Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide

October 2017

Department of Labor and Industry

Plumbing Licensing
License Examination Guide
October 2017

The information in this guide is provided by the Licensing Unit of the Department of
Labor and Industry to ensure that applicants for personal plumbing licenses
administered by the department understand basic qualifications, knowledge areas,
examination criteria and format to enable them to successfully complete
requirements to become licensed. Although this document contains a significant
amount of detail, it should not be construed by applicants to be inclusive of all
information necessary to successfully pass a license examination, and subsequently
become licensed by the department. It is the applicant’s responsibility to adequately
prepare to successfully complete the license examination process.

The plumbing and water conditioning license exam is based on the 2015
edition of Minnesota Chapter 4714, Chapter 144, Chapter 325, and Chapter
326.

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Table of Contents
Examination: ...................................................................................................................... Page 3
Purpose ............................................................................................................................... Page 3
General ............................................................................................................................... Page 3
Question Format.................................................................................................................. Page 4
Length of Examination ......................................................................................................... Page 5
Examination Results ............................................................................................................ Page 5
Examination Review or Appeal ............................................................................................ Page 5

Sample Questions: ............................................................................................................ Page 6

Formulas and Sample Calculations: ................................................................................ Page 7

Examination Knowledge Areas: ..................................................................................... Page 15

American’s With Disabilities Act and License Examinations:...................................... Page 39

Examination Schedule/Scheduling Examinations: ....................................................... Page 41

Qualifications for License Applicants:........................................................................... Page 41

Reciprocal Licenses:....................................................................................................... Page 42

Continuing Education Requirement Overview: ............................................................. Page 42

Personal License and Examination Application: .......................................................... Page 43

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Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
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Examination
Purpose
Successfully completing a license examination provides evidence that the applicant possesses
the necessary knowledge and expertise to be licensed in a specific profession or for a specific
scope of work within a profession.

Licensing examinations are designed to assess the applicant’s competence after they have
completed their qualifying education, training, and experience. Licensing examinations are
designed to assess higher level skills than academic examinations by assessing the applicant’s
ability to apply the competencies they gained from their education, training, and experience in
actual practice. Licensing examinations are intended to assure the public that the person passing
an examination is qualified to practice within the scope of the license without causing harm to the
public.

The purpose of this license examination guide is to provide applicants with awareness of
knowledge areas covered by specific license examinations, question and examination format,
degree of difficulty for specific license examinations, length of examination, and length of time
allowed to complete their examination. Applicants are encouraged to review this entire guide to
ensure their understanding of the examination process and governing rules.

General
1. Examination instructions are intended to be clear, concise, and complete. No questions may
be asked of the examination proctor (test administrator).
2. Examination questions and answer selections have been developed to be clear, concise,
and complete. Applicants should understand the question without having to read the
answer selections. No questions may be asked of the examination proctor (test
administrator).
3. Examination questions relate to knowledge areas within the scope of the applicable license.
4. Examination questions reasonably cover the knowledge areas within the scope of the
applicable license.
5. Examination questions relate to knowledge areas that are common. The examination
knowledge areas are within the areas of work generally experienced by applicants for, or
persons holding, the class of the applicable license.
6. Applicants are allowed to use the 2015 Minnesota Plumbing Code Chapter 4714 and an
electronic calculator during their entire examination. All reference materials and a calculator
are provided by the Department. No other materials or electronic devices, including cell
phones are allowed in the building. Although reference materials are available for the entire
examination, applicants should be adequately prepared and not rely on provided reference
materials to answer all questions. The majority of questions are intended to be answered
without the applicant needing to refer to reference materials.

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A copy of the Minnesota Plumbing Code does not include tabs or other aids. The edition of the 2015
Minnesota Plumbing Code is the edition adopted as part of the state building code at the time
the examination is administered. The edition of the 2015 Minnesota Plumbing Code is the most
current adopted edition at the time the examination is administered. The electronic calculator is
of the common desk type that includes addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, square root,
and percentage functions. The Laws and Rules Booklet provided for the examination is in the
Department’s current format and represents the laws and rules in effect at the time the
examination is administered.

7. Applicants observed giving or receiving assistance from other applicants or outside parties
shall be automatically failed and required to submit a new application, including submission of
required fees.
8. Applicants observed copying questions or making notes regarding questions shall be
automatically failed and required to submit a new application, including submission of
required fees.
9. During their examination, applicants may leave the examination room to use the restroom
or smoking room, but are not permitted to leave the building. Applicants leaving the building
prior to completing and turning in their examination shall be automatically failed and
required to submit a new application, including submission of required fees.
10. In addition to being monitored by the on-site proctor, the examination room may be
electronically monitored.
11. Examination materials, including completed examinations and scoring keys are classified as
nonpublic by Minnesota Statutes section 13.34. Applicants will only be provided with
access to examination materials during the time they are being examined.

Question Format
1. Examination questions are formatted in a manner that requires the applicant to
demonstrate mastery of the knowledge area.
2. Questions that require calculations resulting in an absolute answer may not always
include multiple-choice answers.
3. Variables in a question ensure that the appropriate knowledge area(s) or code rule(s) must be
applied to arrive at the correct answer.
4. Multiple-choice answer selections for knowledge areas with multiple conditions or
requirements are worded in a manner that requires the applicant to demonstrate knowledge
of the subject matter and minimize the applicant’s opportunity to select a correct answer(s)
based on key words.
5. Questions requiring more than one multiple-choice answer selection are clearly identified,
including the number of correct answer selections. This is a companion format to the
negative- response format identified in 6 below.
6. Questions with a negative-response format such as “which of the following does not apply,”
are only used in limited instances. This is a companion format to the multiple-correct answer
format identified in 5 above.
7. Negative response questions and questions requiring more than one multiple-choice answer
are limited to: a list of conditions, a list of requirements, or a list of methods.
8. Incorrect multiple-choice answer selections are “plausible.”
9. Questions may include extraneous information.
10. Unless stated otherwise in specific questions, all questions and related answers assume a
[insert assumption(s) such as “unity power factor”].
11. As many as 5 variations of an examination may be administered on the same examination
date.

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12. Individual examinations are modified not less than three times each [insert reference material]
cycle.
13. Examination questions and suggestions are accepted on an on-going basis from
interested parties and become part of an examination question database from which
examinations are created.
14. Some questions relate to code violations repeatedly made by license holders. Practical
experience must be augmented by quality training to ensure the applicant’s complete
and accurate understanding of the subject matter.

Length of Examination
1. The license examinations for Master Plumbing license consist of 335 points.
2. The license examination for the Journeyman Plumbing license consists of 240 points.
3. The license examinations for the Water Conditioning Contractors license consist of 50
questions.
4. The license examinations for the Water Conditioning Installers license consist of 45 questions.
5. Unless stated otherwise, all examination questions have the same point value. Partial points
are not given - either full point credit or zero point credit is awarded for each question.
6. The passing score for all examinations is 70 percent.
7. The time allowed to complete the Master and Journeyman Plumbers examination is
5 ½ hours.
8. The time allowed to complete the Water Conditioning Contractor and Installer examination is 2
hours.

Examination Results
1. Examination results are mailed to applicants within two weeks of the examination.
Examination results are not provided to applicants by telephone or e-mail.
2. Examination result letters mailed to applicants who passed their examinations will
contain directions on how to obtain their license.
3. Examination result letters mailed to applicants who failed their examinations will
contain directions on how to make subsequent application.

Examination Review or Appeal

1. Examinations with scores within 1 percentage point of passing are rechecked to
ensure accuracy.
2. Written or oral reviews of individual examinations are not available to applicants. Applicants
may provide written comment to the Department’s licensing unit on specific examination
questions.
3. Applicants who fail any examination are prohibited from retaking the license examination for a
period of not less than 30 days. The rank by authority or scope of work for licenses
administered by the Department are:

Master Plumber
Journeyman Plumber
Water Conditioning Contractor
Water Conditioning Installer

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Sample Questions
The sample questions are intended to identify the various question formats that are used in the
examinations. The knowledge areas used in the sample questions may not be applicable to all
classes of examination.

1. What type of backflow prevention cannot be use for the water supply to a commercial hot water
heating system?
A. Reduced Pressure Zone Device
B. Double Check Intermediate Atmospheric Valve
C. Threaded hose Connection meeting ASSE #1052
D. Air Gap

Answer: C

2. Floor drains for commercial kitchen sinks must not have which of the following installed?
A. Cleanout
B. Backwater Valve
C. Vent located within 5’0” of trap
D. Vertical distance from outlet of drain to trap exceeding 24 inches.

Answer: B

3. What is the smallest pipe diameter a vent can have located underground?
A. 1 ¼”
B. 1 ½”
C. 2”
D. 2 ½”

Answer: A

4. Water meters shall be installed at least:

A. 24 inches above the finished floor
B. 6 inches above the finished floor
C. 18 inches above the finished floor
D. 12 inches above the finished floor

Answer: D

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Formulas and Sample Calculations

The following information includes brief explanations and examples of formulas and calculations of
basic water pipe sizing, drain, waste and vent sizing, and storm water system sizing, and is not
intended to be inclusive of all information applicants need to be familiar with to successfully
perform Plumbing work or receive a passing score on any license examination administered by the
Department. Examples of more complex calculations can be found in other resources. Knowledge
gained through practical experience is generally not adequate to enable an applicant to pass a
licensing examination. It is the responsibility of an applicant to adequately prepare themselves,
either through formal training or informal, self-help training.

Pipe size the following example drawings:

Water Distribution system using section Chapter 6

Drain, Waste and Vent system using section Chapter 7 & Chapter 8

Storm Sewer system using Chapter 11

Sample diagrams are on the following pages.

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Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Basic Plumbing Principles X X X X X

Conformance With Code X X X X X

Definitions: Chapter 2 X X X X X

General Regulations: Chapter 3 X X X X X

Materials – Standards and Alternates X X X X X
Minimum Standards X X X X X
Alternate Materials and Methods of Construction Equivalency X X X X X
Flood Hazard Areas X X X X X
Alternative Engineered Design X X X X X
Iron Pipe Size (IPS) Pipe X X X X X
General X X X X X
Disposal of Liquid Waste X X X X X
General X X X X X
Connections to Plumbing System Required X X X X X
System Required
General X X X X X
Damage to Drainage System or Public Sewer X X X X X
Unlawful Practices X X X X X
Industrial Wastes X X X
Detrimental Wastes X X X X X
Safe Discharge X X X X X
Location X X X X X
System X X X X X
Ownership X X X X X
Improper Location X X X X X
General X X X X X
Workmanship X X X X X
Engineering Practices X X X X X

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Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Concealing Imperfections
Burred Ends X X X X X
Installation Practices X X X X X
Prohibited Fittings and Practices X X X X X
Fittings X X X X X
Drainage and Vent Piping X X X
Waste Connection X X X
Use of Vent and Waste Pipes X X
Obstruction of Flow X X X X X
Dissimilar Metals X X X X X
Direction of Flow X X X X X
Screwed Fittings X X X X X
Independent Systems X X X X X
General X X X X X
Protection of Piping, Materials, and Structures X X X X X
General X X X X X
Installation X X X X X
Building Sewer and Drainage Piping X X X X X
Corrosion, Erosion, and Mechanical Damage X X X X X
Protectively Coated Pipe X X X X X
Freezing Protection X X X X X
Fire-Resistant Construction X X X X
Waterproofing of Openings X X X X
Steel Nail Plates X X X X
Sleeves X X X X X
Structural Members X X X X X
Rodentproofing X X X X X
Hangers and Supports X X X X
Suspended Piping X X X X
Piping Support X X X X X
Underground Piping X X X X X

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Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Strength X X X X
Piping, Fixtures, Appliances, and Appurtenances X X X X
Hanger Rod Sizes X X X X
Hanger Rod Sizes (Table 313.6) X X X X
Joints and Connections X X X X X
Unions X X X X
Prohibited Joints and Connections X X X X X
Increasers and Reducers X X X X X
General X X X X X
Food-Handling Establishments X X
General X X X X X
Test Gauges X X X X X
General X X X X X
Pressure Tests (10 psi or less) X X X X X
Pressure Tests (greater than 10 psi to 100 psi) X X X X X
Pressure Tests (exceeding 100 psi) X X X X X
Pressure Range X X X X X
Hangers and Supports (Table 313.1) X X X X

PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGS: CHAPTER 4

Materials – General Requirements X X
Quality of Fixtures X X
Lead X X
Installation X X
Cleaning X X
Joints X X
Securing Fixtures X X
Wall-Hung Fixtures X X
Setting X X
Flanged Fixture Connections X X
Accessible Plumbing Facilities X X

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Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Supply Fittings X X
Installation X X
Design and Installation of Plumbing Fixtures X X
Slip Joint Connections X X
Future Fixtures X X
Water-Conserving Fixtures and Fittings X X
Flush Volumes X X
Water Closets X X
Urinals X X
Metered Faucets X X
Pre-Rinse Spray Valve X X
Overflows X X
General X X
Strainers and Connections X X
Strainers X X
Continuous Wastes X X
Prohibited Fixtures X X
Prohibited Water Closets X X
Prohibited Urinals X X
Miscellaneous Fixtures X X
Special Fixtures and Specialties X X
Water and Waste Connections X X
Special Use Sinks X X
Special Use Fixtures X X
Zinc Alloy Components X X
Showers X X
Application X X
Water Consumption X X
Individual Shower and Tub-Shower Combination Control Valves X X

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Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Waste Outlet X X
Finished Curb or Threshold X X
Shower Compartments X X
Lining for Showers and Receptors X X
Public Shower Floors X X
Location of Valves and Heads X X
Water Supply Riser X X
Bathtubs and Whirlpool Bathtubs X X
Application X X
Waste Outlet X X
Overflow X X
Limitation of Hot Water in Bathtubs and Whirlpool Bathtubs X X
Backflow Protection X X
Installation and Access X X
Bidets X X
Application X X
Backflow Protection X X
Limitation of Water Temperature in Bidets X X
Water Closets X X
Water Closet Bowls X X
Water Closet Seats X X
Urinals X X
General X X
Flushing Devices for Water Closets and Urinals X X
Application X X
Flushing Devices Required X X
Flushometer Valves X X
Water Supply for Flush Tanks X X
Overflows in Flush Tanks X X
Dishwashing Machines X X
Application X X

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Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Backflow Protection X X
Drainage Connection X X
Drinking Fountains X X
Application X X
Where Required X X
Drainage Connection X X
Location X X
Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment X X
Application X X
Water Supply X X
Installation X X
Location X X
Drain X X
Faucets and Fixture Fittings X X
Application X X
Deck Mounted Bath/Shower Valves X X
Handheld Showers X X
Faucets and Fixture Fittings with Hose Connected Outlets X X
Separate Controls for Hot and Cold Water X X
Floor Drains X X
Application X X
Strainer X X
Location of Floor Drains X X
Food Storage Areas X X
Floor Slope X X
Elevator Pit Drain X X
Garage and Parking Area Floor Drains X X
Food Waste Disposal Units X X
Application X X
Drainage Connection X X
Water Supply X X
Sinks X X

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Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Application X X
Water Consumption X X
Waste Outlet X X
Fixtures and Fixture Fittings for Persons with Disabilities X X
General X X
Limitation of Hot Water Temperature for Public Lavatories X X
Minimum Number of Required Fixtures X X

WATER HEATERS: CHAPTER 5 X X

General X X
Applicability X X
Permits X X
General X X
Water Heater Requirements X X
Clearance X X
Pressure-Limiting Devices X X
Temperature-Limiting Devices X X
Temperature, Pressure, and Vacuum Relief Devices X X
Oil-Burning and Other Water Heaters X X
Water Heaters X X
Safety Devices X X
Oil-Fired Water Heaters X X
Indirect-Fired Water Heaters X X
Other Water Heater Installation Requirements X X
Dielectric Insulator X X
Seismic Provisions X X
Ground Support X X
Drainage Pan X X
Relief Valve Discharge X X
Flammable Vapors X X
Installation in Garages X X

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Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Installation Instructions X X
Protection of Outdoor Appliances X X
Accessibility for Service X X

WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION: CHAPTER 6

Hot and Cold Water Required X X X X
General X X X X
Identification of a Potable and Nonpotable Water System X X X X
Minimum Length of Color Field and Size of Letters (Table 601.2.2) X X X X
Unlawful Connections X X X X
Prohibited Installation X X X X
Cross-Contamination X X X X
Backflow Prevention X X X X
Approval by Authority X X X X
Cross-Connection Control X X X X
General X X X X
Approval of Devices or Assemblies X X
Backflow Prevention Devices, Assemblies, and Methods X X
Backflow Prevention Devices, Assemblies, and Methods (Table 603.2) X X
General Requirements X X
Minimum Airgaps for Water Distribution (Table 603.3.1) X X X X
Specific Requirements X X
Materials X X X X
Pipe, Tube, and Fittings X X X X
Copper Tube X X X X
Hard-Drawn Copper Tubing X X X X
Flexible Copper Connectors X X X X
Cast-Iron Fittings X X X X
Malleable Iron Fittings X X X X
Previously Used Piping and Tubing X X X X
Epoxy Coating X X X X

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Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Plastic Materials X X X X
Solder X X X X
Lead Content X X X X
Flexible Corrugated Connectors X X X X
Water Heater Connectors X X X X
Joints and Connections X X X X
Asbestos Cement Pipe and Joints X X
Brass Pipe and Joints X X X X
Materials for Building Supply and Water Distribution Piping and X X X X
Fittings (Table 604.1)
Copper Pipe, Tubing, and Joints X X X X
CPVC Plastic Pipe and Joints X X X X
Ductile Iron Pipe and Joints X X
Galvanized Steel Pipe and Joints X X X X
PE Plastic Pipe/Tubing and Joints X X X X
PE-AL-PE Plastic Pipe/Tubing and Joints X X X X
PE-RT X X X X
PEX Plastic Tubing and Joints X X X X
PEX-AL-PEX Plastic Tubing and Joints X X X X
Polypropylene (PP) Piping and Joints X X X X
PVC Plastic Pipe and Joints X X X X
Stainless Steel Pipe and Joints X X X X
Slip Joints X X X X
Dielectric Unions X X X X
Joints Between Various Materials X X X X
Valves X X X X
General X X X X
Fullway Valve X X X X
Multidwelling Units X X X X
Multiple Openings X X X X
Control Valve X X X X
Accessible X X X X

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Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Multiple Fixtures X X
Gravity Supply Tanks X X X X
General X X X X
Potable Water Tanks X X X X
Water Pressure, Pressure Regulators, Pressure Relief Valves, and X X X X
Vacuum Relief Valves
Inadequate Water Pressure X X X X
Excessive Water Pressure X X X X
Expansion Tanks, Combination Pressure, and Temperature Relief X X
Valves
Pressure Relief Valves X X
Drains X X
Water-Heating Devices X X
Vacuum Relief Valves X X
Installation, Testing, Unions, and Location X X X X
Installation X X X X
Trenches X X
Under Concrete Slab X X X X
Testing X X X X
Unions X X X X
Location X X
Abutting Lot X X
Low-Pressure Cutoff Required on Booster Pumps for Water X X
Distribution Systems
Disinfection of Potable Water System X X
Water Hammer X X
Size of Potable Water Piping X X
Size X X
Pressure Loss X X
Quantity of Water X X
Parallel Distribution Systems X X
Sizing per Appendices A and C X X
Friction and Pressure Loss X X
Conditions for Using Table 610.4 X X

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Examination Knowledge Areas
The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Size of Meter and Building Supply Pipe Using Table 610.4 X X
Size of Branches X X
Water Supply Fixture Units (WSFU) and Minimum Fixture Branch Pipe X X
Sizes (Table 610.3)
Fixture Unit Table for Determining Water Pipe and Meter Sizes X X
(Table 610.4)
Sizing for Flushometer Valves X X
Flushometer Fixture Units for Water Sizing Using Table 610.3 X X
(Table 610.10)
Sizing Systems for Flushometer Tanks X X
Sizing for Velocity X X
Exceptions X X
Water Conditioning Equipment X X X X
Application X X X X
Airgap Discharge X X X X
Connection Tubing X X X X
Sizing of Residential Softeners X X X X
Sizing of Residential Water Softeners (Table 611.4) X X X X
Multipurpose Potable Water Piping Systems X X X X
General X X X X

SANITARY DRAINAGE: CHAPTER 7

Part 1; Drainage Systems X X
Materials X X
Drainage Piping X X X
Drainage Fittings X X X
Lead X X
Caulking Ferrules X X
Soldering Bushings X X
Fixture Unit Equivalents X X
Trap Size X X
Intermittent Flow X X
Continuous Flow X X
Caulking Ferrules (Table 701.4) X X

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Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Soldering Bushings (Table 701.5) X X
Materials for Drain, Waste, Vent Pipe and Fittings (Table 701.1) X X X
Drainage Fixture Unit Values (DFU) (Table 702.1) X X
Maximum Drainage Fixture Units for a Trap and Trap Arm X X
(Table 702.2(a))
Discharge Capacity in Gallons Per Minute for Intermittent Flow Only X X
(Table 702.2(b))
Size of Drainage Piping X X X
Minimum Size X X X
Maximum Number of Fixture Units X X X
Sizing per Appendix C X X X
Fixture Connections (Drainage) X X
Inlet Fittings X X
Single Vertical Drainage Pipe X X
Commercial Dishwashing Machines and Sinks X X
Joints and Connections X X X
ABS and ABS Co-Extruded Plastic Pipe and Joints X X X
Asbestos Cement Pipe and Joints X X X
Maximum Unit Loading and Maximum Length of Drainage and Vent X X X
Piping (Table 703.2)
Brass Pipe and Joints X X
Cast-Iron Pipe and Joints X X X
Copper Pipe (DWV) and Joints X X X
Galvanized Steel Pipe and Joints X X
PVC and PVC Co-Extruded Plastic Pipe and Joining Methods X X X
Stainless Steel Pipe and Joints X X X
Vitrified Clay Pipe and Joints X X X
Special Joints X X X
Joints Between Various Materials X X X
Changes in Direction of Drainage Flow X X X
Approved Fittings X X X
Horizontal to Vertical X X X
Horizontal to Horizontal X X X
Vertical to Horizontal X X X

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Examination Knowledge Areas
The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Cleanouts X X
Plug X X
Cleanouts (Table 707.1) X X
Approved X X
Gas and Watertight X X
Location X X
Cleaning X X
Extension X X
Interceptor X X
Access X X
Clearance X X
Fittings X X
Pressure Drainage Systems X X
Countersunk Cleanout Plugs X X
Hubless Blind Plugs X X
Trap Arms X X
Grade of Horizontal Drainage Piping X X
General X X
Gravity Drainage Required X X
General X X
Drainage of Fixtures Located Below the Next Upstream Manhole or X X
Below the Main Sewer Level
Backflow Protection X X
Sewage Discharge X X
Sewage Ejector and Pumps X X
Discharge Line X X
Size of Building Drains and Sewers X X
Backwater Valves X X
Drainage and Venting Systems X X
Sump and Receiving Tank Construction X X
Alarm X X
Sump and Receiving Tank Covers and Vents X X

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Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Air Tanks X X
Grinder Pump Ejector X X
Macerating Toilet Systems X X
Suds Relief X X
General X X
Testing X X
Media X X
Water Test X X
Air Test X X
Part 2; Building Sewers X X X
Sewer Required X X X
Where Required X X X
Private Sewage Disposal System X X X
Public Sewer X X X
Public Sewer Availability X X X
Permit X X X
Lot X X X
Installation X X X
Damage to Public Sewer or Private Sewage Disposal System X X X
Unlawful Practices X X X
Prohibited Water Discharge X X X
Prohibited Sewer Connection X X X
Commercial Food Waste Grinder X X X
Tanks X X X
Building Sewer Materials X X X
Materials X X X
Joining Methods and Materials X X X
Existing Sewers X X X
Markings X X X
General X X X
Size of Building Sewers X X X

Page 28 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017

Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
General X X X
Maximum/Minimum Fixture Unit Loading on Building Sewer Piping X X X
(Table 717.1)
Grade, Support, and Protection of Building Sewers X X X
Slope X X X
Support X X X
Protection from Damage X X X
Cleanouts X X X
Locations X X X
No Additional Cleanouts X X X
Building Sewer Cleanouts X X X
Cleaning X X X
Access X X X
Manholes X X X
Sewer and Water Pipes X X X
General X X X
Location X X X
Building Sewer X X X
Abutting Lot X X X
Building Sewer Test X X X
General X X X
Recreational Vehicle Sanitary Disposal Station X X X
Construction X X X
Flushing Device X X X

INDIRECT WASTES: CHAPTER 8

Indirect Wastes X X
Airgap or Airbreak Required X X
Food and Beverage Handling Establishments X X
Bar and Fountain Sink Traps X X
Connections from Water Distribution System X X
Sterilizers X X

Page 29 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017

Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Drip or Drainage Outlets X X
Approvals X X
General X X
Indirect Waste Piping X X
General X X
Indirect Waste Receptors X X
Standpipe Receptors X X
Pressure Drainage Connections X X
General X X
Sterile Equipment X X
General X X
Appliances X X
Non-Classed Apparatus X X
Condensate Waste X X
Undiluted Condensate Waste X X
Domestic Dishwashing Machine X X
Cooling Water X X
General X X
Drinking Fountains X X
General X X
Steam and Hot Water Drainage Condensers and Sumps X X
High Temperature Discharge X X
Pipe Connections in Blowoff Condensers and Sumps (Table 810.1) X X
Sumps, Condensers, and Intercepting Tanks X X
Cleaning X X
Strainers X X
Chemical Wastes X X
Pretreatment X X
Waste and Vent Pipes X X
Joining Materials X X
Access X X

Page 30 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017
Examination Knowledge Areas
The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Permanent Record X X
Chemical Vent X X
Discharge X X
Diluted Chemicals X X
Clear Water Wastes X X
General X X
Swimming Pools X X
General X X
Condensate Wastes and Control X X
Condensate Disposal X X
Point of Discharge X X

VENTS: CHAPTER 9
General X X
Vents Required X X
Trap Seal Protection X X
Vents Not Required X X
Interceptor X X
Materials X X
Applicable Standards X X
Use of Copper Tubing X X
Changes in Direction X X
Size of Vents X X
Size X X
Length X X
Vent Pipe Grades and Connections X X
Grade X X
Horizontal Drainage Pipe X X
Vent Pipe Rise X X
Roof Termination X X
Location of Opening X X

Page 31 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017

Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Common Vertical Pipe X X
Vent Termination X X
Roof Termination X X
Clearance X X
Use of Roof X X
Outdoor Installations X X
Joints X X
Lead X X
Frost or Snow Closure X X
Vent Stacks and Relief Vents X X
Drainage Stack X X
Yoke Vent X X
Wet Venting X X
Vertical Wet Venting X X
Horizontal Wet Venting for Bathroom Groups X X
Special Venting for Island Fixtures X X
General X X
Combination Waste and Vent Systems X X
Where Permitted X X
Approval X X
Vents X X
Size X X
Vertical Waste Pipe X X
Cleanouts X X
Fixtures X X
Engineered Vent System X X
General X X
Minimum Requirements X X

Page 32 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017

Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
TRAPS AND INTERCEPTORS: CHAPTER 10
Traps Required X X
Where Required X X
Traps Protected by Vent Pipes X X
Vent Pipes X X
Fixture Traps X X
Horizontal Lengths of Trap Arms (Table 1002.2) X X
Change of Direction X X
Vent Pipe Opening X X
Traps — Described X X
General Requirements X X
Slip Joint Fittings X X
Size X X
Traps X X
Prohibited X X
Movable Parts X X
Trap Seals X X
General X X
Floor Drain Traps X X
Trap Seal Protection X X
General X X
Building Traps X X
General X X
Industrial Interceptors (Clarifiers) and Separators X X
Where Required X X
Approval X X
Design X X
Relief Vent X X
Location X X
Maintenance of Interceptors X X
Discharge X X

Page 33 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017

Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Slaughterhouses, Packing Establishments, etc X X
General X X
Minimum Requirements for Auto Wash Racks X X
General X X
Commercial and Industrial Laundries X X
General X X
Bottling Establishments X X
General X X
Grease Interceptors X X
Where Required X X
Hydromechanical Grease Interceptors X X
Gravity Grease Interceptors X X
Hydromechanical Grease Interceptor Sizing Using Gravity Flow Rates X X
(Table 1014.2.1)
FOG (Fats, Oils, and Greases) Disposal System X X
Purpose X X
Gravity Grease Interceptor Sizing (Table 1014.3.6) X X
Scope X X
Components, Materials, and Equipment X X
Sizing Application and Installation X X
Performance X X
Sand Interceptors X X
Discharge X X
Authority Having Jurisdiction X X
Construction and Size X X
Separate Use X X
Oil and Flammable Liquid Interceptors X X
Interceptors Required X X
Design of Interceptors X X

Page 34 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017

Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
STORM DRAINAGE: CHAPTER 11
General X X
Where Required X X
Storm Water Drainage to X X
Sanitary Sewer Prohibited X X
Material Uses X X X
Expansion Joints Required X X
Subsoil Drains X X
Building Subdrains X X
Areaway Drains X X
Window Areaway Drains X X
Filling Stations and Motor Vehicle Washing Establishments X X
Paved Areas X X
Roof Drainage X X
Cleanouts X X
Rainwater Sumps X X
Materials X X
Conductors X X
Leaders X X
Underground Building Storm Drains X X
Building Storm Sewers X X X
Subsoil Drains X X
Materials for Subsoil Drain Pipe and Fittings (Table 1102.5) X X X
Traps on Storm Drains and Leaders X X
Where Required X X
Where Not Required X X
Trap Size X X
Method of Installation of Combined Sewer X X
Leaders, Conductors, and Connections X X
Improper Use X X
Protection of Leaders X X

Page 35 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017

Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Combining Storm with Sanitary Drainage X X
Roof Drains X X
Materials X X
Dome or Strainer for General Use X X
Strainers for Flat Decks X X
Roof Drain Flashings X X
Size of Leaders, Conductors, and Storm Drains X X
Vertical Conductors and Leaders X X
Size of Horizontal Storm Drains and Sewers X X
Size of Roof Gutters X X
Side Walls Draining onto a Roof X X
Values for Continuous Flow X X
General X X
Controlled-Flow Roof Drainage X X
Application X X
Controlled-Flow Maximum Roof Water Depth (Table 1108.1(2)) X X
Setback Roofs X X
Distance of Scupper Bottoms (Table 1108.1(8)) X X
Testing X X X
Testing Required X X X
Exceptions X X X
Siphonic Roof Drainage System X X
General Requirements X X
Design Criteria X X
Proof of Suitability X X

Page 36 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017

Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

Knowledge areas
Class of License

MP JP WC WC PL
C I C
Licensing & Registration: 4716.0100
Definitions X X X X
Examinations and Licensing of Plumbers X X
License Applications X X
Expiration of Licenses X X
Registration of Plumbers Apprentice X X

Chapter 326B
Construction Codes and Licensing X X
Plumbers X X
Water Conditioning Contractor and Installers X X

Page 37 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017

Examination Knowledge Areas

The following table generally identifies knowledge areas included in examinations by license type.

• The Department of Labor and Industry offers these study suggestions for the types of license examinations
indicated. This study guide must not be construed to indicate that all questions will be from the knowledge
areas indicated above or that all knowledge areas will be included on individual examinations. License
applicants are expected to be familiar with all requirements that apply to the scope of the license they are
applying for.

** The examinations administered by the Department are identified by the following abbreviations:

MP- Master Plumber

JP- Journeyman Plumber

WCC- Water Conditioning Contractor

WCI- Water Conditioning Installer

PLC- Pipe Laying Certificate

Page 38 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017
A BRIEF SUMMARY OF YOUR RIGHTS UNDER THE
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT

INTRODUCTION
The Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) covers “public entities.” The Department of Labor and
Industry (Department) is a “public entity” covered by the ADA. The Department may not refuse to
allow a person with a disability to take the examination simply because the person has a disability. It
must permit persons with disabilities to take the examination in an integrated setting unless separate
or different measures are necessary to ensure equal opportunity. It must eliminate unnecessary
eligibility standards or rules that deny individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to take the
examination.
WHO IS COVERED?
The ADA provides comprehensive civil rights protection for “qualified individuals with disabilities.” An
“individual with a disability” is a person who: 1) has a physical or mental impairment that
substantially limits a “major life activity,” 2) has a record of such an impairment, or 3) is regarded as
having such a impairment. “Major life activities” include functions such as caring for oneself,
performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working.
Individuals who currently engage in the illegal use of drugs are not protected by the ADA when an
action is taken on the basis of their current illegal use of drugs.
A “qualified” individual with a disability is one who meets the essential eligibility requirements for the
examination. The Department is not required to take any action that would result in a fundamental
alteration in the nature of the examination or an undue financial and administrative burden. However,
the Department must take any other action, if available, that would not result in a fundamental
alteration or undue burdens but would ensure that individuals with disabilities receive the benefits or
services.

WHAT IS REQUIRED?
The Department is required to make reasonable modifications in any policies, practices, and
procedures that deny equal access to individuals with disabilities, unless a fundamental alteration in
the examination would result. To do so, it must furnish auxiliary aids and services when necessary to
ensure effective communication, unless an undue burden or fundamental alteration would result. The
Department may not place special charges on individuals with disabilities to cover the costs of
measures necessary to ensure nondiscriminatory treatment, such as making modifications required to
provide program accessibility or providing qualified interpreters. Finally, it must operate the
examination so that, when viewed in its entirety, it is readily accessible to and usable by individuals
with disabilities.
Integration of individuals with disabilities into the mainstream of society is fundamental to the
purposes of the ADA. The Department may not provide the examination to individuals with
disabilities through programs that are separate or different, unless the separate programs are
necessary to ensure that the benefits and services are equally effective. Even when separate
programs are permitted, an individual with a disability still has the right to choose to participate in the
regular program. The Department cannot require an individual with a disability to accept a special
accommodation or benefit if the individual chooses not to accept it.
QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions about the ADA we encourage you to call the United States Department of
Justice which as an ADA information line, at (202) 514-0301 (voice) or (202) 514-0381/0383 (TTY).
These telephone numbers are not toll-free numbers.

Page 39 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017
INFORMATION ABOUT THE EXAMINATIONS AND AVAILABILITY OF ALTERNATIVE
ARRANGEMENTS FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

GENERAL INFORMATION
If you are a person with a disability, you have certain rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act
(“ADA”). A brief summary of these rights is on the back of this sheet. It is not meant to be complete.
If you have any questions about your rights under the ADA we encourage you to call the United
States Department of Justice, which has an ADA Information Line, at (202) 514-0301 (voice) or (202)
514-0381/0383 (TTY). These telephone numbers are not toll-free numbers.

ABOUT THE EXAMINATIONS

A copy of the License Examination Guide may be obtained from the Department’s website at:
http://www.dli.mn.gov/ccld/PDF/LicensingExaminationGuide.pdf
Examinations are held weekly, generally every Wednesday, at the Department of Labor and Industry
Building located at 443 Lafayette Road North, Saint Paul, just north of the intersection of Interstate 94
and US Highway 52 (Lafayette Road North), on the northeast edge of downtown Saint Paul. The
building is accessible to persons with physical disabilities.
Specify instructions for scheduling and appearing for an examination are included in the letter that is
sent to approved applicants.
ALTERNATIVE ARRANGEMENTS
The ADA requires this agency to make “reasonable accommodations” for applicants with disabilities in
giving the examinations. If you are a person with a disability which may affect your ability to enter the
examination facility or to take any portion of the examination, the ADA may require the agency to
provide alternative examination arrangements. We are not required to do so if we are unaware of
your need for alternatives. Based on the above description of the examination facilities and the
examination itself, we ask that you inform us of any alternative arrangements you may require to take
and examination. Please describe in detail:

(Use additional paper if necessary and attach to this form)

SIGNATURE DATE
IF YOU ARE REQUESTING ALTERNATIVE ARRANGEMENTS BASED ON A DISABILITY,
PLEASE SUBMIT THIS FORM WITH YOUR APPLICATION FOR EXAMINATION FORM.

Page 40 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017

Examination Schedule/Scheduling
Examinations
Before anyone may schedule an examination date, the individual’s examination application
must be approved by DLI. There are no exceptions.

Dates scheduled by individuals without written approval of their application will be rejected and not
scheduled. Individuals retesting after a failed exam must apply for another examination date.
Detailed exam dates, location and scheduling information can be accessed at: [ insert web link ]
Applicants must schedule their examinations ahead of time. Walk-ins are not permitted to take an
examination. Applicants may reschedule their examination one time. Applicants that fail to appear
for a rescheduled examination as well as applicants that fail their examination must submit a new
application and examination fee before being approved for examination or reexamination.

All examination types administered at the St. Paul office begin at 8:15 a.m. and end at 1:45
p.m. All examination types are allotted 5½ hours for completion. All applicants should arrive at
the examination site not later than 30 minutes before their scheduled starting time. A picture
ID must be presented by all applicants when they appear for examination.

Note: Food and drink are permitted during the exam.

The Department of Labor and Industry Building located at 443 Lafayette Road North, Saint Paul, just
north of the intersection of Interstate 94 and US Highway 52 (Lafayette Road North), on the northeast
edge of downtown Saint Paul. http://www.dli.mn.gov/Map.asp

Specific instructions concerning the examinations in St. Paul are sent as a part of the “Approved for
Examination” letter and specific instructions for out-state sites are sent to persons who schedule at
those sites.

Qualifications for License Applicants

Military Experience
Applicants may receive experience credit for performing work in the military. Applicants with military
experience should include a copy of their DD214 discharge documents with their application.

Practical Experience/Experience Requirements By License Type [ insert

citation ] identifies allowable experience credit, situations under which experience is acceptable to the
Department, and experience requirements for all license categories. Applicants are encouraged to
review these requirements prior to submitting an application. Application/examination fees for
applicants that do not qualify for examination are not refundable.

Page 41 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017

Obtaining Licenses Through

Reciprocal Agreements
Minnesota has established reciprocal licensing agreements with a number of other states whereby
applicants may obtain license in the participating states if they obtained their license by examination
in the participating states.

Qualifying conditions include the following:

1. The applicant must meet the qualifications for license examination in the state they are
making application.
2. The applicant must not have failed the same or greater class of license examination in
the state application is made.
3. The applicant must have obtained the same or greater class of license in the first state
by examination at the state level (the license must not have been obtained through a
reciprocal agreement or grandfather clause with a city or other political subdivision).
4. The applicant must have received an examination score equal to or greater than
required in the state application is made.
5. The applicant must have held the license for at least one year in the first state.
6. The applicant’s license must be current and in good standing in the first state.
7. The applicant must not be under any order to deny, suspend, or revoke any class of
license in Minnesota.
8. The applicant must submit an application and examination fee with the application.
9. Upon approval, the applicant must submit the required license fee to be issued the
license applied for.
10. Upon obtaining the license, the applicant (licensee) must meet all continuing education
and renewal requirements to maintain the license.

Continuing Education Requirements

Upon obtaining a license, the license holder must earn minimum continuing education credits to
renew and maintain a license.
Holders of licenses that have fixed terms are not required to meet any continuing education
requirements in their first pro-rated term, but must earn [ number ] hours in all subsequent terms.

Continuing education credits may be used for renewal of more than one class of license, but may only
be used once for each class of license. Continuing education credits in excess of those required for
renewal and earned prior to expiration of a license do not carry over to the next license term.

Continuing education credit is only received for verified attendance/completion of programs granted
Department approval. Continuing education credit may be received by attending programs approved
in other states where the programs meet Department requirements.

Page 42 of 43
Department of Labor and Industry License Examination Information Guide
October 2017

Personal License and Examination Application

Personal license applications are included in the hard-copy packet or may be downloaded from the
Department’s website at: http://www.dli.mn.gov/CCLD/PlumbingForms.asp

Upon request this document can be made available in alternative

formats for people with disabilities.

Page 43 of 43