TEXAS MASTER PLUMBING ACTUAL EXAM
WITH 100 QUESTIONS & 100% CORRECT ANSWERS
PLUS A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY GUIDE
WITH 100 QUESTIONS & CORRECT ANSWERS
1ST ATTEMPT PASS GUARANTEED
Based on Current TSBPE Standards and Texas Plumbing Code
Total Questions: 200 (100 Exam + 100 Study Guide) Format: Multiple Choice (A-D)
Exam Sections: 6 Sections (Q1-Q100) Study Guide: 6 Sections (Q101-Q200)
Aligned With: TSBPE Master Plumber Exam Cognitive: 30% Recall, 50% Application, 20% Analysis
, PART 1: ACTUAL EXAM (100 QUESTIONS)
SECTION 1: TEXAS PLUMBING CODE (Regulations, Permits, Inspections, & TSBPE Rules)
(Q1-Q25)
Q1: A homeowner in Houston hires an unlicensed individual to install a new water heater. Under Texas law, which entity has the
authority to issue a cease-and-desist order and assess administrative penalties for this violation?
A. The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) [CORRECT]
B. The local municipal building department only
C. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)
D. The Texas Attorney General's office
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The TSBPE has primary jurisdiction over plumbing licensing violations and can issue cease-and-desist orders under Texas Occupations
Code Section 1301.351. While TDLR provides administrative support, the TSBPE is the enforcing body. Local municipalities may have additional
requirements but cannot supplant state authority.
Q2: A journeyman plumber has held a license for six years and wishes to advance to a master plumber license. What is the minimum
supervised work experience required beyond the journeyman requirements before the plumber is eligible to sit for the master
examination?
A. Two years of verifiable experience under a master plumber
B. Four years of additional experience under a master plumber [CORRECT]
C. One year of additional experience under a master plumber
D. Three years of additional experience under a master plumber
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Texas Occupations Code Section 1301.357 requires that a master plumber applicant possess at least four years of practical plumbing
experience beyond the journeyman requirement, all under the direct supervision of a licensed master plumber. This ensures the applicant has
comprehensive field experience before earning the highest-tier license.
Q3: A plumbing contractor is preparing to install a new commercial kitchen in a restaurant in San Antonio. Which of the following
statements regarding plumbing permits is most accurate under the Texas Plumbing Code?
A. A permit is not required if the work is performed by a licensed master plumber
B. The TSBPE issues all plumbing permits directly for commercial work
C. A permit is only required for new construction, not for tenant finish-out
D. A plumbing permit must be obtained from the local jurisdiction before any work begins [CORRECT]
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Under the Texas Plumbing Code (adopting IPC with Texas amendments), a plumbing permit must be secured from the local permitting
authority prior to commencing any new plumbing installation or substantial modification. The TSBPE does not issue permits directly; this is a local
government function.
Q4: An inspector arrives at a residential construction site to perform a rough-in inspection of the drainage system. The plumber has
installed all piping but has not completed the water supply system. Which of the following best describes the appropriate inspection
sequence?
A. The inspector may perform the drainage rough-in inspection independently of the water supply system [CORRECT]
B. The inspector must wait until both the drainage and water supply rough-ins are complete before inspecting either
C. The inspector should fail the inspection because the water supply is not complete
D. The plumber must request a separate inspection for each individual fixture before the rough-in inspection
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Under IPC and Texas Plumbing Code provisions, rough-in inspections for drainage, water supply, and venting systems may be
conducted independently as each system reaches completion. This phased approach allows construction to proceed efficiently while maintaining
code compliance at each stage.
Q5: Which of the following correctly lists the plumbing licensing tiers in Texas from lowest to highest level of responsibility?
A. Apprentice, Tradesman Plumber-Limited, Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber [CORRECT]
B. Apprentice, Journeyman Plumber, Tradesman Plumber-Limited, Master Plumber
C. Tradesman Plumber-Limited, Apprentice, Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber
D. Apprentice, Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber, Plumbing Inspector
Correct Answer: A
, Rationale: Texas Occupations Code Section 1301.352-357 establishes the licensing hierarchy: apprentice plumber (registration required),
tradesman plumber-limited (restricted scope), journeyman plumber (general plumbing work under a master), and master plumber (full scope,
supervisory authority). This progression reflects increasing education, examination, and experience requirements.
Q6: A licensed master plumber is found guilty of willfully installing plumbing in violation of the Texas Plumbing Code on three
separate projects. What is the maximum administrative penalty the TSBPE may assess per violation?
A. $1,000 per violation
B. $10,000 per violation
C. $5,000 per violation [CORRECT]
D. $500 per violation
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Under Texas Occupations Code Section 1301.353, the TSBPE may assess an administrative penalty of not more than $5,000 per
violation for each instance of noncompliance. Willful and repeated violations may also result in license suspension or revocation proceedings.
Q7: A journeyman plumber's license is set to expire on March 31. How many hours of continuing education must the plumber
complete during the current renewal cycle, and what is the deadline for completion?
A. 8 hours, due by the license expiration date
B. 24 hours, due by the license expiration date [CORRECT]
C. 16 hours, due 30 days after expiration
D. 12 hours, due by the license expiration date
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Texas Administrative Code Section 65.61 requires journeyman plumbers to complete 24 hours of continuing education, including a
minimum of 4 hours on the Texas Plumbing Code updates, during each renewal cycle. All continuing education must be completed before the
license expiration date to avoid late renewal penalties.
Q8: A master plumber wishes to supervise two additional apprentices beyond the currently authorized number. Under TSBPE rules,
what is the maximum ratio of apprentices to licensed plumbers that a plumbing contractor may employ?
A. One apprentice per licensed plumber on each job site [CORRECT]
B. Three apprentices per licensed plumber
C. Two apprentices per master plumber at any given time
D. There is no numerical limit on apprentice-to-plumber ratios
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: TSBPE rules and Texas Occupations Code provisions establish that each licensed journeyman or master plumber may directly
supervise only one apprentice plumber at a time on any job site. This ratio ensures adequate oversight and training quality for apprentices gaining
hands-on experience.
Q9: The Texas Plumbing Code adopts the International Plumbing Code (IPC) with specific Texas amendments. When a provision of
the IPC conflicts with a Texas amendment, which of the following is the correct procedure?
A. The IPC provision takes precedence because it is the base code
B. The more restrictive provision governs, whether from the IPC or Texas amendments
C. The Texas amendment supersedes the IPC provision [CORRECT]
D. The local municipality decides which provision to enforce
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The Texas Plumbing Code, codified under Texas Administrative Code Title 22, Part 12, explicitly amends the IPC. Where a Texas
amendment modifies or replaces an IPC section, the amended language controls. This is a standard approach in states that adopt model codes with
state-specific modifications.
Q10: A plumbing contractor receives a complaint from a homeowner that a recently installed water service line is leaking. The
contractor fails to respond within 30 days. What enforcement action can the TSBPE take under its disciplinary authority?
A. The TSBPE can only refer the matter to civil court
B. The TSBPE must first obtain a court order before investigating
C. The TSBPE has no authority over disputes between contractors and homeowners
D. The TSBPE may initiate a complaint investigation and potentially suspend or revoke the contractor's license [CORRECT]
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Under Texas Occupations Code Section 1301.351, the TSBPE has broad disciplinary authority including the power to investigate
complaints, suspend or revoke licenses, and assess administrative penalties. Failure to respond to a consumer complaint is a violation that may
trigger disciplinary proceedings against the licensee.
Q11: An individual has completed a 4-year apprenticeship registered with the U.S. Department of Labor and has 8,000 hours of
documented on-the-job training. What additional requirement must be met before this person can apply for a Texas journeyman
, plumber license?
A. The applicant must pass the Texas journeyman plumber examination [CORRECT]
B. No additional requirements; the registered apprenticeship satisfies all qualifications
C. The applicant must obtain an additional 2 years of experience under a Texas-licensed master plumber
D. The applicant must complete 24 hours of continuing education first
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Texas Occupations Code Section 1301.356 requires that, in addition to meeting experience requirements (typically verified through
apprenticeship hours or work history), a journeyman plumber applicant must successfully pass the state journeyman plumber examination
administered or approved by the TSBPE. Examination ensures minimum competency.
Q12: A tradesman plumber-limited license holder is hired to replace a kitchen faucet and install a new garbage disposal in a
single-family residence. Which of the following best describes the scope of work this license permits?
A. The tradesman may replace the faucet but not install the garbage disposal
B. The tradesman may perform both tasks under the limited license [CORRECT]
C. The tradesman may not perform any work on a dwelling without a master plumber present
D. The tradesman may only perform the work if a permit is not required
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under Texas Occupations Code Section 1301.354, a tradesman plumber-limited may perform plumbing work on existing one- and
two-family dwellings, including fixture replacements and simple appliance installations such as garbage disposals. This license is specifically
designed for residential service and repair work.
Q13: Under the Texas Plumbing Code, at what stage of construction must a final plumbing inspection be conducted before a
certificate of occupancy can be issued?
A. After all plumbing fixtures have been installed and the water supply is connected and operational [CORRECT]
B. After the rough-in inspection but before wall coverings are installed
C. After the building is fully painted and all flooring is complete
D. After the septic system has been approved by the health department
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A final plumbing inspection must be conducted after all fixtures are set, water supply is connected and operational, the drainage system
is complete, and all systems are tested for leaks. Per IPC Section 107 and Texas amendments, the final inspection must be approved before a
certificate of occupancy is issued.
Q14: A master plumber who has held a license for 15 years fails to renew the license before the expiration date. The license has been
expired for 90 days. Under TSBPE rules, what are the consequences and options for reinstatement?
A. The license is automatically revoked and the plumber must start the licensing process over
B. There is no penalty; the license remains valid during the grace period
C. The plumber must retake the master plumber examination
D. The plumber may reinstate by paying a late fee and completing all delinquent continuing education [CORRECT]
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Texas Administrative Code rules provide for a late renewal period during which a licensee may reinstate an expired license by
submitting the renewal application, paying a late fee, and completing any required continuing education hours. If the license has been expired for
more than one year, reexamination may be required.
Q15: Which of the following statements about the TSBPE's authority to adopt rules is most accurate?
A. The TSBPE may adopt rules only with the prior approval of the Texas Legislature
B. The TSBPE may adopt rules consistent with its enabling statute without legislative approval, subject to administrative procedure
requirements [CORRECT]
C. The TSBPE has no rulemaking authority and must rely solely on the statutes as written
D. The TSBPE may adopt rules only when directed to do so by the Governor
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under Texas Occupations Code Section 1301.252, the TSBPE has rulemaking authority to implement and enforce the Plumbing
Licensing Act. Rules must be adopted in accordance with the Texas Administrative Procedure Act, including notice and comment periods, but do
not require legislative pre-approval for each rule.
Q16: A plumbing contractor submits plans for a new 50-unit apartment building. The local plumbing inspector rejects the plan
because the water distribution sizing does not comply with the IPC water distribution method. The contractor disagrees. What is the
appropriate course of action?
A. The contractor must comply with the inspector's determination or appeal through the local board of appeals [CORRECT]
B. The contractor may proceed with installation as designed and challenge the rejection later
WITH 100 QUESTIONS & 100% CORRECT ANSWERS
PLUS A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY GUIDE
WITH 100 QUESTIONS & CORRECT ANSWERS
1ST ATTEMPT PASS GUARANTEED
Based on Current TSBPE Standards and Texas Plumbing Code
Total Questions: 200 (100 Exam + 100 Study Guide) Format: Multiple Choice (A-D)
Exam Sections: 6 Sections (Q1-Q100) Study Guide: 6 Sections (Q101-Q200)
Aligned With: TSBPE Master Plumber Exam Cognitive: 30% Recall, 50% Application, 20% Analysis
, PART 1: ACTUAL EXAM (100 QUESTIONS)
SECTION 1: TEXAS PLUMBING CODE (Regulations, Permits, Inspections, & TSBPE Rules)
(Q1-Q25)
Q1: A homeowner in Houston hires an unlicensed individual to install a new water heater. Under Texas law, which entity has the
authority to issue a cease-and-desist order and assess administrative penalties for this violation?
A. The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) [CORRECT]
B. The local municipal building department only
C. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)
D. The Texas Attorney General's office
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The TSBPE has primary jurisdiction over plumbing licensing violations and can issue cease-and-desist orders under Texas Occupations
Code Section 1301.351. While TDLR provides administrative support, the TSBPE is the enforcing body. Local municipalities may have additional
requirements but cannot supplant state authority.
Q2: A journeyman plumber has held a license for six years and wishes to advance to a master plumber license. What is the minimum
supervised work experience required beyond the journeyman requirements before the plumber is eligible to sit for the master
examination?
A. Two years of verifiable experience under a master plumber
B. Four years of additional experience under a master plumber [CORRECT]
C. One year of additional experience under a master plumber
D. Three years of additional experience under a master plumber
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Texas Occupations Code Section 1301.357 requires that a master plumber applicant possess at least four years of practical plumbing
experience beyond the journeyman requirement, all under the direct supervision of a licensed master plumber. This ensures the applicant has
comprehensive field experience before earning the highest-tier license.
Q3: A plumbing contractor is preparing to install a new commercial kitchen in a restaurant in San Antonio. Which of the following
statements regarding plumbing permits is most accurate under the Texas Plumbing Code?
A. A permit is not required if the work is performed by a licensed master plumber
B. The TSBPE issues all plumbing permits directly for commercial work
C. A permit is only required for new construction, not for tenant finish-out
D. A plumbing permit must be obtained from the local jurisdiction before any work begins [CORRECT]
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Under the Texas Plumbing Code (adopting IPC with Texas amendments), a plumbing permit must be secured from the local permitting
authority prior to commencing any new plumbing installation or substantial modification. The TSBPE does not issue permits directly; this is a local
government function.
Q4: An inspector arrives at a residential construction site to perform a rough-in inspection of the drainage system. The plumber has
installed all piping but has not completed the water supply system. Which of the following best describes the appropriate inspection
sequence?
A. The inspector may perform the drainage rough-in inspection independently of the water supply system [CORRECT]
B. The inspector must wait until both the drainage and water supply rough-ins are complete before inspecting either
C. The inspector should fail the inspection because the water supply is not complete
D. The plumber must request a separate inspection for each individual fixture before the rough-in inspection
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Under IPC and Texas Plumbing Code provisions, rough-in inspections for drainage, water supply, and venting systems may be
conducted independently as each system reaches completion. This phased approach allows construction to proceed efficiently while maintaining
code compliance at each stage.
Q5: Which of the following correctly lists the plumbing licensing tiers in Texas from lowest to highest level of responsibility?
A. Apprentice, Tradesman Plumber-Limited, Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber [CORRECT]
B. Apprentice, Journeyman Plumber, Tradesman Plumber-Limited, Master Plumber
C. Tradesman Plumber-Limited, Apprentice, Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber
D. Apprentice, Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber, Plumbing Inspector
Correct Answer: A
, Rationale: Texas Occupations Code Section 1301.352-357 establishes the licensing hierarchy: apprentice plumber (registration required),
tradesman plumber-limited (restricted scope), journeyman plumber (general plumbing work under a master), and master plumber (full scope,
supervisory authority). This progression reflects increasing education, examination, and experience requirements.
Q6: A licensed master plumber is found guilty of willfully installing plumbing in violation of the Texas Plumbing Code on three
separate projects. What is the maximum administrative penalty the TSBPE may assess per violation?
A. $1,000 per violation
B. $10,000 per violation
C. $5,000 per violation [CORRECT]
D. $500 per violation
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Under Texas Occupations Code Section 1301.353, the TSBPE may assess an administrative penalty of not more than $5,000 per
violation for each instance of noncompliance. Willful and repeated violations may also result in license suspension or revocation proceedings.
Q7: A journeyman plumber's license is set to expire on March 31. How many hours of continuing education must the plumber
complete during the current renewal cycle, and what is the deadline for completion?
A. 8 hours, due by the license expiration date
B. 24 hours, due by the license expiration date [CORRECT]
C. 16 hours, due 30 days after expiration
D. 12 hours, due by the license expiration date
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Texas Administrative Code Section 65.61 requires journeyman plumbers to complete 24 hours of continuing education, including a
minimum of 4 hours on the Texas Plumbing Code updates, during each renewal cycle. All continuing education must be completed before the
license expiration date to avoid late renewal penalties.
Q8: A master plumber wishes to supervise two additional apprentices beyond the currently authorized number. Under TSBPE rules,
what is the maximum ratio of apprentices to licensed plumbers that a plumbing contractor may employ?
A. One apprentice per licensed plumber on each job site [CORRECT]
B. Three apprentices per licensed plumber
C. Two apprentices per master plumber at any given time
D. There is no numerical limit on apprentice-to-plumber ratios
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: TSBPE rules and Texas Occupations Code provisions establish that each licensed journeyman or master plumber may directly
supervise only one apprentice plumber at a time on any job site. This ratio ensures adequate oversight and training quality for apprentices gaining
hands-on experience.
Q9: The Texas Plumbing Code adopts the International Plumbing Code (IPC) with specific Texas amendments. When a provision of
the IPC conflicts with a Texas amendment, which of the following is the correct procedure?
A. The IPC provision takes precedence because it is the base code
B. The more restrictive provision governs, whether from the IPC or Texas amendments
C. The Texas amendment supersedes the IPC provision [CORRECT]
D. The local municipality decides which provision to enforce
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The Texas Plumbing Code, codified under Texas Administrative Code Title 22, Part 12, explicitly amends the IPC. Where a Texas
amendment modifies or replaces an IPC section, the amended language controls. This is a standard approach in states that adopt model codes with
state-specific modifications.
Q10: A plumbing contractor receives a complaint from a homeowner that a recently installed water service line is leaking. The
contractor fails to respond within 30 days. What enforcement action can the TSBPE take under its disciplinary authority?
A. The TSBPE can only refer the matter to civil court
B. The TSBPE must first obtain a court order before investigating
C. The TSBPE has no authority over disputes between contractors and homeowners
D. The TSBPE may initiate a complaint investigation and potentially suspend or revoke the contractor's license [CORRECT]
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Under Texas Occupations Code Section 1301.351, the TSBPE has broad disciplinary authority including the power to investigate
complaints, suspend or revoke licenses, and assess administrative penalties. Failure to respond to a consumer complaint is a violation that may
trigger disciplinary proceedings against the licensee.
Q11: An individual has completed a 4-year apprenticeship registered with the U.S. Department of Labor and has 8,000 hours of
documented on-the-job training. What additional requirement must be met before this person can apply for a Texas journeyman
, plumber license?
A. The applicant must pass the Texas journeyman plumber examination [CORRECT]
B. No additional requirements; the registered apprenticeship satisfies all qualifications
C. The applicant must obtain an additional 2 years of experience under a Texas-licensed master plumber
D. The applicant must complete 24 hours of continuing education first
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Texas Occupations Code Section 1301.356 requires that, in addition to meeting experience requirements (typically verified through
apprenticeship hours or work history), a journeyman plumber applicant must successfully pass the state journeyman plumber examination
administered or approved by the TSBPE. Examination ensures minimum competency.
Q12: A tradesman plumber-limited license holder is hired to replace a kitchen faucet and install a new garbage disposal in a
single-family residence. Which of the following best describes the scope of work this license permits?
A. The tradesman may replace the faucet but not install the garbage disposal
B. The tradesman may perform both tasks under the limited license [CORRECT]
C. The tradesman may not perform any work on a dwelling without a master plumber present
D. The tradesman may only perform the work if a permit is not required
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under Texas Occupations Code Section 1301.354, a tradesman plumber-limited may perform plumbing work on existing one- and
two-family dwellings, including fixture replacements and simple appliance installations such as garbage disposals. This license is specifically
designed for residential service and repair work.
Q13: Under the Texas Plumbing Code, at what stage of construction must a final plumbing inspection be conducted before a
certificate of occupancy can be issued?
A. After all plumbing fixtures have been installed and the water supply is connected and operational [CORRECT]
B. After the rough-in inspection but before wall coverings are installed
C. After the building is fully painted and all flooring is complete
D. After the septic system has been approved by the health department
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A final plumbing inspection must be conducted after all fixtures are set, water supply is connected and operational, the drainage system
is complete, and all systems are tested for leaks. Per IPC Section 107 and Texas amendments, the final inspection must be approved before a
certificate of occupancy is issued.
Q14: A master plumber who has held a license for 15 years fails to renew the license before the expiration date. The license has been
expired for 90 days. Under TSBPE rules, what are the consequences and options for reinstatement?
A. The license is automatically revoked and the plumber must start the licensing process over
B. There is no penalty; the license remains valid during the grace period
C. The plumber must retake the master plumber examination
D. The plumber may reinstate by paying a late fee and completing all delinquent continuing education [CORRECT]
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Texas Administrative Code rules provide for a late renewal period during which a licensee may reinstate an expired license by
submitting the renewal application, paying a late fee, and completing any required continuing education hours. If the license has been expired for
more than one year, reexamination may be required.
Q15: Which of the following statements about the TSBPE's authority to adopt rules is most accurate?
A. The TSBPE may adopt rules only with the prior approval of the Texas Legislature
B. The TSBPE may adopt rules consistent with its enabling statute without legislative approval, subject to administrative procedure
requirements [CORRECT]
C. The TSBPE has no rulemaking authority and must rely solely on the statutes as written
D. The TSBPE may adopt rules only when directed to do so by the Governor
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under Texas Occupations Code Section 1301.252, the TSBPE has rulemaking authority to implement and enforce the Plumbing
Licensing Act. Rules must be adopted in accordance with the Texas Administrative Procedure Act, including notice and comment periods, but do
not require legislative pre-approval for each rule.
Q16: A plumbing contractor submits plans for a new 50-unit apartment building. The local plumbing inspector rejects the plan
because the water distribution sizing does not comply with the IPC water distribution method. The contractor disagrees. What is the
appropriate course of action?
A. The contractor must comply with the inspector's determination or appeal through the local board of appeals [CORRECT]
B. The contractor may proceed with installation as designed and challenge the rejection later
