted the 2018 IPC and UPC editions, though some may still use the 2021 editions. The 2026 editions are being adopted by some jurisdictions. Check with your state licensing board to confirm which code edition is used for your exam.

How many questions are on the exam?

Most state exams contain 70 questions depending on the jurisdiction. The most common format is 90-100 multiple-choice questions. The exam is typically split between code knowledge, calculations, and practical applications like isometric drawings.

What is a plumbing fixture unit (DFU)?

A Drainage Fixture Unit (DFU) is a measure of the probable discharge into the drainage system by various types of plumbing fixtures. One DFU equals approximately 7.5 gallons per minute of flow. DFU values are used to size drainage and vent piping systems. Different fixtures have different DFU ratings - for example, a water closet is typically 3-4 DFUs while a lavatory is 1 DFU (IPC Table 709.1).