Testcom MP-325 Practice-Exams

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Master Plumber
Practice Exam Kit
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About the Author

Licensed as a master plumber and gasfitter, Roger (Dodge) Woodson had a diversified plumbing career
spanning more than 30 years. He obtained his master plumber’s license from the state of Virginia in
1979. He also obtained master plumbing licenses in New Hampshire and Maine.
Over his long career Woodson did every facet of plumbing work. From 1979 on, he was self-employed.
His work covered service, repair, new construction, residential, remodeling, light commercial work, and
commercial applications. Over the years, he had many employees and trained countless plumbers.
In addition to being a field plumber and contractor, Woodson served as adjunct faculty at Central Maine
Technical College where he taught both plumbing licensing preparation courses and plumbing
apprenticeship courses.
As R. Dodge Woodson, he is a best-selling author with more than 108 mainstream books published by
major publishers. His publishers include McGraw-Hill, Simon & Schuster, John Wiley & Sons, as well as
many others. He is the most prolific plumbing author in print with McGraw-Hill. Several of his books are
best-sellers and he is often referred to as America’s Plumber.
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Table of Contents
Introduction to the Journeyman Plumber Exam……………………….………………….………... 4
Practice Exam Questions

Section 1 Administrative Policies and Procedures…………………………………. 11
Section 2 General Regulations……………………………………………………..…….… 15
Section 3 Fixtures…………………………………………………………………………….….. 22
Section 4 Indirect and Special Wastes………………………………….………….…… 34
Section 5 Vents and Venting………………………………………………………………… 38
Section 6 Traps and Cleanouts ……………………………………………………….…… 44
Section 7 Water Supply and Distribution…………………………………….………… 53
Section 8 Sanitary Drainage Systems………………………………………….………… 62
Section 9 Special Piping and Storage Systems……………………….……………… 67
Section 10 Water Heaters……………………………………………………….….…………. 71
Section 11 Recycling Gray Water………………………………………….………..……… 76
Section 12 Storm Drainage………………….……………………………………..………… 86
Section 13 Fuel Gas…………………………….…………………………….……..…………… 94
Practice Exam Answers ……………………………………………………………………...………………… 98
Practice Exam Questions with Answers…………………………………..………….………….…… 135
Test Preparation and Test Taking Tips…………………………………………………………….…… 273
50 State Plumbing License Exam Guide……………………………………………….….…….……… 276

Alabama Indiana Nebraska South Carolina
Alaska Iowa Nevada South Dakota
Arizona Kansas New Hampshire Tennessee
Arkansas Kentucky New Jersey Texas
California Louisiana New Mexico Utah
Colorado Maine New York Vermont
Connecticut Maryland North Carolina Virginia
Delaware Massachusetts North Dakota Washington
Florida Michigan Ohio West Virginia
Georgia Minnesota Oklahoma Wisconsin
Hawaii Mississippi Oregon Wyoming
Idaho Missouri Pennsylvania
Illinois Montana Rhode Island
Answer Bubble Sheet………………………..…………………………………………………………….…… 342

Introduction to the Master Plumber Exam
by R. Dodge Woodson
When you sit for the Master Plumbing Exam it is a huge step in your financial future. Individuals
taking an exam to earn a master plumber license are jumping to the top of the heap. If they pass, they
have a world of opportunities in front of them.
Those who pass their exams for the designation of a master plumber have two options. They
can be one of the highest paid employees in a plumbing company. For man, the most important benefit
is having the ability to open their own full-service plumbing business on their own. The income earned
from such a venture can be fantastic. In either case, master plumbers rule the roost in the plumbing
trade.
All plumbing exams can be stressful. None of them are easy. Many of those who take them fail
the exams on their first attempt. Some states require a long waiting period, often months, before the
test can be taken again if it is failed. This makes it all the more crucial to be prepared to pass your
plumbing exam on the first attempt.
I got my master plumber license in Virginia in 1979 on my first attempt. Then I took tests for
other states and passed all of them the first time around. Of course, I used to study the code book in my
work truck on my lunch break every day. You have to be committed. The trail to success is no cake walk
in the plumbing trade.
I opened my own plumbing business in 1979 and have been self-employed since. It has been
good to me financially. However, if I had signed on with a good company as a master plumber I would
have been building a multitude of benefits while earning a good living without taking the risks that I

have endured as a plumbing contractor. That decision is a toss-up and is one that each individual has to
address for their own needs and desires.
I have taught both plumbing apprentice courses and exam preparation courses for Central
Maine Technical College as adjunct faculty. That was an eye-opening experience. Many of my students
were there because their employers were paying for the cost. This was so that the students would be
more valuable employees in the field for billable time. But what it came down to is that the students
who succeeded were self-motivated and cared about improving their lives.
If you don’t care if you move up in the trade, the odds are that you will not. You have to want it
and you have to see the benefit to improving your licensing status. I can tell you what to expect.
Providing you with sample exam questions is not difficult for me. But it is all lost on anyone who doesn’t
want to succeed.
If you want to pass your plumbing exam, you have come to the right place. I am not only a 30-
year veteran plumber, I have written countless books on plumbing for major publishers, which include
interpretations of the major plumbing codes in the United States. More importantly, I have trained
countless people in a classroom and even more in the field who worked for my corporation. I know how
to prepare a person to step up to the next level of their plumbing career.
So, are you up for it? Do you want to pass your plumbing exam? Are you willing to do what it
takes to walk out of the testing room confident that you passed the master plumber exam? I can give
you the tools, but you will have to do the work. But, I can make it a lot easier for you and give you a
much better chance of being victorious your first time out of the gate at the exam site.

You are probably wondering what to expect from the testing agency. I cannot tell you
specifically what you will encounter. However, I have taken exams in multiple states and I have had
both students and employees who went through the testing process.
At the test site, you will be seated and given a time limit to complete your exam. There will be a
combination of multiple-choice and true-false questions. The exams for master plumbers can include
questions based on pipe sizing and design. These are not normally required on journeyman exams.
Some jurisdictions test on business and law matters, separate from the trade knowledge section. These
questions typically deal with permitting, bonding, worker safety and other such issues. Due to the fact
that such regulations vary from state to state, this practice test does not cover business and law
matters. This practice test focuses on and prepares you for the trade knowledge section of the exams.
In a few states, there is a practical section to the exam where you have to do drawings and other
manual tasks. This practice exam is not geared toward preparation for any practical application, but
your training in the field should prepare you for these type tests. Check with your testing administrator
to see if there is a practical section.
The time that you are given for the completion of your test can vary from one testing agency to
another. It is likely to be a minimum of two hours and a maximum of four hours. The total number of
questions is usually a minimum of 100. It is not unusual for an exam to contain 250-300 questions. The
exams for master plumbers may not have any more questions than the journeyman test, but it will
include some different types of questions.
The exams for journeyman and master plumbers cover much of the same ground. However,
masters are tested harder on administrative matters, pipe sizing, system design, and storm water
drainage. Additionally, the questions posed to those testing for a master license are normally more
complicated.

I have done exit interviews with many of my past students and employees when they completed
their exams. A common fault floats to the top. Far too many of them go back and change their first
answers. This is normally a mistake. Generally speaking, trust your gut. Your first answer is probably
your best answer. I have heard many test takers tell me that they were right the first time and wrong
with their changed answers. Keep this in mind when you sit for your test.
The sample exam I have prepared for you here is realistic. It is very much like the exam you are
likely to encounter when you sit for your licensing exam. I have done my best to make the sample exam
your best learning tool in assessing your knowledge of the plumbing code, whether your jurisdiction
applies the Uniform Plumbing Code or the International Plumbing Code. The questions and answers are
not enough for you to pass your exam. You have to know the code and test yourself with this sample
exam.
Study your code book. Learn it. Once you think you know it then you are ready to take this
sample exam. It will give you a serious view of how much you know about the code. Before you take
this exam, consider your existing knowledge and the studying that you have done.
I found when I was learning the plumbing code that the best way for me to learn it was to take it
chapter by chapter. I read the code and studied it. Then I had a person pose questions to me.
Flashcards are also a good option, but just having another person ask you questions will work. Keep
track of how many of the questions you answer correctly. Until you answer 80-percent of them
correctly you are not ready for a sample exam. Repeat the study process as often as you must to
achieve your goal before you take this test.
This sample exam gives you both the questions and the answers. It also explains why the
correct answer is correct. If you study only this exam you may not be prepared for your official licensing
exam. I cannot give you exact questions and answers that you will see on your plumbing exam.

There is no shortcut to becoming successful at passing your plumbing exam. As I said earlier,
you have to do the work. This means learning the plumbing code. Anyone who is serious about being a
professional plumber would want it no other way.
When you are approaching your test date there are some things that you can do to improve
your odds of success. Some of this may sound lame. It may be, but it does seem to work for the many
people I have helped to pass their exams.
Five days before your official exam you should take this exam again. Ideally, you should strive to
achieve a score of at least 85-percent correct answers out of this mock exam. A higher score is better.
Personally, I wouldn’t want my employees to stop studying until they were getting at least 90-percent of
the answers correct.
If your passing score on this exam is less than 85-percent you should do some more studying.
You are likely to need a passing score of 70- 75-percent as a bare minimum to achieve your licensing
goal on the official exam. If you can answer the questions presented here with less than 10-percent of
your answers being wrong, you are probably prepared.
Check your answers on this exam and see where your weaknesses are. Did you have trouble
with water distribution or venting? Find your weak points and build on them with more concentrated
study. It is important that you do this a few days before your official exam.
By this time you will already know the questions in the mock exam. Do not study specifically for
them. Study the section of the code where you are weakest and ask someone to quiz you on the
sections. By doing this you will not know what questions to expect and the results of your study will be
more accurately measured.

Do all of your preparation in advance. Avoid doing practice testing the night before your official
exam. It is often best to relax and get a good night’s sleep without thinking about the plumbing code
before your report to the exam site.
You may be tempted to cram the night before the real exam. I would advise against this. If
there is something that you have a particular problem with, the action might be warranted, but you
need a clear head when you go in for your official exam.
Many states have open book exams. Check with the test administrators to see if there are any
restrictions on what can be in your code book in an open book test. Some jurisdictions allow
highlighting and tabs, but no written notes anywhere in the book. Understand how your code book is
organized and use tabs to help you locate sections. Ease in using your code will greatly improve your
test taking efficiency. Even if your exam will not be open book, take it with you and have it in your
vehicle. This will allow you to refresh yourself on any difficult issues at the last moment and to confirm
some of your answers once you leave the testing area. It can be quite comforting.
Those who are sitting for a master plumber license are often allowed to bring a simple calculator
into the testing area. Take advantage of this. It will save you time and reduce mistakes if you are
allowed to bring a calculator to the official exam.
Try to relax. It will not be easy. Some neck rolls and stretching can be therapeutic. The key is to
go into the test site with a good attitude, with confidence, a loose body and an energized mind. When
you are given the time deadline, do not feel that you need to use it all.
If you finish the test and then read over it again you are likely to second guess your answers.
This might be good, but it can also be disastrous. Take the exam at your own pace. Only look at the

clock if you feel you are running out of time. Try to avoid changing your answers unless you are sure
that you made a mistake.
After you finish the exam, you may check your code book for anything that you were not sure
of. It is, of course, too late for a change, but it might make you feel better. Then it is a waiting game to
get your official exam score. If you can ace this sample exam you are well on your way to getting your
next level of a plumbing license.
I wish you all the best and hope I was able to help.
R. Dodge Woodson
Master Plumber and Author

Master Plumber Practice Exam – Section 1
Administrative Policies and Procedures
1. Code interpretation is a critical element of success when working with the code
requirements and regulations. Who does the code authorize to interpret the plumbing
code?
a. A master plumber
b. A journeyman plumber
c. A licensed code enforcement officer
d. An architect
e. Both a and c
2. Which of the following plumbing fixtures requires a plumbing permit and inspection for
the replacement of the fixture in the same exact location?
a. Toilet
b. Bidet
c. Bathtub
d. Water heater
3. Approved plans and specs must be kept on a job site and available for inspection on
demand by a code officer.
a. True
b. False

4. A plumbing permit can only be obtained by a master plumber.
a. True
b. False
5. As a master plumber you will be allowed to apply for plumbing permits. Which of the
following data will you be required to provide on a plumbing permit application?
a. Your full name and address
b. A full description of the plumbing work you propose to do
c. The zoned use of the property where the plumbing will be installed
d. All of the above
6. Assume that you are bidding a job that will require significant repair and alteration work
to an existing plumbing system. Your work will include the replacement of valves on the
water distribution system and the installation of a backflow preventer on the water supply.
You have been asked to replace old cast-iron cleanouts with plastic cleanouts so that they can
be used more easily. As you contemplate this work you must design a plan that will not
__________.
a. Require a plumbing permit
b. Render the plumbing system unsafe
c. Have any detrimental effect on the plumbing system
d. Both b and c
7. As you are computing a bid for a contractor, you are asked if you can cut your costs by
using plumbing materials that were previously used. The economy has most people looking
for cheaper prices. You do not like the idea of working with used parts and pipes, but you
agree to look into it. It is allowable to use previously-used plumbing materials in a new
plumbing system.
a. True
b. False

8. You are replacing fixtures in a restaurant. The owner is remodeling and has decided to
upgrade some of the older fixtures. This is fairly simple work since all of the fixtures being
replaced will be replaced with new fixtures in the exact same location of the older fixtures.
Knowing this, which of the following fixtures will you be required to obtain a plumbing
permit to replace?
a. Toilets
b. Food preparation sinks
c. Water heaters
d. Grease traps
e. All of the above since this is a commercial job
9. Assume that you are responsible for the plumbing work needed to allow the demolition of
a structure. The job description requires the removal of all existing water meters provided by
the local municipality. You are also charged with removing all sewer connections to building
sewers. As a plumber, you are responsible for the discontinuation of the piping, which will
include providing suitable termination on the municipal piping.
a. True
b. False
10. For the issuance of a plumbing permit, which of the following is normally required?
a. Design plans
b. Complete specifications
c. A description of the use of the building
d. All of the above
e. Both a and b only

11. Assume that you have been awarded a plumbing permit to install plumbing in an auto
repair shop. The building contractor gave you a start date for your work. However, weather
conditions have restricted the process of the building contractor. Hence, your work has had
to be rescheduled. Your permit could become invalid if work is not started soon. How long do
you, as the plumber, have from the time a permit is issued to begin work without running the
risk of losing your permit?
a. Two months
b. Three months
c. Six months
d. Eight months
12. If alterations are made in an existing plumbing system, the work is required to bring the
entire existing plumbing system up to current code requirements.
a. True
b. False
13. It is a violation of the plumbing code to change the use of a property. As an example, if a
residential home is converted to professional office space, it is a violation of the plumbing
code.
a. True
b. False

General Regulations
14. The plumbing code applies to new installations. Which of the following types of plumbing work
may also be governed by the code?
a. Renovations
b. Replacement of plumbing fixtures
c. Additions to a plumbing system
d. All of the above
e. Both a and c only
15. Assume that a customer has called your office and requested that you replace an existing kitchen
sink with a new sink. The new sink will be of the same size and basic type as the existing sink. You will
be able to remove the old sink and place the new one in the existing hole. Which of following options
bests describes your situation?
a. A plumbing permit is not required.
b. In order to replace the sink you will need a permit.
c. Removal of the existing sink will trigger a code requirement that calls for the drainage piping
to be brought up to current code standards.
d. An air gap will be required to be installed on the new sink.
16. Your job requires you to schedule maintenance on a large commercial building for one of your
customers. What is the required frequency for the inspection of backflow preventers?
a. Once a month
b. Once every 3 months
c. Once every 4 months
d. Once every year

17. You should expect to supply the code enforcement office with a site plan before any work is done
on an existing sewer or water service.
a. True
b. False
18. Assume that you have been contracted to add a new bathroom group to an existing plumbing
system. This is a toilet, lavatory and bathtub that will be installed in a new addition to a home. You
will need a permit for the installation. Your plan is to connect the main drain from the bathroom
group to the building drain. This could create a problem. From the choices below, choose the most
likely concern.
a. The extra fixture units from the new bathroom group could put a total fixture-unit load on
the existing building drain that would require the building drain to be replaced with a larger
pipe.
b. Requirements for accessible plumbing fixtures
c. Minimum distance requirements between fixtures
d. The fact that water fountains cannot be installed in a room that contains a toilet
19. What circumstances may prompt a code officer to issue a stop work order?
a. Violations of the code
b. An immediate danger is present.
c. Plans and specifications are not available on the job site.
d. Any of the above
20. When working with engineered trusses, you must be aware of certain limitations that do not
apply to trusses made of dimensional lumber. For example, an engineered truss must not be
___________________.
a. Spliced
b. Drilled
c. Cut or notched
d. All of the above

21. When you are installing piping in a hospital you may be required to penetrate walls that are
designed for fire protection. When this is the case you will have to seal the pipe penetrations. This can
be done by filling the void around the piping with spray foam insulation.
a. True
b. False
22. One of your journeyman plumbers is being sent out to connect a building drain to a sewer. You
have instructed the plumber to wait for the plumbing inspector and then after the connection is
approved to cover the piping with earth. Which of the following represents the minimum depth of
cover required over the crown of a buried pipe?
a. Four inches
b. Six inches
c. Eight inches
d. Twelve inches
23. A project that you and your employees are working on could be subject to flooding. It involves
the installation of plumbing that will be covered by a concrete slab. It is your job, as the master
plumber, to design an installation that will meet code approval. Which of the following will influence
your design?
a. Hydrostatic load and stress
b. The risk of a 100-year flood in the installation area
c. The seismic conditions of the earth that plumbing is buried in
d. The perk rate of the soil that plumbing is buried in

24. Assume that you have been contacted by a real estate developer who has bought a 4-unit multi-
family dwelling that will be converted into professional office space. One of the office suites will
house a dental facility. How could this affect your design and bid for altering the plumbing system?
a. You will need zoning permission for the installation of medical gases
b. The change in use will require a master plumber to be on site at all times due to the addition
of a dental office.
c. The change in use could require major alterations to existing plumbing in the structure.
d. You will need a mechanical engineer to create the riser diagram and specification since the
change of use is to a medical facility.
25. You are charged with installing a building drain in a new system that will exit through a concrete
foundation wall. Part of this installation will include _____________.
a. Installing a protective sleeve that has a minimum diameter that is at least two pipe sizes
larger than the diameter of the building drain.
b. Installing a protective sleeve that will have a minimum diameter equal to four inches.
c. Filling the annular space around the protective sleeve to make it watertight.
d. All of the Above
e. Both a and c
26. Pipe protection must be provided for piping that is buried. This is typically done by installing the
piping below the local frost line. How far below the frost line must the pipe be installed?
a. 6 inches
b. 12 inches
c. 18 inches
d. 24 inches
27. Mechanical joints are an acceptable means of joining materials of different types.
a. True
b. False

28. If you feel that a code officer has failed an installation during an inspection for unfounded
reasons, you can appeal the decision. This is a rare occasion, but there are times when an appeal is
justified. When this is the case, what must you do?
a. Make your appeal based on a technical trade manual that applies to your installation.
b. Make your appeal based on pertinent code language.
c. Make your appeal in the local court system.
d. All of the above
29. What is the maximum distance allowed between pipe supports for DWV piping that is installed
horizontally?
a. 12 inches
b. 24 inches
c. 30 inches
d. 48 inches
30. What is the minimum pitch per horizontal running foot of piping required for condensate piping?
a. One eighth of an inch
b. One quarter of an inch
c. One half of an inch
d. One inch

31. Piping must be protected from the effects of corrosion. This can be done in a number of ways.
Assume that you are installing copper piping in a ground works installation that will be covered by
concrete. The horizontal runs of the piping will be protected by the fill material used prior to concrete
placement. However, when sections of the piping are turned up as stub-outs they will be in a position
to have concrete poured around them. This could cause a problem with both abrasion and chemical
reaction. Which of the following would be considered a suitable means of protecting these stub-outs
at the point where they will be surrounded by concrete?
a. Installing a gravel bed around the pipe
b. Installing foam pipe insulation on the copper.
c. Installing wooden support stakes adjacent to the stub outs
d. Install stub outs so that they rise inside a partition wall where they can be supported.
32. Some condensate systems require an auxiliary drain pan. When this is the case, the pan is
required to be equipped with ____________.
a. An individual vent
b. A water-level detection device
c. A drum trap
d. A backwater valve
33. What type of material may be used for the piping of condensate drainage?
a. Copper tubing
b. Galvanized steel pipe
c. PEX tubing
d. All of the above

34. A drainage pipe with a diameter of three quarters of an inch can be used for which of the
following:
a. A lavatory drain
b. A sink drain
c. A condensate drain
d. None of the above
35. Which of the following mediums may be used for testing DWV systems for leaks?
a. Smoke
b. Air
c. Water
d. All of the above
36. The plumbing code requires that a test on a DWV system be maintained at a minimum of 10
pounds per square inch for at least 45 minutes.
a. True
b. False
37. When underground plumbing is being tested there must be one riser that is at least ______feet
above the main plumbing system.
a. 1
b. 5
c. 10
d. 15

Fixtures
38. What is the minimum number of plumbing fixtures that must be installed in a single-family
residence?
a. 3
b. 4
c. 5
d. 6
39. You are designing the plumbing system for a multi-family residence that will be a used as a rental
property. If the building has _______ or more rental units, it is required to be equipped with a
laundry facility.
a. 6
b. 10
c. 12
d. 20
40. Daycare facilities are required to offer one toilet for every _______ people accommodated in the
facility.
a. 6
b. 8
c. 12
d. 15

41. What is the maximum distance that employees can be required to walk in order to reach a
restroom?
a. 150 feet
b. 300 feet
c. 400 feet
d. 500 feet
42. How many flights of stairs are permitted between an employee workspace and the nearest
restroom?
a. 1
b. 2
c. 3
d. There is no set limit
43. Motel rooms are required to be equipped with _____________.
a. Either a kitchen or bar sink
b. A shower head
c. Accessible plumbing fixtures
d. A backwater valve on the building drain for the unit
e. Both b and c

44. You are working on a bid for a commercial building that will have public restrooms. Part of your
job is to draw a suitable riser diagram to submit with your application for a plumbing permit. In order
for you to accomplish this task you must know what the minimum fixture requirements are for each
restroom. Which of the following fixtures is not allowed to be installed in a public restroom?
a. Hose-bib connections
b. Bidets
c. Showers
d. Drinking fountains
45. As a plumber you are aware of plumbing fixtures made for ADA compliance. As a new master
plumber, you are about to determine the requirements for accessible plumbing fixtures that will be
provided for public use in the restrooms of a restaurant. This will require you to outline the
specifications for the bathroom. When you, or your plumbers, install the plumbing you will have to
consider ____________.
a. the requirements of both the plumbing and building codes
b. only the requirements of the plumbing code
c. only the requirements of the building code
d. the plumbing and mechanical code
46. You are designing a plumbing plan for the construction of a new hospital. This is a major task. It is
often done by a mechanical engineer, but the general contractor has asked you to develop a working
plan. Your plan begins at the municipal piping and includes all interior plumbing. You will have to
provide at least two water mains for the hospital.
a. True
b. False
47. What is the minimum allowable height for a handicap toilet?
a. 14 inches
b. 16 inches
c. 18 inches
d. 22 inches

48. Which of the following describes a specific type of toilet?
a. Siphon jet
b. Non-siphoning
c. Fast flushing
d. Internal injected
e. Both a and d
49. The minimum distance required in front of an accessible lavatory is __________.
a. 12 inches
b. 16 inches
c. 21 inches
d. 22 inches
50. Accessible lavatories are required to be installed so that the distance from a finished floor to the
top of a lavatory is no more than ______ inches.
a. 18
b. 24
c. 35
d. 42
51. Kitchen sinks, that are installed for accessible use, are to be installed higher than ______ inches
above the flood-level rim of the sink.
a. 28 inches
b. 30 inches
c. 34 inches
d. 42 inches

52. You are installing accessible plumbing fixtures. You had journeyman plumbers set the fixtures
and you review the work prior to calling for a code enforcement inspection. Visually, something looks
wrong to you. Your concern is that the faucets on the lavatories will be difficult to reach for disabled
people. Using your tape measure, you check the distance from the front of the lavatory. What is the
maximum distance that a lavatory faucet for accessible use can be placed from the front edge of a
lavatory?
a. 18 inches
b. 22 inches
c. 24 inches
d. 25 inches
53. What is the maximum pressure allowed to operate a handle on a handicap faucet?
a. 40 PSI
b. 60 PSI
c. 3 pounds of force
d. 5 pounds of force
54. Which of the following types of faucet handles are not allowed for use with faucets that will be
installed on accessible fixtures?
a. Blade handles
b. Crossbar handles
c. Single handles
d. Wing handles

55. Accessible bathtub installations require ____________.
a. A trip-lever tub waste
b. A twist-and-turn tub waste
c. Grab bars
d. A single-handle faucet
56. Hoses for personal shower units in a handicap bathing unit are required to have a minimum
length of __________.
a. 4 feet
b. 5 feet
c. 6 feet
d. 8 feet
57. Assume that you are discussing building plans with a general contractor. You have been asked to
review preliminary building plans to see if any changes may be needed to keep the plans in
compliance with the requirements of the plumbing code. You look at the proposed bathroom
locations and notice a problem. In one situation, the accessible travel route for people going to use
the public restroom passes through a kitchen. This is a code violation.
a. True
b. False
58. Seats in showers used for accessible purposes are not allowed to be wider than _________
inches.
a. 16 inches
b. 18 inches
c. 20 inches
d. 24 inches

59. Seats in showers used for accessible purposes must have a height that is within which of the
following ranges measured from a finished floor?
a. 16 to 17 inches
b. 17 to 19 inches
c. 17 to 24 inches
d. No set limit
60. The push buttons on drinking fountains can be mounted in one of two locations. Which of the
following options describes one suitable location?
a. At the flood-level rim of the drinking fountain
b. On the front of the drinking fountain
c. 18 inches from the finished floor
d. 20 inches from the finished floor
61. How many inches of clearance are required on each side of a bidet when measured from the
center of the drain?
a. 12 inches
b. 15 inches
c. 18 inches
d. 20 inches
62. Plumbing fixtures are required to be __________.
a. Installed level and with good workmanship
b. Installed in new condition
c. Installed only by licensed plumbers
d. Installed with stop valves within six inches of the fixture
e. Both a and b

63. Closet bolts should be constructed of _________.
a. Black iron
b. Copper
c. Galvanized steel
d. Brass
64. How many inches of open space is required, at a minimum, for ingress and egress when a shower
door is open?
a. 22
b. 28
c. 30
d. 32
65. The maximum travel length allowed to reach a unisex toilet facility in a public building is 500 feet.
a. True
b. False
66. While bidding a job, you study all of the plans and specifications. The specs call for anti-scald
shower valves to be installed throughout the bathrooms in the building. Knowing this, you will tell
your plumbers to install shower valves that are of a __________ type.
a. Temperature actuated flow reduction
b. Pressure-balanced
c. Pressure-reducing
d. Metering

67. What type of closing device is allowed for use on a bathtub drain?
a. Plunger stoppers
b. Rubber stoppers
c. Lift-and-turn stoppers
d. All of the above
68. When is an access panel required for a tub waste and overflow?
a. When the tub waste is sealed with solvent-weld joints
b. When the tub waster is sealed with soldered joints
c. When tub wastes are sealed with slip nuts and washers
d. When tub wastes are sealed with non-mechanical connections
69. Which of the following is required with the installation of a dishwasher?
a. A copper water supply
b. A Schedule-40 drain from the appliance to the sanitary drainage system that is vented
c. An air gap
d. A safety pan under the appliance to collect any condensation
70. Washing machines are required to discharge their waste into _____________.
a. An indirect-waste receptor
b. A special waste receptor
c. A gray-water recycling collection tank
d. A pump-assisted sump

71. A residential garbage disposer requires a drain that has a minimum diameter of ______.
a. 7/8 of an inch
b. 1 inch
c. 1.5 inches
d. 2 inches
72. You are installing new plumbing for a handicap tub-shower combination. Since this is an
installation of an accessible fixture, grab bars must be installed. The grab bar nearest the faucet must
be installed between the faucet and the flood-level rim of the bathtub to allow people to pull
themselves up from a sitting position.
a. True
b. False
73. Floor drains must discharge into a drain pipe that has a minimum diameter of ______ inches.
a. 1.5
b. 2
c. 3
d. 4
74. The minimum diameter for a shower drain is _________ inches.
a. 1.25
b. 1.5
c. 2
d. 2.5

75. Which of the following is a code requirement for ballcock assemblies used in residential toilets?
a. Anti-siphon construction
b. Brass construction
c. Metallic construction
d. Siphonic construction
76. Commercial garbage disposers require a minimum drain diameter of _______ inches.
a. 1.5
b. 2
c. 2.5
d. 3
77. Commercial garbage disposals may be connected to grease interceptors.
a. True
b. False
78. A water supply is needed for the installation of garbage can washers. What else is required when
these devices are installed?
a. A special vent
b. An air gap
c. A local vent
d. An aerator
79. Urinals are required to be served by _____________.
a. A water service that is equipped with a pressure-reducing valve
b. A water service that is not equipped with a pressure-reducing valve
c. A single flush valve
d. A single ballcock

80. Bedpan washers are also known as __________.
a. Service sinks
b. Garbage-can washers
c. Clinical sinks
d. Local-vent sinks
81. Medical sterilizers are required to be ______________.
a. Connected with steel piping that is clearly identified as sterilizer piping
b. Connected to a water distribution system
c. Connected to steam piping
d. Connected directly to a DWV system
82. What requirements do plumbing devices have to meet in order to be considered readily
accessible?
a. The devices are allowed to be installed behind removable access panels.
b. The devices must be installed in such a way that nothing is required to be moved or removed
to work on the device.
c. The devices must be installed with mechanical joints.
d. The devices must not be installed in a crawl space.
83. Bedpan washers require vents that have a minimum diameter of ______ inches.
a. 1.25
b. 1.5
c. 2
d. 3

84. The minimum height above a flood-level rim of a fixture for a backflow preventer to be installed is
________ inches.
a. 6
b. 12
c. 18
d. 20
85. Drinking fountains installed in public restrooms require a minimum distance of 15 inches from the
side of the fountain to the center of a toilet.
a. True
b. False

Indirect and Special Wastes
86. What type of connection is required when a clothes washing machine discharges into a sanitary
drainage system?
a. An indirect waste
b. An air break
c. An air gap
d. Both a and c

87. Assume that you are working with an indirect waste receptor. It is up to you to determine if a
trap is needed and where it should be placed. Normally this type of drain is required to be trapped
and vented. There are times when an indirect waste connection can run up to ______feet before it is
trapped.
a. 2
b. 4
c. 5
d. 10
88. You are bidding a job that will have special wastes included in the plumbing. In the process of
working up your bid you find something that bothers you. The requested drainage plan has the special
wastes using the same drainage system as the sanitary drainage fixture. Drainage systems for special
wastes are not allowed to be combined with drainage systems used for sanitary drainage.
a. True
b. False
89. Assume that a general contractor for a healthcare facility has contacted you to produce a bid for
plumbing a new addition on the facility. The contractor has asked you to spec your price based on the
most positive form of indirect waste connections when such connections are needed. Which of the
following would you choose to be the most positive means of protection when using an indirect
waste?
a. Air break
b. Air gap
c. Crown-vented trap

90. Discharge tubing connected to a relief valve does not require traps for which of the following?
a. A water heaters
b. A boiler
c. An expansion tank that serves a boiler
d. All of the above
91. The drain hose from a fixture to an air break must penetrate into the receptor of the air break to
a point that extends a minimum of two inches into the trap seal that serves the receptor.
a. True
b. False
92. You are installing plumbing for an automatic clothes washing machine. You will install a two-inch
drain. It will be trapped and vented. The vent can have a minimum diameter of 1.5 inches. What is
the minimum allowable height of the standpipe for the receptor?
a. 12 inches
b. 14 inches
c. 18 inches
d. 30 inches
93. The minimum diameter for a standpipe that receives the waste from an automatic clothes
washing machine must have a minimum diameter of two inches. The drains for these standpipes are
required to travel their developed length in their full diameter and enter into a drainage branch or
stack that has a minimum diameter of ______. The vent for a washing machine standpipe can be as
small as 1.5 inches in diameter.
a. 2 inches
b. 3 inches
c. 4 inches
d. Either b or c

94. Wye-branch fittings are not approved fittings to accept the waste from an air gap for a domestic
dishwasher when the wye-branch fitting is installed in the waste piping above a trap for a kitchen
sink.
a. True
b. False
95. You are in charge of a rough-in installation. The specifications given to you indicate the need for
an indirect waste receptor. Upon further reflection, you notice a code violation in the specifications.
The specs call for a fixture that is not normally allowed in a room with an indirect waster receptor.
You are going to investigate this with the person who created the specifications. What type of fixture
is it that you are questioning?
a. Floor drain
b. Food preparation equipment
c. Toilet
d. Kitchen sink
96. Can you install an indirect waste receptor in a closet? Is it suitable to install an indirect waste
receptor in areas that are not vented? Look over the options below and choose the answer that is in
accordance with the code.
a. Do not install indirect waste receptors in closets.
b. Do no install indirect waste receptors in unvented areas.
c. Both a and b
97. Assume that you are to install a floor drain in a walk-in refrigerator or freezer. You are operating
under normal code requirements. The drainage system is not going to be equipped with a backwater
valve. This means that the floor drains must enter the sanitary drainage system through the use of air
gaps.
a. True
b. False

98. What is the maximum allowable water temperature that can be used with a commercial
dishwashing machine?
a. 115 degrees F.
b. 120 degrees F.
c. 140 degrees F.
99. Plumbing special wastes are generally associated with _________.
a. Hospitals and healthcare facilities
b. Industrial installations
c. Structures where strong chemicals pass through piping
d. Both a and c
100. Clear water waste from a potable source is required to be piped to an indirect waste through a
vacuum breaker.
a. True
b. False

Vents and Venting
101. Why are plumbing traps required to be vented?
a. To avoid traps being drained of their liquid seals
b. To convey sewer gas to outside air
c. To enable drains to drain better
d. All of the above

102. Assume that you live in a state that allows the use of combination waste-and-vent plumbing
designs for certain applications. While this type of plumbing design is allowed, in various jurisdictions
there are restrictions on the types of fixtures which can be installed on such a system. You are
responsible as a master plumber to know what can be installed on a combination waste-and-vent
system. Choose a fixture from the list below that is not allowed to be installed on a combination
system.
a. Lavatories
b. Toilets
c. Kitchen sinks
d. Laundry sinks
103. The use of drum traps is typically prohibited in new plumbing installations. There is an exception
to this rule. Which of the following qualifies as a situation where a drum trap can be used?
a. Drum traps are required in DWV systems
b. Drum traps can be used to serve bathtubs and showers
c. Drum traps are allowed to be used in CWV systems
d. Drum traps are required when installing plumbing for food-service establishments
104. Venting systems for a DWV plumbing installation are required to ___________.
a. Terminate in open air above the building be served by plumbing
b. Run independently without tying into a common venting design
c. Terminate in a ventilated attic space or open air space outside of the building be served
d. Have a minimum pipe diameter of 2 inches
105. When multiple fixtures discharge into a wet vent they must do so upstream of the wet vent.
a. True
b. False

106. Assume that you are sizing relief vents. In this scenario you will need a total of three relief
vents. The drains that will require the vents are three different sizes. Relief vents will be needed for a
1.5-inch drain, a 2-inch drain and a 3-inch drain. Your job is to determine the minimum diameter for
these relief valves. Choose the correct answer from the options listed below.
a. Relief vents are required to have the same diameter of the drain they are serving.
b. A relief vent with a diameter of 2 inches is adequate for all three drain sizes given.
c. The minimum diameter required for a relief vent for all of the drain sizes mentioned is 1.5
inches.
d. The minimum diameter of the relief valve must be determined by the distance that a trap
arm extends and the diameter of that drain.
107. Circuit vents may be _____________.
a. Connected to stack vents
b. Connected to vent stacks
c. Connected to a main vent system that extends to outside air
d. All of the above
e. A and b only
108. How would you describe a branch vent?
a. It is an independent vent.
b. It is a vent that is used to vent branch drains.
c. It is a vent that can convey both sewer gas and sanitary drainage.
d. It is a vent that runs horizontally and provides a connection point for other vents.
109. While designing the installation of a circuit vent you have found a need to determine the
maximum grade that can be applied to the drainage piping. This piping will be installed horizontally.
You refer to your code. The maximum allowable grade for the drain pipe is to be no more than one
inch per foot.
a. True
b. False

110. What type of vent is only allowed to convey air and sewer gas?
a. A wet vent
b. A stack vent
c. A vent stack
d. An island vent
111. Common vents can only be used ______________.
a. On sinks and lavatories.
b. When all fixtures being vented are contained on the same floor level.
c. When fixtures being served by the vent are on separate floor levels.
d. On basement plumbing fixtures.
112. Which of the following types of plumbing fixtures can be vented with island vents?
a. Sinks
b. Floor drains
c. Showers
d. Toilets
113. A wet vent serves as _______.
a. A vent for one fixture and a drain for another fixture
b. A special vent that is not allowed for use in a DWV system
c. A vent for a wet bar
d. A vent that can only be used above grade.

114. Crown vents installed in modern plumbing designs are installed on _________.
a. Crown-vented traps
b. Vertical common vents
c. Vent stacks
d. Piping used as a trap arm
115. Vents are not required to be afforded protection from freezing since they transport only air and
gases, not water.
a. True
b. False
116. Sewage pumps are sometimes required for plumbing installed in basements. These pumps are
used to pump sewage up to a point where it can enter the sanitary drainage system and be carried by
gravity to an approved disposal site. These pumps are installed in sumps. These sumps are required to
be ______________.
a. Constructed on welded steel
b. Covered with a gas-tight cover and vented to outside air
c. Drained with a separate building drain and sewer
d. Constructed of plastic
117. As a master plumber you will be required to size vents for sumps that contain sewer pumps.
There are two factors that you must know in order to size a vent for a sump properly. The most
important factor needed to establish a minimum diameter for a vent to serve a sump for a sewer
pump is _________.
a. The discharge capacity, measured in gallons per minute GPM, of the sewer pump
b. The holding capacity, measured in gallons, of the sump
c. The voltage rating of the pump intended for use
d. The incoming load factor, measured in gallons, for the sump

118. What is the maximum allowable discharge capacity of a sewer pump where a 1.25-inch vent can
be used?
a. 60 gpm
b. 80 gpm
c. 100 gpm
d. 149 gpm
119. What is the minimum allowable diameter for a vent that will serve a sump for a sewer pump
that has a discharge capacity of 500 gpm?
a. 2 inch
b. 3 inch
c. 4 inch
d. 6 inch
120. Offsets cannot be installed in stack vents until the vent reaches a height that is at least 10 inches
above the flood-level rim of the highest fixture being served.
a. True
b. False
121. Plumbing fixtures in residences are required to have at least one main plumbing vent. What is
the minimum allowable diameter of the main vent?
a. 1.5 inches
b. 2 inches
c. 3 inches
d. 4 inches

122. When you are required to size a waste stack vent you will need to know ____________.
a. The type of fixtures that will connect to the pipe
b. The flow rate of the pipe
c. The number of drainage fixture units that the pipe will be required to handle
d. The developed length of the vent piping
123. What determines the minimum allowable diameter of a wet vent pipe?
a. The drainage fixture unit load
b. The developed length of the piping
c. The amount of slope that the piping will be installed with
d. The number and types of offsets to be installed in the run of piping
124. You can determine the fixture load in terms of drainage fixture units for a fixture if you know the
trap size serving the fixture.
a. True
b. False

Traps and Cleanouts
125. You are drawing the plumbing diagram for a residential installation. Your plumbers will install a
sewer for a home. The piping that you are responsible for will begin within the first five feet of the
property line for the home location. The municipality will install a lateral to the building lot. The job
requires your plumbers to extend the sewer into the home and connect it to a building drain. Where
will you show the installation of a cleanout?
a. At the point of connection between the sewer and the building drain
b. Outside at the point where the sewer penetrates the foundation in a fashion so that the
cleanout is buried no more than six inches in depth
c. During every 50 feet of piping installed
d. Within five feet of every change of direction

126. All sewers must _____________.
a. Be equipped with house drains
b. Be equipped with backwater valves
c. Be equipped with cleanouts
d. Be installed with a metallic covering over the piping to allow it to be found with a metal
detector
127. A cleanout is required within five feet of every change in direction that is in excess of 22.5
degrees.
a. True
b. False
128. Drain pipes that are not building drains or horizontal branches that are installed in second-story
framing are _________.
a. Required to have accessible cleanouts
b. Required to have no less than one cleanout at the end of the run of piping
c. Not required to be equipped with cleanouts
d. Not required to be equipped with cleanouts when the building drain is four inches, or larger,
in diameter.
129. The maximum allowable distance between cleanouts for sewers that have 8-inch diameters, or
more, is _________.
a. 75 feet
b. 100 feet
c. 200 feet
d. 400

130. You are installing a DWV system for a single-family home. The house will have two toilets. This
allows you to have a building drain with a diameter of three inches. Standard procedure is to install a
cleanout at the junction of a building drain and sewer. However, there is an exception to this
practice. If you do not want to install a cleanout at the junction of the sewer and building drain what
is your other option? You can install a cleanout on the 3-inch building drain that is 8 feet from the
junction point of the building drain and sewer. If you do this, is it true that you are not required to
install a cleanout at the junction point?
a. True
b. False
131. Horizontal drainage branches must be fitted with cleanouts. Assume that you are installing a
horizontal branch that has a total length of 60 feet. This is a 3-inch branch. The pipe takes two 90-
degree changes in direction during its run. How many cleanouts are required for this installation?
a. 1
b. 2
c. 3
d. 4
132. A horizontal drain pipe with a diameter of four inches is required to have __________.
a. A cleanout installed vertically
b. A cleanout installed at the beginning of the piping run
c. A cleanout installed at the end of the piping run
d. A cleanout with a flush-mount plug
133. Junction cleanouts installed where sewers meet building drains are required to be of an
approved two-way design.
a. True
b. False

134. You should never use an existing cleanout as a connection point for a new plumbing fixture,
unless ____________.
a. The minimum drain diameter is 3 inches
b. The connection can be made with a screw-in fitting
c. Another cleanout is provided
d. A code enforcement officer approves the procedure and another cleanout is provided at the
approximate location of the existing cleanout n an approved manner.
135. What type of drain requires the installation of a cleanout when two eighth bends are used to
create a 90-degree change in direction?
a. A drain serving a water closet or urinal
b. Cleanouts are not required when changes in direction are made with eighth bends.
c. A drain that is below the main floor level of habitable space
d. A drain that receives the waste from a garbage disposer
136. Cleanouts installed in floors are required to have a minimum height clearance of 16 inches.
a. True
b. False
137. Assume that you are preparing to plumb a small apartment building. The plumbing for the
building is spread out. It runs into a full basement where it goes below the concrete floor. This
building will contain two 4-inch stacks and four 3-inch stacks. How many cleanouts will you be
required to supply for the combined stacks prior to their entry at the point of the concrete floor?
a. 6
b. 4
c. 3
d. 2

138. Cleanouts must _________.
a. Be accessible.
b. Be readily accessible
c. Be visible
d. Be marked with an indelible, permanent tag to identify them as cleanouts
139. You are drawing a riser diagram for a DWV system. In this design drawing you have shown all
the anticipated piping and identified it. In doing so you specify clearance distances for fixtures and
cleanouts. Your drawing stresses the minimum distance of clearance that is required in front of a
cleanout. A minimum of 18 inches of clear space is required in front of a cleanout that has a diameter
of 3 inches.
a. True
b. False
140. What is the maximum distance that cleanouts can be installed from an access opening under a
floor, such as in a crawl space?
a. 4 feet
b. 7 feet
c. 20 feet
d. 50 feet
141. Under which of the following conditions can a rubber cap with a stainless-steel clamp be used on
the end of a drain pipe to act as an approved cleanout?
a. When the drain is located in a crawl space
b. Rubber caps and stainless-steel clamps are approved for all cleanout uses
c. When the drain is a vertical riser from a buried sewer
d. When the cleanout is readily accessible

142. You are designing the installation of a sewer that will have a 10-inch diameter. As you calculate
the need for manholes on straight runs of pipe you will have to identify manhole locations. You will
want to show a manhole installation at distances that are no more than ______ feet apart to comply
with the code.
a. 100 feet
b. 200 feet
c. 300 feet
d. 500 feet
143. Only brass or plastic plugs can be used for sealing cleanout openings.
a. True
b. False
144. What type of connection is normally used for the installation of manholes?
a. Welded connections
b. Flexible compression connections
c. Poured-concrete connections
d. Precast flange connections
145. What is the minimum depth of a trap seal?
a. 1 inch
b. 1.25
c. 1.5 inches
d. 2 inches

146. Double trapping is required on laundry tubs to prevent lint from entering the sanitary drains.
a. True
b. False
147. What is the main risk associated with a trap that is not properly vented?
a. The trap could be drained through backpressure
b. Flooding of the trap due to backflow
c. The trap may be prone to blockages
d. Pressure changes in the piping could rupture the solvent-weld joints
148. Bell traps, S-traps and ________ are prohibited from being installed in any new plumbing
installations.
a. P-traps
b. Indirect-waste traps
c. House traps
d. Drum traps
149. Clothes washers may discharge into a kitchen sink or a laundry sink as an indirect waste.
a. True
b. False
150. What is the maximum allowable height of a tailpiece that is installed between a fixture and the
fixture’s trap?
a. 8 inches
b. 10 inches
c. 16 inches
d. 24 inches

151. __________ are required to be equipped with a device that controls the water flow through the
trap in a manner that prevents the water flow from exceeding the rated flow of the trap.
a. Grease traps
b. Gasoline traps
c. Sand traps
d. P traps
152. Assume that you are installing a laundry sink. The tailpiece from the drain of the sink has a
diameter of 1.5 inches. Just as you are preparing to install a 1.5-inch P trap, your customer comes in
to the room. The customer wants you to install a 2-inch trap so that it will be less likely to clog. It is
common to install a 1.5-inch trap on a lavatory that has a tailpiece with a diameter of 1.25 inches. So,
you can upsize the trap on the laundry tray to 2 inches without any problems.
a. True
b. False
153. Floor drains that are installed in a concrete floor with no access to the trap can be trapped with
___________.
a. P traps that have permanently-sealed joints
b. Plastic traps that are sealed with slip nuts and washers
c. Brass traps with mechanical joints.
d. Drum traps
154. Plumbing interceptors are designed to stop which of the following from entering a sanitary
drainage system?
a. Grease
b. Sand
c. Oil
d. All of the above
e. Only b and c

155. You will have to determine total flow-through ratings and grease retention capacities when
working with grease traps. Assume that you have determined that the total flow-through rating is 20
gallons per minute (GPM). Now that you know this, you can determine the grease retention capacity.
Based on what you have been told, how many pounds of grease can the grease interceptor with a
flow rate of 20 gpm hold?
a. 20 pounds
b. 30 pounds
c. 40 pounds
d. 60 pounds
156. Which of the following locations are likely to contain a backwater valve?
a. Sewers and drains
b. Water distribution piping
c. Vent stacks
d. Circuit vents
157. Assume that you are installing piping for a commercial facility. Some of the drains will convey
chemicals, enzymes and emulsifiers. Knowing this, which of the following is not allowed to accept
waste that contains enzymes, emulsifiers, and chemicals?
a. Garbage disposers
b. Interceptors
c. P traps
d. Special waste piping

158. What is the minimum number of traps required to collect the drainage from a three-bay kitchen
sink?
a. 1
b. 2
c. 3
d. 2 traps and one tailpiece inlet side waste
159. Standpipes used to receive the discharge from washing machines are required to have a
minimum height of 18 inches.
a. True
b. False
160. What is the maximum allowable height for the installation of a cleanout that is installed near the
base of a stack?
a. 16 inches above the floor level
b. 24 inches above the floor level
c. 32 inches above the floor level
d. 48 inches above the floor level

Water Supply and Distribution
161. Urinals require a water supply with a minimum diameter of __________.
a. 3/8 of an inch
b. 1/2 of an inch
c. 3/4 of an inch
d. 1 inch

162. You are calculating the flow rate requirements for a bathtub. In your work, you find that a
shower requires a fixture supply that has a minimum flow rate of two gallons per minute. The
minimum flow rate required for a water supply to a bathtub is _________ gallons per minute.
a. 2
b. 2.75
c. 3
d. 4
163. What is the maximum allowable flow rate and consumption for a lavatory installed for public
use with a pressure rating requirement of 60 PSI?
a. 0.5 gpm
b. 1 gpm
c. 2.5 gpm
d. 3 gpm
164. When a fixture is installed away from a wall what is the minimum air gap required for a sink?
a. 1.25 inches
b. 1.5 inches
c. 2 inches
d. 3 inches
165. Which of the following do you need in order to size water piping for a water distribution system?
a. The rate at which the water will flow
b. The minimum quantity of water that a pipe of a specific material can deliver
c. The outside diameter of the pipe being used to deliver water
d. The amount of pitch that will be installed on the supply piping
e. Both a and d

166. The minimum required height of a barometric loop is 40 feet high. This is necessary since 38 feet
is the minimum height at which vacuum suction cannot occur.
a. True
b. False
167. Which of the following types of pipe deliver water at the fastest flow rate?
a. PEX
b. Copper
c. CPVC
d. Galvanized steel
168. You are sizing a water distribution system for a single-family home. Assume that the home has a
1-inch water service that terminates once it enters a basement so that it can be converted to waster
distribution piping. The house has two full bathrooms, one powder room, a kitchen sink, a garbage
disposer, a dishwasher, a bar sink, a washing machine hook-up, a water heater and three hose bibs.
Without going into depth to determine absolute minimum pipe sizing, what size piping do you believe
is most likely to be used for the main cold water distribution pipe?
a. 0.5 inch
b. 0.75 inch
c. 1 inch
d. 1.25 inch
169. When a water service pipe is installed in the vicinity of a waste disposal system, such as a septic
field, the water services should _____________.
a. Be installed through the bed in a way not to disturb the percolation chambers or gravel
b. Be installed above the waste disposal system
c. Be installed under the bed with a minimum depth of two feet between the disposal system
and the piping for the water service
d. Be installed a minimum of 50 feet from the nearest portion of a septic field

170. Now you are trying to find the most cost-effective way to provide a water service and a sewer to
a building. It would cost less if you put both pipes in a single trench. In fact, the code allows a water
service and sewer to be installed in the same trench.
a. True
b. False
171. Which of the following pertains to a code requirement on the use of flexible water connections?
a. Flexible water connections must be readily accessible.
b. Flexible water connections must be accessible.
c. Flexible water connections are limited to first-floor installations.
d. Flexible water connections must be supported.
172. A minimum distance of 100 feet is required between a pasture and a potable water well.
a. True
b. False
173. You are designing a water distribution system. Based on your experience and a review of the
building plans, you have some concern that the pipes may bang or vibrate after they are installed.
This can create wear on the piping that could result in future leaks. How will you protect against
these concerns?
a. Run all piping as straight as possible to avoid offsets where water would be making turns and
therefore creating a water hammer.
b. Avoid the installation of slow-closing valves.
c. Install 45-degree offsets in long runs of piping to prevent water from rushing through the
piping and coming to an abrupt change of direction.
d. Install only PEX piping

174. The maximum allowable water pressure in residential water distribution systems is
___________.
a. 40 pounds per square inch
b. 60 pounds per square inch
c. 80 pounds per square inch
d. 100 pounds per square inch
175. Water storage tanks must not be installed __________.
a. Below kitchens
b. Below mechanical rooms
c. Below soil pipes
d. Below bathrooms
176. Which of the following is required when a diaphragm-type pressure tank is installed for the
delivery of potable water from a well?
a. A vacuum relief valve
b. A double check valve
c. A pressure balancing valve
d. A pressure relief valve
177. Pipe supports used to secure water distribution pipes must be __________.
a. Be made of a material that is the same as the material used to make the pipe that is being
secured
b. Be made of plastic
c. Be made of a material that is resistant to corrosion
d. Be made of a ferrous material

178. A minimum depth of 10 feet of grouting for a potable well must be extended into the earth if the
well casing does not hit bedrock.
a. True
b. False
179. How far apart can supports be spaced when installing copper piping in a horizontal position for
water distribution?
a. No more than 4 feet
b. No more than 6 feet
c. No more than 8 feet
d. No more than 10 feet
180. Sill cocks require ________.
a. A backflow preventer
b. A minimum water supply of 0.75 inch in diameter
c. A tempering valve
d. A thread-mounted backflow preventer
181. An example of a full-open valve is a __________valve.
a. Gate
b. Stop-and-waste
c. Stop
d. Quick-closing

182. Assume that you are a plumber working in a rural location. There are a lot of farms in the area
where you work. In this example an old farm house burned to the ground and a new one is being
built. You will be installing the water service from the submersible well pump to the new house. The
farm has livestock on it. There are also buildings related to the farming activities. How far from the
barnyard should the water service pipe be installed?
a. 50 feet
b. 75
c. 100
d. 300
183. What is the most dependable type of backflow prevention?
a. An air break
b. An air gap
c. A double check valve
d. A vacuum breaker
184. Jet pumps installed in basements must be installed a minimum of 18 inches from the finished
floor level.
a. True
b. False
185. Carbonated beverage dispensers require the installation of ______________ on the incoming
water supply.
a. A vacuum breaker
b. A butterfly-style backflow preventer
c. A pneumatic backflow preventer
d. A vented backflow preventer that is not affected by carbon dioxide gas if the fixture does not
have an internal backflow preventer.

186. Connections between potable water supply systems and automatic fire sprinkling systems are to
be made with _________.
a. Mechanical joints
b. A check valve
c. A vented backflow preventer
d. A flanged joints and stainless-steel bolts
187. Piping that delivers hot water must maintain the desired water temperature for a minimum
travel distance of least ______ feet from the fixture being served.
a. 60 feet
b. 80 feet
c. 100 feet
d. 150 feet
188. Pex water pipe and tubing can be used as a water distribution material. However, there is a limit
to how close PEX piping can be installed to the top of a water heater. Some type of metallic pipe or
connector is required to connect to a water heater and it must rise to a point at least _____ inches
above the water heater before PEX tubing or piping can be attached to it.
a. 4
b. 6
c. 12
d. 18

189. Inlet and outlet copper water connections to an electric water heater should contain
__________.
a. Unions
b. Dielectric Unions
c. Compression Unions
d. Galvanized Unions
190. Water piping that is approved for use as a water service and not approved for use as water
distribution piping must be converted to piping that is suitable for a water distribution system
_________________________.
a. At the inlet piping to a water heater
b. Prior to the piping turning to a vertical position
c. Within the first 3 feet of entry of the building
d. At the full-open valve installed on the water service when it enters a building
191. You want to run a water service line above a sewer pipe in the same trench. How much dirt
must be laid between the pipes?
a. 6 inches
b. 12 inches
c. 18 inches
d. 24 inches

192. If a water service line and a sewer pipe cannot be installed in the same trench at different levels,
they can be installed at the same level in the ground as long as ___________ feet of earth separates
them.
a. 1
b. 3
c. 5
d. 10

Sanitary Drainage Systems
193. Assume that you are sizing a drainage system and want to determine the total load on the
system as you design it. With this in mind, how many gallons per minute of drainage will two fixture
units represent?
a. 1
b. 2
c. 3
d. 4
194. Drainage piping that has a diameter of three inches is normally allowed to carry the waste of up
to _______ toilet(s).
a. 1
b. 2
c. 4
d. 5

195. Assume that you are sizing a drainage system that will contain a pump. Further assume that
horizontal drainage piping will be installed with a grade of 1/4 of an inch per linear foot. To
determine the minimum piping diameter required for the waste pipe connected to the pump you will
___________________.
a. Calculate the number of fixture-unit ratings and base your pipe sizing on this information.
b. Calculate the vertical lift of the pump and the fixture-unit ratings served by the pump.
c. Calculate the flow rate of the pump in gallons per minute and multiply that by two to arrive
at the fixture-unit load on the pump.
d. Assign a gpm rating of 8.5 to the pump and determine pipe size based on fixture-unit ratings
196. When plumbing is roughed in for future use the increased load of drainage that could be created
by future fixtures must be factored into the sizing of the drainage system.
a. True
b. False
197. Sizing procedures for sewers is done with the same practices and principles that are used when
sizing ________________.
a. Horizontal branches
b. Soil stacks
c. Vent stacks
d. Building drains
198. What is the minimum allowable slope allowed per linear foot when a sewer or building drain is
installed?
a. 1/16 inch
b. 1/8 inch
c. 1/4 inch
d. 1/2 inch

199. Sizing a drainage stack requires you to identify ________________.
a. The amount of slope designed for the piping
b. The fixture-unit load on each storey of height
c. The fixture-unit load entering a stack at each branch interval
d. The size of the sewer that the stack will connect to
200. When sizing a stack for pressure sterilizer drainage systems you must use different criteria than
you would for sizing a stack for toilets and sinks.
a. True
b. False
201. The code states that horizontal branch drains must run _________________.
a. Horizontally
b. For a minimum of 42 inches before a change in direction
c. Directly to a vent stack
d. With a minimum diameter of 3 inches
e. Both a and c
202. When is a vent not required for a vertical offset in a stack?
a. When the stack has horizontal branches connected to it
b. When the stack has a minimum diameter of three inches
c. When the stack is sized as a building drain
d. When the stack has a minimum diameter of four inches

203. Assume you are installing drainage piping in and around a food service area. Which of the
following locations are not allowed to have exposed drainage piping installed above them?
a. Areas used for storage
b. Surfaces provided for eating
c. Work areas
d. All of the above
e. B and c only
204. You have a contractor who has been asked to provide plans and specifications for a job that will
involve two homes on the same building lot. The potential homeowner will live in one house and use
the other one as a rental property. There is no zoning requirement that prohibits this construction in
the proposed location. As a cost-saving method, the contractor wants to use one sewer and one
water service to provide municipal services to both dwellings. This will cut down on plumbing costs
and the payment for tap fees will be cut in half. Multiple buildings situated on the same building lot
may share a common building sewer.
a. True
b. False
205. Which of the following types of joints can be used to join dissimilar piping materials?
a. Mechanical
b. Soldered
c. Welded
d. Brazed
206. Sewage ejector pumps are required to have ____________ installed on the discharge piping from
the sewage pump.
a. Ground-nut unions
b. A relief valve
c. A check valve
d. A 2-inch trap

207. Not all fittings can be used for all purposes. You must know which fittings are approved for your
intended use. Imagine that you are installing horizontal drain piping above ground. You want to turn
the drain from one horizontal direction to another. Which of the following fittings are suitable for a
change of direction from a horizontal position to another horizontal position?
a. Sixteenth bend
b. Long-sweep elbow
c. Eighth bend
d. All of the above
e. Only a and c
208. Flexible couplings on pipes, with a diameter in excess of 4-inches that create a change in
direction are required to be supported to prevent any loosening pertaining to the coupling.
a. True
b. False
209. Suppose you want to turn a vertical drain to a horizontal position. Which of the following fittings
cannot be used for this purpose?
a. Quarter bend
b. Short-sweep fittings
c. Short-turn elbow
d. Sanitary tee
210. Blowback water closets can be installed back to back when they share a common back wall.
What fitting will you show in your plumbing design to receive the discharge from the two toilets?
Remember that they could each discharge at the same time.
a. A double sanitary tee
b. A double tee-wye
c. A cross tee
d. A blowback tee

211. Rubber couplings cannot be used to connect DWV piping that is of a dissimilar type.
a. True
b. False

Special Piping and Storage Systems
212. The plumbing code covers which of the following?
a. Medical gas systems
b. Non-medical oxygen systems
c. General oxygen systems
d. Both a and b
213. You are laying out a plumbing diagram that calls for the installation of water fountains in the
hallways of healthcare facilities. The halls will accommodate patients being transported in
wheelchairs. How will you show the installation of water fountains under such conditions?
a. Drinking fountains are required to be flush mounted.
b. Drinking fountains are required to be installed for wheelchair access.
c. Both a or b
214. Sterilizers require an indirect waste receptor that is both trapped and vented.
a. True
b. False

215. Assume that you are designing a plumbing system for a psychiatric hospital and therapy rooms.
This type of facility requires some special plumbing revisions. For example, the general restrooms
serving the therapy rooms will accommodate psychiatric patients. What design consideration must
you keep in mind when drawing the piping diagram?
a. Access panels must be installed for all stop valves.
b. Traps must not be connected with slip-nut connections.
c. Roll insulated must be installed on piping to prevent burns.
d. You have to conform the plumbing to be sure that all piping and traps will be concealed.
216. All fixtures and fittings installed in rooms housing psychiatric patients must be ________.
a. Supplied with only cold water
b. Firmly bolted to a fixed location
c. Protected from possible vandalism
d. Hospital approved
217. The plumbing code pertains only to medical gases that are nonflammable.
a. True
b. False
218. Healthcare facilities contain ice makers. These devices must be installed _______.
a. In the facility kitchen
b. In a basement location to avoid potential flooding
c. In a supervised location, such as a nurse station
d. In hallway alcoves

219. What type of trap is required for an aspirator that is used for the removal of bodily fluids if
collection bottles are not used?
a. A fluid trap that is similar to a collection bottle
b. A vibratory trap
c. An S-trap
220. Suction equipment that is supplied with water falls under the same regulations of the plumbing
code that pertains to aspirators.
a. True
b. False
221. You have to dispatch a plumber to install a sterilizer in a healthcare facility. You have designed
the installation procedure. What is the maximum distance of piping for an indirect waste drain?
a. 2 feet
b. 4 feet
c. 15 feet
d. 20 feet
222. Assume that you are drawing a riser diagram that includes vapor vents. These vents are being
provided for sterilizers. The building has an extensive network of plumbing being installed and the
general contractor has instructed you to design a system that will be as cost effective as possible.
With this in mind, what will you show as a piping route for the vents as they rise above the sterilizers?
a. You will render the installation of mechanical vents once the vent rises six inches above the
sterilizer unit.
b. You will show the vent connecting to a common DWV network or vents.
c. You will have your plumbing team terminate the vents once they are in a ventilated attic
area.
d. You will require the vents to be extended to outside air without connection to any other
system.

223. A trap seal serves a bedpan steamer. You must install an indirect waste. The minimum depth of
the trap seal is ___________.
a. 1.5 inches
b. 2 inches
c. 2.5 inches
d. 3 inches
224. Drains from sterilizers must be connected to a drainage system through an indirect-waste
connection.
a. True
b. False
225. When you dispatch a team of journeyman plumbers to install aspirators you will have to explain
the type of installation that you want. In doing this you must identify the manner in which the waste
will be discharged. Which of the following options must you include in your design?
a. An air gap or vacuum breaker
b. An air break or vacuum breaker
c. An air gap
d. An atmospheric backwater valve
226. When you are working with plumbing in healthcare facilities the work is likely to include
plumbing for medical gas systems. It is allowable to supply several gas outlets with a single supply
pipe. However, there is another design element that must be considered. How many sources of
medical gas are required to be connected to a supply line that delivers the gas? The correct answer
applies to all applications whether you are supplying one outlet or six.
a. 1
b. 2
c. 3
d. 4

227. Mechanical engineers are normally the people who design medical gas systems. Once a permit
is issued to a master plumber, certain requirements apply to the plumber’s responsibilities. As a
master plumber, you must know the protocol for the administrative side of installing medical gas
systems. One of the responsibilities concerns record keeping. Where are the as-built plans and valve
identification records required to be kept?
a. In the mechanical engineer’s office
b. In the plumber’s office
c. On the job site
d. In a safe accessible by the master plumber
228. Aspirators are mandated to discharge to a sanitary drainage system through an air break.
a. True
b. False

Water Heaters
229. When you install a water heater, you are required to obtain a permit and have your work
inspected by a code officer upon completion. But, is a permit and inspection needed when you are
merely replacing an existing water heater with a new one? The plumbing code requires
_____________ when a water heater is simply being replaced in the exact location of the existing
water heater.
a. No permit
b. A permit and inspection
c. No permit, but does require a code officer to inspect the work
d. A permit, but no code inspection of the work

230. A master plumber can ___________.
a. Install water heaters without supervision
b. Can send a licensed journeyman plumber to install water heater with indirect supervision
c. Allow apprentice plumbers to assist in the installation of water heaters as long as the
apprentice is supervised directly be either a journeyman or master plumber
d. All of the above
e. Both a and c
231. Imagine that you are called upon to install a water heater for a triplex rental property. The
water heater will be used for domestic purposes. Which of the following is required for the
satisfactory installation?
a. An indirect waste and drain pan
b. An indelibly stamped metal plate that is permanently attached to the water heater in a clear
and conspicuous location that shows the maximum working pressure of the water heater
c. Pipe insulation on the inlet and outlet piping that extends a minimum of 18 inches above the
water heater
d. A stop and waste valve on the cold-water inlet pipe
e. Both b and d
232. Third-party certification is required for all water heaters.
a. True
b. False
233. Water heaters and water-heating systems for domestic hot water are required to be equipped
with _____________.
a. Ball valves on the outlet piping
b. An automatic temperature control
c. Drain pans
d. 1-inch diameter condensate drains for relief valves

234. What is the minimum height measurement for the installation of a water heater in an attic?
a. 24 inches
b. 28 inches
c. 30 inches
d. 48 inches
235. When water heaters are installed in attics they are required to have a continuous solid floor in
the exit area. What is the minimum required width of this floor?
a. 24 inches
b. 30 inches
c. 36 inches
d. 42 inches
236. Vacuum breakers are to be installed in conjunction with the inlet piping that serves a water
heater.
a. True
b. False
237. A continuous solid floor is required as a service area for water heaters installed in attics. The
service area is required to be level and must have a dimension of __________ inches in depth and
width to allow for adequate servicing of the water heater.
a. 24 x 24
b. 30 x30
c. 36 x 36
d. 42 x 42

238. How large does the clear access opening for the removal of an attic-installed water heater need
to be?
a. 20 inches by 24 inches
b. 20 inches by 30 inches
c. 28 inches by 28 inches
d. 36 inches by 36 inches
239. What is the minimum width requirement for an exit route installed for the removal of a water
heater installed in an attic?
a. 20 inches
b. 22 inches
c. 30 inches
d. 36 inches
240. Relief valves used on water heaters are installed to control thermal expansion.
a. True
b. False
241. What is the maximum allowable distance for an exit route in an attic for the removal of a water
heater?
a. 10 feet
b. 15 feet
c. 20 feet
d. 30 feet

242. The installation of an electric water heater requires which of the following to be in close
proximity to the fixture?
a. An ABC-type fire extinguisher
b. An electrical disconnect switch that is dedicated to only the water heater
c. A ventilation fan
d. A minimum of two light sources to allow for service work to be completed
e. Both a and b
243. The installation of a water heater requires some specific types of equipment. A water heater
cannot be installed with _____________.
a. A temperature or pressure relief valve affixed to it
b. A cutoff valve on the inlet pipe that utilizes washers to stop the flow of water
c. A vacuum breaker on the inlet water pipe
d. A plastic drain pan
244. Discharge piping connected to a relief valve may terminate with a threaded end.
a. True
b. False e
245. What is the maximum depth below the top of a water heater that a temperature and pressure
relief valve can be installed?
a. 6 inches
b. 8 inches
c. 10 inches
d. 12 inches

246. What is the maximum allowable distance between the termination end of a discharge tube from
a relief valve and the surface of a finished floor?
a. 4 inches
b. 6 inches
c. 8 inches
d. 12 inches
247. You are installing an electric water heater in an attic. This type of installation requires the
installation of a drain pan under the water heater. You must determine the required depth of the pan
that will be installed. Which of the following is the correct minimum depth for such a pan?
a. 1 inch
b. 1.25 inches
c. 1.5 inches
d. 2 inches
248. The code requires that all discharge piping from a relief valve on a water heater to be installed in
such a way that it can observed by occupants in the building that houses the water heater.
a. True
b. False

Recycling Gray Water
249. Recycled gray water can be used for ____________.
a. The water supply to laundry tub faucets
b. Flushing urinals
c. Subsurface landscape irrigation
d. Both b and c

250. Which of the following types of materials are approved for the construction of collection
reservoirs for gray water?
a. Corrosion resistant materials
b. Nonabsorbent materials
c. Durable materials
d. All of the above
e. Both b and c only
251. Assume that you are plumbing an inlet for gray water into a collection reservoir. You must be
aware of the requirements for the installation. Which of the following will you be required to install
in the piping system?
a. A filter
b. A pressure gauge
c. A stop valve
d. A water gauge
252. What type of filter is approved for use in filtering gray water entering a collection reservoir?
a. A media filter
b. A sand filter
c. A diatomaceous earth filter
d. All of the above

253. The collection of gray water can come from which of the following plumbing fixtures?
a. Shower
b. Bidet
c. Kitchen sink
d. Dishwasher
254. Fifteen-pound roofing felt is the preferred cover material for aggregate installed in a seepage pit
or trench.
a. True
b. False
255. Gray water that enters a collection reservoir must be ________.
a. Filtered and measured
b. Filtered and flow controlled
c. Filtered and monitored
d. Filtered
256. Gray water collection reservoirs are required to be equipped with overflow pipes. What is the
minimum diameter of an overflow pipe?
a. 3 inches
b. 4 inches
c. The overflow pipe must be as large as, or larger than, the influent pipe for the gray water
reservoir.
d. The overflow pipe must be no less than one-half the diameter size of the influent pipe for the
gray water reservoir.

257. Gray water collection reservoirs are required to be ___________.
a. Vented
b. Trapped
c. Provided with vapor barrier venting
d. Cleaned monthly
258. All gray water reservoirs are required to be fitted with a drain at the lowest point of the
reservoir. This drain is required to discharge to _____________.
a. A catch basin
b. A gravel bed for dissipation into approved soil
c. A sanitary drainage system
d. Any of the above
259. How is gray water discharge estimated?
a. It is based on gallons per minute
b. It is based on gallons per day
c. It is based on gallons per week
d. It is based on daily demand at peak loads
260. You are designing the work procedures for your plumbers who will be working on a seepage
trench. Your plan requires the plumbers to rough up the bottom of the trench and loosen all the dirt
in the bottom of the trench. Your plumbers complain that this work is not necessary. Is it true that
the ground in the bottom of seepage trenches and beds is required to be loosened?
a. True
b. False

261. Gray water collection systems can be used to provide water for flushing toilets and urinals.
Minimum standards for this purpose are in play. You must obtain specific data for a full and thorough
evaluation of a collection system. Which of the following contribute to this data?
a. Disinfection
b. Coloring
c. Certification from a state agency that identifies the water as suitable for recycling
d. All of the above
262. What is the minimum holding capacity for a gray water collection reservoir that will be used to
flush toilets?
a. 25 gallons
b. 40 gallons
c. 50 gallons
d. 75 gallons
263. Gray water is not allowed to be held in reserve for long periods of time. Assume that you are
working with a gray water system where toilets and urinals will be flushed with gray water. How long
can gray water remain in a reservoir before it is used?
a. 12 hours
b. 24 hours
c. 36 hours
d. 72 hours

264. There are a limited number of disinfectants that can be used to disinfect gray water that will be
used for flushing toilets and urinals. Which of the following would you, as a master plumber,
authorize the use of for disinfection of gray water to flush toilets and urinals?
a. Chlorine or iodine
b. Ozone
c. Charcoal filtering
d. All of the above
e. Either a or b
265. To avoid confusing gray water with potable water you must dye gray water. What color dye are
you required to use to identify water as gray water?
a. Blue or green
b. Green or yellow
c. Red or blue
d. Orange or green
266. You are designing a plumbing system that will utilize recycled gray water for irrigation purposes.
This particular system is a subsurface irrigation system. Before you can determine a suitable location
you need to establish certain criteria. For example, assume that the property will receive potable
water from well water. When this is the case the irrigation system cannot be installed at an elevation
higher than the surface grade of any potable water well.
a. True
b. False
267. Why type of dye can be used when coloring gray water to meet the requirements of the
plumbing code?
a. Food-grade vegetable dye
b. Hair dye
c. Clothing dye
d. Certified plumbing dye

268. There could be a time when a gray water reservoir capacity would be inadequate to meet the
demands on it for flushing toilets or urinals. To compensate for this risk you must ___________.
a. Install back-up gray water reservoirs when this risk is reasonable to assume possible
b. Provide supplemental potable water to the gray-water system for emergency use
c. Install audible alarm systems on all fixtures dependent on the system
d. Reduce the number of toilets or urinal specified to be installed
269. Subsurface landscape irrigation systems can be provided with recycled gray water. The rules and
regulations for these systems can differ for irrigation purposes when compared with the flushing of
toilets and urinals. What is the maximum allowable time to retain gray water for use in an irrigation
system?
a. 24 hours
b. 36 hours
c. 48 hours
d. 72 hours
270. What color dye is required when dying gray water that will be used for subsurface landscape
irrigation?
a. Blue
b. Green
c. Red
271. A gray water irrigation reservoir is required to have a supplemental water supply to protect
against the reservoir running dry.
a. True
b. False

272. What special regulations apply to water piping that conveys and distributes recycled gray water?
a. The pipe must not be made of CPVC piping
b. The pipe must be fitted with air chambers
c. The pipe must be identified as non-potable water in an approved manner
d. The pipe is not allowed to be fitted with boiler drains
e. Both a and c
273. Soil testing by an approved authority is required for any site that will accommodate a seepage
bed or trench.
a. True
b. False
274. Which of the following is required for the use of subsurface landscaping irrigation systems?
a. The system is required to be elevated
b. The system is required to be regulated
c. The system is required to be monitored
d. The space is required to have a current perk test
275. Seepage trenches are used in conjunction with some irrigations systems. When this is the case,
the trenches must have a minimum width of ________.
a. 6 inches
b. 12 inches
c. 18 inches
d. 24 inches

276. What is the minimum number of distribution pipes required for a seepage bed?
a. One distribution pipe
b. Two distribution pipes
c. Three distribution pipes
d. Four distribution pipes
277. What is the minimum depth of aggregate allowed to backfill a seepage trench?
a. 6 inches
b. 10 inches
c. 12 inches
d. 18 inches
278. Distribution piping in a seepage trench or bed is required to have a minimum diameter of ____?
a. 1.5 inches
b. 2 inches
c. 3 inches
d. 4 inches
279. Normal plumbing piping that is buried is required to have a minimum ground cover of 12 inches.
This is not the case for piping used in a seepage trench. Piping in a seepage trench requires a
minimum cover soil of no less than 6 inches.
a. True
b. False

280. A seepage trench used in conjunction with an irrigation system can extend up to __________
feet in length.
a. 25
b. 50
c. 75
d. 100
281. The maximum width of a seepage trench used in conjunction with an irrigation system is
____________________.
a. 18 inches
b. 24 inches
c. 4 feet
d. 5 feet
282. If multiple seepage trenches are installed together, they are required to be no less than 2 feet
apart.
a. True
b. False
283. What is the minimum size of aggregate allowed used to backfill a seepage trench?
a. 0.25 inches
b. 0.5 inches
c. 0.75 inches
d. 1 inch

284. What is the maximum size of aggregate allowed to backfill a seepage trench?
a. 1 inch
b. 1.5 inches
c. 2 inches
d. 2.5 inches
285. The aggregate depth cover over distribution piping in a seepage trench must be at least 2 inches
deep.
a. True
b. False

Storm Drainage
286. How does the code define storm drainage?
a. Gray water
b. Black water
c. Excessive ground water
d. Both a and c
287. A general contractor has asked you to design a storm-water drainage system. During planning
talks, you are working with both the land developer and the general contractor to determine the best
way to deal with storm drainage. The developer has asked you to provide a list of options for suitable
disposal or collection sites for excess ground water on the proposed project. Which of the following
should your list include?
a. A catch basin
b. A retainage pond
c. A storm sewer
d. All of the above

288. As a plumber who is sizing a storm-drainage system there are certain pieces of information that
you must consider. Without accurate data you cannot design a suitable drainage system for storm
water. As a designer you are developing a plan for the collection of surface water. Which of the
following data will you need to make an accurate design?
a. The occupancy type of the structure for which storm drainage is being provided
b. Local rainfall rates
c. The square footage of all areas subject to surface water runoff
d. All of the above
e. Both b and c
289. A gutter that will be installed horizontally to collect and convey storm water is required to have
a pitch (grade) that is no less than_______.
a. 1/16 inch
b. 1/8 inch
c. 1/4 inch
d. 1/2 inch
290. Assume that you are designing a system of piping to collect rainwater on a flat roof. As part of
the process, you will determine the size and grade of both vertical and horizontal rain leaders and
gutters. The overall design will include the number of roof drains needed and their placement. As you
draw the riser diagram for the piping, you must indicate the locations and heights of the roof drains.
What is the minimum height that a roof drain is required to extend above a roof surface?
a. 2 inches
b. 3 inches
c. 4 inches
d. 6 inches

291. Storm-water drainage systems have the same requirements for cleanouts as sanitary drainage
systems.
a. True
b. False
292. Roof drains must be _____________.
a. Clearly marked as storm-water drainage components with a metal identification tag

permanently attached to them
b. Equipped with removable strainers
c. Constructed to plastic or cast iron
d. Both a and b
293. As you are designing a roof drainage system for storm water you are calculating both the need
and sizing for roof drains. During your calculations you have determined that the rain leaders
connected to the roof drains will have a minimum diameter of three inches. What is the minimum
size of the roof drains connected to the leaders?
a. 2 inches in diameter
b. 3 inches in diameter
c. 4 inches in diameter
d. 6 inches in diameter
294. Assume that you are designing a roof drainage system for a flat roof. The square footage of the
roof area is approximately 8,000 square feet. How many roof drains will you need in your design
drawing?
a. 1
b. 2
c. 4
d. 6

295. Now you are faced with a roof drainage design for a building that will contain 17,000 square feet
of roof area. What is the minimum number of roof drains required for this type of structure?
a. 3
b. 4
c. 6
d. 8
296. There are times when a secondary roof system is provided for a building to accommodate storm
drainage. When this is the case, the secondary drainage system is not allowed to discharge into the
same system that accepts the waste from the primary system. The discharge from a secondary system
must ___________.
a. Never discharge into a catch basin
b. Discharge into a storm sewer
c. Discharge above grade
d. All of the above
297. The size of a roof drain must be considered in a determination of the flow rates used to design a
storm-water drainage system.
a. True
b. False
298. Which of the following types of valves are likely to be found in a storm-drainage system?
a. Stop valves
b. Flapper valves
c. Backwater valves
d. Stop-and-waste valves

299. Which of the following components of a storm-water drainage system are required to be
trapped?
a. Area-way drains
b. Floor drains
c. Both a and b
300. Assume that you are installing a storm-water drainage system for a commercial facility. The
building has a flat roof that will require four rain leaders. One of these exterior, vertical rain leaders
will be installed close to the building with brackets. The chosen location puts the vertical rain leader
near a loading dock where tractor-trailers unload their goods. Does this affect your plumbing design?
a. No, the pipe is on the outside of the building and does not fall under any special provisions.
b. No, the pipe is for rainwater only.
c. Yes, the pipe should be labeled as “Storm Water Only”.
d. Yes, the pipe may require protection from being crushed.
301. Roofs of buildings that are used for purposes in addition to shelter fall under different
regulations for roof drains. When installing roof drains on these roofs the roof drains __________.
a. Must not be equipped with roof drains
b. May be installed so that the strainers are flush with the roof surface
c. Must be surrounded by a visible barrier to prevent tripping accidents
d. May not be larger than two-inches in diameter

302. A few locations allow storm-drainage piping to be conveyed into a combination sewer. This is a
sewer that will carry both storm water and sanitary drainage. Assume that you are designing a piping
diagram for such a system. Your drawing must detail the connection of rain leaders and storm drains
to the combination sewer. Which of the following are you going to include in your drawing?
a. Rain leaders with accessible traps
b. Storm drains with accessible traps
c. Traps for rain leaders and storm drains that have a diameter equal to the piping that they
serve
d. All of the above
e. Only a and b
303. The sizing of piping for rain leaders is done in a way that is similar to the method used for sizing
of piping for downspouts.
a. True
b. False
304. Storm water piping may not be used for ____________.
a. Conveying sanitary drainage
b. Conveying water that may later be used for irrigation purposes
c. Both a and b
305. You are drawing a plumbing diagram to show the installation of a sump pump that will remove
excess groundwater from a residential basement. This pump will be pumping storm water. Your
drawing is required to show the sump pump being installed ________________.
a. In a sump
b. In a sump and vented
c. In a sump with a gas-tight cover
d. In a sump with a gas-tight cover and vent

306. Sumps designed to house sump pumps must have a minimum diameter of ________ and a
minimum depth of _________.
a. 12 inches (diameter) and 12 inches (depth)
b. 16 inches (diameter) and 24 inches (depth)
c. 18 inches (diameter) and 18 inches (depth)
d. 18 inches (diameter) and 24 inches (depth)
307. Which of the following materials are approved for use in the creation of a sump that will hold a
sump pump?
a. Plastic
b. Steel
c. Concrete
d. Any of the above
e. Either a or c only
308. Which of the following types of copper piping are prohibited for use as drainage piping installed
in conjunction with a sump pump?
a. Type K copper
b. Type L copper
c. DWV copper

309. Assume that you are drawing a piping diagram for the installation of a sump pump. Which of the
following are you going to show installed in the discharge piping?
a. Check valve
b. Stop valve
c. Backwater valve
d. Butterfly valve
310. Which of the following locations is not allowed to receive the discharge from a sump pump?
a. Catch basin
b. Subsurface drainage piping
c. Sanitary drainage system
d. Storm sewer
311. Assume that you are planning the installation of a sump pump in a residential basement. The
pump will be installed in a sump that will collect the drainage from interior subsurface drain piping.
You have sized the pump based on the lift requirements and the volume capacity of the sump. Then
you drew in a check valve on the discharge piping from the pump. No vent is required but all sump
pump installations require a full-open gate valve on the discharge piping.
a. True
b. False
312. Subsoil drainage piping for storm-water drainage is allowed to be conveyed through
___________.
a. Asbestos-cement pipe
b. Vitrified clay pipe
c. Either a or b

313. Assume you are sizing a drainage system for a combined sewer that will convey both storm
water and sanitary drainage. You must determine the load levels that the piping must be able to
handle. What does this require?
a. Converting storm water units to fixture units
b. Converting fixture-unit loads to drainage surface area
c. Converting gallons per minute to fixture-unit loads
314. When a roof is designed as any type of roof that is not a hanging roof, the roof must be equipped
with ____________.
a. Rain diverters
b. Gutters
c. Roof drains
d. Any of the above
315. Regardless of square-footage, a flat roof is required to have a minimum of four roof drains.
There must be one drain located within 10 feet of each corner of the roof.
a. True
b. False

Fuel Gas
316. The maximum arc for a metallic-pipe bend is __________.
a. 16 degrees
b. 22.5 degrees
c. 45 degrees
d. 90 degrees

317. What is the maximum allowable pressure for plastic gas piping that conveys natural gas?
a. 60 psig
b. 80 psig
c. 100 psig
d. 125 psig
318. Plastic gas piping is allowed to be installed ____________.
a. In attics
b. Underground
c. Only in basements and crawlspaces
d. Only in residential dwellings
319. Unions installed on gas piping are required to ______________.
a. be dielectric unions
b. Have a minimum diameter of 0.5 inches
c. Be tested bi-annually for leaks
d. Be visible
320. Plastic gas piping requires ____________.
a. The installation of a tracer wire
b. Mechanical-joint connections
c. The installation of a pulse sensor
d. The installation of a drip leg

321. Piping that conveys wet gas must be ________________________.
a. Provided with drip legs in low spots
b. On a level basis
c. Trapped
d. Identified with yellow bands of paint every 15 linear feet
322. Flexible gas connectors for all gas appliances, except ranges and clothes dryers, are limited to a
maximum length of _______ inches.
a. 24
b. 30
c. 36
d. 42
323. Flow controls on gas piping must be _____________.
a. Accessible
b. Readily accessible
c. Equipped with leak detectors
d. Set to a maximum pressure of 10 psig
324. The maximum allowable pressure to be used when testing gas piping is ________.
a. 38 psig
b. 42 psig
c. 100 psig
d. 125 psig

325. Testing gas piping that has a volume of more than 10 cubic feet are required to be maintained
for a minimum of 30 minutes for each ______ cubic feet of pipe volume or fraction thereof.
a. 100
b. 250
c. 500
d. 750

Master Plumber Practice Exam
Answers
1. c – Of the possible answers, only the licensed code officer is the one who is allowed to interpret the
code. Whether a plumbing installation passes or fails an inspection is subject to a code officer’s
interpretation. You can appeal a decision that you feel is incorrect or questionable. Even as a master
plumber your understanding of the intent of the code is not absolute. The plumbing inspector is the final
word in the field when it comes to an interpretation of the code.
2. d - Water heaters require that you apply for and receive a plumbing permit prior to the replacement
of an existing water heater. After the replacement work is completed you must arrange for a plumbing
inspection of the work by a code enforcement officer. All other plumbing fixtures can be replaced in
their exact locations without the need for a permit or inspection. Due to the risk that can arise from a
faulty installation of a water heater it is the rare fixture that does require a permit and inspection for a
simple replacement.
3. True - Approved plans and specifications are required for every major job. These documents are
required to be stored on the job site. You must have them available to code officers on demand.
4. False- The plumbing code allows homeowners to obtain plumbing permits for work to be done on
their own residences when the homeowners will do the work themselves. When homeowners obtain a
permit, they must do the work themselves. This policy only applies to the homeowner’s primary
residence.
5. d - The application for a plumbing permit requires key information that you, as the master plumber
applying for the permit, must supply. Information needed for the application will include the following:
• Applicant’s full name

• Applicant’s complete address
• A full description of all work to be performed
• The number of plumbing fixtures to be installed
• The type of plumbing fixtures to be installed
• The type of use of the structure where the plumbing is being installed
Additional data may also be required, such as your plumbing license number, detailed plans and
specifications and so forth.
6. d - When you send a crew in to repair or alter existing plumbing you must take into consideration
that the existing system shall not be made unsafe or altered in any way that will have a negative effect
on the performance of the plumbing.

7. True - It is allowable to use plumbing materials that have been used previously under certain
conditions. The plumbing materials must be of an approved type. All of the material must be in good
working order. You should seek approval from a plumbing code officer to approve the specified
materials. If these conditions are met, it is allowable to reuse previously used plumbing parts and
fixtures.
8. d - The replacement of a water heater requires a permit and inspection. Other fixtures can be
replaced with new fixtures without the need for a permit when it is a direct replacement. In other
words, if you remove a toilet from a flange and replace it with a new toilet on the same flange, you do
not need a permit. However, if you move the drain pipe a permit is required.
9. False - Municipalities generally restrict plumbers from working on municipal plumbing components.
It is common for municipalities to provide a variety of plumbing devices that can include piping, water
meters, pressure-reducing valves, piping, fittings and other devices. Generally, a plumber is required to
work on systems within five feet of a building foundation. However, some cities install equipment
within a foundation. When this is the case, plumbers are responsible for work done beyond the
installation.
10. d - When you apply for a plumbing permit you must provide a full description of the work to be
done. Plumbing plans are often required for larger jobs. Specifications of all materials to be installed are
a common requirement for a plumbing permit. Permit applications require the physical address of the
property to receive plumbing services. The use of the property is often required. It makes a difference if
a structure is a home or a daycare. The owner’s name of the proper is generally required. You are also
required to detail the number and type of plumbing fixtures to be installed.
11. c - Your plumbing permit can be rendered invalid if work is not started within six months from the
day that the permit is issued. Don’t panic. Most code officers will work with you if there are situations
beyond your control that delay the start of the work. A code officer has some latitude in this matter. If
you have a valid reason for your inability to begin work, you are likely to be awarded an extension.
12. False - Plumbing alterations should comply with current code requirements. The alterations made
must be in compliance with present code requirements. However, the remainder of the existing
plumbing system is not required to be upgraded to modern code requirements.
13. True - Plumbing codes require different minimum standards for various types of building uses. For
example, the minimum number of fixtures required for a building can vary substantially based on the
use of a building. Accessibility requirements that do not apply to a residence can apply to an office
building or business. There are several situations where everything from pipe sizing to the number of
fixtures required can be different for various types of building uses. In order to change the use of a
building within compliance to code requirements a plan and specifications must be submitted to the
code enforcement office for approval.
14. d - All new installations are required to comply with the plumbing code. Other elements that may be
required to meet current code requirements can include renovations, the replacement of fixtures,

additions to a plumbing system and extensive repairs to plumbing systems. At no time can work done to
a plumbing system make it unsafe or be detrimental to the system.
15. a - A plumbing permit will not be required for the direct replacement of a kitchen sink. As long as
the new fixture is installed in the exact location of the existing sink that is being replaced a permit is not
required. Existing plumbing will not be required to be brought up to current code standards, unless
there is a health or safety issue.
16. d - Annual inspections are required for backflow assemblies. Each backflow preventer should be
tested during the inspection. They must be working properly and must not allow contamination to the
water source in a water distribution system. New installations are required to be inspected. Any need to
repair a backflow preventer triggers the need for a test and inspection of the repaired device.
17. True - Code officers generally require a site plan and specifications on file before any work is
commenced on an existing water service or sewer. The location of existing piping and the proposed
location for new piping should all be included on the site plan.
18. a - Adding new plumbing fixtures can overload existing plumbing. You must compute the total
fixture-unit ratings and the demand that it will put on existing plumbing piping. It is possible that an
existing pipe might have to be removed and replaced with a larger pipe.
19. b - Code officers are authorized to issue and post stop work orders when an immediate danger is
present, possible or pending. When a stop work order is posted all work on a site must cease. The stop
work order will bear the name of the issuing inspector. You should contact the inspector to determine
what must be done to allow work to begin again. Do not continue to work if a stop work order has been
posted. The penalties can be steep if you do.
20. d - Engineered trusses limit your ability to route piping. Trusses that are engineered must not be cut,
notched, drilled, spliced or otherwise altered. If any alteration of a truss is essential, an engineer should
be consulted to render specific instructions on what may be done to accommodate a plumbing
installation.
21. False - If you will be installing piping that will penetrate a fire-rated wall you will have to work from
approved plans and specifications. These documents will detail the acceptable manner in which to seal
the voids around piping.
22. d - Buried pipes are required to have a minimum depth of coverage that is equal to one foot in
depth. The material used to cover the pipe is required to be clean of anything that might damage the
pipe as the backfill material is installed. You must compact the fill over the piping to avoid settling. Most
plumbing contractors backfill six inches of dirt at a time. Then the dirt is compacted. Once the first level
is compacted a second layer is installed and compacted. This completes the minimum requirements for
backfilling a buried pipe.
23. a - Plumbing installations in potential flood areas require special consideration. The systems must
be protected in ways that will prevent damage from flooding. Protection requirements call for the
consideration of hydrostatic load and stress, hydrodynamic loads and stress, flooding of the piping in the
plumbing system and potential buoyancy of the piping.
24. c - When a building is to undergo a change in use many factors can affect the plumbing required for
the structure. You will need a permit for your work and this requires zoning approval for the work. In
our example the present use is residential. It is being changed to commercial use. The fact that a dental
office will exist in the building will require a variety of types of specialized plumbing that would not exist
in a home. All of the existing plumbing may have to be removed and upgraded to meet current code
requirements. Before you embark on plumbing for any change in use you should consult your local code
enforcement office to define which elements of the existing plumbing can be kept in place and in use.
25. e - Piping that penetrates an exterior wall is required to be provided with adequate pipe protection.
This protection is meant to keep the pipe from being crushed. The protection is generally provided by
installing a sleeve that is at least two pipe diameters larger than the pipe being installed. Additionally,
the sleeve must be installed in such a way to keep the opening watertight.
26. a - Local plumbing codes define the depth of a frost line in their jurisdictions. Plumbing pipes are to
be installed no less than 6 inches below the established local frost line. Keep in mind that any buried
pipe must have a minimum of 12 inches of cover over it.
27. True - Mechanical joints are a recommended means of making connections between dissimilar
types of materials. They can also be used to join like materials.
28. b – An appeal of a code officer’s decision must be based on the aspects of the code as they relate to
the rejection that you are appealing. You will be required to specify why the appeal is necessary and
warranted and this may involve reference to trade manuals but it is not required. In an appeal, you will
essentially be arguing what is authorized under the code.
29. d - Four feet is the maximum distance allowed between pipe supports for plastic DWV piping that is
installed in a horizontal position.
30. a - The typical amount of pitch installed on a sanitary drain line is one-quarter of an inch per foot.
This is not the case with the drain line for a condensate application. Drains carrying condensate require
only one-eighth of an inch of fall or pitch. These drains do not convey solids, so less pitch is required.
31. b - Foam pipe insulation installed on copper risers that will be stub-outs is a suitable means of
protection from contact with concrete. It is also acceptable to sleeve the copper piping or tubing with a
section of plastic piping. The goal is to prevent concrete from having direct contact with the copper
piping. Any form of protection that is used should be secure and durable and should not be affected
adversely from direct contact with concrete.
32. b - Auxiliary drain pans for condensate systems are to be equipped with water-level detection
devices that conform to UL 508. These devices must shut off any equipment served by the drain pan if
an overflow of the drainage pan may occur. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for any
additional requirements that may be needed.
33. d - Materials approved for condensate piping are as follows: galvanized steel, PEX tubing, copper,
polyethylene, ABS, PVC, CPVC and cast iron.
34. c - Condensate drains may have a minimum diameter of three quarters of an inch. This sizing is
based on one drainage pipe. It is acceptable to connect multiple condensate drains to a main
condensate drain. When this is the case, the diameter of the main drain must be computed for the total
demand that could be placed on the drain.
35. d - You can test a DWV system with water, air or smoke. The most common medium for testing is
air. It is rare for smoke to be used unless a leak cannot be found when a test is done with water or air.
36. False - The plumbing code requires that a test on a DWV system be maintained at a minimum of 10
pounds PSI for at least 15 minutes.
37. c - When underground plumbing is being tested there must be one riser that is at least ten feet
above the main plumbing system. This riser allows for a head of pressure to build over the entire
system.
38. c - The minimum number of plumbing fixture required for a single-family home is five. This includes
a toilet, a lavatory, a bathing unit, a kitchen sink and a washing machine connection. Additional fixtures
can be added, such as dishwashers and hose bibs.
39. d - Multi-family buildings are required to be equipped with a laundry facility when the total number
of rental units reaches 20. After this point additional laundry hook-ups are required for each additional
interval of 20 units. A 60-unit building would be equipped with three laundry facilities.
40. d - For every 15 people housed in a daycare facility one toilet is required. If there were 45 people
using the facility a total of three toilets would be needed. Local code requirements may require separate
facilities for males and females. If this is the case, you must double the number of toilets so that there is
a toilet for every 15 males and a toilet for every 15 females.
41. d - Five-hundred feet is the maximum allowable distance that employees can be required to walk in
order to reach a restroom.
42. a - Employees are not to ascend more than one set of steps to get to a restroom. The plumbing
facilities cannot be installed more than one story above the work area that employees will be moving
from.
43. c - Since motel rooms are used by the public, and their restrooms will be used by the public, the
bathrooms must be fitted with accessible plumbing facilities.
44. d - Plumbers are prohibited from installing drinking fountains in public bathrooms. The reason for
this is to protect users of the restroom from germs and diseases that might be collected on a drinking
fountain that is in a toilet room.
45. a - You will have to abide by both the plumbing and building codes when you are installing
accessible plumbing fixtures. Requirements for fixture types, heights and placements will be identified in
the plumbing code. The building code will dictate the access requirements, such as door widths. To
design your plumbing system for accessible plumbing fixtures you will rely on both the building and
plumbing codes and use them together in the overall design of your plumbing system.
46. False - The plumbing code requires that all hospitals be provided with at least two water services.
But, it allows for the use of a single water main. This means that one water main can be connected to
two water services in order to provide water to a hospital.
47. b - Handicap toilets are required to have a minimum height of 16 inches. The most common
accessible toilets have a height of 18 inches. In extreme cases, you can obtain and install a toilet that
enjoys a height of 20 inches. Eighteen inches is the most common height of a standard handicap toilet.
48. a - There is a type of toilet known as a siphon jet toilet. It is one of many types of toilets. Other
types include: siphon vortex, siphon wash, reverse trap, and blowout toilets. All of these toilets are
approved for use under the control of the plumbing code.
49. c - The minimum distance required in front of an accessible lavatory is 21 inches. Accessible
lavatories must also allow easy access by a person in a wheelchair. Typical designs for spacing in front of
a lavatory include an area that is 30 inches by 30 inches.
50. c- Accessible lavatories are to be installed so that the top of the lavatory is never more than 35
inches above the finished floor beneath the lavatory. The measurement is made from the flood-level
rim of the fixture to the finished floor.
51. c - Kitchen sinks installed for accessible use cannot be installed more than 34 inches from the
finished floor. The measurement is made from the flood-level rim to the finished floor. The primary
responsibility for counter height falls upon the building contractor and carpenters. Even so, If you install
a sink in a counter that is not set within the regulatory guidelines of the building and plumbing codes
you can count on having to remove that sink and reinstall it when the counter height is corrected.
52. d - Twenty-five inches is the maximum distance allowed between the front edge of a lavatory and
the faucet installed on it when the fixture is to be rated as an accessible fixture.
53. d - Handicap faucets are required to be designed so that they will operate with a maximum
operational force of five pounds. It is expected that users of these faucets may be limited in their
strength and ability to move faucet handles. This is the reason for the light pressure requirements.
54. b - Crossbar handles are not allowed for use in conjunction with accessible faucets. The types of
handles that are allowed include: push-button handles, sensor-units, blade handles, wing handles and
single handles. The reason for this is that finger dexterity is not a requirement for operating the handles.
55. c - Grab bars are required to be installed for all bathtubs that are installed for accessible use. These
bars are required to have a minimum diameter of 1.25 inches. The diameter cannot exceed 1.5 inches.
The bars are required to be at least 24 inches in length and installed horizontally.
56. b - A minimum length of five feet is required for hoses installed on personal shower units in
handicap bathing units. The hose must be long enough to allow bathers to use it from seats in bathing
units and from wheelchairs.
57. True - Public restroom facilities must have accessible travel routes that do not go through kitchens,
storage rooms or closets. In the scenario above the public would be required to pass through a kitchen
to get to a bathroom. This would be a violation of the plumbing code.
58. a - An accessible shower that contains a seat must be provided with a seat that is not more than 16
inches wide. Permanent seats have to be mounted along a sidewall of the shower and run the full
length of the shower.
59. b - There is a height requirement to be observed in an accessible use situation. The seat is to have a
height that is not less than 17 inches and not more than 19 inches from the finished floor.
60. b - The operational control device on a drinking fountain can be mounted on either the side or the
front of the fixture. No other location is approved.
61. b - Bidets are required to have a minimum of 30 inches of clear space for a suitable installation. This
requires a minimum of 15 inches of clearance on both sides of the bidet from the center of the drain
opening.
62. a - Plumbing fixtures are required to be installed level and with good workmanship. Code officers
are allowed to reject plumbing work that is not done with good workmanship principles. When speaking
in terms of being level, this refers to both a left-to-right position and a front-to-back position.
63. d - Closet bolts should be constructed of brass. This is the industry standard. The bolts that hold a
toilet to a flange or floor are required to be resistant to corrosive action. When they are not, they can
weaken and allow a toilet to move over time and with usage. Brass lag bolts should be used to secure
toilets to floors when no closet flange is installed.
64. a - All shower doors are required to allow for a minimum unobstructed opening of ingress and
egress of not less than 22 inches.
65. True - Five-hundred feet is the maximum travel distance allowed for the public to reach a unisex
toilet facility. Unisex restrooms are not allowed to be located more than one storey above or below a
separate-sex restroom.
66. b - The reason for a pressure-balanced valve is to protect people from unexpected changes in water
temperatures. It is bad enough when a warm shower shifts to cold water as some other fixture is used
in the system. But, it can be far worse if extreme hot water is expelled quickly and without warning.
Infants and elderly people may not be able to move quickly enough to avoid pain and possible skin
damage from unchecked hot water. Temperature actuated flow reduction valves are not a suitable
replacement for a balanced pressure valve.
67. d - Many types of devices are allowed for keeping water in a bathtub. They include all of the
following: plunger stoppers, rubber stoppers, lift-and-turn stoppers, push-pull stoppers and snap-down-
pop-up stoppers.
68. c - A tub waste and overflow that is installed with the use of slip nuts and washers requires an
access panel. This is necessary for any required service to the tub waste. The use of solid, permanent
connections for tub wastes eliminates the need for access panels. Solvent-weld joints and soldered
joints are examples of such connections.
69. c- Dishwashers are required to discharge their waste through an air gap. The reason for this is to
eliminate the possibility of back siphonage. One alternative is to install a backflow preventer on the
drainage line, but this is extremely rare. Air gaps are normally installed on the deck of a kitchen sink, but
they can be installed on a kitchen counter.
70. a - The drain from a washing machine is required to discharge into an indirect waste receptor. This
receptor is to have a 2-inch trap. It is also to be vented with a vent that has a minimum diameter of 1.5
inches. The normal connection is made with a 2-inch standpipe that accepts the discharge hose from a
washing machine. Another option is to allow the washing machine to discharge into a laundry tub. Due
to the depth of laundry tubs they create an acceptable area for the collection and draining of waste
from an automatic clothes washing machine.
71. c - Garbage disposers are required to discharge into drains that have a minimum diameter 1.5
inches. All drainage connections for garbage disposers are required to be solid connections. These
fixtures require their waste to be trapped. It is acceptable to connect the waste from garbage disposers
to the waste system of a kitchen sink. When this is the case, the trap for the kitchen sink also serves as
the trap for the garbage disposer.
72. False - You cannot install grab bars below faucets in bathing units. They must be installed above
faucets. The specifications for all required grab bars, their minimum dimensions and their placement can
be found in the plumbing code.
73. b - The minimum allowable diameter for a drain pipe that receives the waste from a floor drain is
two inches. Floor drains are to be trapped and vented. Each floor drain is required to be fitted with a
removable strainer. The strainers are required to be readily accessible.
74. c - All showers are required to have drains with a minimum diameter of two inches that are both
trapped and vented. Removable strainers are required to cover the shower drain within the shower
base. At no time can the diameter of the drain be reduced in its run towards a building sewer.
75. a - Anti-siphon construction is a requirement for all ballcock assemblies that are installed in toilets
for residential use. Older style ballcocks remain on the open market but they are not approved for use.
Even if you are doing service and repair work, you must install only anti-siphon devices.
76. b - You must provide commercial garbage disposers with drains that have a minimum diameter of
two inches. Cold water sources are required to be available to commercial garbage disposers. It can be
of an automatic type.
77. False - It is common for grease traps to be installed in commercial kitchens. Do not let this fool you.
Commercial garbage disposals must not be connected to grease interceptors.
78. b - Backflow protection must be installed on the water supply lines for garbage can washers. An air
gap is the right choice. Due to the nature of the use of these devices the risk of backflow into a potable
water source is not acceptable. You must ensure that the water supply will not be at risk of siphoning
dirty water into the potable water distribution system.
79. c - A urinal is required to be served by a single flush valve. The valve must be of an approved type
and may be handle or sensor operated.
80. c - Bedpan washers are also known as clinical sinks. It is common for the flush-valve piping to water
closets to contain piping that is designed to be activated as a bedpan washer. This reduces the need for
a separate fixture in healthcare facilities.
81. c - Medical sterilizers must be connected to steam piping. This piping must be installed with pitch
that will allow gravity to control condensation and prevent moisture from entering the sterilizer. Indirect
waste connections are required for the drainage piping that comes from a sterilizing unit. Leak detectors
must be installed for any sterilizer unit.
82. b - When a plumbing device is required to be readily accessible it must be able to be worked on
without having to move or remove anything. For example, a pressure-reducing valve that is installed on
a water distribution pipe near the connection to a water service in an unfinished basement where the
valve can be seen and touched is installed in a readily accessible way.
83. c - Vents for bedpan washers are required to have a minimum diameter of two inches. The vents for
bedpan washers are to extend to outside air above the roof of the building that houses the fixtures.
Vents installed for bedpan washers are known as local vents. Tying local vents into a general venting
system is prohibited
84. a - When a backflow preventer is installed to protect a fixture the backflow device is required to be
installed a minimum of six inches above the flood-level rim of the fixture. This can become confusing
when working with showers. Handheld shower devices that have backflow preventers installed must
have them installed a minimum of six inches above the highest point to which the handheld shower can
be raised.
85. False - Drinking fountains are not allowed to be installed in rooms where toilet facilities exist. This is
for sanitation purposes. While it is true that toilets require a minimum of 15 inches from the center of
the toilet drain to the closest fixture is true. But, the fact that drinking fountains are not allowed to be
installed in toilet rooms makes the statement false.
86. d - The drain from a washing machine is required to discharge through an air gap into an indirect
waste receptor. It is never allowable to make a direct connection between the drain for a washing
machine and a sanitary drainage system. The receptor for the indirect waste is required to have a
minimum height of 18 inches and a maximum height of 30 inches. A drain used to receive the discharge
from a washing machine is required to be trapped and vented. The minimum diameter of a trap allowed
for this purpose is two inches.
87. c - Under normal conditions, you are required to trap a drain for an indirect waste when the drain
pipe extends more than two feet. There are sometimes special local code terms that allow the drainage
pipe to run up to five feet before a trap is required. You will have to check your local rules and
regulations to be certain on this point. P-traps are the most common type of trap used DWV systems.
88. True - Structures are not allowed to have combined systems that convey both sanitary drainage and
special wastes. The special waste must be treated before it can be introduced into a sanitary drainage
system.
89. b - The most positive protection from back siphonage when working with indirect wastes is an air
gap. Making a connection through an air gap allows open air space between the discharge pipe and the
receptor receiving that waste. Since the two piping elements do not come into contact with each other
backflow is essentially impossible.
90. d - The discharge tubing that is connected to a relief valve that is servicing a water heater, boiler or
an expansion tank for a boiler is not allowed to be trapped. Discharge piping from the relief valve is to
extend downward to a point within six inches of a floor. Ideally, the drainage tubing should terminate
above a floor drain, but this is not a requirement. The end of the tubing is not to be threaded.
91. False - At no time should the drain hose enter the trap seal. Normally this hose will terminate
within the first few inches of the standpipe receptor pipe. The whole point of the indirect waste is to
keep the drain hose away from the water in the drainage system.
92. c - The minimum allowable height for a standpipe on a washing machine receptor is 18 inches.
Standpipes for this type of installation cannot extend more than 42 inches. The measurement is made
from the trap seal, not the top of the trap. Receptors must be accessible.
93. b - A drain that collects and conveys waste from a clothes washing machine is required to have a
minimum diameter of three inches. Pipe with a 2-inch diameter can convey the waste from the trapped
receptor at the washing machine to the branch drain or drain stack where it terminates. It is acceptable
to have the drain discharge into a larger branch drain or drain stack.
94. False - Wye-branch fittings are an approved means of connection for the waste hose from an air gap
for a dishwasher to a sanitary drainage system. The fitting is installed as a part of the waste system for a
kitchen sink prior to the waste system entering the drainage trap.
95. c - Indirect wastes are not normally allowed to be installed in rooms that contain toilets. Of course,
code officers can issue variances. The only common exception is the installation of an indirect waste
receptor for an automatic clothes washer. When you see an indirect waster called for in a room where a
toilet will be installed you should verify the clearance for the work to be done.
96. c - Closets and unvented areas are not acceptable locations for the installation of indirect waste
receptors.
97. True - When backwater valves are not installed, floor drains in this scenario are required to
discharge through air gaps. If the floor area that contains the drains is of an impervious type it may be
allowed to avoid air gaps by raising the hub of the pipe at least one inch above the floor. However, this
can create a tripping hazard. For this reason, most contractors and plumbers install the drains flush with
the finished floor and discharge them through air gaps.
98. d - Commercial dishwashing machines are allowed to use high-temperature hot water that would
not be allowed for a residential use. It is common for these machines to use hot water that has a
temperature in excess of 140 degrees F. Due to the high temperature of hot water used with
commercial equipment the discharge from the dishwasher must discharge through either an air gap or
an air break. The discharge is to enter a standpipe made of approved materials for the high-temperature
water
99. d - Hospitals, healthcare facilities and structures that contain piping that conveys strong chemicals
can all require plumbing for special wastes. If the waste may have a harmful effect on a plumbing or
waste disposal system, it should be piped as a special waste. It is common for special waste to be
neutralized, diluted or otherwise treated before it can be allowed to enter a sanitary drainage system.
100. False - All waste of a clear-water type from a potable source is required to be piped through an air
gap, not a vacuum breaker.
101. d - Installing vents on plumbing traps enable the drains to drain faster and better. This is due to the
air that is allowed to circulate in the drainage system as a result of the vent. Self-cleaning traps, such as
P traps, are at risk of being drained of their liquid trap seals if they are not vented. Sewer gas is a health
hazard. Vents protect against this risk by transporting sewer gas to open air outside of the building
where plumbing is installed.
102. b - Individual vents are not installed for every plumbing trap when a combination-waste-and vent
(CWV) system is installed. Air that is required for the system to drain properly is provided through the
use of oversized drains instead. Most plumbing fixtures can be installed on a CWV system, but some
cannot. The fixtures that are not allowed include urinals, toilets, bidets, showers, bathtubs and garbage
disposers.
103. c - Combination waste-and-vent systems require the use of anti-siphon traps. Drum traps are anti-
siphon traps and therefore are allowed for use in CWV systems. Due to the cleanout plug that is a part
of a drum trap, the trap must be accessible for cleaning in the event of a stoppage.
104. a - Vents installed for plumbing systems are required to terminate into open air outside of the
building. The terminal end of the vent is required to be above the roofline of the building. These vents
are not allowed to terminate under an operable window. When operable windows are on either side of
a vent pipe the vent must be installed far enough away from the window to avoid sewer gas from being
taken in through the open window. This normally means that the vent should be at least ten feet away
from a window or rise to a point that is at least two feet above the window. One exception to this is the
use of a mechanical vent. These vents are used under hardship situations when they are approved by
the local code officer. Mechanical vents are normally installed below plumbing fixtures. These vents
require a diaphragm seal to prevent the escape of sewer gas.
105. False - Drainage that enters a wet vent must enter the piping system downstream of the wet vent.
For example, you might install a wye fitting and extend a drain horizontally to fixtures. The drains from
the fixtures must tie into the drainage system prior to the pipe changing into a vent. The fact that the
developed length of the pipe serves as both a drain and a vent makes it a wet vent.
106. c - Drains with diameters up to four inches can be equipped with relief vents that have a minimum
diameter of 1.5 inches. The code ruling is that a relief vent can have a diameter this is equal to half the
diameter of the drain being used. So, if you had a 4-inch drain, you would need a 2-inch vent.
107. d - Circuit vents are allowed to tie into stack vents, vent stacks and venting systems that extend to
outside air. They may also extend to outside air independently.
108. d - The use of branch vents provides a connection point for multiple vents to tie into. The branch
vent runs horizontally. There is no limit to the developed length of branch drains that have the same
diameter of the drains that it is serving. Plumbers use these vents to reduce labor and material costs in
new installations. Having the horizontal branch vent in place allows other vents to terminate in the
branch vent rather than to be extended individually to open air. This saves time and money since less
pipe and fewer fittings are required to properly vent a system.
109. Truth - Horizontal drains served by circuit vents cannot be installed with a grade of more than one
inch per foot.
110. c - Many types of vents can carry waste in their lower sections as drains and still provide the
services of a vent. However, vent stacks must only be used as vent pipes. They are not allowed to accept
drainage from plumbing fixtures. This type of vent is considered to be a primary vent. The vent is to
extend to open air above the building containing it. While a vent stack is not allowed to accept drainage,
it is acceptable to tie other vents into the vertical vent stack.
111. b - When common vents are used they must vent only fixtures that are found on the same floor
level. Most jurisdictions restrict the use of common vents so that they may not serve more than two
traps. For example, you could use a common vent for a bathtub trap and a lavatory trap when the
fixtures are on the same floor level. A few jurisdictions may not place a limit on the number of traps
that can be served, but all jurisdictions do require that all fixtures being served be on the same floor
level.
112. a - Island vents can be used only on sinks and lavatories. No other plumbing fixtures qualify for the
installation of an island vent. These vents are built beneath the flood level rim of the fixture being
vented. A cleanout is required in the piping arrangement. Once the island vent reaches a point to turn
to a vertical position it must rise to outside open air or tie into another vent at a point at least six inches
above the flood level rim of the fixture being vented.
113. a - The use of wet vents can reduce costs for both labor and material. They serve as a vent for one
fixture and a drain for a different fixture. When used, wet vents can serve two fixtures that are in the
same bathroom group when the wet vent is a horizontal branch drain. The discharge from fixtures must
be downstream of a wet vent. When a wet vent is installed vertically the vent can be used to vent any
combination of fixtures within two bathroom groups located on the same floor level.
114. d - Piping that is being used as a trap arm may have a crown vent installed on it. Crown-vented
traps are no longer approved in new plumbing systems. When a crown vent is installed on a trap arm
the vent is required to be installed at a point at least twice as far from the trap as the diameter of the
trap arm. A trap arm that has a diameter of two inches would require a crown vent to be installed four
inches away from the trap. The vent must be downstream of the trap.
115. False - Vents develop condensation. Over time the condensation can grow to a point where, if it is
freezing, the ice can blow a vent and render it useless. At the very least the ice can restrict the pipe
diameter to a point that is not approved by the code. Therefore, vents must be protected from freezing
in regions where freezing is a risk. The rule of thumb is that vents installed in locations where outside
temperatures may reach a low of zero degrees F are required to be protected from freezing.
116. b - When sewage pumps are installed, the sumps that they are installed in are required to be fitted
with gas-tight covers and the sump must be vented to outside air. Vents for sumps are not permitted to
be connected to other vents when pneumatic sewer ejector pumps are used. A vent for a sump that
houses a sewer pump must have a minimum diameter of 1.25 inches, but they are more commonly
installed with 2-inch diameters.
117. a - In order to size a vent for a sump that will house a sewage pump you will need to know the
discharge capacity of the pump. Once you know this you can use a chart provided in your plumbing
code to determine both the minimum allowable pipe diameter for a vent and the total developed length
that the vent may run. For example, assume that you know that the discharge rate is 20 gpm. If you use
a vent with a 1.25-inch diameter the vent can run a maximum of 270 feet. But, if you use a 1.5-inch vent
the length of the vent is unlimited.
118. d - A vent with a diameter of 1.25 inches can be used on a sump that will house a sewer pump
where the pump discharge capacity will not exceed 149 gpm. Once the gpm rate reaches 150, the
minimum vent diameter is 1.5 inches and that is very limited in developed length. Even with a 2-inch
vent the developed length cannot exceed 44 feet. You must keep these factors in mind for your sizing
work.
119. b - Once the discharge capacity of a sewage pump reaches 500 gpm, the smallest allowable vent
that can be used to vent the sewage sump is three inches in diameter. It is limited to 24 feet of
developed length. If a 4-inch vent is used the developed length extends to 130 feet.
120. False - Once stack vents rise to a point of at least six inches above the flood level rim of the highest
fixture being served it can be offset with fittings.
121. c - Main vents for homes are required to have a minimum diameter of three inches. By rule, the
vent must be at least three inches in diameter and no less than half the size of the building drain. A
detached building that contains only a washing machine or laundry tub is allowed to have a main vent
with a minimum diameter of 1.5 inches.
122. c - Drainage fixture units are the primary key needed to size waste stack vents. Once you have this,
you will have a chart to work with to convert your information into a minimum pipe diameter for the
piping. You will need to determine the total discharge of fixture units into one branch interval. The total
discharge into the pipe, measured in fixture units, is also needed. With this in hand and the proper
sizing chart, you will be able to cross reference from the chart to determine the minimum diameter of
the stack size.
123. a - To size a pipe for a wet vent you must know the drainage fixture unit load that the pipe will be
exposed to. You will be able to reference a chart provided for you in your code book to determine the
proper minimum diameter for a pipe that will be used as a wet vent.
124. True - A chart that can be found in your code book will assign a drainage fixture unit rating to
common trap sizes. For example, a 1.5-inch trap has a drainage fixture unit (DFU) rating of two. A 2-inch
trap has a DFU rating of three and a 4-inch trap has a DFU rating of six. So, once you know the trap size
you can determine the DFU rating load that will be on your venting system.
125. a - Your plumbers are required to install a cleanout at the junction point between the building
drain and sewer. This requirement allows service plumbers to clear stoppages in the sewer between the
house and the sewer connection at the municipal piping. Depending on the piping position, the cleanout
can take the form of a test tee, a wye or a tee-wye. Remember to leave adequate access in front of the
cleanout for the snaking of the drain.
126. c - Sewers are required to have cleanouts. The cleanouts take the form of manholes when large-
diameter sewers are installed. Smaller sewers require cleanout fittings. The sizing and location
requirements for cleanouts are detailed in the local plumbing code.
127. False - A 22.5-degree bend can be used for a change in direction without any need for a cleanout.
The same is true for 45-degree bends. Beyond that cleanouts are required.
128. c - Drain pipes that are not building drains or horizontal branches that are installed in second-story
framing are not required to be equipped with cleanouts. This is due to the fact that P-traps and toilets
are allowed to act as required cleanouts.
129. d - Sewers with diameters of no less than eight inches can have cleanouts spaced as far apart as
400 feet. This is based on straight runs of piping. You must still install cleanouts at points of changes in
direction. The cleanouts must be accessible. How do you make a cleanout on a buried pipe accessible?
Install a riser pipe from the sewer to approximately ground level for the finished grade. The fitting used
for this in the sewer piping is a tee-wye. Once the riser is at ground level you will install a cleanout
fitting on it.
130. True - You can avoid a junction cleanout by installing a cleanout in the building drain that is no
more than 10 feet from the junction point of the building drain and sewer.
131. d - Cleanouts are required for every 50 feet of piping installed for drains with diameters of four
inches, or less. The scenario above requires 4 cleanouts. Since the pipe is 60 feet in length it requires
two cleanouts if it is running in a straight line. However, the branch in our example takes two 90-degree
changes in direction. A cleanout is required for each of these changes in direction. Therefore, the total
number of cleanouts required is four.
132. c - Horizontal drain pipes are required to have cleanouts installed at the end of the piping run.
Additional cleanouts may be needed when the drain extends for a distance in excess of 50 feet. In the
case of the drain terminating at a water closet, the water closet can be considered a cleanout. Likewise,
a horizontal drain equipped with a P-trap is considered to have a cleanout as a result of the removable
U-bend of the trap.
133. False - It is acceptable to install a two-way cleanout as a junction cleanout, but there are other
approved types of cleanouts that may also be used. These include, but are not limited to, test tees, tee-
wyes with cleanout fittings, wyes with female adapters and screw-in plugs connected to them.
134. d - In order to use an existing cleanout plug as a connection point for a new fixture you will have to
obtain permission from a code officer. If the modification is approved, you will be required to install a
new cleanout that will replace the one that is being used as a connection point for a new drain. The new
cleanout installation must comply with all code requirements or be installed according to the
instructions provided by the approving code officer.
135. b - Cleanouts are not required when changes in direction are made with eighth bends or other
fittings with less of an angle than an eighth bend. This is due to the moderate rate of the change in
direction.
136. False - When cleanouts are provided for underfloor piping it should be installed on a vertical stack
at a height ranging from 18-48 inches above the finished floor level. This is not always practical.
Consider this example and alternative installation method. The underfloor piping is installed in a
warehouse where people and equipment move about. It is a large building with several cleanouts
required. You cannot reasonably install vertical stacks in all of the locations where cleanouts are
required. Doing so would block travel paths. Given these circumstances you can install the cleanouts
flush with the finished floor. They have to be fitted with recessed cleanout plugs to prevent tripping
hazards.
137. a - Each stack is required to have a cleanout at the base of the stack. This means you will need six
cleanouts on the stacks where they enter the floor. The cleanouts can be up to 48 inches above the floor
level and they must be provided with adequate access for cleaning the drains if they become blocked.
138. a - Cleanouts are required to be accessible. They can be installed in closets, in cabinets, in walls
when access panels are provided, and in similar locations. The key is that cleanouts must be accessible
for drain cleaning with minimal effort and with no damage done to the property in order to expose the
cleanouts.
139. True - Cleanout clearance distance in front of a 3-inch cleanout is to be no less than 18 inches. If
you are installing drains that have diameters of less than 3 inches, only 12 inches of clear space is
required in front of the cleanout.
140. c - There cannot be more than twenty feet between an access opening and a cleanout when the
cleanout is installed below a finished floor. More than one access opening may have to be provided for
access to cleanouts in large buildings.
141. b - A rubber cap that is secured to the end of a pipe with a stainless-steel clamp can be used as an
acceptable cleanout at any location where another type of cleanout would be used. The procedure is
not common, but it is an option. If this option is used, adequate access must be provided for the easy
removal of the stainless-steel clamp.
142. c - To be safe, you should show the maximum distance between manholes not exceeding 300 feet.
Some jurisdictions will allow the spacing to run as far as 400 feet. Manholes are typically used on
sewers that have diameters of eight inches or more. Protection from flooding is to be provided for
manholes and the covers used on manholes are required to allow gases from the sewer to escape to
open air.
143. True - The plumbing code requires plugs used with cleanouts to be constructed of either brass or
plastic. These are the only two types of material that are allowed for use as plugs to seal cleanouts.
144. b - Flexible compression connections are normally used to install manholes. The connections are
not allowed to be closer than one foot to a manhole and not more than three feet away from a
manhole.
145. d - The minimum depth of a liquid trap seal is two inches. This depth must be maintained. If the
trap is not used often the trap seal may evaporate. If there is a risk of the trap drying out, a trap prime
is to be installed. This is a device that detects a falling level of liquid in a trap and then introduces water
into the trap if the trap seal is in risk of dropping below the required minimum.
146. False - It is a code violation to double trap any plumbing fixture.
147. a - Vents for traps provide a number of benefits, but the main risk associated with a trap that is not
vented is the possibility that the liquid trap seal may be sucked out of the trap due to backpressure. If
this happens the trap will no longer be sealed and sewer gas can escape into a building. This can be a
health concern. For this reason the plumbing code sets forth requirements for maximum distances
between vents and the traps that they serve. This information can be found in the venting section of the
code.
148. c - House traps are not allowed in any new plumbing installations. P-traps are the typical type of
trap used for new installations. Drum traps are normally prohibited in new installations, but there are
exceptions. When a combination waste-and-vent system is being installed it is necessary to install drum
traps where traps are required.
149. False - Clothes washers are allowed to discharge into laundry sinks as a means of an indirect waste.
They are not, however, allowed to discharge into a kitchen sink. The depth of the sink bowl for a kitchen
sink is inadequate to handle the volume of discharge.
150. d - Tailpieces are not to be longer than 24 inches in length. Longer tailpieces can result in
blowback when waste conveyed by the tailpiece makes contact with a trap or drainage fitting. In such a
case, the water can splash back up the tailpiece while leaving solids lodged in the drain. When additional
length is needed, and can be achieved by having the tailpiece enter the drainage piping system, offset
the remainder of the drop to prevent a direct fall of water that may not drain the pipe properly.
151. a - Grease traps must be equipped to prevent water from flowing through the interceptor too
quickly. Flow ratings are assigned to specific grease traps. The maximum flow rating is not to be
exceeded. The inner portions of grease traps are designed to capture grease that is in water being
drained from a fixture and released into a sanitary drainage system. The traps are designed for specific
water flowage to ensure that the grease will be collected properly. If water is allowed to pass through
the interceptor too quickly the grease may move through with the drain water and collect in the general
sanitary drainage system.
152. False - You cannot upsize the trap for a laundry sink. The trap is required to have the same
diameter as the tailpiece.
153. a - Traps installed below a concrete floor where there is no means of access to the trap should be P
traps that use solvent-weld joints. Since the traps are self cleaning and have permanent joints they can
be installed below grade without access.
154. d - Plumbing systems are to be protected from grease, sand and oil. This is done with the use of
interceptors. Interceptors stop the entry of harmful amounts of the substance being intercepted from
entering a sanitary drainage system. Each type of interceptor requires specific installation procedures.
Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations prior to installing an interceptor. Then rely on your
plumbing code for the remainder of the data you will need to make an approved installation.
155. c - A conversion table is provided in your code book to allow you to size grease trap capacity. The
answer is 40 pounds. You can use the chart, or you can use a simple rule-of-thumb that will result in the
same answer. Take the flow rate and double it and you will have the grease capacity in pounds. As an
example you can use this simple calculation
A = Total flow-through rating
C = Grease retention capacity
Ax2=C
156. a - Backwater valves are intended for installation on drains and sewers. You can think of a
backwater valve as something like a check valve. The device allows water to flow in only one direction.
In other words, the backwater valve allows a drain to drain and does not allow water due to a blocked
drain to move up the piping past the point of the backwater valve.
157. a - The plumbing code does not allow garbage disposers to accept waste that contains bacteria,
chemicals, emulsifiers or enzymes.
158. a - Only one trap is required. A continuous waste can be used to connect the drainage from all
three sink bowls and convey it to a single trap that is in a location central to all three sink bowls. All
three sink bowls can be vented with a single vent for the trap serving the sink.
159. True - All standpipes used as indirect waste receptors for washing machines must have a minimum
height of 18 inches. The maximum allowable height is 42 inches. Some local code requirements may
have exceptions to this rule, but the information here is the normal code requirement.
160. d - Four feet is the maximum height that a cleanout for the base of a stack can be installed above a
finished floor level. The access required for drain cleaning must be kept in mind. If the cleanout was
allowed to be higher on the stack it could be very difficult to rod out blockages in drains.
161. b - The minimum diameter of a water supply pipe for a urinal is 1/2 an inch. This has surprised
many plumbers. It is common for them to think that the water supply piping must be at least 3/4 of an
inch in diameter, but this is not the case.
162. d - The minimum flow rate for a water supply pipe servicing a bathtub is four gallons per minute. In
order to size a water distribution system you must know what flow rates to assign to different types of
fixtures. This is actually pretty easy when you use the table supplied for you in your code book. It will
name the fixture, the flow rate required, and the flow pressure required.
163. a - Public lavatories that are required to deliver waster at a pressure of 60 psi are required to have
a maximum flow rate and consumption of 0.5 gpm. This does not seem like much water. Water
conservation has long been a concern and newer fixtures are designed to operate properly while using
less water.
164. b - The minimum distance for an air gap being installed as described in the scenario is 1.5 inches.
Depending on the type of fixture you are working with and whether it is installed next to a wall, the air
gap requirement ranges from one to three inches. Use the sizing table in you code book when you are
required to determine a distance for a minimum air gap.
165. a- In order to size a water distribution system you will need to know the flow rate of the water, the
inside diameter of the water pipe and the amount of water that will be in the pipe. Once you know
these three elements you can size a pipe with a fairly simple formula. This formula is done as follows:
X = the water flow
Y = the amount of water in the pipe
Z = the inside diameter of the pipe
Y =XZ
Once you know the answer to the equation you can determine the size of the pipe requirement to meet
the needs of a water supply pipe. But, there is an easier way. Most plumbers use the fixture-unit rating
requirements of fixtures supplies to determine the piping size required for a full water distribution
system. The plumbing code takes into account that plumbers do not generally want to be
mathematicians, so tables and charts can be found in your code book that will allow you to size piping
without the heavy math.
166. False - The minimum required height of a barometric loop is 35 feet. When this is the case the
barometric loop can be used as a vacuum breaker. This is because the height of the loop is high enough
to prevent vacuum suction.
167. d - This answer is likely to surprise you, but galvanized steel pipe can deliver water at a faster flow
rate than PEX, copper or CPVC piping. It would seem logical that the roughness inside of galvanized
water piping would slow water down. Most people would think that a smooth pipe, such as copper or
PEX, would be capable over moving water faster. They are not. Why? It is due to the wall thickness of
the pipe. Since galvanized pipe has a thicker pipe wall it can work under greater pressure than a thin-
walled pipe can. Therefore, the galvanized pipe is capable of providing a faster flow rate. As an
example, most materials approved for water distribution have a flow rate of about 5 feet per second.
The rating for galvanized pipe is about 8 feet per second.
168. b - Normally a single-family home can be piped with the main water distribution piping having a
diameter of 0.75 inch. Typically, no more than two plumbing fixtures are allowed to be served by a
water distribution pipe with a diameter of 0.5-inch diameter. This means that you install 0.75-inch pipe
as the main pipe and branch off of it with pipes having diameter of either 0.75-inches or 0.5 inches. The
key is knowing the fixture-unit rating for the fixtures being served. You can find this information in a
table that most code books contain. A pipe with a larger diameter may be required when the number
and types of fixtures change. But all you really have to do is refer to your sizing tables to make your
design. In some cases you can extend a pipe with a 3/8-inch pipe to serve a fixture. It all comes down to
the fixture-unit rating requirements as set forth in your code book.
169. d - A minimum distance of 50 feet is required between a water service and a septic system. It is
never acceptable for a water service to be installed above, through, or under a septic system or other
waste disposal system. Due to the potential risk of contamination from the waste disposal system
entering the water service and contaminating the potable water supply, this rule is meaningful and must
be observed.
170. True - A water service can be installed in the same trench that contains a sewer. The two pipes
must be separated. The water service is normally installed on a stable shelf, usually made of dirt, that
provides a solid platform for the installation. The water service must be at least 12 inches above the
sewer. If this is not practical, the two pipes can be installed on the same level as long as the two pipes
are spaced a minimum of five feet apart and separated by undisturbed or compacted earth.
171. b - Flexible water connections must be accessible. The connectors can be installed in cabinets and
closets. They may also be installed behind access panels. As long as the devices can be serviced with the
removal of an access panel or the opening of a door they are accessible.
172. True - The minimum allowable distance between potable water wells and pastures is 100 feet. The
well must be protected from contamination. Having 100 feet between a well and a pasture is intended
to prevent runoff from the pasture from contaminating the water well.
173. c - Banging water pipes can make loud, obnoxious noises. The vibrations in the pipes can also wear
holes in the piping where it is supported. This may result in a leak. The official term for banging water
pipes is water hammer. Long, straight runs of water piping can lead to water hammer. This can be
avoided by installing 45-degree offsets along runs of piping. Air chambers and water-hammer arrestors
can be installed at fixtures to provide a cushion of air that will prevent water hammer. Quick-closing
valves are a potential cause of water hammer. These valves are commonly found in use with washing
machines and ballcocks.
174. c - Residential plumbing systems are to be equipped with water distribution systems that operate
at no more than 80 pounds per square inch. Street pressure for the water delivered from a municipality
can be higher than this. If this is the case, the installation of a pressure reducing valve is required near
the connection between a water service and a water distribution pipe. This valve allows you to adjust
the pressure rating to remain in compliance with the plumbing code.
175. c - It is a code violation to install a water storage tank under soil or waste pipes. There is too much
risk the leakage from the drains could reach a potable water source. Gravity-style water storage tanks
must be equipped with overflow provisions. Water supplies to water storage tanks must be
automatically controlled. All incoming water must pass through an air gap that is at least four inches
above the overflow for the tank and all tanks must be capable of being drained. They must also be
equipped with a drain valve to prevent unwanted draining.
176. d - Pressure tanks installed with a well system and that are constructed with a diaphragm design
are required to be protected by a pressure relief valve. You can install the valve on nearby water piping
or on the tank. Most of these tanks are fitted with a tank-tee that is set up to accept the installation of a
pressure relief valve. The valve must be rated for the requirements of the manufacturer’s rating of the
tank.
177. c - Supports used to hang and secure water piping must be made of a non-corrosive material. The
two most common materials used for this purpose is plastic and copper. Hangers and supports should
be sized properly to fit the piping that they are supporting. Vibration and movement of a supported pipe
in a hanger or support could result in wear that would lead to a leak.
178. True - Well casings are protected from the influx of ground water when grouting is installed.
Potable water wells are required to be protected around their casings with grouting that is installed to a
minimum depth of at least 10 feet below ground level. An exception to this is when bedrock is
encountered closer than 10 feet from the ground surface. Once bedrock surrounds a well casing
grouting is not needed.
179. b - Copper water tubing and pipe installed horizontally for water distribution is to be supported at
maximum intervals of six feet. The spacing of supports varies depending on the type of piping or tubing
being used.
Copper 6 Feet
PEX 32 Inches
Brass 10 Feet
Galvanized Steel 12 Feet
180. a - When sill cocks are installed they must be protected against backflow. This can be done with a
thread-mounted backflow preventer that cannot be removed or an integral vacuum breaker. In addition
to a backflow preventer, every sill cock is required to have its own independent cutoff valve. This does
not have to be a full-open valve. Stop-and-waste valves are normally used.
181. a - Full open valves are so named because, when they are open, the internal diameter of the piping
is not restricted. Gate valves and ball valves are full-open valves. These valves are machined for a
positive closing action that does not incorporate the use of rubber washers. When a valve must be
counted on to close or is not allowed to restrict water flow, full-open valves are used.
182. c - The water service pipe must be at least 100 feet away from the barnyard to avoid potential risk
of contamination. This is not the type of situation that many plumbers run into, but some do work in
farming communities and the question could appear on your exam. There is a table in your code book
that details minimum required distances like the one cited in this example.
183. b - Air gaps provide the most dependable form of backflow protection. When they are used there
is a physical drop between the fixture delivering water and the fixture receiving it. An example of this
would be a tub spout. The tub spout is never subjected to contact with drainage water, so backflow is
essentially impossible.
184. True - Jet pumps must be protected from the potential risk of flood waters. To accomplish this, jet
pumps installed in basements must be mounted a minimum of 18 inches above the finished floor. This is
assumed to be a height that is not likely to be affected by flood water collected in a basement.
185. d - Carbonated beverage dispensers require the installation of a vented backflow preventer that is
not affected by carbon dioxide gas. This can be an internal backflow preventer or one that is installed on
the incoming water supply. Most carbonators are equipped with approved, manufacturer-installed
backflow prevention devices.
186. b - A check valve is required to be installed between a potable water source and an automatic fire
sprinkling system. This is the base requirement. The type of sprinkling system used can require
additional devices to be installed. You have to identify each type of system and confirm the
requirements for the system being used. But, in all cases, a check valve is required to be installed in the
piping between a potable water source and the sprinkling system.
187. c - Water distribution pipe that supplies hot water is required to maintain the desired water
temperature for a minimum of 100 feet from the fixture being served. Should this not be possible with
existing equipment, a recirculation pump should be installed. The use of these pumps are common in
large buildings, such as hotels. The pump keeps hot water moving to maintain the desired temperature
at the prescribed distance required. It can become expensive to heat water continuously, but when the
source of hot water cannot maintain the required temperature for the prescribed distance there is little
choice but to install additional heating units along the water distribution piping or to install a
recirculation pump.
188. d - The installation of Pex tubing and piping for water distribution to and from a water heater is
restricted so that the Pex material will not be closer than 18 inches to the connection point. Metal
connectors are available to fill the gap between the PEX and the water heater. If that is not desirable,
copper piping or tubing can connect directly to the water heater and then be converted to PEX once the
height requirement is met.
189. b - Unions should be installed on both the inlet and outlet piping for a water heater. This facilitates
the easy removal of the water heater. The unions used with copper pipe or tubing should be dielectric
unions. These unions contain a rubber washer that breaks the metal-to-metal contact. When this
happens unintended electrical current cannot pass from the water heater through metallic water piping.
This prevents someone from touching a water pipe and receiving an electrical shock that has transferred
from an electric water heater.
190. d - A full-open valve is required to be installed on a water service pipe when it enters a building.
This is also the point where a conversion from one type of material to another is required if the piping
used as a water service is not rated for use as a water distribution pipe. Normally this will occur within
the first five feet of the water service piping entering a building.
191. b - The water service line must be at least 12 inches above the sewer pipe on a stable shelf.
192. c.- If it is not practical to install a water service and sewer line above one another in the same
trench, the two pipes can be installed on the same level as long as the two pipes are spaced a minimum
of five feet apart and separated by undisturbed or compacted earth.
193. a - Two fixtures units represent one gallon per minute of flow. A drainage trap with a 1.5-inch
diameter has a rating of two fixture units. This means that a fixture served by a 1.5-inch trap is expected
to produce a drainage flow of up to one gallon per minute.
194. b - It is normally acceptable to allow up to two toilets to be installed on a 3-inch drain. This can be
a horizontal branch, a stack, a building drain or a sewer. Some local codes allow up to three toilets to be
installed on a 3-inch pipe. You can check your local code to be certain of the ruling enforced in your
area. As a rule of thumb, if you use the limit of two toilets on a 3-inch drain you will be safe with your
field design.
195. c - Sizing a drain pipe for a sewage pump requires you to calculate the flow rate of the pump and
assign two fixture units for every gallon of flow per minute. Consider this example: the sewage pump
has a flow rate of 5 gpm. You assign two fixture units for each gpm and arrive at a total of 10. The
fixture-unit load on the pump is determined to be 10. There have been some exceptions to this concept.
There have been circumstances when the flow rate is assigned one fixture unit for every 7.5 gpm. The
safest method for sizing the discharge piping for a sewage pump is to refer to a table in your code book.
The chart will give you some concrete options. For example, a pump that has a capacity of 21 gpm
requires a 2-inch drain. A pump with a capacity of 30 gpm requires a 2.5-inch pipe. Since 2.5-inch pipe
is rarely used, the move here would be to upsize the pipe to a 3-inch diameter. When this is done the
drain can carry up to 45 gpm of pump capacity. .
196. True - Plumbing that is roughed in or stubbed out for potential future use is to be taken into
consideration when sizing a drainage system. For example, if you rough in a bathroom for a shower, a
lavatory and a toilet, the flow load of all of these fixtures must be used in determining the minimum
sizing of a drainage system.
197. d - Sewers and building drains are sized using the same sizing criteria. Horizontal branches are
sized in a similar fashion, but the data used for sizing horizontal branches is different from what would
be used for a sewer or a building drain. The minimum diameter for a pipe that will convey waste from a
water closet is three inches. A 3-inch sewer installed with a slope of 1/4 inch per foot can carry up to 42
fixture units. If a 4-inch sewer is used under the same conditions it can handle up to 216 fixture units.
198. a - The minimum allowable slope allowed per linear foot for the installation of a sewer or building
drain is 1/16 of an inch. But a slope of this rate is rare. In common practice, an 1/8 of an inch is
generally considered to be the smallest slope to be used in the field. Most plumbing professional prefer
and use 1/4 of an inch of fall per foot.
Maximum Number of Drainage Fixture Units Allowed on Sewers and Building Drains
Diameter of Pipe 1/16 Inch 1/8 Inch Grade 1/4 Inch Grade 1/2 Inch Grade
Grade per per Linear Foot per Linear Foot per Linear Foot
Linear Foot
3 Not allowed 36 42 50
6 Not allowed 700 840 1,000
8 1,400 1,600 1,920 2,300
199. c - When you are sizing a drainage stack you must know the fixture-unit load that is entering the
stack at each branch interval. Since stacks are used as connection points for horizontal branches there
can be a lot of fixture units dumped into a stack. For example, a 4-inch stack can take up to 90 fixture
units of total discharge into one branch interval. If there are more than three branch intervals the stack
is allowed to carry up to 500 fixture units.
200. True - Stack sizing for sterilizers requires you to work with different ratings than what are used for
more common plumbing fixtures. Your code book should contain a table of sizing criteria that is to be
used when working with pressure sterilizers.
201. a - Horizontal branches can be installed horizontally or vertically. They are normally installed
horizontally.
202. c - Vertical offsets are not required to be vented where a stack and its offset is sized as a building
drain. This means that the stack must be sized using the criteria for a building drain. Stack sizing rules
could allow for a smaller diameter than what would be allowed for a building drain. If this is the case,
the offset will have to be vented.
203. d - Due to the risk of leakage and potential contamination, exposed drainage piping is not allowed
to be installed above work areas, storage areas or eating surfaces in or around food service areas.
204. False - Multiple buildings situated on the same building lot are not allowed to share a common
building sewer.
205. a - Mechanical joints are used when joining dissimilar pipes. These mechanical joints can be made
with compression joints or mechanical-sealing devices. The devices used to make the joints are required
to have approved elastomeric seals.
206. c - A check valve is required to be installed on the drainage piping from a sewage pump. You must
also install a full-open valve on the discharge side of the check valve. Both the check valve and the full-
open valve are required to be accessible. The full-open valve is needed in the event that the pump of the
check valve must be replaced. Closing the valve keeps the head of sewage above the check valve and the
pump from spilling out when the check valve or pump is removed. The installation of a full-open valve is
to be installed above the cover of a sewage sump that contains a pump. On the rare occasions when this
is not feasible, the valve has to be installed outside of the sewage sump. This requires the use of an
access pit. You might find limited exceptions to this regulation. One such example is a one- or two-family
dwelling where a full-open valve is not required. However, even when a full-open valve is not required
it should still be installed for servicing purposes.
207. d - All of the fittings listed in this question are suitable to change direction in horizontal piping from
one direction to another.
208. True - Flexible couplings on pipes with a diameter in excess of 4-inches that create a change in
209. d - You cannot use a sanitary tee for a change in direction from a vertical position to a horizontal
position.
210. b - You can use a double tee-wye to accept the drainage from two blowback toilets that are
installed back to back on a common wall. A double-wye with 45-degree bends in each side outlet can
also be used. This is essentially a homemade tee-wye. Some plumbers prefer to use tee-wyes as
combination fittings. These are the only fittings allowed for the use described in the question. This
fitting is approved due to the directional control that the fitting design offers. Waste discharge from
one toilet cannot pass straight through the fitting into the other toilet. This would be possible with a
cross tee or a double sanitary tee.
211. False - Rubber couplings that are held in place with stainless-steel clamps can be used to join DWV
piping. This is true when the pipe is of the same type or a dissimilar type. The coupling is a form of a
mechanical fitting.
212. d - The plumbing code regulates medical gas systems and non-medical oxygen systems. They are
considered as a part of special piping and storage systems.
213. c - Drinking fountains installed in corridors of healthcare facilities where patients are transported
by wheelchair, gurney or hospital bed must be either fully recessed or flush mounted. They shall be
accessible to patients in wheelchairs. Not only are drinking fountains required to be fully recessed or
flush mounted, so are valves associated with them. Drinking fountains and their valves are to be
installed in a way that will not come into contact with equipment used to transport patients.
214. False - Traps and vents are not required for the indirect waste receptors for sterilizers. Vapor vents
are sometimes required for sterilizers. When this is the case the vapor vents must comply with
manufacturer recommendations.
215. d - Plumbing pipes and traps must be concealed when they are installed in rooms that will be used
by psychiatric patients.
216. c - Plumbers are required to install fixtures and fittings used in psychiatric patient rooms so that
the components are not subject to vandalism. This can mean using durable fixtures and concealing
piping. The ultimate goal is to design and install a safe plumbing system that will serve the needs of the
people using the plumbing.
217. True - The plumbing code pertains to medical gases that are nonflammable. These types of gases
are often used in exhalation anesthetic systems and vacuum piping systems.
218. c - Ice makers installed for use in healthcare facilities must be installed in locations where regular
supervision is available. Such an area is a nurse station. Ice producing and storage equipment must be
protected from contamination of all types. The equipment is to be maintained in a safe and hygienic
manner at all times.
219. a - Aspirators used for removing bodily fluids must be equipped with collection bottles or similar
fluid traps. These are the only allowable means for trapping an aspirator.
220. True - Aspirators and suction equipment are both required to comply with the same code
requirements when the suction equipment is supplied with water. In essence, the water supply must be
protected from backflow. A vacuum breaker is the most common type of backflow preventer used for
this purpose.
221. c - Indirect-waste drains that serve sterilizers are allowed to have a developed length of up to, but
not in excess, of 15 feet. Waste piping is to have a diameter that is equal to, or larger than, the size of
the drain connection to the sterilizer. All receptors are required to be located in the same rooms as the
sterilizers that they receive waste from.
222. d - Sterilizer vents are not to tie into any other type of venting system. While not all sterilizers
require vents, those that do must be vented independently and terminate in outside air. All vapor vents
are identified based on the manufacturer’s requirements for sterilizer installation. Check the
manufacturer’s recommendations and requirements prior to drafting a plumbing design for installation.
223. d - A trap seal of three inches is required for indirect waste piping that collects the waste from
bedpan steamers. All bedpan steamers require traps.
224. True - It is true that the drains conveying waste from sterilizers are required to be connected to
drainage systems through indirect-waste connections.
225. c - You should design your system to discharge through an air gap. This is the only approved
means of installation for a drainage connection to an aspirator.
226. b - All medical gas systems are required to be fitted with two sources of the gas intended to be
delivered. As an example, a device that depends on bottled oxygen must be supplied with two bottles
of oxygen. This is similar to the requirement for hospitals to have two separate water services.
227. c - The plumbing code requires as-built plans and valve identification records to be kept on the site
where the piping has been installed. The specifications and plans must be maintained at all times and be
made available to authorized personnel as needed. Valve identification records can be of great
importance during an emergency or if the need to work on an existing system arises.
228. False - Aspirators are required to discharge into a sanitary drainage system though an air gap, not
an air break.
229. b - The replacement of a water heater requires both a permit and a code inspection of the
completed work. This may seem unusual since the replacement of plumbing fixtures in exact locations of
the fixtures being replaced does not typically require a permit or a code inspection. Since water heaters
can pose a health and safety risk if they are not installed and protected properly the code requires both
a permit and a code inspection.
230. d - Master plumbers have the authority under their license to install water heaters and other
fixtures without supervision. However, a job that requires a permit still requires the inspection of a
code officer. Journeyman plumbers work under the supervision of master plumbers but are not
required to have direct supervision. Master plumbers can authorize apprentice plumbers to work with
journeyman or master plumbers in the installation of all forms of plumbing.
231. b - Water heaters for domestic use are to have the water heater’s maximum working pressure
clearly and indelibly attached in a permanent manner to the fixture. The most common means of this is
a factory installed plate on the water heater.
232. True - Water heaters must be third-party certified and should be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s recommendations.
233. b - When you are installing water heaters or water-heating systems for domestic hot water you
must be sure that they are equipped with automatic temperature controls that are adjustable between
the minimum and maximum allowable temperature ranges.
234. c - You will need a minimum distance of 30 inches in height to install a water heater in an attic. This
installation area must be both solid and level. There are also minimum requirements for both the width
available for a water heater installation and the open area required in front of a water heater for
servicing.
235. a - The flooring provided in the exit area of a water heater installed in an attic is required to be no
less than 24 inches wide.
236. True - Water heaters must be protected from back siphonage. This is done with the installation of
a vacuum breaker in the inlet piping that supplies the water heater with cold water. Normally a tee
fitting is installed in the inlet riser. A short section of pipe extends horizontally and then turns 90
degrees to a vertical position where it extends six inches. A female adapter is installed on the riser and
the vacuum breaker is screwed into the female adapter.
237. b - The service area required for a water heater supplied in an attic is required to have minimum
dimensions of 30 inches by 30 inches.
238. b - Any water heater installed in an attic is required to have a clear access opening for the removal
of the water heater. The minimum dimensions for this opening are 20 inches by 30 inches.
239. b - The minimum width of an exit route for a water heater installed in an attic is 22 inches.
240. False - Relief valves are not suitable for controlling thermal expansion. The role of the relief valve is
to protect against excessive pressure or temperature in a water heater. These valves are required to be
of a self-closing type.
241. c - The maximum allowable distance for an exit route installed for the removal of a water heater in
an attic space is 20 feet.
242. b - A dedicated electrical disconnect switch is required to be installed in close proximity to any
electric water heater. Gas-fired and oil-fired water heaters require the installation of approved cutoff
valves installed on the fuel piping in close proximity to the water heater.
243. b - Cutoff valves installed on the inlet piping of water heaters have to be of a positive-sealing type.
Both gate valves and ball valves are acceptable. It is not acceptable to install a stop-and-waste valve on
the inlet piping of a water heater. No valve that depends on washers to stop water flow are allowed as
main cutoff valves on water heaters
244. False - Threads cannot be applied on the termination end of a discharge pipe from a relief valve. If
threads exist there is a risk that a cap will be installed on a dripping discharge pipe. This renders the
relief valve useless and creates a health and safety concern.
245. a - The maximum allowable depth below the top of a water heater for the probe of a temperature
and pressure valve to be installed is six inches. Temperature and pressure relief valves can be installed
on either the top or the side of a water heater. The location of the valve is determined by the tapped
fitting built into the water heater that will accept the relief valve.
246. b - A pipe that conveys the discharge from a relief valve installed on a water heater is required to
terminate no more than six inches above a finished floor. This is to minimize the risk of personal injury
to anyone in the vicinity if a relief valve opens and discharges a stream of hot water.
247. c - The minimum allowable depth of a drain pan for a water heater is 1.5 inches. Drains provided
for drain pans are to run to a point of termination without any reduction in pipe sizing. The drain can
terminate over a suitably located indirect waste receptor or floor drain. If these discharge points are not
available, the piping can be extended to the outside of a building where it will terminate not less than six
inches from ground level and not more than twenty-four inches above ground level.
248. True - Discharge tubing from a relief valve on a water heater must be installed in a manner that
allows it to be observed by occupants of a building. What is the reason for this? Relief valves develop
leaks. If left undiscovered these leaks could lead to problems and property damage. When the piping
can be seen, any leaks can be detected with a simple visual inspection and a dripping relief valve can be
replaced.
249. d - The recycling of gray water is governed by the plumbing code and the procedures are becoming
more popular and more critical. Gray water can be used to flush toilets and urinals. Subsurface
landscape irrigation systems may also be supplied by gray water. This reduces the demand on potable
water and thereby extends the existing reserves of potable water. This can be particularly important in
some regions of the country that experience water shortages.
250. d - Collection reservoirs are used to hold gray water until it will be used. These reservoirs must be
constructed of approved materials. Some collection reservoirs are manufactured and sold. Others are
built on site. The reservoirs are required to be made from materials that are corrosion resistant,
nonabsorbent and durable. Additionally, the reservoirs are to be closed and sealed with gas-tight covers.
You must provide an access opening that will allow for interior inspections of the collection reservoir.
251. a - Piping that delivers water to a gray water reservoir must be fitted with a full-open valve and a
filter that will filter all water entering the reservoir.
252. d - Filters for gray water systems may be of a media type, a sand type or a diatomaceous earth
type. These filters are required to ensure that no solids enter the collection reservoir for gray water.
253. a - The shower is the only option in this scenario allowed to be used for the collection and recycling
of gray water. Other types of fixtures that are allowed for the collection of recycling gray water include
the following:
• Bathtubs
• Lavatories
• Clothes washers
• Laundry trays
254. False - Aggregate in a seepage pit is required to be covered. Approved covering is required to be
constructed of approved synthetic materials. Roofing felt is not an approved cover material. An
acceptable option is the use of nine inches of uncompacted marsh hay or straw.
255. d - All gray water entering a gray water collection reservoir is required to be filtered. Gray water is
not meant to be pure. However, it should not contain solids. Unfiltered water can contain solids. For
this reason all gray water must be filtered to remove solids before it is delivered to a final collection
point.
256. c - Overflow pipes for gray water collection reservoirs must have a diameter that is equal to, or
greater than, the influent pipe for the reservoir. If the inlet pipe has a diameter of two inches, the
overflow pipe must have a minimum diameter of two inches. This makes sizing the overflow piping very
easy.
257. a - Gray water collection reservoirs are required to be vented. The vent is required to extend to
open air. Gray water is not supposed to contain black water that would contain methane gas. But to be
safe, the reservoirs are required to be vented.
258. c - Drains for gray water collection reservoirs are required to discharge into sanitary drainage
systems. The drain must originate at the lowest point of the collection reservoir. The size of the drain
pipe must be equal to, or larger than, the influent pipe for the reservoir. All collection reservoirs are
required to be able to be drained if needed.
259. b - Gray water discharge is based on the gallons of use per day per number of occupants based on
the type of fixtures connected to a system. This is derived by use of an equation. The equation is as
follows:
C=AxB
A = the number of occupants
B = estimated flow demands per occupant
C = estimated gray water discharge based on the total number of occupants
260. True - You are correct. The bottom of seepage trenches and beds are required to be scarified. In
other words, the dirt has to be scratched or roughed up so that it is not compacted. This enhances the
ability of the trench or bed to absorb liquids. Any loose material created from the scarifying process
should be removed.
261. e - In order to evaluate a gray water collection system that is going to be used to flush toilets and
urinals you will need specific data for the following elements: capacity, coloring, materials, disinfection
and possibly other factors under special circumstances.
262. c - A collection reservoir for gray water that will be used for flushing a toilet is required to have a
minimum capacity of 50 gallons. When you are designing a collection reservoir you must meet the
minimum requirements. And, you must be sure that the reservoir will hold twice the amount of water
required to meet daily flushing requirements for the fixtures being served.
263. d - Gray water that will be used to flush toilets or urinals can be retained in a collection reservoir
for up to 72 hours. This must be taken into account when computing the amount of reserve water that
will be available for flushing purposes. The sizing of a gray water system is dependent on the cycling of
water entering and exiting a collection reservoir in a 72-hour period.
264. e - You may use chlorine, iodine or ozone to disinfect gray water that will be used for the flushing
of toilets or urinals. No other type of disinfectant is approved by the plumbing code for this purpose.
265. a - Gray water is to be dyed either blue or green before it can be used in a plumbing system. Blue
and green are the only acceptable colors allowed for the identification of gray water. This is an
important part of the plumbing code that many plumbers are not aware of unless they work with
recycling gray water on a regular basis.
266. True - Subsurface irrigation systems are to be installed below potable water wells. If you are
irrigating land that is adjoined by another owner’s land that has a water well on it, the irrigation system
must not be installed above the well on the adjoining property. The key is to prevent any potential
contamination from an irrigation system entering a potable water surface.
267. a - You must use only food-grade vegetable dye. This regulation ensures that there will not be
health of safety concerns from the ingredients in the dye. Since food dye can be consumed it is not
harmful to humans. Additionally, there are no chemicals in this type of dye to have adverse effects on
the environment.
268. b - If you suspect that there could be a time when the proposed gray water reservoir will be
inadequate for the flushing needs of toilets or urinals you should install a supplemental water supply of
potable water to assist in the flushing requirements. Water supplies that serve gray water systems must
be protected by a backwater preventer. Full-open valves are required to be installed on any water
supply line to a gray-water collection reservoir.
269. a - Gray water that will be used for irrigation purposes can be stored for only one day. This is 24
hours. It seems logical that it might be allowed to be stored longer than gray water used for flushing
plumbing fixtures. It is not. This is due to the fact that the water for irrigation is released into the
landscape and flushing water is introduced into a sanitary drainage system.
270. d - You are not required to dye gray water used in subsurface irrigation systems. The rules for
irrigation water are different than those for gray water used for flushing activities
271. False - No supplemental water supply is required for an irrigation reservoir with gray water. If an
irrigation reservoir runs dry it is not a concern to the plumbing code.
272. c - Plumbers are required to identify all piping that contains gray water as non-potable water
piping. The markings must be of an approved type. They are exposed, obvious, indelible and
permanent.
273. True - Ground used to accept the discharge associated with a seepage bed or trench must be
tested prior to any installation of a seepage trench or bed. The test must be done by an approved
authority to determine the perk rate of the soil. An acceptable perk rate must be present to allow the
installation of a seepage trench or bed.
274. b - All subsurface landscaping irrigations site locations are required to be regulated. The plumbing
code sets forth approval procedures for the regulation of a site. As an example, the code will require
that surface water will be diverted away from any soil absorption site. Further regulations can define
that irrigation systems are not allowed to be used in proximity of potable water sources. These
regulations are intended to protect potable water and to avoid putting undue loads on private sewage
systems.
275. b - Seepage trenches are required to have a minimum width of 12 inches.
276. b - A minimum of two distribution pipes are required for a seepage bed. The pipes must be evenly
spaced and have a maximum distance of five feet between them. The minimum spacing is three feet.
277. a - Aggregate used as backfill for a seepage trench is required to have a minimum depth of six
inches.
278. c - Distribution piping in a seepage trench or bed must have a minimum diameter of three inches.
The piping must be large enough to handle the maximum anticipated load on a bed or trench. It is
common to use 4-inch pipe during the construction of seepage trenches and beds, but a 3-inch pipe can
be used when the demands on the system will not overload the piping.
279. False - You must install a minimum depth of ground cover over the top of piping in a seepage
trench that is no less than nine inches in depth.
280. d - Seepage trenches can extend up to 100 feet in length.
281. d - Just as there is a minimum width, which is 12 inches, there is also a maximum width, which is
five feet.
282. True - If multiple trenches are installed together they are required to be a minimum of two feet
apart.
283. b - To avoid clogging, the minimum size of aggregate allowed is 0.5 inches.
284. d - The maximum size of the aggregate is limited to 2.5 inches in diameter.
285. True - You must install a minimum depth of aggregate over the top of the distribution piping in a
seepage trench that is no less than two inches deep.
286. c - The code defines storm drainage as excessive groundwater. This is essentially rainfall or snow
melt. Special drainage systems are required to collect and convey storm drainage to an appropriate
disposal site. The drainage system used for storm water is rarely allowed to be a sanitary drainage
system. Only a few locations utilize combination storm-and-sanitary drainage systems.
287. d - Storm water is allowed to enter a storm sewer that conveys the water to a suitable disposal
site. Catch basins are often used to control storm-water drainage. It is also common for ponds to be
created in the green space of a development and these ponds can be used to process the drainage of
storm water. The ponds can further be used as a suitable source of water for ground irrigation
purposes. The choice of which type of system to use will be contingent on the type of development and
the available resources.
288. e - You will need to know the total surface area that will be subject to surface water. Additionally,
you must refer to local rainfall rates to know what can be expected as a maximum rate of rain that may
be received in a one-hour period. These rainfall rates can be found in your local plumbing code book.
The rainfall rates are listed by state with breakdowns for major cities. You should use the data that is
known for your local area if you are able to obtain it. Otherwise, choose a city listed in the plumbing
code that is closest to location for the job that you are designing. Check with your local county offices or
your state agencies to see if rainfall rates are available for your specific location before choosing the
closest city listed in the plumbing code.
289. a - The minimum allowable grade for a horizontal gutter installed to collect and convey ground
water is 1/16 of an inch. You should find tables in your local plumbing code book that detail this usage.
You may want to use a steeper grade to minimize the diameter size required for a horizontal gutter. To
illustrate this, a gutter that has a diameter of three inches with a 1/16-inch pitch can transfer water for a
horizontally projected roof area equal to 680 square feet when the maximum rainfall rate is one inch per
hour. If you put a grade of 1/8 of an inch on the gutter under the same circumstances the pipe can
support a surface area of 960 square feet. Increase the amount of fall to 1/4 inch per foot and the area
that surface water can be collected from is increased to 1,360 square feet. As you can see, the grade of
the piping has a lot to do with the size of an area that can be drained with a pipe that maintains the
same diameter.
290. c - Roof drains are to be installed with a protrusion of at least four inches above the surface of a
roof being drained. This is to keep the drains from becoming clogged with leaves and other debris that
may be collected on the roof surface. All roof drains should be properly protected to avoid blockage of
the drain during maximum rainfalls.
291. True - It is true that the same cleanout rules and regulations that apply to a sanitary drainage
system apply to storm-water drainage systems.
292. b - Roof drains are required to be equipped with removable strainers. These strainers are intended
to block debris from entering the drainage system. They must be removable so that they can be cleaned
as needed and to allow drain cleaning of the storm drainage piping when required.
293. d - Simply put, roof drains are required to have a minimum size that is twice the diameter of the
drains to which they connect.
294. b - A roof that has 10,000 square feet of surface area, or less, is required to have a minimum of
two roof drains. It is often wise to include more than the minimum, but two roof drains will meet code
requirements for the roof drainage up to 10,000 square feet in area.
295. b - When the surface area of a roof exceeds 10,000 square feet the roof must be equipped with a
minimum of four roof drains. Depending on the shape and design of the roof, it may be beneficial to
install more than four roof drains, but the code only requires the installation of four drains.
296. c - Secondary roof-drainage systems are required to discharge above grade. This is required to
prevent overloading storm drainage systems that are already running at capacity. If the primary system
is unable to handle the demands the secondary system kicks in.
297. True - You must know the size of all roof drains that will be connected to a storm drainage system.
A 2-inch roof drain accepts far less water than a 3-inch drain. Knowing how much water can be placed
into a drainage system at any given time is required to size the drainage system.
298. c - Backwater valves are used in storm-drainage systems. Any backwater valve used in such a
system must be of an approved type for the intended use. These valves prevent drainage water from
backing up into a system beyond the point of the backwater valve.
299. c - Many plumbers think that drains for storm water do not have to be trapped. The misconception
stems from the thought that rainwater is clean and does not provide any reason for trapping a fixture.
This is incorrect. Both area-way drains and floor drains installed in conjunction with a storm-water
drainage system are required to be trapped.
300. d - The piping in a storm drainage system must be protected just as piping in a sanitary drainage
system. In the scenario here, the rain leader is exposed and is close to a loading dock. It is reasonable
to assume that a truck might back into the pipe and crush it. With this being the case, the plumbing
code requires the pipe to be protected. This would likely be done with a physical barrier that would
prevent unwanted contact with the piping.
301. b - When roofs of buildings are approved for use that is in addition to shelter, such as a rooftop
patio, the roof drains installed on the roofs may be installed so that their strainers are flush with the
roof surface. Normally roof drains are required to extend a minimum of four inches above a roof
surface. When the roof is being used for purposes in addition to shelter there is a risk of injury if
someone walks into a protrusion. Therefore, the strainers on roof drains are allowed to be installed at
an even grade with the roof surface. All roof penetrations must be watertight.
302. d - On the rare occasions when storm-water piping can be connected to a sanitary drainage system
the piping must be trapped. The trap is required to be accessible. All traps used in these circumstances
are required to be equal in size to the drain that it is serving. Most plumbers will not be affected by
these rules since it is normally a code violation to discharge storm water into a sanitary drainage system.
303. True - The sizing of rain leaders is very similar to the sizing for downspouts. Both pipes have a
vertical discharge, so the delivery rates of a volume of water are essentially the same. The sizing
methods are, however, different related to the techniques to size a horizontal gutter or drain.
304. a - Storm water piping is not allowed to be used to transport sanitary drainage. Do not let this
confuse you. Yes, there are combination sewers that do convey both storm water and sanitary drainage.
The difference is that the combination sewer is a sanitary drainage system that is also conveying storm
water. This is different from a storm drain that is used to convey sanitary drainage.
305. a - Sump pumps are required to be installed in sumps. In other words, it is not acceptable to stick
a sump pump in a hole in the ground. You must provide a suitable sump to house the pump. Normally
subsurface drainage piping will enter the sump to deliver excessive ground water. A lid must cover the
sump, but it is not required to be gas-tight or vented. However, the lid must be removable.
306. d - Sump pits that will house sump pumps are required to have a minimum diameter of 18 inches
and a minimum depth of 24 inches.
307. d - Sumps used to hold sump pumps may be constructed of plastic, steel, concrete, tile or cast iron.
The sump must be watertight. Most sumps in modern plumbing systems are made of plastic. Due to
the risk of rusting, steel is the least desirable material to be used in the creation of a sump. Still, it is an
acceptable material under the plumbing code.
308. d - Drainage piping for a sump pump can be made of type K copper, type L copper, type M copper
or DWV copper. Plastic piping is also a suitable drainage piping for the discharge of water from a sump
pump.
309. a - Sump pumps should be equipped with check valves in their discharge piping. This prevents
water that has been pumped up from running down the drainage piping and refilling the sump. If this
happens, the pump will have to pump the water again. This puts undue use on the pump. The check
valve prevents water from running back into the sump. When a check valve is in place it can extend the
life of a sump pump considerably.
310. c - The discharge from a sump pump should not be piped into a sanitary drainage system. It is
quite common to find the discharge piping from a sump pump connected to a building drain, but it is not
supposed to be piped in that manner. The water from a sump pump should be treated as storm water
and piped accordingly.
311. False - The discharge piping between a sump pump and its termination point does not require a
gate valve. However, a check valve should be installed in close proximity to the sump pump to extend
the pump’s working life.
312. c - Subsoil drainage piping for storm-water drainage can be made of many types of material.
Accepted types of material for this purpose include the following:
• Asbestos-cement pipe
• Cast-iron pipe
• Polyethylene (PE) plastic pipe
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe
• Stainless steel pipe
• Vitrified clay pipe
• Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene pipe
313. b - When sizing piping for a combined sewer you must be able to convert fixture-unit loads to
drainage surface units. For example, 256 fixture units is equivalent to 1,000 square feet of surface area.
Each fixture unit in addition to the 256 mentioned will be rated as 3.9 square feet. If you are dealing
with continuous flow, you must convert gallons per minute into surface area. Every gallon per minute is
equal to 96 square feet. You will have to consult with your local plumbing code book to derive these
types of conversion factors.
314. c - Hanging roofs do not require roof drains. All other types of roofs are required to be equipped
with suitable roof drains and an approved storm-water drainage system. Roofs that are pitched to shed
water into hanging gutters are exempt from the need for roof drains. Most jurisdictions do not require
gutters on residential roofs that are hanging. It is generally acceptable for those roofs to shed water
directly to the ground.
315. False - Flat roofs that have a surface area of 10,000 square feet or less are required to have a
minimum of two roof drains. When a roof area exceeds 10,000 square feet it must be equipped with a
minimum of four roof drains.
316. d - The maximum arc allowed for a metallic-pipe bend is 90 degrees. The bend must be made with
bending tools and procedures that are meant for the purpose. The bends must be smooth and free
from buckling, cracks and other mechanical damage. It is important to keep longitudinal welds of pipe
near the neutral axis of the bend.
317. c - The maximum allowable pressure for plastic gas piping that conveys natural gas is 100 psig.
318. b - The only location that plastic gas piping can be installed is outside underground. It must not be
installed under slabs or in any building. There is too much risk that the pipe might be punctured. When
the pipe is buried outside it is unlikely to be punctured or ruptured. If it is, the leaking gas will disperse
into open air.
319. d - Unions installed on gas piping must be visible. The fact that unions are intended to allow easy
disconnection at the point where they are installed requires that they must be visible and available for
testing.
320. a - Plastic gas piping requires an 18 gauge wire conductor be installed next to the pipe. This allows
the path of the piping to be tracked from above ground with metal-detecting devices. The tracer wire is
to be turned up and exposed above grade at each end of the piping trench.
321. a - Piping that conveys wet gas must have drip legs installed at all low points where condensation
might collect. Drip legs are normally six to eight inches. They must be readily accessible.
322. c - Flexible gas connectors are normally limited to a maximum length of 36 inches. When they are
used for cooking ranges and clothes dryers they can be up to 72 inches in length. These devices allow a
fixture to be moved for disconnection. All flex connections should be as short as is practical. This is due
to them being more vulnerable to damage than hard piping.
323. b - Flow controls must be readily accessible when they are installed on gas piping.
324. d - Gas piping cannot be tested with a pressure that is in excess of 125 psig. The code requires test
pressures to be less than 1.5 times the proposed maximum working pressure. The minimal allowable
test pressure is 3 psig.
325. c – A test of gas piping, that has a volume of more than 10 cubic feet, is required to be maintained
for a minimum of 30 minutes for each 500 cubic feet of pipe volume or fraction thereof. Single-family
homes that are served by up to 10 cubic feet of gas volume are required to be tested for at least 10
minutes. No pressure test is allowed to be maintained for more than 24 hours.
Questions with Answers
An additional practice exam format to make it easier for you to reference answers.

Administrative Policies and Procedures
1. Code interpretation is a critical element of success when working with the code
requirements and regulations. Who does the code authorize to interpret the plumbing code?
a. A master plumber
b. A journeyman plumber
c. A licensed code enforcement officer
d. An architect
e. Both a and c
c – Of the possible answers, only the licensed code officer is the one who is
allowed to interpret the code. Whether a plumbing installation passes or fails an
inspection is subject to a code officer’s interpretation. You can appeal a decision
that you feel is incorrect or questionable. Even as a master plumber your
understanding of the intent of the code is not absolute. The plumbing inspector is
the final word in the field when it comes to an interpretation of the code.
2. Which of the following plumbing fixtures requires a plumbing permit and inspection for
the replacement of the fixture in the same exact location?
a. Toilet
b. Bidet
c. Bathtub
d. Water heater
d - Water heaters require that you apply for and receive a plumbing permit prior
to the replacement of an existing water heater. After the replacement work is
completed you must arrange for a plumbing inspection of the work by a code
enforcement officer. All other plumbing fixtures can be replaced in their exact
locations without the need for a permit or inspection. Due to the risk that can
arise from a faulty installation of a water heater it is the rare fixture that does
require a permit and inspection for a simple replacement.
3. Approved plans and specs must be kept on a job site and available for inspection on
demand by a code officer.
True / False
True - Approved plans and specifications are required for

every major job. These documents are required to be
stored on the job site. You must have them available to
code officers on demand.
4. A plumbing permit can only be obtained by a master plumber.
True / False
False- The plumbing code allows homeowners to obtain

plumbing permits for work to be done on their own
residences when the homeowners will do the work
themselves. When homeowners obtain a permit, they must
do the work themselves. This policy only applies to the
homeowner’s primary residence.
5. As a master plumber you will be allowed to apply for plumbing permits. Which of the
following data will you be required to provide on a plumbing permit application?
a. Your full name and address
b. A full description of the plumbing work you propose to do
c. The zoned use of the property where the plumbing will be installed
d. All of the above
d - The application for a plumbing permit requires key information that you, as
the master plumber applying for the permit, must supply. Information needed for
the application will include the following:
• Applicant’s full name

• Applicant’s complete address
• A full description of all work to be performed
• The number of plumbing fixtures to be installed
• The type of plumbing fixtures to be installed
• The type of use of the structure where the plumbing is being installed
Additional data may also be required, such as your plumbing license number,
detailed plans and specifications and so forth.
6. Assume that you are bidding a job that will require significant repair and alteration work
to an existing plumbing system. Your work will include the replacement of valves on the
water distribution system and the installation of a backflow preventer on the water supply.
You have been asked to replace old cast-iron cleanouts with plastic cleanouts so that they can
be used more easily. As you contemplate this work you must design a plan that will not
__________.
a. Require a plumbing permit
b. Render the plumbing system unsafe
c. Have any detrimental effect on the plumbing system
d. Both b and c
d - When you send a crew in to repair or alter existing plumbing you must take
into consideration that the existing system shall not be made unsafe or altered in
any way that will have a negative effect on the performance of the plumbing.
7. As you are computing a bid for a contractor, you are asked if you can cut your costs by
using plumbing materials that were previously used. The economy has most people looking
for cheaper prices. You do not like the idea of working with used parts and pipes, but you
agree to look into it. It is allowable to use previously-used plumbing materials in a new
plumbing system.
True / False
True - It is allowable to use plumbing materials that have

been used previously under certain conditions. The
plumbing materials must be of an approved type. All of the
material must be in good working order. You should seek
approval from a plumbing code officer to approve the
specified materials. If these conditions are met, it is
allowable to reuse previously used plumbing parts and
fixtures.
8. You are replacing fixtures in a restaurant. The owner is remodeling and has decided to
upgrade some of the older fixtures. This is fairly simple work since all of the fixtures being
replaced will be replaced with new fixtures in the exact same location of the older fixtures.
Knowing this, which of the following fixtures will you be required to obtain a plumbing
permit to replace?
a. Toilets
b. Food preparation sinks
c. Water heaters
d. Grease traps
e. All of the above since this is a commercial job
d - The replacement of a water heater requires a permit and inspection. Other

fixtures can be replaced with new fixtures without the need for a permit when it
is a direct replacement. In other words, if you remove a toilet from a flange and
replace it with a new toilet on the same flange, you do not need a permit.
However, if you move the drain pipe a permit is required.
9. Assume that you are responsible for the plumbing work needed to allow the demolition of
a structure. The job description requires the removal of all existing water meters provided by
the local municipality. You are also charged with removing all sewer connections to building
sewers. As a plumber, you are responsible for the discontinuation of the piping, which will
include providing suitable termination on the municipal piping.
True / False
False - Municipalities generally restrict plumbers from

working on municipal plumbing components. It is common
for municipalities to provide a variety of plumbing devices
that can include piping, water meters, pressure-reducing
valves, piping, fittings and other devices. Generally, a
plumber is required to work on systems within five feet of
a building foundation. However, some cities install
equipment within a foundation. When this is the case,
plumbers are responsible for work done beyond the
installation.
10. For the issuance of a plumbing permit, which of the following is normally required?
a. Design plans
b. Complete specifications
c. A description of the use of the building
d. All of the above
d - When you apply for a plumbing permit you must provide a full description of
the work to be done. Plumbing plans are often required for larger jobs.
Specifications of all materials to be installed are a common requirement for a
plumbing permit. Permit applications require the physical address of the property
to receive plumbing services. The use of the property is often required. It makes a
difference if a structure is a home or a daycare. The owner’s name of the proper
is generally required. You are also required to detail the number and type of
plumbing fixtures to be installed.
11. Assume that you have been awarded a plumbing permit to install plumbing in an auto
repair shop. The building contractor gave you a start date for your work. However, weather
conditions have restricted the process of the building contractor. Hence, your work has had
to be rescheduled. Your permit could become invalid if work is not started soon. How long do
you, as the plumber, have from the time a permit is issued to begin work without running the
risk of losing your permit?
a. Two months
b. Three months
c. Six months
d. Eight months
c - Your plumbing permit can be rendered invalid if work is not started within six
months from the day that the permit is issued. Don’t panic. Most code officers
will work with you if there are situations beyond your control that delay the start
of the work. A code officer has some latitude in this matter. If you have a valid
reason for your inability to begin work, you are likely to be awarded an extension.
12. If alterations are made in an existing plumbing system, the work is required to bring the
entire existing plumbing system up to current code requirements.
True / False
False - Plumbing alterations should comply with current

code requirements. The alterations made must be in
compliance with present code requirements. However, the
remainder of the existing plumbing system is not required
to be upgraded to modern code requirements.
13. It is a violation of the plumbing code to change the use of a property. As an example, if a
residential home is converted to professional office space, it is a violation of the plumbing
code.
True / False
True - Plumbing codes require different minimum standards for various types of
building uses. For example, the minimum number of fixtures required for a
building can vary substantially based on the use of a building. Accessibility
requirements that do not apply to a residence can apply to an office building or
business. There are several situations where everything from pipe sizing to the
number of fixtures required can be different for various types of building uses. In
order to change the use of a building within compliance to code requirements a
plan and specifications must be submitted to the code enforcement office for
approval.

General Regulations
14. The plumbing code applies to new installations. Which of the following types of plumbing work
may also be governed by the code?
a. Renovations
b. Replacement of plumbing fixtures
c. Additions to a plumbing system
d. All of the above
d - All new installations are required to comply with the plumbing code. Other
elements that may be required to meet current code requirements can include
renovations, the replacement of fixtures, additions to a plumbing system and
extensive repairs to plumbing systems. At no time can work done to a plumbing
system make it unsafe or be detrimental to the system.
15. Assume that a customer has called your office and requested that you replace an existing kitchen
sink with a new sink. The new sink will be of the same size and basic type as the existing sink. You will
be able to remove the old sink and place the new one in the existing hole. Which of following options
bests describes your situation?
a. A plumbing permit is not required.
b. In order to replace the sink you will need a permit.
c. Removal of the existing sink will trigger a code requirement that calls for the drainage piping
to be brought up to current code standards.
d. An air gap will be required to be installed on the new sink.
a - A plumbing permit will not be required for the direct replacement of a kitchen
sink. As long as the new fixture is installed in the exact location of the existing sink
that is being replaced a permit is not required. Existing plumbing will not be
required to be brought up to current code standards, unless there is a health or
safety issue.
16. Your job requires you to schedule maintenance on a large commercial building for one of your
customers. What is the required frequency for the inspection of backflow preventers?
a. Once a month
b. Once every 3 months
c. Once every 4 months
d. Once every year
d - Annual inspections are required for backflow assemblies. Each backflow

preventer should be tested during the inspection. They must be working properly
and must not allow contamination to the water source in a water distribution
system. New installations are required to be inspected. Any need to repair a
backflow preventer triggers the need for a test and inspection of the repaired
device.
17. You should expect to supply the code enforcement office with a site plan before any work is done
on an existing sewer or water service.
True / False
True - Code officers generally require a site plan and

specifications on file before any work is commenced on an
existing water service or sewer. The location of existing
piping and the proposed location for new piping should all
be included on the site plan.
18. Assume that you have been contracted to add a new bathroom group to an existing plumbing
system. This is a toilet, lavatory and bathtub that will be installed in a new addition to a home. You
will need a permit for the installation. Your plan is to connect the main drain from the bathroom
group to the building drain. This could create a problem. From the choices below, choose the most
likely concern.
a. The extra fixture units from the new bathroom group could put a total fixture-unit load on
the existing building drain that would require the building drain to be replaced with a larger
pipe.
b. Requirements for accessible plumbing fixtures
c. Minimum distance requirements between fixtures
d. The fact that water fountains cannot be installed in a room that contains a toilet
a - Adding new plumbing fixtures can overload existing plumbing. You must
compute the total fixture-unit ratings and the demand that it will put on existing
plumbing piping. It is possible that an existing pipe might have to be removed and
replaced with a larger pipe.
19. What circumstances may prompt a code officer to issue a stop work order?
a. Violations of the code
b. An immediate danger is present.
c. Plans and specifications are not available on the job site.
d. Any of the above
b - Code officers are authorized to issue and post stop work orders when an
immediate danger is present, possible or pending. When a stop work order is
posted all work on a site must cease. The stop work order will bear the name of
the issuing inspector. You should contact the inspector to determine what must
be done to allow work to begin again. Do not continue to work if a stop work
order has been posted. The penalties can be steep if you do.
20. When working with engineered trusses, you must be aware of certain limitations that do not
apply to trusses made of dimensional lumber. For example, an engineered truss must not be
___________________.
a. Spliced
b. Drilled
c. Cut or notched
d. All of the above
d - Engineered trusses limit your ability to route piping. Trusses that are
engineered must not be cut, notched, drilled, spliced or otherwise altered. If any
alteration of a truss is essential, an engineer should be consulted to render
specific instructions on what may be done to accommodate a plumbing
installation.
21. When you are installing piping in a hospital you may be required to penetrate walls that are
designed for fire protection. When this is the case you will have to seal the pipe penetrations. This can
be done by filling the void around the piping with spray foam insulation.
True / False
False - If you will be installing piping that will penetrate a

fire-rated wall you will have to work from approved plans
and specifications. These documents will detail the
acceptable manner in which to seal the voids around
piping.
22. One of your journeyman plumbers is being sent out to connect a building drain to a sewer. You
have instructed the plumber to wait for the plumbing inspector and then after the connection is
approved to cover the piping with earth. Which of the following represents the minimum depth of
cover required over the crown of a buried pipe?
a. Four inches
b. Six inches
c. Eight inches
d. Twelve inches
d - Buried pipes are required to have a minimum depth of coverage that is equal
to one foot in depth. The material used to cover the pipe is required to be clean
of anything that might damage the pipe as the backfill material is installed. You
must compact the fill over the piping to avoid settling. Most plumbing contractors
backfill six inches of dirt at a time. Then the dirt is compacted. Once the first level
is compacted a second layer is installed and compacted. This completes the
minimum requirements for backfilling a buried pipe.
23. A project that you and your employees are working on could be subject to flooding. It involves
the installation of plumbing that will be covered by a concrete slab. It is your job, as the master
plumber, to design an installation that will meet code approval. Which of the following will influence
your design?
a. Hydrostatic load and stress
b. The risk of a 100-year flood in the installation area
c. The seismic conditions of the earth that plumbing is buried in
d. The perk rate of the soil that plumbing is buried in
a - Plumbing installations in potential flood areas require special consideration.

The systems must be protected in ways that will prevent damage from flooding.
Protection requirements call for the consideration of hydrostatic load and stress,
hydrodynamic loads and stress, flooding of the piping in the plumbing system and
potential buoyancy of the piping.
24. Assume that you have been contacted by a real estate developer who has bought a 4-unit multi-
family dwelling that will be converted into professional office space. One of the office suites will
house a dental facility. How could this affect your design and bid for altering the plumbing system?
a. You will need zoning permission for the installation of medical gases
b. The change in use will require a master plumber to be on site at all times due to the addition
of a dental office.
c. The change in use could require major alterations to existing plumbing in the structure.
d. You will need a mechanical engineer to create the riser diagram and specification since the
change of use is to a medical facility.
c - When a building is to undergo a change in use many factors can affect the plumbing
required for the structure. You will need a permit for your work and this requires zoning
approval for the work. In our example the present use is residential. It is being changed
to commercial use. The fact that a dental office will exist in the building will require a
variety of types of specialized plumbing that would not exist in a home. All of the
existing plumbing may have to be removed and upgraded to meet current code
requirements. Before you embark on plumbing for any change in use you should consult
your local code enforcement office to define which elements of the existing plumbing
can be kept in place and in use.
25. You are charged with installing a building drain in a new system that will exit through a concrete
foundation wall. Part of this installation will include _____________.
a. Installing a protective sleeve that has a minimum diameter that is at least two pipe sizes
larger than the diameter of the building drain.
b. Installing a protective sleeve that will have a minimum diameter equal to four inches.
c. Filling the annular space around the protective sleeve to make it watertight.
d. All of the Above
e. Both a and c
e - Piping that penetrates an exterior wall is required to be provided with

adequate pipe protection. This protection is meant to keep the pipe from being
crushed. The protection is generally provided by installing a sleeve that is at least
two pipe diameters larger than the pipe being installed. Additionally, the sleeve
must be installed in such a way to keep the opening watertight.
26. Pipe protection must be provided for piping that is buried. This is typically done by installing the
piping below the local frost line. How far below the frost line must the pipe be installed?
a. 6 inches
b. 12 inches
c. 18 inches
d. 24 inches
a - Local plumbing codes define the depth of a frost line in their jurisdictions. Plumbing pipes are
to be installed no less than 6 inches below the established local frost line. Keep in mind that any
buried pipe must have a minimum of 12 inches of cover over it.
27. Mechanical joints are an acceptable means of joining materials of different types.
True / False
True - Mechanical joints are a recommended means of

making connections between dissimilar types of materials.
They can also be used to join like materials.
28. If you feel that a code officer has failed an installation during an inspection for unfounded
reasons, you can appeal the decision. This is a rare occasion, but there are times when an appeal is
justified. When this is the case, what must you do?
a. Make your appeal based on a technical trade manual that applies to your installation.
b. Make your appeal based on pertinent code language.
c. Make your appeal in the local court system.
d. All of the above
b – An appeal of a code officer’s decision must be based on the aspects of the

code as they relate to the rejection that you are appealing. You will be required to
specify why the appeal is necessary and warranted and this may involve reference
to trade manuals but it is not required. In an appeal, you will essentially be
arguing what is authorized under the code.
29. What is the maximum distance allowed between pipe supports for DWV piping that is installed
horizontally?
a. 12 inches
b. 24 inches
c. 30 inches
d. 48 inches
d - Four feet is the maximum distance allowed between pipe supports for plastic
DWV piping that is installed in a horizontal position.
30. What is the minimum pitch per horizontal running foot of piping required for condensate piping?
a. One eighth of an inch
b. One quarter of an inch
c. One half of an inch
d. One inch
a - The typical amount of pitch installed on a sanitary drain line is one-quarter of

an inch per foot. This is not the case with the drain line for a condensate
application. Drains carrying condensate require only one-eighth of an inch of fall
or pitch. These drains do not convey solids, so less pitch is required.
31. Piping must be protected from the effects of corrosion. This can be done in a number of ways.
Assume that you are installing copper piping in a ground works installation that will be covered by
concrete. The horizontal runs of the piping will be protected by the fill material used prior to concrete
placement. However, when sections of the piping are turned up as stub-outs they will be in a position
to have concrete poured around them. This could cause a problem with both abrasion and chemical
reaction. Which of the following would be considered a suitable means of protecting these stub-outs
at the point where they will be surrounded by concrete?
a. Installing a gravel bed around the pipe
b. Installing foam pipe insulation on the copper.
c. Installing wooden support stakes adjacent to the stub outs
d. Install stub outs so that they rise inside a partition wall where they can be supported.
b - Foam pipe insulation installed on copper risers that will be stub-outs is a

suitable means of protection from contact with concrete. It is also acceptable to
sleeve the copper piping or tubing with a section of plastic piping. The goal is to
prevent concrete from having direct contact with the copper piping. Any form of
protection that is used should be secure and durable and should not be affected
adversely from direct contact with concrete.
32. Some condensate systems require an auxiliary drain pan. When this is the case, the pan is
required to be equipped with ____________.
a. An individual vent
b. A water-level detection device
c. A drum trap
d. A backwater valve
b - Auxiliary drain pans for condensate systems are to be equipped with water-
level detection devices that conform to UL 508. These devices must shut off any
equipment served by the drain pan if an overflow of the drainage pan may occur.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for any additional requirements
that may be needed.
33. What type of material may be used for the piping of condensate drainage?
a. Copper tubing
b. Galvanized steel pipe
c. PEX tubing
d. All of the above
d - Materials approved for condensate piping are as follows: galvanized steel, PEX
tubing, copper, polyethylene, ABS, PVC, CPVC and cast iron.
34. A drainage pipe with a diameter of three quarters of an inch can be used for which of the
following:
a. A lavatory drain
b. A sink drain
c. A condensate drain
c - Condensate drains may have a minimum diameter of three quarters of an inch.
This sizing is based on one drainage pipe. It is acceptable to connect multiple
condensate drains to a main condensate drain. When this is the case, the
diameter of the main drain must be computed for the total demand that could be
placed on the drain.
35. Which of the following mediums may be used for testing DWV systems for leaks?
a. Smoke
b. Air
c. Water
d. All of the above
d - You can test a DWV system with water, air or smoke. The most common
medium for testing is air. It is rare for smoke to be used unless a leak cannot be
found when a test is done with water or air.
36. The plumbing code requires that a test on a DWV system be maintained at a minimum of 10
pounds per square inch for at least 45 minutes.
True / False
False - The plumbing code requires that a test on a DWV

system be maintained at a minimum of 10 pounds PSI for
at least 15 minutes.
37. When underground plumbing is being tested there must be one riser that is at least ______feet
above the main plumbing system.
a. 1
b. 5
c. 10
d. 15
c - When underground plumbing is being tested there must be one riser that is at
least ten feet above the main plumbing system. This riser allows for a head of
pressure to build over the entire system.

Fixtures
38. What is the minimum number of plumbing fixtures that must be installed in a single-family
residence?
a. 3
b. 4
c. 5
d. 6
c - The minimum number of plumbing fixture required for a single-family home is

five. This includes a toilet, a lavatory, a bathing unit, a kitchen sink and a washing
machine connection. Additional fixtures can be added, such as dishwashers and
hose bibs.
39. You are designing the plumbing system for a multi-family residence that will be a used as a rental
property. If the building has _______ or more rental units, it is required to be equipped with a
laundry facility.
a. 6
b. 10
c. 12
d. 20
d - Multi-family buildings are required to be equipped with a laundry facility when

the total number of rental units reaches 20. After this point additional laundry
hook-ups are required for each additional interval of 20 units. A 60-unit building
would be equipped with three laundry facilities.
40. Daycare facilities are required to offer one toilet for every _______ people accommodated in the
facility.
a. 6
b. 8
c. 12
d. 15
d - For every 15 people housed in a daycare facility one toilet is required. If there
were 45 people using the facility a total of three toilets would be needed. Local
code requirements may require separate facilities for males and females. If this is
the case, you must double the number of toilets so that there is a toilet for every
15 males and a toilet for every 15 females.
41. What is the maximum distance that employees can be required to walk in order to reach a
restroom?
a. 150 feet
b. 300 feet
c. 400 feet
d. 500 feet
d - Five-hundred feet is the maximum allowable distance that employees can be

required to walk in order to reach a restroom.
42. How many flights of stairs are permitted between an employee workspace and the nearest
restroom?
a. 1
b. 2
c. 3
d. There is no set limit
a - Employees are not to ascend more than one set of steps to get to a restroom.
The plumbing facilities cannot be installed more than one story above the work
area that employees will be moving from.
43. Motel rooms are required to be equipped with _____________.
a. Either a kitchen or bar sink
b. A shower head
c. Accessible plumbing fixtures
d. A backwater valve on the building drain for the unit
e. Both b and c
c - Since motel rooms are used by the public, and their restrooms will be used by
the public, the bathrooms must be fitted with accessible plumbing facilities.
44. You are working on a bid for a commercial building that will have public restrooms. Part of your
job is to draw a suitable riser diagram to submit with your application for a plumbing permit. In order
for you to accomplish this task you must know what the minimum fixture requirements are for each
restroom. Which of the following fixtures is not allowed to be installed in a public restroom?
a. Hose-bib connections
b. Bidets
c. Showers
d. Drinking fountains
d - Plumbers are prohibited from installing drinking fountains in public

bathrooms. The reason for this is to protect users of the restroom from germs
and diseases that might be collected on a drinking fountain that is in a toilet
room.
45. As a plumber you are aware of plumbing fixtures made for ADA compliance. As a new master
plumber, you are about to determine the requirements for accessible plumbing fixtures that will be
provided for public use in the restrooms of a restaurant. This will require you to outline the
specifications for the bathroom. When you, or your plumbers, install the plumbing you will have to
consider ____________.
a. the requirements of both the plumbing and building codes
b. only the requirements of the plumbing code
c. only the requirements of the building code
d. the plumbing and mechanical code
a - You will have to abide by both the plumbing and building codes when you are
installing accessible plumbing fixtures. Requirements for fixture types, heights
and placements will be identified in the plumbing code. The building code will
dictate the access requirements, such as door widths. To design your plumbing
system for accessible plumbing fixtures you will rely on both the building and
plumbing codes and use them together in the overall design of your plumbing
system.
46. You are designing a plumbing plan for the construction of a new hospital. This is a major task. It is
often done by a mechanical engineer, but the general contractor has asked you to develop a working
plan. Your plan begins at the municipal piping and includes all interior plumbing. You will have to
provide at least two water mains for the hospital.
True / False
False - The plumbing code requires that all hospitals be provided with at least two
water services. But, it allows for the use of a single water main. This means that
one water main can be connected to two water services in order to provide water
to a hospital.
47. What is the minimum allowable height for a handicap toilet?
a. 14 inches
b. 16 inches
c. 18 inches
d. 22 inches
b - Handicap toilets are required to have a minimum height of 16 inches. The
most common accessible toilets have a height of 18 inches. In extreme cases, you
can obtain and install a toilet that enjoys a height of 20 inches. Eighteen inches is
the most common height of a standard handicap toilet.
48. Which of the following describes a specific type of toilet?
a. Siphon jet
b. Non-siphoning
c. Fast flushing
d. Internal injected
e. Both a and d
a - There is a type of toilet known as a siphon jet toilet. It is one of many types of
toilets. Other types include: siphon vortex, siphon wash, reverse trap, and
blowout toilets. All of these toilets are approved for use under the control of the
plumbing code.
49. The minimum distance required in front of an accessible lavatory is __________.
a. 12 inches
b. 16 inches
c. 21 inches
d. 22 inches
c - The minimum distance required in front of an accessible lavatory is 21 inches.

Accessible lavatories must also allow easy access by a person in a wheelchair.
Typical designs for spacing in front of a lavatory include an area that is 30 inches
by 30 inches.
50. Accessible lavatories are required to be installed so that the distance from a finished floor to the
top of a lavatory is no more than ______ inches.
a. 18
b. 24
c. 35
d. 42
c- Accessible lavatories are to be installed so that the top of the lavatory is never
more than 35 inches above the finished floor beneath the lavatory. The
measurement is made from the flood-level rim of the fixture to the finished floor.
51. Kitchen sinks, that are installed for accessible use, are to be installed higher than ______ inches
above the flood-level rim of the sink.
a. 28 inches
b. 30 inches
c. 34 inches
d. 42 inches
c - Kitchen sinks installed for accessible use cannot be installed more than 34
inches from the finished floor. The measurement is made from the flood-level rim
to the finished floor. The primary responsibility for counter height falls upon the
building contractor and carpenters. Even so, If you install a sink in a counter that
is not set within the regulatory guidelines of the building and plumbing codes you
can count on having to remove that sink and reinstall it when the counter height
is corrected.
52. You are installing accessible plumbing fixtures. You had journeyman plumbers set the fixtures
and you review the work prior to calling for a code enforcement inspection. Visually, something looks
wrong to you. Your concern is that the faucets on the lavatories will be difficult to reach for disabled
people. Using your tape measure, you check the distance from the front of the lavatory. What is the
maximum distance that a lavatory faucet for accessible use can be placed from the front edge of a
lavatory?
a. 18 inches
b. 22 inches
c. 24 inches
d. 25 inches
d - Twenty-five inches is the maximum distance allowed between the front edge
of a lavatory and the faucet installed on it when the fixture is to be rated as an
accessible fixture.
53. What is the maximum pressure allowed to operate a handle on a handicap faucet?
a. 40 PSI
b. 60 PSI
c. 3 pounds of force
d. 5 pounds of force
d - Handicap faucets are required to be designed so that they will operate with a
maximum operational force of five pounds. It is expected that users of these
faucets may be limited in their strength and ability to move faucet handles. This is
the reason for the light pressure requirements.
54. Which of the following types of faucet handles are not allowed for use with faucets that will be
installed on accessible fixtures?
a. Blade handles
b. Crossbar handles
c. Single handles
d. Wing handles
b - Crossbar handles are not allowed for use in conjunction with accessible
faucets. The types of handles that are allowed include: push-button handles,
sensor-units, blade handles, wing handles and single handles. The reason for this
is that finger dexterity is not a requirement for operating the handles.
55. Accessible bathtub installations require ____________.
a. A trip-lever tub waste
b. A twist-and-turn tub waste
c. Grab bars
d. A single-handle faucet
c - Grab bars are required to be installed for all bathtubs that are installed for
accessible use. These bars are required to have a minimum diameter of 1.25
inches. The diameter cannot exceed 1.5 inches. The bars are required to be at
least 24 inches in length and installed horizontally.
56. Hoses for personal shower units in a handicap bathing unit are required to have a minimum
length of __________.
a. 4 feet
b. 5 feet
c. 6 feet
d. 8 feet
b - A minimum length of five feet is required for hoses installed on personal
shower units in handicap bathing units. The hose must be long enough to allow
bathers to use it from seats in bathing units and from wheelchairs.
57. Assume that you are discussing building plans with a general contractor. You have been asked to
review preliminary building plans to see if any changes may be needed to keep the plans in
compliance with the requirements of the plumbing code. You look at the proposed bathroom
locations and notice a problem. In one situation, the accessible travel route for people going to use
the public restroom passes through a kitchen. This is a code violation.
True / False
True - Public restroom facilities must have accessible travel

routes that do not go through kitchens, storage rooms or
closets. In the scenario above the public would be required
to pass through a kitchen to get to a bathroom. This would
be a violation of the plumbing code.
58. Seats in showers used for accessible purposes are not allowed to be wider than _________
inches.
a. 16 inches
b. 18 inches
c. 20 inches
d. 24 inches
a - An accessible shower that contains a seat must be provided with a seat that is
not more than 16 inches wide. Permanent seats have to be mounted along a
sidewall of the shower and run the full length of the shower.
59. Seats in showers used for accessible purposes must have a height that is within which of the
following ranges measured from a finished floor?
a. 16 to 17 inches
b. 17 to 19 inches
c. 17 to 24 inches
d. No set limit
b - There is a height requirement to be observed in an accessible use situation.

The seat is to have a height that is not less than 17 inches and not more than 19
inches from the finished floor.
60. The push buttons on drinking fountains can be mounted in one of two locations. Which of the
following options describes one suitable location?
a. At the flood-level rim of the drinking fountain
b. On the front of the drinking fountain
c. 18 inches from the finished floor
d. 20 inches from the finished floor
b - The operational control device on a drinking fountain can be mounted on

either the side or the front of the fixture. No other location is approved.
61. How many inches of clearance are required on each side of a bidet when measured from the
center of the drain?
a. 12 inches
b. 15 inches
c. 18 inches
d. 20 inches
b - Bidets are required to have a minimum of 30 inches of clear space for a
suitable installation. This requires a minimum of 15 inches of clearance on both
sides of the bidet from the center of the drain opening.
62. Plumbing fixtures are required to be __________.
a. Installed level and with good workmanship
b. Installed in new condition
c. Installed only by licensed plumbers
d. Installed with stop valves within six inches of the fixture
e. Both a and b
a - Plumbing fixtures are required to be installed level and with good

workmanship. Code officers are allowed to reject plumbing work that is not done
with good workmanship principles. When speaking in terms of being level, this
refers to both a left-to-right position and a front-to-back position.
63. Closet bolts should be constructed of _________.
a. Black iron
b. Copper
c. Galvanized steel
d. Brass
d - Closet bolts should be constructed of brass. This is the industry standard. The
bolts that hold a toilet to a flange or floor are required to be resistant to corrosive
action. When they are not, they can weaken and allow a toilet to move over time
and with usage. Brass lag bolts should be used to secure toilets to floors when no
closet flange is installed.
64. How many inches of open space is required, at a minimum, for ingress and egress when a shower
door is open?
a. 22
b. 28
c. 30
d. 32
a - All shower doors are required to allow for a minimum unobstructed opening of
ingress and egress of not less than 22 inches.
65. The maximum travel length allowed to reach a unisex toilet facility in a public building is 500 feet.
True / False
True - Five-hundred feet is the maximum travel distance allowed for the public to
reach a unisex toilet facility. Unisex restrooms are not allowed to be located more
than one storey above or below a separate-sex restroom.
66. While bidding a job, you study all of the plans and specifications. The specs call for anti-scald
shower valves to be installed throughout the bathrooms in the building. Knowing this, you will tell
your plumbers to install shower valves that are of a __________ type.
a. Temperature actuated flow reduction
b. Pressure-balanced
c. Pressure-reducing
d. Metering
b - The reason for a pressure-balanced valve is to protect people from unexpected

changes in water temperatures. It is bad enough when a warm shower shifts to
cold water as some other fixture is used in the system. But, it can be far worse if
extreme hot water is expelled quickly and without warning. Infants and elderly
people may not be able to move quickly enough to avoid pain and possible skin
damage from unchecked hot water. Temperature actuated flow reduction valves
are not a suitable replacement for a balanced pressure valve.
67. What type of closing device is allowed for use on a bathtub drain?
a. Plunger stoppers
b. Rubber stoppers
c. Lift-and-turn stoppers
d. All of the above
d - Many types of devices are allowed for keeping water in a bathtub. They
include all of the following: plunger stoppers, rubber stoppers, lift-and-turn
stoppers, push-pull stoppers and snap-down-pop-up stoppers.
68. When is an access panel required for a tub waste and overflow?
a. When the tub waste is sealed with solvent-weld joints
b. When the tub waster is sealed with soldered joints
c. When tub wastes are sealed with slip nuts and washers
d. When tub wastes are sealed with non-mechanical connections
c - A tub waste and overflow that is installed with the use of slip nuts and washers
requires an access panel. This is necessary for any required service to the tub
waste. The use of solid, permanent connections for tub wastes eliminates the
need for access panels. Solvent-weld joints and soldered joints are examples of
such connections.
69. Which of the following is required with the installation of a dishwasher?
a. A copper water supply
b. A Schedule-40 drain from the appliance to the sanitary drainage system that is vented
c. An air gap
d. A safety pan under the appliance to collect any condensation
c- Dishwashers are required to discharge their waste through an air gap. The
reason for this is to eliminate the possibility of back siphonage. One alternative is
to install a backflow preventer on the drainage line, but this is extremely rare. Air
gaps are normally installed on the deck of a kitchen sink, but they can be installed
on a kitchen counter.
70. Washing machines are required to discharge their waste into _____________.
a. An indirect-waste receptor
b. A special waste receptor
c. A gray-water recycling collection tank
d. A pump-assisted sump
a - The drain from a washing machine is required to discharge into an indirect

waste receptor. This receptor is to have a 2-inch trap. It is also to be vented with a
vent that has a minimum diameter of 1.5 inches. The normal connection is made
with a 2-inch standpipe that accepts the discharge hose from a washing machine.
Another option is to allow the washing machine to discharge into a laundry tub.
Due to the depth of laundry tubs they create an acceptable area for the collection
and draining of waste from an automatic clothes washing machine.
71. A residential garbage disposer requires a drain that has a minimum diameter of ______.
a. 7/8 of an inch
b. 1 inch
c. 1.5 inches
d. 2 inches
c - Garbage disposers are required to discharge into drains that have a minimum
diameter 1.5 inches. All drainage connections for garbage disposers are required
to be solid connections. These fixtures require their waste to be trapped. It is
acceptable to connect the waste from garbage disposers to the waste system of a
kitchen sink. When this is the case, the trap for the kitchen sink also serves as the
trap for the garbage disposer.
72. You are installing new plumbing for a handicap tub-shower combination. Since this is an
installation of an accessible fixture, grab bars must be installed. The grab bar nearest the faucet must
be installed between the faucet and the flood-level rim of the bathtub to allow people to pull
themselves up from a sitting position.
True / False
False - You cannot install grab bars below faucets in

bathing units. They must be installed above faucets. The
specifications for all required grab bars, their minimum
dimensions and their placement can be found in the
plumbing code.
73. Floor drains must discharge into a drain pipe that has a minimum diameter of ______ inches.
a. 1.5
b. 2
c. 3
d. 4
b - The minimum allowable diameter for a drain pipe that receives the waste from
a floor drain is two inches. Floor drains are to be trapped and vented. Each floor
drain is required to be fitted with a removable strainer. The strainers are required
to be readily accessible.
74. The minimum diameter for a shower drain is _________ inches.
a. 1.25
b. 1.5
c. 2
d. 2.5
c - All showers are required to have drains with a minimum diameter of two
inches that are both trapped and vented. Removable strainers are required to
cover the shower drain within the shower base. At no time can the diameter of
the drain be reduced in its run towards a building sewer.
75. Which of the following is a code requirement for ballcock assemblies used in residential toilets?
a. Anti-siphon construction
b. Brass construction
c. Metallic construction
d. Siphonic construction
a - Anti-siphon construction is a requirement for all ballcock assemblies that are

installed in toilets for residential use. Older style ballcocks remain on the open
market but they are not approved for use. Even if you are doing service and
repair work, you must install only anti-siphon devices.
76. Commercial garbage disposers require a minimum drain diameter of _______ inches.
a. 1.5
b. 2
c. 2.5
d. 3
b - You must provide commercial garbage disposers with drains that have a
minimum diameter of two inches. Cold water sources are required to be
available to commercial garbage disposers. It can be of an automatic type.
77. Commercial garbage disposals may be connected to grease interceptors.
True / False
False - It is common for grease traps to be installed in

commercial kitchens. Do not let this fool you. Commercial
garbage disposals must not be connected to grease
interceptors.
78. A water supply is needed for the installation of garbage can washers. What else is required when
these devices are installed?
a. A special vent
b. An air gap
c. A local vent
d. An aerator
b - Backflow protection must be installed on the water supply lines for garbage
can washers. An air gap is the right choice. Due to the nature of the use of these
devices the risk of backflow into a potable water source is not acceptable. You
must ensure that the water supply will not be at risk of siphoning dirty water into
the potable water distribution system.
79. Urinals are required to be served by _____________.
a. A water service that is equipped with a pressure-reducing valve
b. A water service that is not equipped with a pressure-reducing valve
c. A single flush valve
d. A single ballcock
c - A urinal is required to be served by a single flush valve. The valve must be of an

approved type and may be handle or sensor operated.
80. Bedpan washers are also known as __________.
a. Service sinks
b. Garbage-can washers
c. Clinical sinks
d. Local-vent sinks
c - Bedpan washers are also known as clinical sinks. It is common for the flush-
valve piping to water closets to contain piping that is designed to be activated as
a bedpan washer. This reduces the need for a separate fixture in healthcare
facilities.
81. Medical sterilizers are required to be ______________.
a. Connected with steel piping that is clearly identified as sterilizer piping
b. Connected to a water distribution system
c. Connected to steam piping
d. Connected directly to a DWV system
c - Medical sterilizers must be connected to steam piping. This piping must be
installed with pitch that will allow gravity to control condensation and prevent
moisture from entering the sterilizer. Indirect waste connections are required for
the drainage piping that comes from a sterilizing unit. Leak detectors must be
installed for any sterilizer unit.
82. What requirements do plumbing devices have to meet in order to be considered readily
accessible?
a. The devices are allowed to be installed behind removable access panels.
b. The devices must be installed in such a way that nothing is required to be moved or removed
to work on the device.
c. The devices must be installed with mechanical joints.
d. The devices must not be installed in a crawl space.
b - When a plumbing device is required to be readily accessible it must be able to

be worked on without having to move or remove anything. For example, a
pressure-reducing valve that is installed on a water distribution pipe near the
connection to a water service in an unfinished basement where the valve can be
seen and touched is installed in a readily accessible way.
83. Bedpan washers require vents that have a minimum diameter of ______ inches.
a. 1.25
b. 1.5
c. 2
d. 3
c - Vents for bedpan washers are required to have a minimum diameter of two
inches. The vents for bedpan washers are to extend to outside air above the roof
of the building that houses the fixtures. Vents installed for bedpan washers are
known as local vents. Tying local vents into a general venting system is prohibited.
84. The minimum height above a flood-level rim of a fixture for a backflow preventer to be installed is
________ inches.
a. 6
b. 12
c. 18
d. 20
a - When a backflow preventer is installed to protect a fixture the backflow device

is required to be installed a minimum of six inches above the flood-level rim of
the fixture. This can become confusing when working with showers. Handheld
shower devices that have backflow preventers installed must have them installed
a minimum of six inches above the highest point to which the handheld shower
can be raised.
85. Drinking fountains installed in public restrooms require a minimum distance of 15 inches from the
side of the fountain to the center of a toilet.
True / False
False - Drinking fountains are not allowed to be installed in

rooms where toilet facilities exist. This is for sanitation
purposes. While it is true that toilets require a minimum of
15 inches from the center of the toilet drain to the closest
fixture is true. But, the fact that drinking fountains are not
allowed to be installed in toilet rooms makes the
statement false.
Indirect and Special Wastes
86. What type of connection is required when a clothes washing machine discharges into a sanitary
drainage system?
a. An indirect waste
b. An air break
c. An air gap
d. Both a and c
d - The drain from a washing machine is required to discharge through an air gap
into an indirect waste receptor. It is never allowable to make a direct connection
between the drain for a washing machine and a sanitary drainage system. The
receptor for the indirect waste is required to have a minimum height of 18 inches
and a maximum height of 30 inches. A drain used to receive the discharge from a
washing machine is required to be trapped and vented. The minimum diameter
of a trap allowed for this purpose is two inches.
87. Assume that you are working with an indirect waste receptor. It is up to you to determine if a
trap is needed and where it should be placed. Normally this type of drain is required to be trapped
and vented. There are times when an indirect waste connection can run up to ______feet before it is
trapped.
a. 2
b. 4
c. 5
d. 10
c - Under normal conditions, you are required to trap a drain for an indirect waste
when the drain pipe extends more than two feet. There are sometimes special
local code terms that allow the drainage pipe to run up to five feet before a trap
is required. You will have to check your local rules and regulations to be certain
on this point. P-traps are the most common type of trap used DWV systems.
88. You are bidding a job that will have special wastes included in the plumbing. In the process of
working up your bid you find something that bothers you. The requested drainage plan has the special
wastes using the same drainage system as the sanitary drainage fixture. Drainage systems for special
wastes are not allowed to be combined with drainage systems used for sanitary drainage.
True / False
True - Structures are not allowed to have combined

systems that convey both sanitary drainage and special
wastes. The special waste must be treated before it can be
introduced into a sanitary drainage system.
89. Assume that a general contractor for a healthcare facility has contacted you to produce a bid for
plumbing a new addition on the facility. The contractor has asked you to spec your price based on the
most positive form of indirect waste connections when such connections are needed. Which of the
following would you choose to be the most positive means of protection when using an indirect
waste?
a. Air break
b. Air gap
c. Crown-vented trap
b - The most positive protection from back siphonage when working with indirect
wastes is an air gap. Making a connection through an air gap allows open air
space between the discharge pipe and the receptor receiving that waste. Since
the two piping elements do not come into contact with each other backflow is
essentially impossible.
90. Discharge tubing connected to a relief valve does not require traps for which of the following?
a. A water heaters
b. A boiler
c. An expansion tank that serves a boiler
d. All of the above
d - The discharge tubing that is connected to a relief valve that is servicing a water
heater, boiler or an expansion tank for a boiler is not allowed to be trapped.
Discharge piping from the relief valve is to extend downward to a point within six
inches of a floor. Ideally, the drainage tubing should terminate above a floor
drain, but this is not a requirement. The end of the tubing is not to be threaded.
91. The drain hose from a fixture to an air break must penetrate into the receptor of the air break to
a point that extends a minimum of two inches into the trap seal that serves the receptor.
True / False
False - At no time should the drain hose enter the trap seal.
Normally this hose will terminate within the first few
inches of the standpipe receptor pipe. The whole point of
the indirect waste is to keep the drain hose away from the
water in the drainage system.
92. You are installing plumbing for an automatic clothes washing machine. You will install a two-inch
drain. It will be trapped and vented. The vent can have a minimum diameter of 1.5 inches. What is
the minimum allowable height of the standpipe for the receptor?
a. 12 inches
b. 14 inches
c. 18 inches
d. 30 inches
c - The minimum allowable height for a standpipe on a washing machine receptor
is 18 inches. Standpipes for this type of installation cannot extend more than 42
inches. The measurement is made from the trap seal, not the top of the trap.
Receptors must be accessible.
93. The minimum diameter for a standpipe that receives the waste from an automatic clothes
washing machine must have a minimum diameter of two inches. The drains for these standpipes are
required to travel their developed length in their full diameter and enter into a drainage branch or
stack that has a minimum diameter of ______. The vent for a washing machine standpipe can be as
small as 1.5 inches in diameter.
a. 2 inches
b. 3 inches
c. 4 inches
d. Either b or c
b - A drain that collects and conveys waste from a clothes washing machine is
required to have a minimum diameter of three inches. Pipe with a 2-inch
diameter can convey the waste from the trapped receptor at the washing
machine to the branch drain or drain stack where it terminates. It is acceptable
to have the drain discharge into a larger branch drain or drain stack.
94. Wye-branch fittings are not approved fittings to accept the waste from an air gap for a domestic
dishwasher when the wye-branch fitting is installed in the waste piping above a trap for a kitchen
sink.
True / False
False - Wye-branch fittings are an approved means of

connection for the waste hose from an air gap for a
dishwasher to a sanitary drainage system. The fitting is
installed as a part of the waste system for a kitchen sink
prior to the waste system entering the drainage trap.
95. You are in charge of a rough-in installation. The specifications given to you indicate the need for
an indirect waste receptor. Upon further reflection, you notice a code violation in the specifications.
The specs call for a fixture that is not normally allowed in a room with an indirect waster receptor.
You are going to investigate this with the person who created the specifications. What type of fixture
is it that you are questioning?
a. Floor drain
b. Food preparation equipment
c. Toilet
d. Kitchen sink
c - Indirect wastes are not normally allowed to be installed in rooms that contain
toilets. Of course, code officers can issue variances. The only common exception
is the installation of an indirect waste receptor for an automatic clothes washer.
When you see an indirect waster called for in a room where a toilet will be
installed you should verify the clearance for the work to be done.
96. Can you install an indirect waste receptor in a closet? Is it suitable to install an indirect waste
receptor in areas that are not vented? Look over the options below and choose the answer that is in
accordance with the code.
a. Do not install indirect waste receptors in closets.
b. Do no install indirect waste receptors in unvented areas.
c. Both a and b
c - Closets and unvented areas are not acceptable locations for the installation of
indirect waste receptors.
97. Assume that you are to install a floor drain in a walk-in refrigerator or freezer. You are operating
under normal code requirements. The drainage system is not going to be equipped with a backwater
valve. This means that the floor drains must enter the sanitary drainage system through the use of air
gaps.
True / False
True - When backwater valves are not installed, floor
drains in this scenario are required to discharge through air
gaps. If the floor area that contains the drains is of an
impervious type it may be allowed to avoid air gaps by
raising the hub of the pipe at least one inch above the
floor. However, this can create a tripping hazard. For this
reason, most contractors and plumbers install the drains
flush with the finished floor and discharge them through
air gaps.
98. What is the maximum allowable water temperature that can be used with a commercial
dishwashing machine?
a. 115 degrees F.
b. 120 degrees F.
c. 140 degrees F.
d - Commercial dishwashing machines are allowed to use high-temperature hot

water that would not be allowed for a residential use. It is common for these
machines to use hot water that has a temperature in excess of 140 degrees F. Due
to the high temperature of hot water used with commercial equipment the
discharge from the dishwasher must discharge through either an air gap or an air
break. The discharge is to enter a standpipe made of approved materials for the
high-temperature water.
99. Plumbing special wastes are generally associated with _________.
a. Hospitals and healthcare facilities
b. Industrial installations
c. Structures where strong chemicals pass through piping
d. Both a and c
d - Hospitals, healthcare facilities and structures that contain piping that conveys
strong chemicals can all require plumbing for special wastes. If the waste may
have a harmful effect on a plumbing or waste disposal system, it should be piped
as a special waste. It is common for special waste to be neutralized, diluted or
otherwise treated before it can be allowed to enter a sanitary drainage system.
100. Clear water waste from a potable source is required to be piped to an indirect waste through a
vacuum breaker.
True / False
False - All waste of a clear-water type from a potable

source is required to be piped through an air gap, not a
vacuum breaker.

Vents and Venting
101. Why are plumbing traps required to be vented?
a. To avoid traps being drained of their liquid seals
b. To convey sewer gas to outside air
c. To enable drains to drain better
d. All of the above
d - Installing vents on plumbing traps enable the drains to drain faster and better.
This is due to the air that is allowed to circulate in the drainage system as a result
of the vent. Self-cleaning traps, such as P traps, are at risk of being drained of
their liquid trap seals if they are not vented. Sewer gas is a health hazard. Vents
protect against this risk by transporting sewer gas to open air outside of the
building where plumbing is installed.
102. Assume that you live in a state that allows the use of combination waste-and-vent plumbing
designs for certain applications. While this type of plumbing design is allowed, in various jurisdictions
there are restrictions on the types of fixtures which can be installed on such a system. You are
responsible as a master plumber to know what can be installed on a combination waste-and-vent
system. Choose a fixture from the list below that is not allowed to be installed on a combination
system.
a. Lavatories
b. Toilets
c. Kitchen sinks
d. Laundry sinks
b - Individual vents are not installed for every plumbing trap when a combination-
waste-and vent (CWV) system is installed. Air that is required for the system to
drain properly is provided through the use of oversized drains instead. Most
plumbing fixtures can be installed on a CWV system, but some cannot. The
fixtures that are not allowed include urinals, toilets, bidets, showers, bathtubs
and garbage disposers.
103. The use of drum traps is typically prohibited in new plumbing installations. There is an exception
to this rule. Which of the following qualifies as a situation where a drum trap can be used?
a. Drum traps are required in DWV systems
b. Drum traps can be used to serve bathtubs and showers
c. Drum traps are allowed to be used in CWV systems
d. Drum traps are required when installing plumbing for food-service establishments
c - Combination waste-and-vent systems require the use of anti-siphon traps.

Drum traps are anti-siphon traps and therefore are allowed for use in CWV
systems. Due to the cleanout plug that is a part of a drum trap, the trap must be
accessible for cleaning in the event of a stoppage.
104. Venting systems for a DWV plumbing installation are required to ___________.
a. Terminate in open air above the building be served by plumbing
b. Run independently without tying into a common venting design
c. Terminate in a ventilated attic space or open air space outside of the building be served
d. Have a minimum pipe diameter of 2 inches
a - Vents installed for plumbing systems are required to terminate into open air
outside of the building. The terminal end of the vent is required to be above the
roofline of the building. These vents are not allowed to terminate under an
operable window. When operable windows are on either side of a vent pipe the
vent must be installed far enough away from the window to avoid sewer gas from
being taken in through the open window. This normally means that the vent
should be at least ten feet away from a window or rise to a point that is at least
two feet above the window. One exception to this is the use of a mechanical vent.
These vents are used under hardship situations when they are approved by the
local code officer. Mechanical vents are normally installed below plumbing
fixtures. These vents require a diaphragm seal to prevent the escape of sewer gas.
105. When multiple fixtures discharge into a wet vent they must do so upstream of the wet vent.
True / False
False - Drainage that enters a wet vent must enter the

piping system downstream of the wet vent. For example,
you might install a wye fitting and extend a drain
horizontally to fixtures. The drains from the fixtures must
tie into the drainage system prior to the pipe changing into
a vent. The fact that the developed length of the pipe
serves as both a drain and a vent makes it a wet vent.
106. Assume that you are sizing relief vents. In this scenario you will need a total of three relief
vents. The drains that will require the vents are three different sizes. Relief vents will be needed for a
1.5-inch drain, a 2-inch drain and a 3-inch drain. Your job is to determine the minimum diameter for
these relief valves. Choose the correct answer from the options listed below.
a. Relief vents are required to have the same diameter of the drain they are serving.
b. A relief vent with a diameter of 2 inches is adequate for all three drain sizes given.
c. The minimum diameter required for a relief vent for all of the drain sizes mentioned is 1.5
inches.
d. The minimum diameter of the relief valve must be determined by the distance that a trap
arm extends and the diameter of that drain.
c - Drains with diameters up to four inches can be equipped with relief vents that have a
minimum diameter of 1.5 inches. The code ruling is that a relief vent can have a
diameter this is equal to half the diameter of the drain being used. So, if you had a 4-
inch drain, you would need a 2-inch vent.
107. Circuit vents may be _____________.
a. Connected to stack vents
b. Connected to vent stacks
c. Connected to a main vent system that extends to outside air
d. All of the above
e. A and b only
d - Circuit vents are allowed to tie into stack vents, vent stacks and venting
systems that extend to outside air. They may also extend to outside air
independently.
108. How would you describe a branch vent?
a. It is an independent vent.
b. It is a vent that is used to vent branch drains.
c. It is a vent that can convey both sewer gas and sanitary drainage.
d. It is a vent that runs horizontally and provides a connection point for other vents.
d - The use of branch vents provides a connection point for multiple vents to tie
into. The branch vent runs horizontally. There is no limit to the developed length
of branch drains that have the same diameter of the drains that it is serving.
Plumbers use these vents to reduce labor and material costs in new installations.
Having the horizontal branch vent in place allows other vents to terminate in the
branch vent rather than to be extended individually to open air. This saves time
and money since less pipe and fewer fittings are required to properly vent a
system.
109. While designing the installation of a circuit vent you have found a need to determine the
maximum grade that can be applied to the drainage piping. This piping will be installed horizontally.
You refer to your code. The maximum allowable grade for the drain pipe is to be no more than one
inch per foot.
True / False
True - Horizontal drains served by circuit vents cannot be

installed with a grade of more than one inch per foot.
110. What type of vent is only allowed to convey air and sewer gas?
a. A wet vent
b. A stack vent
c. A vent stack
d. An island vent
c - Many types of vents can carry waste in their lower sections as drains and still
provide the services of a vent. However, vent stacks must only be used as vent
pipes. They are not allowed to accept drainage from plumbing fixtures. This type
of vent is considered to be a primary vent. The vent is to extend to open air above
the building containing it. While a vent stack is not allowed to accept drainage, it
is acceptable to tie other vents into the vertical vent stack.
111. Common vents can only be used ______________.
a. On sinks and lavatories.
b. When all fixtures being vented are contained on the same floor level.
c. When fixtures being served by the vent are on separate floor levels.
d. On basement plumbing fixtures.
b - When common vents are used they must vent only fixtures that are found on
the same floor level. Most jurisdictions restrict the use of common vents so that
they may not serve more than two traps. For example, you could use a common
vent for a bathtub trap and a lavatory trap when the fixtures are on the same
floor level. A few jurisdictions may not place a limit on the number of traps that
can be served, but all jurisdictions do require that all fixtures being served be on
the same floor level.
112. Which of the following types of plumbing fixtures can be vented with island vents?
a. Sinks
b. Floor drains
c. Showers
d. Toilets
a - Island vents can be used only on sinks and lavatories. No other plumbing
fixtures qualify for the installation of an island vent. These vents are built
beneath the flood level rim of the fixture being vented. A cleanout is required in
the piping arrangement. Once the island vent reaches a point to turn to a vertical
position it must rise to outside open air or tie into another vent at a point at least
six inches above the flood level rim of the fixture being vented.
113. A wet vent serves as _______.
a. A vent for one fixture and a drain for another fixture
b. A special vent that is not allowed for use in a DWV system
c. A vent for a wet bar
d. A vent that can only be used above grade.
a - The use of wet vents can reduce costs for both labor and material. They serve
as a vent for one fixture and a drain for a different fixture. When used, wet vents
can serve two fixtures that are in the same bathroom group when the wet vent is
a horizontal branch drain. The discharge from fixtures must be downstream of a
wet vent. When a wet vent is installed vertically the vent can be used to vent any
combination of fixtures within two bathroom groups located on the same floor
level.
114. Crown vents installed in modern plumbing designs are installed on _________.
a. Crown-vented traps
b. Vertical common vents
c. Vent stacks
d. Piping used as a trap arm
d - Piping that is being used as a trap arm may have a crown vent installed
on it. Crown-vented traps are no longer approved in new plumbing
systems. When a crown vent is installed on a trap arm the vent is
required to be installed at a point at least twice as far from the trap as the
diameter of the trap arm. A trap arm that has a diameter of two inches
would require a crown vent to be installed four inches away from the
trap. The vent must be downstream of the trap.
115. Vents are not required to be afforded protection from freezing since they transport only air and
gases, not water.
True / False
False - Vents develop condensation. Over time the
condensation can grow to a point where, if it is freezing,
the ice can blow a vent and render it useless. At the very
least the ice can restrict the pipe diameter to a point that is
not approved by the code. Therefore, vents must be
protected from freezing in regions where freezing is a risk.
The rule of thumb is that vents installed in locations where
outside temperatures may reach a low of zero degrees F
are required to be protected from freezing.
116. Sewage pumps are sometimes required for plumbing installed in basements. These pumps are
used to pump sewage up to a point where it can enter the sanitary drainage system and be carried by
gravity to an approved disposal site. These pumps are installed in sumps. These sumps are required to
be ______________.
a. Constructed on welded steel
b. Covered with a gas-tight cover and vented to outside air
c. Drained with a separate building drain and sewer
d. Constructed of plastic
b - When sewage pumps are installed, the sumps that they are installed in are
required to be fitted with gas-tight covers and the sump must be vented to
outside air. Vents for sumps are not permitted to be connected to other vents
when pneumatic sewer ejector pumps are used. A vent for a sump that houses a
sewer pump must have a minimum diameter of 1.25 inches, but they are more
commonly installed with 2-inch diameters.
117. As a master plumber you will be required to size vents for sumps that contain sewer pumps.
There are two factors that you must know in order to size a vent for a sump properly. The most
important factor needed to establish a minimum diameter for a vent to serve a sump for a sewer
pump is _________.
a. The discharge capacity, measured in gallons per minute GPM, of the sewer pump
b. The holding capacity, measured in gallons, of the sump
c. The voltage rating of the pump intended for use
d. The incoming load factor, measured in gallons, for the sump
a - In order to size a vent for a sump that will house a sewage pump you will need
to know the discharge capacity of the pump. Once you know this you can use a
chart provided in your plumbing code to determine both the minimum allowable
pipe diameter for a vent and the total developed length that the vent may run.
For example, assume that you know that the discharge rate is 20 gpm. If you use
a vent with a 1.25-inch diameter the vent can run a maximum of 270 feet. But, if
you use a 1.5-inch vent the length of the vent is unlimited.
118. What is the maximum allowable discharge capacity of a sewer pump where a 1.25-inch vent can
be used?
a. 60 gpm
b. 80 gpm
c. 100 gpm
d. 149 gpm
d - A vent with a diameter of 1.25 inches can be used on a sump that will house a
sewer pump where the pump discharge capacity will not exceed 149 gpm. Once
the gpm rate reaches 150, the minimum vent diameter is 1.5 inches and that is
very limited in developed length. Even with a 2-inch vent the developed length
cannot exceed 44 feet. You must keep these factors in mind for your sizing work.
119. What is the minimum allowable diameter for a vent that will serve a sump for a sewer pump
that has a discharge capacity of 500 gpm?
a. 2 inch
b. 3 inch
c. 4 inch
d. 6 inch
b - Once the discharge capacity of a sewage pump reaches 500 gpm, the smallest
allowable vent that can be used to vent the sewage sump is three inches in
diameter. It is limited to 24 feet of developed length. If a 4-inch vent is used the
developed length extends to 130 feet.
120. Offsets cannot be installed in stack vents until the vent reaches a height that is at least 10 inches
above the flood-level rim of the highest fixture being served.
True / False
False - Once stack vents rise to a point of at least six inches

above the flood level rim of the highest fixture being
served it can be offset with fittings.
121. Plumbing fixtures in residences are required to have at least one main plumbing vent. What is
the minimum allowable diameter of the main vent?
a. 1.5 inches
b. 2 inches
c. 3 inches
d. 4 inches
c - Main vents for homes are required to have a minimum diameter of three
inches. By rule, the vent must be at least three inches in diameter and no less
than half the size of the building drain. A detached building that contains only a
washing machine or laundry tub is allowed to have a main vent with a minimum
diameter of 1.5 inches.
122. When you are required to size a waste stack vent you will need to know ____________.
a. The type of fixtures that will connect to the pipe
b. The flow rate of the pipe
c. The number of drainage fixture units that the pipe will be required to handle
d. The developed length of the vent piping
c - Drainage fixture units are the primary key needed to size waste stack vents.
Once you have this, you will have a chart to work with to convert your
information into a minimum pipe diameter for the piping. You will need to
determine the total discharge of fixture units into one branch interval. The total
discharge into the pipe, measured in fixture units, is also needed. With this in
hand and the proper sizing chart, you will be able to cross reference from the
chart to determine the minimum diameter of the stack size.
123. What determines the minimum allowable diameter of a wet vent pipe?
a. The drainage fixture unit load
b. The developed length of the piping
c. The amount of slope that the piping will be installed with
d. The number and types of offsets to be installed in the run of piping
a - To size a pipe for a wet vent you must know the drainage fixture unit load that
the pipe will be exposed to. You will be able to reference a chart provided for you
in your code book to determine the proper minimum diameter for a pipe that will
be used as a wet vent.
124. You can determine the fixture load in terms of drainage fixture units for a fixture if you know the
trap size serving the fixture.
True / False
True - A chart that can be found in your code book will assign a drainage fixture
unit rating to common trap sizes. For example, a 1.5-inch trap has a drainage
fixture unit (DFU) rating of two. A 2-inch trap has a DFU rating of three and a 4-
inch trap has a DFU rating of six. So, once you know the trap size you can
determine the DFU rating load that will be on your venting system.

Traps and Cleanouts
125. You are drawing the plumbing diagram for a residential installation. Your plumbers will install a
sewer for a home. The piping that you are responsible for will begin within the first five feet of the
property line for the home location. The municipality will install a lateral to the building lot. The job
requires your plumbers to extend the sewer into the home and connect it to a building drain. Where
will you show the installation of a cleanout?
a. At the point of connection between the sewer and the building drain
b. Outside at the point where the sewer penetrates the foundation in a fashion so that the
cleanout is buried no more than six inches in depth
c. During every 50 feet of piping installed
d. Within five feet of every change of direction
a - Your plumbers are required to install a cleanout at the junction point between
the building drain and sewer. This requirement allows service plumbers to clear
stoppages in the sewer between the house and the sewer connection at the
municipal piping. Depending on the piping position, the cleanout can take the
form of a test tee, a wye or a tee-wye. Remember to leave adequate access in
front of the cleanout for the snaking of the drain.
126. All sewers must _____________.
a. Be equipped with house drains
b. Be equipped with backwater valves
c. Be equipped with cleanouts
d. Be installed with a metallic covering over the piping to allow it to be found with a metal
detector
c - Sewers are required to have cleanouts. The cleanouts take the form of
manholes when large-diameter sewers are installed. Smaller sewers require
cleanout fittings. The sizing and location requirements for cleanouts are detailed
in the local plumbing code.
127. A cleanout is required within five feet of every change in direction that is in excess of 22.5
degrees.
True / False
False - A 22.5-degree bend can be used for a change in

direction without any need for a cleanout. The same is
true for 45-degree bends. Beyond that cleanouts are
required.
128. Drain pipes that are not building drains or horizontal branches that are installed in second-story
framing are _________.
a. Required to have accessible cleanouts
b. Required to have no less than one cleanout at the end of the run of piping
c. Not required to be equipped with cleanouts
d. Not required to be equipped with cleanouts when the building drain is four inches, or larger,
in diameter.
c - Drain pipes that are not building drains or horizontal branches that are
installed in second-story framing are not required to be equipped with cleanouts.
This is due to the fact that P-traps and toilets are allowed to act as required
cleanouts.
129. The maximum allowable distance between cleanouts for sewers that have 8-inch diameters, or
more, is _________.
a. 75 feet
b. 100 feet
c. 200 feet
d. 400
d - Sewers with diameters of no less than eight inches can have cleanouts spaced
as far apart as 400 feet. This is based on straight runs of piping. You must still
install cleanouts at points of changes in direction. The cleanouts must be
accessible. How do you make a cleanout on a buried pipe accessible? Install a
riser pipe from the sewer to approximately ground level for the finished grade.
The fitting used for this in the sewer piping is a tee-wye. Once the riser is at
ground level you will install a cleanout fitting on it.
130. You are installing a DWV system for a single-family home. The house will have two toilets. This
allows you to have a building drain with a diameter of three inches. Standard procedure is to install a
cleanout at the junction of a building drain and sewer. However, there is an exception to this
practice. If you do not want to install a cleanout at the junction of the sewer and building drain what
is your other option? You can install a cleanout on the 3-inch building drain that is 8 feet from the
junction point of the building drain and sewer. If you do this, is it true that you are not required to
install a cleanout at the junction point?
True / False
True - You can avoid a junction cleanout by installing a cleanout in the building
drain that is no more than 10 feet from the junction point of the building drain
and sewer.
131. Horizontal drainage branches must be fitted with cleanouts. Assume that you are installing a
horizontal branch that has a total length of 60 feet. This is a 3-inch branch. The pipe takes two 90-
degree changes in direction during its run. How many cleanouts are required for this installation?
a. 1
b. 2
c. 3
d. 4
d - Cleanouts are required for every 50 feet of piping installed for drains with
diameters of four inches, or less. The scenario above requires 4 cleanouts. Since
the pipe is 60 feet in length it requires two cleanouts if it is running in a straight
line. However, the branch in our example takes two 90-degree changes in
direction. A cleanout is required for each of these changes in direction. Therefore,
the total number of cleanouts required is four.
132. A horizontal drain pipe with a diameter of four inches is required to have __________.
a. A cleanout installed vertically
b. A cleanout installed at the beginning of the piping run
c. A cleanout installed at the end of the piping run
d. A cleanout with a flush-mount plug
c - Horizontal drain pipes are required to have cleanouts installed at the end of
the piping run. Additional cleanouts may be needed when the drain extends for a
distance in excess of 50 feet. In the case of the drain terminating at a water
closet, the water closet can be considered a cleanout. Likewise, a horizontal drain
equipped with a P-trap is considered to have a cleanout as a result of the
removable U-bend of the trap.
133. Junction cleanouts installed where sewers meet building drains are required to be of an
approved two-way design.
True / False
False - It is acceptable to install a two-way cleanout as a
junction cleanout, but there are other approved types of
cleanouts that may also be used. These include, but are not
limited to, test tees, tee-wyes with cleanout fittings, wyes
with female adapters and screw-in plugs connected to
them.
134. You should never use an existing cleanout as a connection point for a new plumbing fixture,
unless ____________.
a. The minimum drain diameter is 3 inches
b. The connection can be made with a screw-in fitting
c. Another cleanout is provided
d. A code enforcement officer approves the procedure and another cleanout is provided at the
approximate location of the existing cleanout n an approved manner.
d - In order to use an existing cleanout plug as a connection point for a new

fixture you will have to obtain permission from a code officer. If the modification
is approved, you will be required to install a new cleanout that will replace the
one that is being used as a connection point for a new drain. The new cleanout
installation must comply with all code requirements or be installed according to
the instructions provided by the approving code officer.
135. What type of drain requires the installation of a cleanout when two eighth bends are used to
create a 90-degree change in direction?
a. A drain serving a water closet or urinal
b. Cleanouts are not required when changes in direction are made with eighth bends.
c. A drain that is below the main floor level of habitable space
d. A drain that receives the waste from a garbage disposer
b - Cleanouts are not required when changes in direction are made with eighth
bends or other fittings with less of an angle than an eighth bend. This is due to
the moderate rate of the change in direction.
136. Cleanouts installed in floors are required to have a minimum height clearance of 16 inches.
True / False
False - When cleanouts are provided for underfloor piping

it should be installed on a vertical stack at a height ranging
from 18-48 inches above the finished floor level. This is not
always practical. Consider this example and alternative
installation method. The underfloor piping is installed in a
warehouse where people and equipment move about. It is
a large building with several cleanouts required. You
cannot reasonably install vertical stacks in all of the
locations where cleanouts are required. Doing so would
block travel paths. Given these circumstances you can
install the cleanouts flush with the finished floor. They
have to be fitted with recessed cleanout plugs to prevent
tripping hazards.
137. Assume that you are preparing to plumb a small apartment building. The plumbing for the
building is spread out. It runs into a full basement where it goes below the concrete floor. This
building will contain two 4-inch stacks and four 3-inch stacks. How many cleanouts will you be
required to supply for the combined stacks prior to their entry at the point of the concrete floor?
a. 6
b. 4
c. 3
d. 2
a - Each stack is required to have a cleanout at the base of the stack. This means
you will need six cleanouts on the stacks where they enter the floor. The
cleanouts can be up to 48 inches above the floor level and they must be provided
with adequate access for cleaning the drains if they become blocked.
138. Cleanouts must _________.
a. Be accessible.
b. Be readily accessible
c. Be visible
d. Be marked with an indelible, permanent tag to identify them as cleanouts
a - Cleanouts are required to be accessible. They can be installed in closets, in

cabinets, in walls when access panels are provided, and in similar locations. The
key is that cleanouts must be accessible for drain cleaning with minimal effort and
with no damage done to the property in order to expose the cleanouts.
139. You are drawing a riser diagram for a DWV system. In this design drawing you have shown all
the anticipated piping and identified it. In doing so you specify clearance distances for fixtures and
cleanouts. Your drawing stresses the minimum distance of clearance that is required in front of a
cleanout. A minimum of 18 inches of clear space is required in front of a cleanout that has a diameter
of 3 inches.
True / False
True - Cleanout clearance distance in front of a 3-inch cleanout is to be no less

than 18 inches. If you are installing drains that have diameters of less than 3
inches, only 12 inches of clear space is required in front of the cleanout.
140. What is the maximum distance that cleanouts can be installed from an access opening under a
floor, such as in a crawl space?
a. 4 feet
b. 7 feet
c. 20 feet
d. 50 feet
c - There cannot be more than twenty feet between an access opening and a
cleanout when the cleanout is installed below a finished floor. More than one
access opening may have to be provided for access to cleanouts in large
buildings.
141. Under which of the following conditions can a rubber cap with a stainless-steel clamp be used on
the end of a drain pipe to act as an approved cleanout?
a. When the drain is located in a crawl space
b. Rubber caps and stainless-steel clamps are approved for all cleanout uses
c. When the drain is a vertical riser from a buried sewer
d. When the cleanout is readily accessible
b - A rubber cap that is secured to the end of a pipe with a stainless-steel clamp
can be used as an acceptable cleanout at any location where another type of
cleanout would be used. The procedure is not common, but it is an option. If this
option is used, adequate access must be provided for the easy removal of the
stainless-steel clamp.
142. You are designing the installation of a sewer that will have a 10-inch diameter. As you calculate
the need for manholes on straight runs of pipe you will have to identify manhole locations. You will
want to show a manhole installation at distances that are no more than ______ feet apart to comply
with the code.
a. 100 feet
b. 200 feet
c. 300 feet
d. 500 feet
c - To be safe, you should show the maximum distance between manholes not
exceeding 300 feet. Some jurisdictions will allow the spacing to run as far as 400
feet. Manholes are typically used on sewers that have diameters of eight inches
or more. Protection from flooding is to be provided for manholes and the covers
used on manholes are required to allow gases from the sewer to escape to open
air.
143. Only brass or plastic plugs can be used for sealing cleanout openings.
True / False
True - The plumbing code requires plugs used with cleanouts to be constructed of
either brass or plastic. These are the only two types of material that are allowed
for use as plugs to seal cleanouts.
144. What type of connection is normally used for the installation of manholes?
a. Welded connections
b. Flexible compression connections
c. Poured-concrete connections
d. Precast flange connections
b - Flexible compression connections are normally used to install manholes. The

connections are not allowed to be closer than one foot to a manhole and not
more than three feet away from a manhole.
145. What is the minimum depth of a trap seal?
a. 1 inch
b. 1.25
c. 1.5 inches
d. 2 inches
d - The minimum depth of a liquid trap seal is two inches. This depth must be
maintained. If the trap is not used often the trap seal may evaporate. If there is a
risk of the trap drying out, a trap prime is to be installed. This is a device that
detects a falling level of liquid in a trap and then introduces water into the trap if
the trap seal is in risk of dropping below the required minimum.
146. Double trapping is required on laundry tubs to prevent lint from entering the sanitary drains.
True / False
False - It is a code violation to double trap any plumbing fixture.
147. What is the main risk associated with a trap that is not properly vented?
a. The trap could be drained through backpressure
b. Flooding of the trap due to backflow
c. The trap may be prone to blockages
d. Pressure changes in the piping could rupture the solvent-weld joints
a - Vents for traps provide a number of benefits, but the main risk associated with
a trap that is not vented is the possibility that the liquid trap seal may be sucked
out of the trap due to backpressure. If this happens the trap will no longer be
sealed and sewer gas can escape into a building. This can be a health concern.
For this reason the plumbing code sets forth requirements for maximum
distances between vents and the traps that they serve. This information can be
found in the venting section of the code.
148. Bell traps, S-traps and ________ are prohibited from being installed in any new plumbing
installations.
a. P-traps
b. Indirect-waste traps
c. House traps
d. Drum traps
c - House traps are not allowed in any new plumbing installations. P-traps are the
typical type of trap used for new installations. Drum traps are normally
prohibited in new installations, but there are exceptions. When a combination
waste-and-vent system is being installed it is necessary to install drum traps
where traps are required.
149. Clothes washers may discharge into a kitchen sink or a laundry sink as an indirect waste.
True / False
False - Clothes washers are allowed to discharge into laundry sinks as a means of
an indirect waste. They are not, however, allowed to discharge into a kitchen
sink. The depth of the sink bowl for a kitchen sink is inadequate to handle the
volume of discharge.
150. What is the maximum allowable height of a tailpiece that is installed between a fixture and the
fixture’s trap?
a. 8 inches
b. 10 inches
c. 16 inches
d. 24 inches
d - Tailpieces are not to be longer than 24 inches in length. Longer tailpieces can
result in blowback when waste conveyed by the tailpiece makes contact with a
trap or drainage fitting. In such a case, the water can splash back up the tailpiece
while leaving solids lodged in the drain. When additional length is needed, and
can be achieved by having the tailpiece enter the drainage piping system, offset
the remainder of the drop to prevent a direct fall of water that may not drain the
pipe properly.
151. __________ are required to be equipped with a device that controls the water flow through the
trap in a manner that prevents the water flow from exceeding the rated flow of the trap.
a. Grease traps
b. Gasoline traps
c. Sand traps
d. P traps
a - Grease traps must be equipped to prevent water from flowing through the
interceptor too quickly. Flow ratings are assigned to specific grease traps. The
maximum flow rating is not to be exceeded. The inner portions of grease traps
are designed to capture grease that is in water being drained from a fixture and
released into a sanitary drainage system. The traps are designed for specific
water flowage to ensure that the grease will be collected properly. If water is
allowed to pass through the interceptor too quickly the grease may move through
with the drain water and collect in the general sanitary drainage system.
152. Assume that you are installing a laundry sink. The tailpiece from the drain of the sink has a
diameter of 1.5 inches. Just as you are preparing to install a 1.5-inch P trap, your customer comes in
to the room. The customer wants you to install a 2-inch trap so that it will be less likely to clog. It is
common to install a 1.5-inch trap on a lavatory that has a tailpiece with a diameter of 1.25 inches. So,
you can upsize the trap on the laundry tray to 2 inches without any problems.
True / False
False - You cannot upsize the trap for a laundry sink. The trap is required to have
the same diameter as the tailpiece.
153. Floor drains that are installed in a concrete floor with no access to the trap can be trapped with
___________.
a. P traps that have permanently-sealed joints
b. Plastic traps that are sealed with slip nuts and washers
c. Brass traps with mechanical joints.
d. Drum traps
a - Traps installed below a concrete floor where there is no means of access to the
trap should be P traps that use solvent-weld joints. Since the traps are self
cleaning and have permanent joints they can be installed below grade without
access.
154. Plumbing interceptors are designed to stop which of the following from entering a sanitary
drainage system?
a. Grease
b. Sand
c. Oil
d. All of the above
e. Only b and c
d - Plumbing systems are to be protected from grease, sand and oil. This is done
with the use of interceptors. Interceptors stop the entry of harmful amounts of
the substance being intercepted from entering a sanitary drainage system. Each
type of interceptor requires specific installation procedures. Refer to the
manufacturer’s recommendations prior to installing an interceptor. Then rely on
your plumbing code for the remainder of the data you will need to make an
approved installation.
155. You will have to determine total flow-through ratings and grease retention capacities when
working with grease traps. Assume that you have determined that the total flow-through rating is 20
gallons per minute (GPM). Now that you know this, you can determine the grease retention capacity.
Based on what you have been told, how many pounds of grease can the grease interceptor with a
flow rate of 20 gpm hold?
a. 20 pounds
b. 30 pounds
c. 40 pounds
d. 60 pounds
c - A conversion table is provided in your code book to allow you to size grease
trap capacity. The answer is 40 pounds. You can use the chart, or you can use a
simple rule-of-thumb that will result in the same answer. Take the flow rate and
double it and you will have the grease capacity in pounds. As an example you can
use this simple calculation.
A = Total flow-through rating
C = Grease retention capacity
Ax2=C
156. Which of the following locations are likely to contain a backwater valve?
a. Sewers and drains
b. Water distribution piping
c. Vent stacks
d. Circuit vents
a - Backwater valves are intended for installation on drains and sewers. You can
think of a backwater valve as something like a check valve. The device allows
water to flow in only one direction. In other words, the backwater valve allows a
drain to drain and does not allow water due to a blocked drain to move up the
piping past the point of the backwater valve.
157. Assume that you are installing piping for a commercial facility. Some of the drains will convey
chemicals, enzymes and emulsifiers. Knowing this, which of the following is not allowed to accept
waste that contains enzymes, emulsifiers, and chemicals?
a. Garbage disposers
b. Interceptors
c. P traps
d. Special waste piping
a - The plumbing code does not allow garbage disposers to accept waste that
contains bacteria, chemicals, emulsifiers or enzymes.
158. What is the minimum number of traps required to collect the drainage from a three-bay kitchen
sink?
a. 1
b. 2
c. 3
d. 2 traps and one tailpiece inlet side waste
a - Only one trap is required. A continuous waste can be used to connect the
drainage from all three sink bowls and convey it to a single trap that is in a
location central to all three sink bowls. All three sink bowls can be vented with a
single vent for the trap serving the sink.
159. Standpipes used to receive the discharge from washing machines are required to have a
minimum height of 18 inches.
True / False
True - All standpipes used as indirect waste receptors for washing machines must
have a minimum height of 18 inches. The maximum allowable height is 42 inches.
Some local code requirements may have exceptions to this rule, but the
information here is the normal code requirement.
160. What is the maximum allowable height for the installation of a cleanout that is installed near the
base of a stack?
a. 16 inches above the floor level
b. 24 inches above the floor level
c. 32 inches above the floor level
d. 48 inches above the floor level
d - Four feet is the maximum height that a cleanout for the base of a stack can be
installed above a finished floor level. The access required for drain cleaning must
be kept in mind. If the cleanout was allowed to be higher on the stack it could be
very difficult to rod out blockages in drains.

Water Supply and Distribution
161. Urinals require a water supply with a minimum diameter of __________.
a. 3/8 of an inch
b. 1/2 of an inch
c. 3/4 of an inch
d. 1 inch
b - The minimum diameter of a water supply pipe for a urinal is 1/2 an inch. This
has surprised many plumbers. It is common for them to think that the water
supply piping must be at least 3/4 of an inch in diameter, but this is not the case.
162. You are calculating the flow rate requirements for a bathtub. In your work, you find that a
shower requires a fixture supply that has a minimum flow rate of two gallons per minute. The
minimum flow rate required for a water supply to a bathtub is _________ gallons per minute.
a. 2
b. 2.75
c. 3
d. 4
d - The minimum flow rate for a water supply pipe servicing a bathtub is four
gallons per minute. In order to size a water distribution system you must know
what flow rates to assign to different types of fixtures. This is actually pretty easy
when you use the table supplied for you in your code book. It will name the
fixture, the flow rate required, and the flow pressure required.
163. What is the maximum allowable flow rate and consumption for a lavatory installed for public
use with a pressure rating requirement of 60 PSI?
a. 0.5 gpm
b. 1 gpm
c. 2.5 gpm
d. 3 gpm
a - Public lavatories that are required to deliver waster at a pressure of 60 psi are
required to have a maximum flow rate and consumption of 0.5 gpm. This does
not seem like much water. Water conservation has long been a concern and
newer fixtures are designed to operate properly while using less water.
164. When a fixture is installed away from a wall what is the minimum air gap required for a sink?
a. 1.25 inches
b. 1.5 inches
c. 2 inches
d. 3 inches
b - The minimum distance for an air gap being installed as described in the
scenario is 1.5 inches. Depending on the type of fixture you are working with and
whether it is installed next to a wall, the air gap requirement ranges from one to
three inches. Use the sizing table in you code book when you are required to
determine a distance for a minimum air gap.
165. Which of the following do you need in order to size water piping for a water distribution system?
a. The rate at which the water will flow
b. The minimum quantity of water that a pipe of a specific material can deliver
c. The outside diameter of the pipe being used to deliver water
d. The amount of pitch that will be installed on the supply piping
e. Both a and d
a- In order to size a water distribution system you will need to know the flow rate
of the water, the inside diameter of the water pipe and the amount of water that
will be in the pipe. Once you know these three elements you can size a pipe with
a fairly simple formula. This formula is done as follows:
X = the water flow
Y = the amount of water in the pipe
Z = the inside diameter of the pipe
Y =XZ
Once you know the answer to the equation you can determine the size of the
pipe requirement to meet the needs of a water supply pipe. But, there is an easier
way. Most plumbers use the fixture-unit rating requirements of fixtures supplies
to determine the piping size required for a full water distribution system. The
plumbing code takes into account that plumbers do not generally want to be
mathematicians, so tables and charts can be found in your code book that will
allow you to size piping without the heavy math.
166. The minimum required height of a barometric loop is 40 feet high. This is necessary since 38 feet
is the minimum height at which vacuum suction cannot occur.
True / False
False - The minimum required height of a barometric loop

is 35 feet. When this is the case the barometric loop can be
used as a vacuum breaker. This is because the height of the
loop is high enough to prevent vacuum suction.
167. Which of the following types of pipe deliver water at the fastest flow rate?
a. PEX
b. Copper
c. CPVC
d. Galvanized steel
d - This answer is likely to surprise you, but galvanized steel pipe can deliver water
at a faster flow rate than PEX, copper or CPVC piping. It would seem logical that
the roughness inside of galvanized water piping would slow water down. Most
people would think that a smooth pipe, such as copper or PEX, would be capable
over moving water faster. They are not. Why? It is due to the wall thickness of
the pipe. Since galvanized pipe has a thicker pipe wall it can work under greater
pressure than a thin-walled pipe can. Therefore, the galvanized pipe is capable of
providing a faster flow rate. As an example, most materials approved for water
distribution have a flow rate of about 5 feet per second. The rating for galvanized
pipe is about 8 feet per second.
168. You are sizing a water distribution system for a single-family home. Assume that the home has a
1-inch water service that terminates once it enters a basement so that it can be converted to waster
distribution piping. The house has two full bathrooms, one powder room, a kitchen sink, a garbage
disposer, a dishwasher, a bar sink, a washing machine hook-up, a water heater and three hose bibs.
Without going into depth to determine absolute minimum pipe sizing, what size piping do you believe
is most likely to be used for the main cold water distribution pipe?
a. 0.5 inch
b. 0.75 inch
c. 1 inch
d. 1.25 inch
b - Normally a single-family home can be piped with the main water distribution
piping having a diameter of 0.75 inch. Typically, no more than two plumbing
fixtures are allowed to be served by a water distribution pipe with a diameter of
0.5-inch diameter. This means that you install 0.75-inch pipe as the main pipe and
branch off of it with pipes having diameter of either 0.75-inches or 0.5 inches. The
key is knowing the fixture-unit rating for the fixtures being served. You can find
this information in a table that most code books contain. A pipe with a larger
diameter may be required when the number and types of fixtures change. But all
you really have to do is refer to your sizing tables to make your design. In some
cases you can extend a pipe with a 3/8-inch pipe to serve a fixture. It all comes
down to the fixture-unit rating requirements as set forth in your code book.
169. When a water service pipe is installed in the vicinity of a waste disposal system, such as a septic
field, the water services should _____________.
a. Be installed through the bed in a way not to disturb the percolation chambers or gravel
b. Be installed above the waste disposal system
c. Be installed under the bed with a minimum depth of two feet between the disposal system
and the piping for the water service
d. Be installed a minimum of 50 feet from the nearest portion of a septic field
d - A minimum distance of 50 feet is required between a water service and a

septic system. It is never acceptable for a water service to be installed above,
through, or under a septic system or other waste disposal system. Due to the
potential risk of contamination from the waste disposal system entering the
water service and contaminating the potable water supply, this rule is meaningful
and must be observed.
170. Now you are trying to find the most cost-effective way to provide a water service and a sewer to
a building. It would cost less if you put both pipes in a single trench. In fact, the code allows a water
service and sewer to be installed in the same trench.
True / False
True - A water service can be installed in the same trench that contains a sewer.
The two pipes must be separated. The water service is normally installed on a
stable shelf, usually made of dirt, that provides a solid platform for the
installation. The water service must be at least 12 inches above the sewer. If this
is not practical, the two pipes can be installed on the same level as long as the
two pipes are spaced a minimum of five feet apart and separated by undisturbed
or compacted earth.
171. Which of the following pertains to a code requirement on the use of flexible water connections?
a. Flexible water connections must be readily accessible.
b. Flexible water connections must be accessible.
c. Flexible water connections are limited to first-floor installations.
d. Flexible water connections must be supported.
b - Flexible water connections must be accessible. The connectors can be installed

in cabinets and closets. They may also be installed behind access panels. As long
as the devices can be serviced with the removal of an access panel or the opening
of a door they are accessible.
172. A minimum distance of 100 feet is required between a pasture and a potable water well.
True / False
True - The minimum allowable distance between potable water wells and
pastures is 100 feet. The well must be protected from contamination. Having 100
feet between a well and a pasture is intended to prevent runoff from the pasture
from contaminating the water well.
173. You are designing a water distribution system. Based on your experience and a review of the
building plans, you have some concern that the pipes may bang or vibrate after they are installed.
This can create wear on the piping that could result in future leaks. How will you protect against
these concerns?
a. Run all piping as straight as possible to avoid offsets where water would be making turns and
therefore creating a water hammer.
b. Avoid the installation of slow-closing valves.
c. Install 45-degree offsets in long runs of piping to prevent water from rushing through the
piping and coming to an abrupt change of direction.
d. Install only PEX piping
c - Banging water pipes can make loud, obnoxious noises. The vibrations in the
pipes can also wear holes in the piping where it is supported. This may result in a
leak. The official term for banging water pipes is water hammer. Long, straight
runs of water piping can lead to water hammer. This can be avoided by installing
45-degree offsets along runs of piping. Air chambers and water-hammer arrestors
can be installed at fixtures to provide a cushion of air that will prevent water
hammer. Quick-closing valves are a potential cause of water hammer. These
valves are commonly found in use with washing machines and ballcocks.
174. The maximum allowable water pressure in residential water distribution systems is
___________.
a. 40 pounds per square inch
b. 60 pounds per square inch
c. 80 pounds per square inch
d. 100 pounds per square inch
c - Residential plumbing systems are to be equipped with water distribution

systems that operate at no more than 80 pounds per square inch. Street pressure
for the water delivered from a municipality can be higher than this. If this is the
case, the installation of a pressure reducing valve is required near the connection
between a water service and a water distribution pipe. This valve allows you to
adjust the pressure rating to remain in compliance with the plumbing code.
175. Water storage tanks must not be installed __________.
a. Below kitchens
b. Below mechanical rooms
c. Below soil pipes
d. Below bathrooms
c - It is a code violation to install a water storage tank under soil or waste pipes.
There is too much risk the leakage from the drains could reach a potable water
source. Gravity-style water storage tanks must be equipped with overflow
provisions. Water supplies to water storage tanks must be automatically
controlled. All incoming water must pass through an air gap that is at least four
inches above the overflow for the tank and all tanks must be capable of being
drained. They must also be equipped with a drain valve to prevent unwanted
draining.
176. Which of the following is required when a diaphragm-type pressure tank is installed for the
delivery of potable water from a well?
a. A vacuum relief valve
b. A double check valve
c. A pressure balancing valve
d. A pressure relief valve
d - Pressure tanks installed with a well system and that are constructed with a
diaphragm design are required to be protected by a pressure relief valve. You can
install the valve on nearby water piping or on the tank. Most of these tanks are
fitted with a tank-tee that is set up to accept the installation of a pressure relief
valve. The valve must be rated for the requirements of the manufacturer’s rating
of the tank.
177. Pipe supports used to secure water distribution pipes must be __________.
a. Be made of a material that is the same as the material used to make the pipe that is being
secured
b. Be made of plastic
c. Be made of a material that is resistant to corrosion
d. Be made of a ferrous material
c - Supports used to hang and secure water piping must be made of a non-
corrosive material. The two most common materials used for this purpose is
plastic and copper. Hangers and supports should be sized properly to fit the
piping that they are supporting. Vibration and movement of a supported pipe in a
hanger or support could result in wear that would lead to a leak.
178. A minimum depth of 10 feet of grouting for a potable well must be extended into the earth if the
well casing does not hit bedrock.
True / False
True - Well casings are protected from the influx of ground water when grouting
is installed. Potable water wells are required to be protected around their casings
with grouting that is installed to a minimum depth of at least 10 feet below
ground level. An exception to this is when bedrock is encountered closer than 10
feet from the ground surface. Once bedrock surrounds a well casing grouting is
not needed.
179. How far apart can supports be spaced when installing copper piping in a horizontal position for
water distribution?
a. No more than 4 feet
b. No more than 6 feet
c. No more than 8 feet
d. No more than 10 feet
b - Copper water tubing and pipe installed horizontally for water distribution is to
be supported at maximum intervals of six feet. The spacing of supports varies
depending on the type of piping or tubing being used.
Copper 6 Feet
PEX 32 Inches
Brass 10 Feet
Galvanized Steel 12 Feet
180. Sill cocks require ________.
a. A backflow preventer
b. A minimum water supply of 0.75 inch in diameter
c. A tempering valve
d. A thread-mounted backflow preventer
a - When sill cocks are installed they must be protected against backflow. This can
be done with a thread-mounted backflow preventer that cannot be removed or
an integral vacuum breaker. In addition to a backflow preventer, every sill cock is
required to have its own independent cutoff valve. This does not have to be a full-
open valve. Stop-and-waste valves are normally used.
181. An example of a full-open valve is a __________valve.
a. Gate
b. Stop-and-waste
c. Stop
d. Quick-closing
a - Full open valves are so named because, when they are open, the internal
diameter of the piping is not restricted. Gate valves and ball valves are full-open
valves. These valves are machined for a positive closing action that does not
incorporate the use of rubber washers. When a valve must be counted on to close
or is not allowed to restrict water flow, full-open valves are used.
182. Assume that you are a plumber working in a rural location. There are a lot of farms in the area
where you work. In this example an old farm house burned to the ground and a new one is being
built. You will be installing the water service from the submersible well pump to the new house. The
farm has livestock on it. There are also buildings related to the farming activities. How far from the
barnyard should the water service pipe be installed?
a. 50 feet
b. 75
c. 100
d. 300
c - The water service pipe must be at least 100 feet away from the barnyard to
avoid potential risk of contamination. This is not the type of situation that many
plumbers run into, but some do work in farming communities and the question
could appear on your exam. There is a table in your code book that details
minimum required distances like the one cited in this example.
183. What is the most dependable type of backflow prevention?
a. An air break
b. An air gap
c. A double check valve
d. A vacuum breaker
b - Air gaps provide the most dependable form of backflow protection. When
they are used there is a physical drop between the fixture delivering water and
the fixture receiving it. An example of this would be a tub spout. The tub spout is
never subjected to contact with drainage water, so backflow is essentially
impossible.
184. Jet pumps installed in basements must be installed a minimum of 18 inches from the finished
floor level.
True / False
True - Jet pumps must be protected from the potential risk of flood waters. To
accomplish this, jet pumps installed in basements must be mounted a minimum
of 18 inches above the finished floor. This is assumed to be a height that is not
likely to be affected by flood water collected in a basement.
185. Carbonated beverage dispensers require the installation of ______________ on the incoming
water supply.
a. A vacuum breaker
b. A butterfly-style backflow preventer
c. A pneumatic backflow preventer
d. A vented backflow preventer that is not affected by carbon dioxide gas if the fixture does not
have an internal backflow preventer.
d - Carbonated beverage dispensers require the installation of a vented backflow

preventer that is not affected by carbon dioxide gas. This can be an internal backflow
preventer or one that is installed on the incoming water supply. Most carbonators are
equipped with approved, manufacturer-installed backflow prevention devices.
186. Connections between potable water supply systems and automatic fire sprinkling systems are to
be made with _________.
a. Mechanical joints
b. A check valve
c. A vented backflow preventer
d. A flanged joints and stainless-steel bolts
b - A check valve is required to be installed between a potable water source and

an automatic fire sprinkling system. This is the base requirement. The type of
sprinkling system used can require additional devices to be installed. You have to
identify each type of system and confirm the requirements for the system being
used. But, in all cases, a check valve is required to be installed in the piping
between a potable water source and the sprinkling system.
187. Piping that delivers hot water must maintain the desired water temperature for a minimum
travel distance of least ______ feet from the fixture being served.
a. 60 feet
b. 80 feet
c. 100 feet
d. 150 feet
c - Water distribution pipe that supplies hot water is required to maintain the
desired water temperature for a minimum of 100 feet from the fixture being
served. Should this not be possible with existing equipment, a recirculation pump
should be installed. The use of these pumps are common in large buildings, such
as hotels. The pump keeps hot water moving to maintain the desired
temperature at the prescribed distance required. It can become expensive to
heat water continuously, but when the source of hot water cannot maintain the
required temperature for the prescribed distance there is little choice but to
install additional heating units along the water distribution piping or to install a
recirculation pump.
188. Pex water pipe and tubing can be used as a water distribution material. However, there is a limit
to how close PEX piping can be installed to the top of a water heater. Some type of metallic pipe or
connector is required to connect to a water heater and it must rise to a point at least _____ inches
above the water heater before PEX tubing or piping can be attached to it.
a. 4
b. 6
c. 12
d. 18
d - The installation of Pex tubing and piping for water distribution to and from a
water heater is restricted so that the Pex material will not be closer than 18
inches to the connection point. Metal connectors are available to fill the gap
between the PEX and the water heater. If that is not desirable, copper piping or
tubing can connect directly to the water heater and then be converted to PEX
once the height requirement is met.
189. Inlet and outlet copper water connections to an electric water heater should contain
__________.
a. Unions
b. Dielectric Unions
c. Compression Unions
d. Galvanized Unions
b - Unions should be installed on both the inlet and outlet piping for a water
heater. This facilitates the easy removal of the water heater. The unions used
with copper pipe or tubing should be dielectric unions. These unions contain a
rubber washer that breaks the metal-to-metal contact. When this happens
unintended electrical current cannot pass from the water heater through metallic
water piping. This prevents someone from touching a water pipe and receiving an
electrical shock that has transferred from an electric water heater.
190. Water piping that is approved for use as a water service and not approved for use as water
distribution piping must be converted to piping that is suitable for a water distribution system
_________________________.
a. At the inlet piping to a water heater
b. Prior to the piping turning to a vertical position
c. Within the first 3 feet of entry of the building
d. At the full-open valve installed on the water service when it enters a building
d - A full-open valve is required to be installed on a water service pipe when it

enters a building. This is also the point where a conversion from one type of
material to another is required if the piping used as a water service is not rated
for use as a water distribution pipe. Normally this will occur within the first five
feet of the water service piping entering a building.
191. You want to run a water service line above a sewer pipe in the same trench. How much dirt
must be laid between the pipes?
a. 6 inches
b. 12 inches
c. 18 inches
d. 24 inches
b - The water service line must be at least 12 inches above

the sewer pipe on a stable shelf.
192. If a water service line and a sewer pipe cannot be installed in the same trench at different levels,
they can be installed at the same level in the ground as long as ___________ feet of earth separates
them.
a. 1
b. 3
c. 5
d. 10
c.- If it is not practical to install a water service and sewer

line above one another in the same trench, the two pipes
can be installed on the same level as long as the two pipes
are spaced a minimum of five feet apart and separated by
undisturbed or compacted earth.
Sanitary Drainage Systems
193. Assume that you are sizing a drainage system and want to determine the total load on the
system as you design it. With this in mind, how many gallons per minute of drainage will two fixture
units represent?
a. 1
b. 2
c. 3
d. 4
a - Two fixtures units represent one gallon per minute of flow. A drainage trap
with a 1.5-inch diameter has a rating of two fixture units. This means that a
fixture served by a 1.5-inch trap is expected to produce a drainage flow of up to
one gallon per minute.
194. Drainage piping that has a diameter of three inches is normally allowed to carry the waste of up
to _______ toilet(s).
a. 1
b. 2
c. 4
d. 5
b - It is normally acceptable to allow up to two toilets to be installed on a 3-inch

drain. This can be a horizontal branch, a stack, a building drain or a sewer. Some
local codes allow up to three toilets to be installed on a 3-inch pipe. You can
check your local code to be certain of the ruling enforced in your area. As a rule
of thumb, if you use the limit of two toilets on a 3-inch drain you will be safe with
your field design.
195. Assume that you are sizing a drainage system that will contain a pump. Further assume that
horizontal drainage piping will be installed with a grade of 1/4 of an inch per linear foot. To
determine the minimum piping diameter required for the waste pipe connected to the pump you will
___________________.
a. Calculate the number of fixture-unit ratings and base your pipe sizing on this information.
b. Calculate the vertical lift of the pump and the fixture-unit ratings served by the pump.
c. Calculate the flow rate of the pump in gallons per minute and multiply that by two to arrive
at the fixture-unit load on the pump.
d. Assign a gpm rating of 8.5 to the pump and determine pipe size based on fixture-unit ratings
c - Sizing a drain pipe for a sewage pump requires you to calculate the flow rate of
the pump and assign two fixture units for every gallon of flow per minute.
Consider this example: the sewage pump has a flow rate of 5 gpm. You assign
two fixture units for each gpm and arrive at a total of 10. The fixture-unit load on
the pump is determined to be 10. There have been some exceptions to this
concept. There have been circumstances when the flow rate is assigned one
fixture unit for every 7.5 gpm. The safest method for sizing the discharge piping
for a sewage pump is to refer to a table in your code book. The chart will give you
some concrete options. For example, a pump that has a capacity of 21 gpm
requires a 2-inch drain. A pump with a capacity of 30 gpm requires a 2.5-inch
pipe. Since 2.5-inch pipe is rarely used, the move here would be to upsize the
pipe to a 3-inch diameter. When this is done the drain can carry up to 45 gpm of
pump capacity.
196. When plumbing is roughed in for future use the increased load of drainage that could be created
by future fixtures must be factored into the sizing of the drainage system.
True / False
True - Plumbing that is roughed in or stubbed out for potential future use is to be
taken into consideration when sizing a drainage system. For example, if you rough
in a bathroom for a shower, a lavatory and a toilet, the flow load of all of these
fixtures must be used in determining the minimum sizing of a drainage system.
197. Sizing procedures for sewers is done with the same practices and principles that are used when
sizing ________________.
a. Horizontal branches
b. Soil stacks
c. Vent stacks
d. Building drains
d - Sewers and building drains are sized using the same sizing criteria. Horizontal
branches are sized in a similar fashion, but the data used for sizing horizontal
branches is different from what would be used for a sewer or a building drain.
The minimum diameter for a pipe that will convey waste from a water closet is
three inches. A 3-inch sewer installed with a slope of 1/4 inch per foot can carry
up to 42 fixture units. If a 4-inch sewer is used under the same conditions it can
handle up to 216 fixture units.
198. What is the minimum allowable slope allowed per linear foot when a sewer or building drain is
installed?
a. 1/16 inch
b. 1/8 inch
c. 1/4 inch
d. 1/2 inch
a - The minimum allowable slope allowed per linear foot for the installation of a
sewer or building drain is 1/16 of an inch. But a slope of this rate is rare. In
common practice, an 1/8 of an inch is generally considered to be the smallest
slope to be used in the field. Most plumbing professional prefer and use 1/4 of
an inch of fall per foot.
Maximum Number of Drainage Fixture Units Allowed on Sewers and Building Drains
Diameter 1/16 Inch 1/8 Inch 1/4 Inch 1/2 Inch

of Pipe Grade per Grade per Grade per Grade per
Linear Foot Linear Foot Linear Foot Linear Foot
6 Not allowed 700 840 1,000
8 1,400 1,600 1,920 2,300
199. Sizing a drainage stack requires you to identify ________________.
a. The amount of slope designed for the piping
b. The fixture-unit load on each storey of height
c. The fixture-unit load entering a stack at each branch interval
d. The size of the sewer that the stack will connect to
c - When you are sizing a drainage stack you must know the fixture-unit load that
is entering the stack at each branch interval. Since stacks are used as connection
points for horizontal branches there can be a lot of fixture units dumped into a
stack. For example, a 4-inch stack can take up to 90 fixture units of total
discharge into one branch interval. If there are more than three branch intervals
the stack is allowed to carry up to 500 fixture units.
200. When sizing a stack for pressure sterilizer drainage systems you must use different criteria than
you would for sizing a stack for toilets and sinks.
True / False
True - Stack sizing for sterilizers requires you to work with different ratings than
what are used for more common plumbing fixtures. Your code book should
contain a table of sizing criteria that is to be used when working with pressure
sterilizers.
201. The code states that horizontal branch drains must run _________________.
a. Horizontally
b. For a minimum of 42 inches before a change in direction
c. Directly to a vent stack
d. With a minimum diameter of 3 inches
e. Both a and c
a - Horizontal branches can be installed horizontally or vertically. They are
normally installed horizontally.
202. When is a vent not required for a vertical offset in a stack?
a. When the stack has horizontal branches connected to it
b. When the stack has a minimum diameter of three inches
c. When the stack is sized as a building drain
d. When the stack has a minimum diameter of four inches
c - Vertical offsets are not required to be vented where a stack and its offset is
sized as a building drain. This means that the stack must be sized using the criteria
for a building drain. Stack sizing rules could allow for a smaller diameter than
what would be allowed for a building drain. If this is the case, the offset will have
to be vented.
203. Assume you are installing drainage piping in and around a food service area. Which of the
following locations are not allowed to have exposed drainage piping installed above them?
a. Areas used for storage
b. Surfaces provided for eating
c. Work areas
d. All of the above
e. B and c only
d - Due to the risk of leakage and potential contamination, exposed drainage

piping is not allowed to be installed above work areas, storage areas or eating
surfaces in or around food service areas.
204. You have a contractor who has been asked to provide plans and specifications for a job that will
involve two homes on the same building lot. The potential homeowner will live in one house and use
the other one as a rental property. There is no zoning requirement that prohibits this construction in
the proposed location. As a cost-saving method, the contractor wants to use one sewer and one
water service to provide municipal services to both dwellings. This will cut down on plumbing costs
and the payment for tap fees will be cut in half. Multiple buildings situated on the same building lot
may share a common building sewer.
True / False
False - Multiple buildings situated on the same building lot are not allowed to
share a common building sewer.
205. Which of the following types of joints can be used to join dissimilar piping materials?
a. Mechanical
b. Soldered
c. Welded
d. Brazed
a - Mechanical joints are used when joining dissimilar pipes. These mechanical
joints can be made with compression joints or mechanical-sealing devices. The
devices used to make the joints are required to have approved elastomeric seals.
206. Sewage ejector pumps are required to have ____________ installed on the discharge piping from
the sewage pump.
a. Ground-nut unions
b. A relief valve
c. A check valve
d. A 2-inch trap
c - A check valve is required to be installed on the drainage piping from a sewage
pump. You must also install a full-open valve on the discharge side of the check
valve. Both the check valve and the full-open valve are required to be accessible.
The full-open valve is needed in the event that the pump of the check valve must
be replaced. Closing the valve keeps the head of sewage above the check valve
and the pump from spilling out when the check valve or pump is removed. The
installation of a full-open valve is to be installed above the cover of a sewage
sump that contains a pump. On the rare occasions when this is not feasible, the
valve has to be installed outside of the sewage sump. This requires the use of an
access pit. You might find limited exceptions to this regulation. One such example
is a one- or two-family dwelling where a full-open valve is not required. However,
even when a full-open valve is not required it should still be installed for servicing
purposes.
207. Not all fittings can be used for all purposes. You must know which fittings are approved for your
intended use. Imagine that you are installing horizontal drain piping above ground. You want to turn
the drain from one horizontal direction to another. Which of the following fittings are suitable for a
change of direction from a horizontal position to another horizontal position?
a. Sixteenth bend
b. Long-sweep elbow
c. Eighth bend
d. All of the above
e. Only a and c
d - All of the fittings listed in this question are suitable to change direction in
horizontal piping from one direction to another.
208. Flexible couplings on pipes, with a diameter in excess of 4-inches that create a change in
True / False
True - Flexible couplings on pipes with a diameter in excess of 4-inches that create
a change in direction are required to be supported to prevent any loosening
pertaining to the coupling.
209. Suppose you want to turn a vertical drain to a horizontal position. Which of the following fittings
cannot be used for this purpose?
a. Quarter bend
b. Short-sweep fittings
c. Short-turn elbow
d. Sanitary tee
d - You cannot use a sanitary tee for a change in direction from a vertical position
to a horizontal position.
210. Blowback water closets can be installed back to back when they share a common back wall.
What fitting will you show in your plumbing design to receive the discharge from the two toilets?
Remember that they could each discharge at the same time.
a. A double sanitary tee
b. A double tee-wye
c. A cross tee
d. A blowback tee
b - You can use a double tee-wye to accept the drainage from two blowback
toilets that are installed back to back on a common wall. A double-wye with 45-
degree bends in each side outlet can also be used. This is essentially a homemade
tee-wye. Some plumbers prefer to use tee-wyes as combination fittings. These
are the only fittings allowed for the use described in the question. This fitting is
approved due to the directional control that the fitting design offers. Waste
discharge from one toilet cannot pass straight through the fitting into the other
toilet. This would be possible with a cross tee or a double sanitary tee.
211. Rubber couplings cannot be used to connect DWV piping that is of a dissimilar type.
True / False
False - Rubber couplings that are held in place with stainless-steel clamps can be
used to join DWV piping. This is true when the pipe is of the same type or a
dissimilar type. The coupling is a form of a mechanical fitting.

Special Piping and Storage Systems
212. The plumbing code covers which of the following?
a. Medical gas systems
b. Non-medical oxygen systems
c. General oxygen systems
d. Both a and b
d - The plumbing code regulates medical gas systems and non-medical oxygen
systems. They are considered as a part of special piping and storage systems.
213. You are laying out a plumbing diagram that calls for the installation of water fountains in the
hallways of healthcare facilities. The halls will accommodate patients being transported in
wheelchairs. How will you show the installation of water fountains under such conditions?
a. Drinking fountains are required to be flush mounted.
b. Drinking fountains are required to be installed for wheelchair access.
c. Both a or b
c - Drinking fountains installed in corridors of healthcare facilities where patients
are transported by wheelchair, gurney or hospital bed must be either fully
recessed or flush mounted. They shall be accessible to patients in wheelchairs.
Not only are drinking fountains required to be fully recessed or flush mounted, so
are valves associated with them. Drinking fountains and their valves are to be
installed in a way that will not come into contact with equipment used to
transport patients.
214. Sterilizers require an indirect waste receptor that is both trapped and vented.
True / False
False - Traps and vents are not required for the indirect waste receptors for
sterilizers. Vapor vents are sometimes required for sterilizers. When this is the
case the vapor vents must comply with manufacturer recommendations.
215. Assume that you are designing a plumbing system for a psychiatric hospital and therapy rooms.
This type of facility requires some special plumbing revisions. For example, the general restrooms
serving the therapy rooms will accommodate psychiatric patients. What design consideration must
you keep in mind when drawing the piping diagram?
a. Access panels must be installed for all stop valves.
b. Traps must not be connected with slip-nut connections.
c. Roll insulated must be installed on piping to prevent burns.
d. You have to conform the plumbing to be sure that all piping and traps will be concealed.
d - Plumbing pipes and traps must be concealed when they are installed in rooms
that will be used by psychiatric patients.
216. All fixtures and fittings installed in rooms housing psychiatric patients must be ________.
a. Supplied with only cold water
b. Firmly bolted to a fixed location
c. Protected from possible vandalism
d. Hospital approved
c - Plumbers are required to install fixtures and fittings used in psychiatric patient
rooms so that the components are not subject to vandalism. This can mean using
durable fixtures and concealing piping. The ultimate goal is to design and install a
safe plumbing system that will serve the needs of the people using the plumbing.
217. The plumbing code pertains only to medical gases that are nonflammable.
True / False
True - The plumbing code pertains to medical gases that are nonflammable. These
types of gases are often used in exhalation anesthetic systems and vacuum piping
systems.
218. Healthcare facilities contain ice makers. These devices must be installed _______.
a. In the facility kitchen
b. In a basement location to avoid potential flooding
c. In a supervised location, such as a nurse station
d. In hallway alcoves
c - Ice makers installed for use in healthcare facilities must be installed in

locations where regular supervision is available. Such an area is a nurse station.
Ice producing and storage equipment must be protected from contamination of
all types. The equipment is to be maintained in a safe and hygienic manner at all
times.
219. What type of trap is required for an aspirator that is used for the removal of bodily fluids if
collection bottles are not used?
a. A fluid trap that is similar to a collection bottle
b. A vibratory trap
c. An S-trap
a - Aspirators used for removing bodily fluids must be equipped with collection
bottles or similar fluid traps. These are the only allowable means for trapping an
aspirator.
220. Suction equipment that is supplied with water falls under the same regulations of the plumbing
code that pertains to aspirators.
True / False
True - Aspirators and suction equipment are both required to comply with the
same code requirements when the suction equipment is supplied with water. In
essence, the water supply must be protected from backflow. A vacuum breaker is
the most common type of backflow preventer used for this purpose.
221. You have to dispatch a plumber to install a sterilizer in a healthcare facility. You have designed
the installation procedure. What is the maximum distance of piping for an indirect waste drain?
a. 2 feet
b. 4 feet
c. 15 feet
d. 20 feet
c - Indirect-waste drains that serve sterilizers are allowed to have a developed

length of up to, but not in excess, of 15 feet. Waste piping is to have a diameter
that is equal to, or larger than, the size of the drain connection to the sterilizer. All
receptors are required to be located in the same rooms as the sterilizers that they
receive waste from.
222. Assume that you are drawing a riser diagram that includes vapor vents. These vents are being
provided for sterilizers. The building has an extensive network of plumbing being installed and the
general contractor has instructed you to design a system that will be as cost effective as possible.
With this in mind, what will you show as a piping route for the vents as they rise above the sterilizers?
a. You will render the installation of mechanical vents once the vent rises six inches above the
sterilizer unit.
b. You will show the vent connecting to a common DWV network or vents.
c. You will have your plumbing team terminate the vents once they are in a ventilated attic
area.
d. You will require the vents to be extended to outside air without connection to any other
system.
d - Sterilizer vents are not to tie into any other type of venting system. While not
all sterilizers require vents, those that do must be vented independently and
terminate in outside air. All vapor vents are identified based on the
manufacturer’s requirements for sterilizer installation. Check the manufacturer’s
recommendations and requirements prior to drafting a plumbing design for
installation.
223. A trap seal serves a bedpan steamer. You must install an indirect waste. The minimum depth of
the trap seal is ___________.
a. 1.5 inches
b. 2 inches
c. 2.5 inches
d. 3 inches
d - A trap seal of three inches is required for indirect waste piping that collects the
waste from bedpan steamers. All bedpan steamers require traps.
224. Drains from sterilizers must be connected to a drainage system through an indirect-waste
connection.
True / False
True - It is true that the drains conveying waste from sterilizers are required to be
connected to drainage systems through indirect-waste connections.
225. When you dispatch a team of journeyman plumbers to install aspirators you will have to explain
the type of installation that you want. In doing this you must identify the manner in which the waste
will be discharged. Which of the following options must you include in your design?
a. An air gap or vacuum breaker
b. An air break or vacuum breaker
c. An air gap
d. An atmospheric backwater valve
c - You should design your system to discharge through an air gap. This is the only
approved means of installation for a drainage connection to an aspirator.
226. When you are working with plumbing in healthcare facilities the work is likely to include
plumbing for medical gas systems. It is allowable to supply several gas outlets with a single supply
pipe. However, there is another design element that must be considered. How many sources of
medical gas are required to be connected to a supply line that delivers the gas? The correct answer
applies to all applications whether you are supplying one outlet or six.
a. 1
b. 2
c. 3
d. 4
b - All medical gas systems are required to be fitted with two sources of the gas
intended to be delivered. As an example, a device that depends on bottled
oxygen must be supplied with two bottles of oxygen. This is similar to the
requirement for hospitals to have two separate water services.
227. Mechanical engineers are normally the people who design medical gas systems. Once a permit
is issued to a master plumber, certain requirements apply to the plumber’s responsibilities. As a
master plumber, you must know the protocol for the administrative side of installing medical gas
systems. One of the responsibilities concerns record keeping. Where are the as-built plans and valve
identification records required to be kept?
a. In the mechanical engineer’s office
b. In the plumber’s office
c. On the job site
d. In a safe accessible by the master plumber
c - The plumbing code requires as-built plans and valve identification records to
be kept on the site where the piping has been installed. The specifications and
plans must be maintained at all times and be made available to authorized
personnel as needed. Valve identification records can be of great importance
during an emergency or if the need to work on an existing system arises.
228. Aspirators are mandated to discharge to a sanitary drainage system through an air break.
True / False
False - Aspirators are required to discharge into a sanitary drainage system

though an air gap, not an air break.
Water Heaters
229. When you install a water heater, you are required to obtain a permit and have your work
inspected by a code officer upon completion. But, is a permit and inspection needed when you are
merely replacing an existing water heater with a new one? The plumbing code requires
_____________ when a water heater is simply being replaced in the exact location of the existing
water heater.
a. No permit
b. A permit and inspection
c. No permit, but does require a code officer to inspect the work
d. A permit, but no code inspection of the work
b - The replacement of a water heater requires both a permit and a code

inspection of the completed work. This may seem unusual since the replacement
of plumbing fixtures in exact locations of the fixtures being replaced does not
typically require a permit or a code inspection. Since water heaters can pose a
health and safety risk if they are not installed and protected properly the code
requires both a permit and a code inspection.
230. A master plumber can ___________.
a. Install water heaters without supervision
b. Can send a licensed journeyman plumber to install water heater with indirect supervision
c. Allow apprentice plumbers to assist in the installation of water heaters as long as the
apprentice is supervised directly be either a journeyman or master plumber
d. All of the above
e. Both a and c
d - Master plumbers have the authority under their license to install water
heaters and other fixtures without supervision. However, a job that requires a
permit still requires the inspection of a code officer. Journeyman plumbers work
under the supervision of master plumbers but are not required to have direct
supervision. Master plumbers can authorize apprentice plumbers to work with
journeyman or master plumbers in the installation of all forms of plumbing.
231. Imagine that you are called upon to install a water heater for a triplex rental property. The
water heater will be used for domestic purposes. Which of the following is required for the
satisfactory installation?
a. An indirect waste and drain pan
b. An indelibly stamped metal plate that is permanently attached to the water heater in a clear
and conspicuous location that shows the maximum working pressure of the water heater
c. Pipe insulation on the inlet and outlet piping that extends a minimum of 18 inches above the
water heater
d. A stop and waste valve on the cold-water inlet pipe
e. Both b and d
b - Water heaters for domestic use are to have the water heater’s maximum
working pressure clearly and indelibly attached in a permanent manner to the
fixture. The most common means of this is a factory installed plate on the water
heater.
232. Third-party certification is required for all water heaters.
True / False
True - Water heaters must be third-party certified and should be installed in

accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
233. Water heaters and water-heating systems for domestic hot water are required to be equipped
with _____________.
a. Ball valves on the outlet piping
b. An automatic temperature control
c. Drain pans
d. 1-inch diameter condensate drains for relief valves
b - When you are installing water heaters or water-heating systems for domestic
hot water you must be sure that they are equipped with automatic temperature
controls that are adjustable between the minimum and maximum allowable
temperature ranges.
234. What is the minimum height measurement for the installation of a water heater in an attic?
a. 24 inches
b. 28 inches
c. 30 inches
d. 48 inches
c - You will need a minimum distance of 30 inches in height to install a water

heater in an attic. This installation area must be both solid and level. There are
also minimum requirements for both the width available for a water heater
installation and the open area required in front of a water heater for servicing.
235. When water heaters are installed in attics they are required to have a continuous solid floor in
the exit area. What is the minimum required width of this floor?
a. 24 inches
b. 30 inches
c. 36 inches
d. 42 inches
a - The flooring provided in the exit area of a water heater installed in an attic is
required to be no less than 24 inches wide.
236. Vacuum breakers are to be installed in conjunction with the inlet piping that serves a water
heater.
True / False
True - Water heaters must be protected from back siphonage. This is done with
the installation of a vacuum breaker in the inlet piping that supplies the water
heater with cold water. Normally a tee fitting is installed in the inlet riser. A short
section of pipe extends horizontally and then turns 90 degrees to a vertical
position where it extends six inches. A female adapter is installed on the riser and
the vacuum breaker is screwed into the female adapter.
237. A continuous solid floor is required as a service area for water heaters installed in attics. The
service area is required to be level and must have a dimension of __________ inches in depth and
width to allow for adequate servicing of the water heater.
a. 24 x 24
b. 30 x30
c. 36 x 36
d. 42 x 42
b - The service area required for a water heater supplied in an attic is required to
have minimum dimensions of 30 inches by 30 inches.
238. How large does the clear access opening for the removal of an attic-installed water heater need
to be?
a. 20 inches by 24 inches
b. 20 inches by 30 inches
c. 28 inches by 28 inches
d. 36 inches by 36 inches
b - Any water heater installed in an attic is required to have a clear access opening
for the removal of the water heater. The minimum dimensions for this opening
are 20 inches by 30 inches.
239. What is the minimum width requirement for an exit route installed for the removal of a water
heater installed in an attic?
a. 20 inches
b. 22 inches
c. 30 inches
d. 36 inches
b - The minimum width of an exit route for a water heater installed in an attic is
22 inches.
240. Relief valves used on water heaters are installed to control thermal expansion.
True / False
False - Relief valves are not suitable for controlling thermal expansion. The role of
the relief valve is to protect against excessive pressure or temperature in a water
heater. These valves are required to be of a self-closing type.
241. What is the maximum allowable distance for an exit route in an attic for the removal of a water
heater?
a. 10 feet
b. 15 feet
c. 20 feet
d. 30 feet
c - The maximum allowable distance for an exit route installed for the removal of
a water heater in an attic space is 20 feet.
242. The installation of an electric water heater requires which of the following to be in close
proximity to the fixture?
a. An ABC-type fire extinguisher
b. An electrical disconnect switch that is dedicated to only the water heater
c. A ventilation fan
d. A minimum of two light sources to allow for service work to be completed
e. Both a and b
b - A dedicated electrical disconnect switch is required to be installed in close

proximity to any electric water heater. Gas-fired and oil-fired water heaters
require the installation of approved cutoff valves installed on the fuel piping in
close proximity to the water heater.
243. The installation of a water heater requires some specific types of equipment. A water heater
cannot be installed with _____________.
a. A temperature or pressure relief valve affixed to it
b. A cutoff valve on the inlet pipe that utilizes washers to stop the flow of water
c. A vacuum breaker on the inlet water pipe
d. A plastic drain pan
b - Cutoff valves installed on the inlet piping of water heaters have to be of a
positive-sealing type. Both gate valves and ball valves are acceptable. It is not
acceptable to install a stop-and-waste valve on the inlet piping of a water heater.
No valve that depends on washers to stop water flow are allowed as main cutoff
valves on water heaters.
244. Discharge piping connected to a relief valve may terminate with a threaded end.
True / False
False - Threads cannot be applied on the termination end of a discharge pipe from
a relief valve. If threads exist there is a risk that a cap will be installed on a
dripping discharge pipe. This renders the relief valve useless and creates a health
and safety concern.
245. What is the maximum depth below the top of a water heater that a temperature and pressure
relief valve can be installed?
a. 6 inches
b. 8 inches
c. 10 inches
d. 12 inches
a - The maximum allowable depth below the top of a water heater for the probe
of a temperature and pressure valve to be installed is six inches. Temperature and
pressure relief valves can be installed on either the top or the side of a water
heater. The location of the valve is determined by the tapped fitting built into the
water heater that will accept the relief valve.
246. What is the maximum allowable distance between the termination end of a discharge tube from
a relief valve and the surface of a finished floor?
a. 4 inches
b. 6 inches
c. 8 inches
d. 12 inches
b - A pipe that conveys the discharge from a relief valve installed on a water
heater is required to terminate no more than six inches above a finished floor.
This is to minimize the risk of personal injury to anyone in the vicinity if a relief
valve opens and discharges a stream of hot water.
247. You are installing an electric water heater in an attic. This type of installation requires the
installation of a drain pan under the water heater. You must determine the required depth of the pan
that will be installed. Which of the following is the correct minimum depth for such a pan?
a. 1 inch
b. 1.25 inches
c. 1.5 inches
d. 2 inches
c - The minimum allowable depth of a drain pan for a water heater is 1.5 inches.
Drains provided for drain pans are to run to a point of termination without any
reduction in pipe sizing. The drain can terminate over a suitably located indirect
waste receptor or floor drain. If these discharge points are not available, the
piping can be extended to the outside of a building where it will terminate not
less than six inches from ground level and not more than twenty-four inches
above ground level.
248. The code requires that all discharge piping from a relief valve on a water heater to be installed in
such a way that it can observed by occupants in the building that houses the water heater.
True / False
True - Discharge tubing from a relief valve on a water heater must be installed in
a manner that allows it to be observed by occupants of a building. What is the
reason for this? Relief valves develop leaks. If left undiscovered these leaks could
lead to problems and property damage. When the piping can be seen, any leaks
can be detected with a simple visual inspection and a dripping relief valve can be
replaced.
Recycling Gray Water
249. Recycled gray water can be used for ____________.
a. The water supply to laundry tub faucets
b. Flushing urinals
c. Subsurface landscape irrigation
d. Both b and c
d - The recycling of gray water is governed by the plumbing code and the
procedures are becoming more popular and more critical. Gray water can be
used to flush toilets and urinals. Subsurface landscape irrigation systems may also
be supplied by gray water. This reduces the demand on potable water and
thereby extends the existing reserves of potable water. This can be particularly
important in some regions of the country that experience water shortages.
250. Which of the following types of materials are approved for the construction of collection
reservoirs for gray water?
a. Corrosion resistant materials
b. Nonabsorbent materials
c. Durable materials
d. All of the above
e. Both b and c only
d - Collection reservoirs are used to hold gray water until it will be used. These
reservoirs must be constructed of approved materials. Some collection reservoirs
are manufactured and sold. Others are built on site. The reservoirs are required
to be made from materials that are corrosion resistant, nonabsorbent and
durable. Additionally, the reservoirs are to be closed and sealed with gas-tight
covers. You must provide an access opening that will allow for interior inspections
of the collection reservoir.
251. Assume that you are plumbing an inlet for gray water into a collection reservoir. You must be
aware of the requirements for the installation. Which of the following will you be required to install
in the piping system?
a. A filter
b. A pressure gauge
c. A stop valve
d. A water gauge
a - Piping that delivers water to a gray water reservoir must be fitted with a full-
open valve and a filter that will filter all water entering the reservoir.
252. What type of filter is approved for use in filtering gray water entering a collection reservoir?
a. A media filter
b. A sand filter
c. A diatomaceous earth filter
d. All of the above
d - Filters for gray water systems may be of a media type, a sand type or a
diatomaceous earth type. These filters are required to ensure that no solids enter
the collection reservoir for gray water.
253. The collection of gray water can come from which of the following plumbing fixtures?
a. Shower
b. Bidet
c. Kitchen sink
d. Dishwasher
a - The shower is the only option in this scenario allowed to be used for the
collection and recycling of gray water. Other types of fixtures that are allowed for
the collection of recycling gray water include the following:
• Bathtubs
• Lavatories
• Clothes washers
• Laundry trays
254. Fifteen-pound roofing felt is the preferred cover material for aggregate installed in a seepage pit
or trench.
True / False
False - Aggregate in a seepage pit is required to be covered. Approved covering is

required to be constructed of approved synthetic materials. Roofing felt is not an
approved cover material. An acceptable option is the use of nine inches of
uncompacted marsh hay or straw.
255. Gray water that enters a collection reservoir must be ________.
a. Filtered and measured
b. Filtered and flow controlled
c. Filtered and monitored
d. Filtered
d - All gray water entering a gray water collection reservoir is required to be
filtered. Gray water is not meant to be pure. However, it should not contain
solids. Unfiltered water can contain solids. For this reason all gray water must be
filtered to remove solids before it is delivered to a final collection point.
256. Gray water collection reservoirs are required to be equipped with overflow pipes. What is the
minimum diameter of an overflow pipe?
a. 3 inches
b. 4 inches
c. The overflow pipe must be as large as, or larger than, the influent pipe for the gray water
reservoir.
d. The overflow pipe must be no less than one-half the diameter size of the influent pipe for the
gray water reservoir.
c - Overflow pipes for gray water collection reservoirs must have a diameter that is
equal to, or greater than, the influent pipe for the reservoir. If the inlet pipe has a
diameter of two inches, the overflow pipe must have a minimum diameter of two
inches. This makes sizing the overflow piping very easy.
257. Gray water collection reservoirs are required to be ___________.
a. Vented
b. Trapped
c. Provided with vapor barrier venting
d. Cleaned monthly
a - Gray water collection reservoirs are required to be vented. The vent is

required to extend to open air. Gray water is not supposed to contain black
water that would contain methane gas. But to be safe, the reservoirs are
required to be vented.
258. All gray water reservoirs are required to be fitted with a drain at the lowest point of the
reservoir. This drain is required to discharge to _____________.
a. A catch basin
b. A gravel bed for dissipation into approved soil
c. A sanitary drainage system
d. Any of the above
c - Drains for gray water collection reservoirs are required to discharge into
sanitary drainage systems. The drain must originate at the lowest point of the
collection reservoir. The size of the drain pipe must be equal to, or larger than,
the influent pipe for the reservoir. All collection reservoirs are required to be able
to be drained if needed.
259. How is gray water discharge estimated?
a. It is based on gallons per minute
b. It is based on gallons per day
c. It is based on gallons per week
d. It is based on daily demand at peak loads
b - Gray water discharge is based on the gallons of use per day per number of
occupants based on the type of fixtures connected to a system. This is derived by
use of an equation. The equation is as follows:
C=AxB
A = the number of occupants
B = estimated flow demands per occupant
C = estimated gray water discharge based on the total number of occupants
260. You are designing the work procedures for your plumbers who will be working on a seepage
trench. Your plan requires the plumbers to rough up the bottom of the trench and loosen all the dirt
in the bottom of the trench. Your plumbers complain that this work is not necessary. Is it true that
the ground in the bottom of seepage trenches and beds is required to be loosened?
True / False
True - You are correct. The bottom of seepage trenches and beds are required to
be scarified. In other words, the dirt has to be scratched or roughed up so that it
is not compacted. This enhances the ability of the trench or bed to absorb liquids.
Any loose material created from the scarifying process should be removed.
261. Gray water collection systems can be used to provide water for flushing toilets and urinals.
Minimum standards for this purpose are in play. You must obtain specific data for a full and thorough
evaluation of a collection system. Which of the following contribute to this data?
a. Disinfection
b. Coloring
c. Certification from a state agency that identifies the water as suitable for recycling
d. All of the above
e - In order to evaluate a gray water collection system that is going to be used to

flush toilets and urinals you will need specific data for the following elements:
capacity, coloring, materials, disinfection and possibly other factors under special
circumstances.
262. What is the minimum holding capacity for a gray water collection reservoir that will be used to
flush toilets?
a. 25 gallons
b. 40 gallons
c. 50 gallons
d. 75 gallons
c - A collection reservoir for gray water that will be used for flushing a toilet is
required to have a minimum capacity of 50 gallons. When you are designing a
collection reservoir you must meet the minimum requirements. And, you must
be sure that the reservoir will hold twice the amount of water required to meet
daily flushing requirements for the fixtures being served.
263. Gray water is not allowed to be held in reserve for long periods of time. Assume that you are
working with a gray water system where toilets and urinals will be flushed with gray water. How long
can gray water remain in a reservoir before it is used?
a. 12 hours
b. 24 hours
c. 36 hours
d. 72 hours
d - Gray water that will be used to flush toilets or urinals can be retained in a
collection reservoir for up to 72 hours. This must be taken into account when
computing the amount of reserve water that will be available for flushing
purposes. The sizing of a gray water system is dependent on the cycling of water
entering and exiting a collection reservoir in a 72-hour period.
264. There are a limited number of disinfectants that can be used to disinfect gray water that will be
used for flushing toilets and urinals. Which of the following would you, as a master plumber,
authorize the use of for disinfection of gray water to flush toilets and urinals?
a. Chlorine or iodine
b. Ozone
c. Charcoal filtering
d. All of the above
e. Either a or b
e - You may use chlorine, iodine or ozone to disinfect gray water that will be used
for the flushing of toilets or urinals. No other type of disinfectant is approved by
the plumbing code for this purpose.
265. To avoid confusing gray water with potable water you must dye gray water. What color dye are
you required to use to identify water as gray water?
a. Blue or green
b. Green or yellow
c. Red or blue
d. Orange or green
a - Gray water is to be dyed either blue or green before it can be used in a

plumbing system. Blue and green are the only acceptable colors allowed for the
identification of gray water. This is an important part of the plumbing code that
many plumbers are not aware of unless they work with recycling gray water on a
regular basis.
266. You are designing a plumbing system that will utilize recycled gray water for irrigation purposes.
This particular system is a subsurface irrigation system. Before you can determine a suitable location
you need to establish certain criteria. For example, assume that the property will receive potable
water from well water. When this is the case the irrigation system cannot be installed at an elevation
higher than the surface grade of any potable water well.
True / False
True - Subsurface irrigation systems are to be installed below potable water wells.
If you are irrigating land that is adjoined by another owner’s land that has a water
well on it, the irrigation system must not be installed above the well on the
adjoining property. The key is to prevent any potential contamination from an
irrigation system entering a potable water surface.
267. Why type of dye can be used when coloring gray water to meet the requirements of the
plumbing code?
a. Food-grade vegetable dye
b. Hair dye
c. Clothing dye
d. Certified plumbing dye
a - You must use only food-grade vegetable dye. This regulation ensures that
there will not be health of safety concerns from the ingredients in the dye. Since
food dye can be consumed it is not harmful to humans. Additionally, there are no
chemicals in this type of dye to have adverse effects on the environment.
268. There could be a time when a gray water reservoir capacity would be inadequate to meet the
demands on it for flushing toilets or urinals. To compensate for this risk you must ___________.
a. Install back-up gray water reservoirs when this risk is reasonable to assume possible
b. Provide supplemental potable water to the gray-water system for emergency use
c. Install audible alarm systems on all fixtures dependent on the system
d. Reduce the number of toilets or urinal specified to be installed
b - If you suspect that there could be a time when the proposed gray water
reservoir will be inadequate for the flushing needs of toilets or urinals you should
install a supplemental water supply of potable water to assist in the flushing
requirements. Water supplies that serve gray water systems must be protected
by a backwater preventer. Full-open valves are required to be installed on any
water supply line to a gray-water collection reservoir.
269. Subsurface landscape irrigation systems can be provided with recycled gray water. The rules and
regulations for these systems can differ for irrigation purposes when compared with the flushing of
toilets and urinals. What is the maximum allowable time to retain gray water for use in an irrigation
system?
a. 24 hours
b. 36 hours
c. 48 hours
d. 72 hours
a - Gray water that will be used for irrigation purposes can be stored for only one
day. This is 24 hours. It seems logical that it might be allowed to be stored longer
than gray water used for flushing plumbing fixtures. It is not. This is due to the
fact that the water for irrigation is released into the landscape and flushing water
is introduced into a sanitary drainage system.
270. What color dye is required when dying gray water that will be used for subsurface landscape
irrigation?
a. Blue
b. Green
c. Red
d - You are not required to dye gray water used in subsurface irrigation systems.
The rules for irrigation water are different than those for gray water used for
flushing activities.
271. A gray water irrigation reservoir is required to have a supplemental water supply to protect
against the reservoir running dry.
True / False
False - No supplemental water supply is required for an irrigation reservoir with

gray water. If an irrigation reservoir runs dry it is not a concern to the plumbing
code.
272. What special regulations apply to water piping that conveys and distributes recycled gray water?
a. The pipe must not be made of CPVC piping
b. The pipe must be fitted with air chambers
c. The pipe must be identified as non-potable water in an approved manner
d. The pipe is not allowed to be fitted with boiler drains
e. Both a and c
c - Plumbers are required to identify all piping that contains gray water as non-
potable water piping. The markings must be of an approved type. They are
exposed, obvious, indelible and permanent.
273. Soil testing by an approved authority is required for any site that will accommodate a seepage
bed or trench.
True / False
True - Ground used to accept the discharge associated with a seepage bed or
trench must be tested prior to any installation of a seepage trench or bed. The
test must be done by an approved authority to determine the perk rate of the
soil. An acceptable perk rate must be present to allow the installation of a
seepage trench or bed.
274. Which of the following is required for the use of subsurface landscaping irrigation systems?
a. The system is required to be elevated
b. The system is required to be regulated
c. The system is required to be monitored
d. The space is required to have a current perk test
b - All subsurface landscaping irrigations site locations are required to be

regulated. The plumbing code sets forth approval procedures for the regulation
of a site. As an example, the code will require that surface water will be diverted
away from any soil absorption site. Further regulations can define that irrigation
systems are not allowed to be used in proximity of potable water sources. These
regulations are intended to protect potable water and to avoid putting undue
loads on private sewage systems.
275. Seepage trenches are used in conjunction with some irrigations systems. When this is the case,
the trenches must have a minimum width of ________.
a. 6 inches
b. 12 inches
c. 18 inches
d. 24 inches
b - Seepage trenches are required to have a minimum width of 12 inches.
276. What is the minimum number of distribution pipes required for a seepage bed?
a. One distribution pipe
b. Two distribution pipes
c. Three distribution pipes
d. Four distribution pipes
b - A minimum of two distribution pipes are required for a seepage bed. The pipes
must be evenly spaced and have a maximum distance of five feet between them.
The minimum spacing is three feet.
277. What is the minimum depth of aggregate allowed to backfill a seepage trench?
a. 6 inches
b. 10 inches
c. 12 inches
d. 18 inches
a - Aggregate used as backfill for a seepage trench is required to have a minimum

depth of six inches.
278. Distribution piping in a seepage trench or bed is required to have a minimum diameter of ____?
a. 1.5 inches
b. 2 inches
c. 3 inches
d. 4 inches
c - Distribution piping in a seepage trench or bed must have a minimum diameter

of three inches. The piping must be large enough to handle the maximum
anticipated load on a bed or trench. It is common to use 4-inch pipe during the
construction of seepage trenches and beds, but a 3-inch pipe can be used when
the demands on the system will not overload the piping.
279. Normal plumbing piping that is buried is required to have a minimum ground cover of 12 inches.
This is not the case for piping used in a seepage trench. Piping in a seepage trench requires a
minimum cover soil of no less than 6 inches.
True / False
False - You must install a minimum depth of ground cover over the top of piping
in a seepage trench that is no less than nine inches in depth.
280. A seepage trench used in conjunction with an irrigation system can extend up to __________
feet in length.
a. 25
b. 50
c. 75
d. 100
d - Seepage trenches can extend up to 100 feet in length.
281. The maximum width of a seepage trench used in conjunction with an irrigation system is
____________________.
a. 18 inches
b. 24 inches
c. 4 feet
d. 5 feet
d - Just as there is a minimum width, which is 12 inches, there is also a maximum

width, which is five feet.
282. If multiple seepage trenches are installed together, they are required to be no less than 2 feet
apart.
True / False
True - If multiple trenches are installed together they are required to be a

minimum of two feet apart.
283. What is the minimum size of aggregate allowed used to backfill a seepage trench?
a. 0.25 inches
b. 0.5 inches
c. 0.75 inches
d. 1 inch
b - To avoid clogging, the minimum size of aggregate allowed is 0.5 inches.
284. What is the maximum size of aggregate allowed to backfill a seepage trench?
a. 1 inch
b. 1.5 inches
c. 2 inches
d. 2.5 inches
d - The maximum size of the aggregate is limited to 2.5 inches in diameter.
285. The aggregate depth cover over distribution piping in a seepage trench must be at least 2 inches
deep.
True / False
True - You must install a minimum depth of aggregate over the top of the
distribution piping in a seepage trench that is no less than two inches deep.

Storm Drainage
286. How does the code define storm drainage?
a. Gray water
b. Black water
c. Excessive ground water
d. Both a and c
c - The code defines storm drainage as excessive groundwater. This is essentially

rainfall or snow melt. Special drainage systems are required to collect and convey
storm drainage to an appropriate disposal site. The drainage system used for
storm water is rarely allowed to be a sanitary drainage system. Only a few
locations utilize combination storm-and-sanitary drainage systems.
287. A general contractor has asked you to design a storm-water drainage system. During planning
talks, you are working with both the land developer and the general contractor to determine the best
way to deal with storm drainage. The developer has asked you to provide a list of options for suitable
disposal or collection sites for excess ground water on the proposed project. Which of the following
should your list include?
a. A catch basin
b. A retainage pond
c. A storm sewer
d. All of the above
d - Storm water is allowed to enter a storm sewer that conveys the water to a
suitable disposal site. Catch basins are often used to control storm-water
drainage. It is also common for ponds to be created in the green space of a
development and these ponds can be used to process the drainage of storm
water. The ponds can further be used as a suitable source of water for ground
irrigation purposes. The choice of which type of system to use will be contingent
on the type of development and the available resources.
288. As a plumber who is sizing a storm-drainage system there are certain pieces of information that
you must consider. Without accurate data you cannot design a suitable drainage system for storm
water. As a designer you are developing a plan for the collection of surface water. Which of the
following data will you need to make an accurate design?
a. The occupancy type of the structure for which storm drainage is being provided
b. Local rainfall rates
c. The square footage of all areas subject to surface water runoff
d. All of the above
e. Both b and c
e - You will need to know the total surface area that will be subject to surface
water. Additionally, you must refer to local rainfall rates to know what can be
expected as a maximum rate of rain that may be received in a one-hour period.
These rainfall rates can be found in your local plumbing code book. The rainfall
rates are listed by state with breakdowns for major cities. You should use the data
that is known for your local area if you are able to obtain it. Otherwise, choose a
city listed in the plumbing code that is closest to location for the job that you are
designing. Check with your local county offices or your state agencies to see if
rainfall rates are available for your specific location before choosing the closest
city listed in the plumbing code.
289. A gutter that will be installed horizontally to collect and convey storm water is required to have
a pitch (grade) that is no less than_______.
a. 1/16 inch
b. 1/8 inch
c. 1/4 inch
d. 1/2 inch
a - The minimum allowable grade for a horizontal gutter installed to collect and
convey ground water is 1/16 of an inch. You should find tables in your local
plumbing code book that detail this usage. You may want to use a steeper grade
to minimize the diameter size required for a horizontal gutter. To illustrate this, a
gutter that has a diameter of three inches with a 1/16-inch pitch can transfer
water for a horizontally projected roof area equal to 680 square feet when the
maximum rainfall rate is one inch per hour. If you put a grade of 1/8 of an inch on
the gutter under the same circumstances the pipe can support a surface area of
960 square feet. Increase the amount of fall to 1/4 inch per foot and the area
that surface water can be collected from is increased to 1,360 square feet. As you
can see, the grade of the piping has a lot to do with the size of an area that can be
drained with a pipe that maintains the same diameter.
290. Assume that you are designing a system of piping to collect rainwater on a flat roof. As part of
the process, you will determine the size and grade of both vertical and horizontal rain leaders and
gutters. The overall design will include the number of roof drains needed and their placement. As you
draw the riser diagram for the piping, you must indicate the locations and heights of the roof drains.
What is the minimum height that a roof drain is required to extend above a roof surface?
a. 2 inches
b. 3 inches
c. 4 inches
d. 6 inches
c - Roof drains are to be installed with a protrusion of at least four inches above
the surface of a roof being drained. This is to keep the drains from becoming
clogged with leaves and other debris that may be collected on the roof surface.
All roof drains should be properly protected to avoid blockage of the drain during
maximum rainfalls.
291. Storm-water drainage systems have the same requirements for cleanouts as sanitary drainage
systems.
True / False
True - It is true that the same cleanout rules and regulations that apply to a
sanitary drainage system apply to storm-water drainage systems.
292. Roof drains must be _____________.
a. Clearly marked as storm-water drainage components with a metal identification tag

permanently attached to them
b. Equipped with removable strainers
c. Constructed to plastic or cast iron
d. Both a and b
b - Roof drains are required to be equipped with removable strainers. These

strainers are intended to block debris from entering the drainage system. They
must be removable so that they can be cleaned as needed and to allow drain
cleaning of the storm drainage piping when required.
293. As you are designing a roof drainage system for storm water you are calculating both the need
and sizing for roof drains. During your calculations you have determined that the rain leaders
connected to the roof drains will have a minimum diameter of three inches. What is the minimum
size of the roof drains connected to the leaders?
a. 2 inches in diameter
b. 3 inches in diameter
c. 4 inches in diameter
d. 6 inches in diameter
d - Simply put, roof drains are required to have a minimum size that is twice the
diameter of the drains to which they connect.
294. Assume that you are designing a roof drainage system for a flat roof. The square footage of the
roof area is approximately 8,000 square feet. How many roof drains will you need in your design
drawing?
a. 1
b. 2
c. 4
d. 6
b - A roof that has 10,000 square feet of surface area, or less, is required to have a
minimum of two roof drains. It is often wise to include more than the minimum,
but two roof drains will meet code requirements for the roof drainage up to
10,000 square feet in area.
295. Now you are faced with a roof drainage design for a building that will contain 17,000 square feet
of roof area. What is the minimum number of roof drains required for this type of structure?
a. 3
b. 4
c. 6
d. 8
b - When the surface area of a roof exceeds 10,000 square feet the roof must be
equipped with a minimum of four roof drains. Depending on the shape and
design of the roof, it may be beneficial to install more than four roof drains, but
the code only requires the installation of four drains.
296. There are times when a secondary roof system is provided for a building to accommodate storm
drainage. When this is the case, the secondary drainage system is not allowed to discharge into the
same system that accepts the waste from the primary system. The discharge from a secondary system
must ___________.
a. Never discharge into a catch basin
b. Discharge into a storm sewer
c. Discharge above grade
d. All of the above
c - Secondary roof-drainage systems are required to discharge above grade. This

is required to prevent overloading storm drainage systems that are already
running at capacity. If the primary system is unable to handle the demands the
secondary system kicks in.
297. The size of a roof drain must be considered in a determination of the flow rates used to design a
storm-water drainage system.
True / False
True - You must know the size of all roof drains that will be connected to a storm
drainage system. A 2-inch roof drain accepts far less water than a 3-inch drain.
Knowing how much water can be placed into a drainage system at any given time
is required to size the drainage system.
298. Which of the following types of valves are likely to be found in a storm-drainage system?
a. Stop valves
b. Flapper valves
c. Backwater valves
d. Stop-and-waste valves
c - Backwater valves are used in storm-drainage systems. Any backwater valve
used in such a system must be of an approved type for the intended use. These
valves prevent drainage water from backing up into a system beyond the point of
the backwater valve.
299. Which of the following components of a storm-water drainage system are required to be
trapped?
a. Area-way drains
b. Floor drains
c. Both a and b
c - Many plumbers think that drains for storm water do not have to be trapped.
The misconception stems from the thought that rainwater is clean and does not
provide any reason for trapping a fixture. This is incorrect. Both area-way drains
and floor drains installed in conjunction with a storm-water drainage system are
required to be trapped.
300. Assume that you are installing a storm-water drainage system for a commercial facility. The
building has a flat roof that will require four rain leaders. One of these exterior, vertical rain leaders
will be installed close to the building with brackets. The chosen location puts the vertical rain leader
near a loading dock where tractor-trailers unload their goods. Does this affect your plumbing design?
a. No, the pipe is on the outside of the building and does not fall under any special provisions.
b. No, the pipe is for rainwater only.
c. Yes, the pipe should be labeled as “Storm Water Only”.
d. Yes, the pipe may require protection from being crushed.
d - The piping in a storm drainage system must be protected just as piping in a

sanitary drainage system. In the scenario here, the rain leader is exposed and is
close to a loading dock. It is reasonable to assume that a truck might back into
the pipe and crush it. With this being the case, the plumbing code requires the
pipe to be protected. This would likely be done with a physical barrier that would
prevent unwanted contact with the piping.
301. Roofs of buildings that are used for purposes in addition to shelter fall under different
regulations for roof drains. When installing roof drains on these roofs the roof drains __________.
a. Must not be equipped with roof drains
b. May be installed so that the strainers are flush with the roof surface
c. Must be surrounded by a visible barrier to prevent tripping accidents
d. May not be larger than two-inches in diameter
b - When roofs of buildings are approved for use that is in addition to shelter,
such as a rooftop patio, the roof drains installed on the roofs may be installed so
that their strainers are flush with the roof surface. Normally roof drains are
required to extend a minimum of four inches above a roof surface. When the
roof is being used for purposes in addition to shelter there is a risk of injury if
someone walks into a protrusion. Therefore, the strainers on roof drains are
allowed to be installed at an even grade with the roof surface. All roof
penetrations must be watertight.
302. A few locations allow storm-drainage piping to be conveyed into a combination sewer. This is a
sewer that will carry both storm water and sanitary drainage. Assume that you are designing a piping
diagram for such a system. Your drawing must detail the connection of rain leaders and storm drains
to the combination sewer. Which of the following are you going to include in your drawing?
a. Rain leaders with accessible traps
b. Storm drains with accessible traps
c. Traps for rain leaders and storm drains that have a diameter equal to the piping that they
serve
d. All of the above
e. Only a and b
d - On the rare occasions when storm-water piping can be connected to a sanitary
drainage system the piping must be trapped. The trap is required to be
accessible. All traps used in these circumstances are required to be equal in size
to the drain that it is serving. Most plumbers will not be affected by these rules
since it is normally a code violation to discharge storm water into a sanitary
drainage system.
303. The sizing of piping for rain leaders is done in a way that is similar to the method used for sizing
of piping for downspouts.
True / False
True - The sizing of rain leaders is very similar to the sizing for downspouts. Both
pipes have a vertical discharge, so the delivery rates of a volume of water are
essentially the same. The sizing methods are, however, different related to the
techniques to size a horizontal gutter or drain.
304. Storm water piping may not be used for ____________.
a. Conveying sanitary drainage
b. Conveying water that may later be used for irrigation purposes
c. Both a and b
a - Storm water piping is not allowed to be used to transport sanitary drainage.

Do not let this confuse you. Yes, there are combination sewers that do convey
both storm water and sanitary drainage. The difference is that the combination
sewer is a sanitary drainage system that is also conveying storm water. This is
different from a storm drain that is used to convey sanitary drainage.
305. You are drawing a plumbing diagram to show the installation of a sump pump that will remove
excess groundwater from a residential basement. This pump will be pumping storm water. Your
drawing is required to show the sump pump being installed ________________.
a. In a sump
b. In a sump and vented
c. In a sump with a gas-tight cover
d. In a sump with a gas-tight cover and vent
a - Sump pumps are required to be installed in sumps. In other words, it is not

acceptable to stick a sump pump in a hole in the ground. You must provide a
suitable sump to house the pump. Normally subsurface drainage piping will enter
the sump to deliver excessive ground water. A lid must cover the sump, but it is
not required to be gas-tight or vented. However, the lid must be removable.
306. Sumps designed to house sump pumps must have a minimum diameter of ________ and a
minimum depth of _________.
a. 12 inches (diameter) and 12 inches (depth)
b. 16 inches (diameter) and 24 inches (depth)
c. 18 inches (diameter) and 18 inches (depth)
d. 18 inches (diameter) and 24 inches (depth)
d - Sump pits that will house sump pumps are required to have a minimum
diameter of 18 inches and a minimum depth of 24 inches.
307. Which of the following materials are approved for use in the creation of a sump that will hold a
sump pump?
a. Plastic
b. Steel
c. Concrete
d. Any of the above
e. Either a or c only
d - Sumps used to hold sump pumps may be constructed of plastic, steel,
concrete, tile or cast iron. The sump must be watertight. Most sumps in modern
plumbing systems are made of plastic. Due to the risk of rusting, steel is the least
desirable material to be used in the creation of a sump. Still, it is an acceptable
material under the plumbing code.
308. Which of the following types of copper piping are prohibited for use as drainage piping installed
in conjunction with a sump pump?
a. Type K copper
b. Type L copper
c. DWV copper
d - Drainage piping for a sump pump can be made of type K copper, type L
copper, type M copper or DWV copper. Plastic piping is also a suitable drainage
piping for the discharge of water from a sump pump.
309. Assume that you are drawing a piping diagram for the installation of a sump pump. Which of the
following are you going to show installed in the discharge piping?
a. Check valve
b. Stop valve
c. Backwater valve
d. Butterfly valve
a - Sump pumps should be equipped with check valves in their discharge piping.
This prevents water that has been pumped up from running down the drainage
piping and refilling the sump. If this happens, the pump will have to pump the
water again. This puts undue use on the pump. The check valve prevents water
from running back into the sump. When a check valve is in place it can extend the
life of a sump pump considerably.
310. Which of the following locations is not allowed to receive the discharge from a sump pump?
a. Catch basin
b. Subsurface drainage piping
c. Sanitary drainage system
d. Storm sewer
c - The discharge from a sump pump should not be piped into a sanitary drainage
system. It is quite common to find the discharge piping from a sump pump
connected to a building drain, but it is not supposed to be piped in that manner.
The water from a sump pump should be treated as storm water and piped
accordingly.
311. Assume that you are planning the installation of a sump pump in a residential basement. The
pump will be installed in a sump that will collect the drainage from interior subsurface drain piping.
You have sized the pump based on the lift requirements and the volume capacity of the sump. Then
you drew in a check valve on the discharge piping from the pump. No vent is required but all sump
pump installations require a full-open gate valve on the discharge piping.
True / False
False - The discharge piping between a sump pump and its termination point does
not require a gate valve. However, a check valve should be installed in close
proximity to the sump pump to extend the pump’s working life.
312. Subsoil drainage piping for storm-water drainage is allowed to be conveyed through
___________.
a. Asbestos-cement pipe
b. Vitrified clay pipe
c. Either a or b
c - Subsoil drainage piping for storm-water drainage can be made of many types of
material. Accepted types of material for this purpose include the following:
• Asbestos-cement pipe
• Cast-iron pipe
• Polyethylene (PE) plastic pipe
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe
• Stainless steel pipe
• Vitrified clay pipe
• Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene pipe
313. Assume you are sizing a drainage system for a combined sewer that will convey both storm
water and sanitary drainage. You must determine the load levels that the piping must be able to
handle. What does this require?
a. Converting storm water units to fixture units
b. Converting fixture-unit loads to drainage surface area
c. Converting gallons per minute to fixture-unit loads
b - When sizing piping for a combined sewer you must be able to convert fixture-
unit loads to drainage surface units. For example, 256 fixture units is equivalent to
1,000 square feet of surface area. Each fixture unit in addition to the 256
mentioned will be rated as 3.9 square feet. If you are dealing with continuous
flow, you must convert gallons per minute into surface area. Every gallon per
minute is equal to 96 square feet. You will have to consult with your local
plumbing code book to derive these types of conversion factors.
314. When a roof is designed as any type of roof that is not a hanging roof, the roof must be equipped
with ____________.
a. Rain diverters
b. Gutters
c. Roof drains
d. Any of the above
c - Hanging roofs do not require roof drains. All other types of roofs are required
to be equipped with suitable roof drains and an approved storm-water drainage
system. Roofs that are pitched to shed water into hanging gutters are exempt
from the need for roof drains. Most jurisdictions do not require gutters on
residential roofs that are hanging. It is generally acceptable for those roofs to
shed water directly to the ground.
315. Regardless of square-footage, a flat roof is required to have a minimum of four roof drains.
There must be one drain located within 10 feet of each corner of the roof.
True / False
False - Flat roofs that have a surface area of 10,000 square feet or less are
required to have a minimum of two roof drains. When a roof area exceeds 10,000
square feet it must be equipped with a minimum of four roof drains.
Fuel Gas
316. The maximum arc for a metallic-pipe bend is __________.
a. 16 degrees
b. 22.5 degrees
c. 45 degrees
d. 90 degrees
d - The maximum arc allowed for a metallic-pipe bend is 90 degrees. The bend
must be made with bending tools and procedures that are meant for the purpose.
The bends must be smooth and free from buckling, cracks and other mechanical
damage. It is important to keep longitudinal welds of pipe near the neutral axis of
the bend.
317. What is the maximum allowable pressure for plastic gas piping that conveys natural gas?
a. 60 psig
b. 80 psig
c. 100 psig
d. 125 psig
c - The maximum allowable pressure for plastic gas piping that conveys natural
gas is 100 psig.
318. Plastic gas piping is allowed to be installed ____________.
a. In attics
b. Underground
c. Only in basements and crawlspaces
d. Only in residential dwellings
b - The only location that plastic gas piping can be installed is outside
underground. It must not be installed under slabs or in any building. There is too
much risk that the pipe might be punctured. When the pipe is buried outside it is
unlikely to be punctured or ruptured. If it is, the leaking gas will disperse into
open air.
319. Unions installed on gas piping are required to ______________.
a. be dielectric unions
b. Have a minimum diameter of 0.5 inches
c. Be tested bi-annually for leaks
d. Be visible
d - Unions installed on gas piping must be visible. The fact that unions are
intended to allow easy disconnection at the point where they are installed
requires that they must be visible and available for testing.
320. Plastic gas piping requires ____________.
a. The installation of a tracer wire
b. Mechanical-joint connections
c. The installation of a pulse sensor
d. The installation of a drip leg
a - Plastic gas piping requires an 18 gauge wire conductor be installed next to the
pipe. This allows the path of the piping to be tracked from above ground with
metal-detecting devices. The tracer wire is to be turned up and exposed above
grade at each end of the piping trench.
321. Piping that conveys wet gas must be ________________________.
a. Provided with drip legs in low spots
b. On a level basis
c. Trapped
d. Identified with yellow bands of paint every 15 linear feet
a - Piping that conveys wet gas must have drip legs installed at all low points
where condensation might collect. Drip legs are normally six to eight inches.
They must be readily accessible.
322. Flexible gas connectors for all gas appliances, except ranges and clothes dryers, are limited to a
maximum length of _______ inches.
a. 24
b. 30
c. 36
d. 42
c - Flexible gas connectors are normally limited to a maximum length of 36 inches.

When they are used for cooking ranges and clothes dryers they can be up to 72
inches in length. These devices allow a fixture to be moved for disconnection. All
flex connections should be as short as is practical. This is due to them being more
vulnerable to damage than hard piping.
323. Flow controls on gas piping must be _____________.
a. Accessible
b. Readily accessible
c. Equipped with leak detectors
d. Set to a maximum pressure of 10 psig
b - Flow controls must be readily accessible when they are installed on gas piping.
324. The maximum allowable pressure to be used when testing gas piping is ________.
a. 38 psig
b. 42 psig
c. 100 psig
d. 125 psig
d - Gas piping cannot be tested with a pressure that is in excess of 125 psig. The
code requires test pressures to be less than 1.5 times the proposed maximum
working pressure. The minimal allowable test pressure is 3 psig.
325. Testing gas piping that has a volume of more than 10 cubic feet are required to be maintained
for a minimum of 30 minutes for each ______ cubic feet of pipe volume or fraction thereof.
a. 100
b. 250
c. 500
d. 750
c – A test of gas piping, that has a volume of more than 10 cubic feet, is required
to be maintained for a minimum of 30 minutes for each 500 cubic feet of pipe
volume or fraction thereof. Single-family homes that are served by up to 10 cubic
feet of gas volume are required to be tested for at least 10 minutes. No pressure
test is allowed to be maintained for more than 24 hours.
10 Test Preparation Tips
1. Start Studying 3 Months Before The Test - You have a lot of information to review to get prepared.
Give yourself enough time to study all of it in a relaxed state of mind. Trying to cram your study in a
month or a few weeks before the test will just create anxiety and even panic which is not conducive
to learning.
2. Outline a Study Schedule and Stick to It– You first need to find out what subjects the test covers,
then break them down into a study outline. An outline of the material will give you a birds-eye-view
of what you have to cover and allow you to plan to actually study it. Include review days throughout
the schedule where you review material you studied the month or two before. Include practice test
sessions in your schedule as well. Once you have a study schedule established, commit to it and be
disciplined. It will only help you, and give you the benefit of comprehensive study, if you actually
follow it.
3. Study Every Day for at Least One Hour – Getting prepared for a professional licensing exam takes
commitment. To maintain this commitment, it is best to make it part of your regular schedule. Plan
an hour a day to study the material you have scheduled for the day.
4. Obtain a Good Study Guide – A good study guide is very important. It will give you the substance
you need to know for the test.
5. Use Flashcards – Flashcards are easy to use and can interject some fun into the study process.
Flashcards that give you a question on one side and an answer on the other are the most effective.
Use them regularly throughout your study schedule.
6. Take Untimed Practice Tests Periodically to Assess Your Knowledge of the Material – Use the
Tests.com Practice Test to find out how well you know the material. For the first couple times, do
not time yourself, but use the test simply to determine your strengths and weaknesses. Focus your
study on the areas of the exam where you had the most trouble.
7. Take a Timed Practice Test Periodically to Practice Test Taking Skills – Take the Tests.com Practice
Test using the timer setting. Determine how many questions are on your state exam and complete
that amount of questions in the allotted time. This exercise will allow you to get a sense of how fast
you need to work under time pressure.
8. Tab and Highlight your Code – Many jurisdictions have open book tests, allowing you to reference
your code book while you take the test. Most testing rules do not allow notes in the code book you
use, but many allow highlighting and tabbing. When you use a code book during a test, it is
important to use it in such a way that allows you to work efficiently and not slow you down. Place
colored tabs on the pages of the book referencing the code sections, so you can turn to them quickly
and not have look up page numbers in the Table of Contents. Highlight those sections which you
believe to be important and that will be subject to testing.
9. Meet with Friends who are Studying for the Test and have a Group Discussion - Your friends and
colleagues who are studying for the test will have different strength and weaknesses than you. You
can benefit each other by sharing information, discussing issues and asking each other questions
about the information subject to testing.
10. Don’t Study the Day or Night Before the Test – You have prepared for months. Even though you
may feel a bit anxious the day before the test, it is important that you give your brain a rest. During
the test, you must be clear of mind and able to nimbly move from question to question. If your
brain is tired and your eyes are having trouble focusing, you will put yourself at a great
disadvantage. Do not study late into the night. You know the material more than you realize. Take
the day off, go for a walk, a bike ride or see a movie.
10 Test Taking Tips

1. Get Good Rest the Night before the Test – All the study in the world will not save you if you can’t
focus your eyes and your mind is cloudy due to staying up late at night to study before the test.
Test taking is an art and you must have a clear, well rested mind to do well. An important tip, and
the first in this list for a reason, is to get a good night’s rest the day before the test.
2. Eat a Good Meal before Leaving for the Test – Tests usually last a couple of hours. They take much
concentration and mental energy. You don’t want to have your blood sugar level affect your ability
to concentrate. Eat a good meal before leaving to take the test. Stay away from foods that would
make you tired.
3. Get to the Testing Location on Time and Mentally Prepare Yourself – You do not want to get lost
on your way to the testing location or leave too late such that you miss the beginning of the exam or
even have to rush to get to your seat. You want to arrive in enough time to sit for 10 or 15 minutes
prior to the test to collect your thoughts and clear your mind. Make sure you have the address to
the testing location the day before the test, ensure you have the right directions or use a GPS
system and find out beforehand how much time it will take to get there so you know when to leave.
4. Read the Question and Understand What it is Asking – A cardinal rule of test taking is “Do not
read into the question and Answer only What is Asked.” Before you read the answers, make
sure you understand what the question is asking. Do not let yourself insert qualifications into
the questions or assume additional fact patterns.
5. Form an Answer in Your Mind before Reading the Answer Options – If an answer comes to
you before you read the answer options, and the answer that came to you matches an answer
option, odds are that the answer option corresponding to the answer that popped into your
head is the correct answer. You know more than you realize. This is how preparation benefits
you.
6. Read all of the Answers - Even though the first answer option looks right, read all of the answer
options all of the time. One of the answers is the correct choice. All the information to answer
the question is there. Read all the answer options to understand what options are available.
You will find, while one of the first top selections seems right some of the time, a bottom option
will occasionally be the right selection because it qualifies the answer in the correct way. If you
just take the first answer that seems right without reading the other answer options, you will
not get the benefit of all the information in the answer options.
7. Eliminate Obviously Wrong Answers – Some of the answer options will obviously be wrong.
You can increase the odds you will select the right answer and work more efficiently by first
eliminating obviously wrong answers.
8. Don’t get Stuck on Difficult Questions – Some questions will have difficult or complex fact
patterns that require some thought or calculation. If you find yourself getting lost in the facts or
numbers, or stuck on the answer options, such that you start feeling anxious that you are
wasting time, take the following steps: guess and register an answer, mark the question with
some notation that will tell you it was a guess, and come back to it at the end of the test, after
you finished all other questions.
9. Pace Yourself - Don’t Work too Fast; Don’t Work too Slow – Time is a very important element
of test taking. Aside from the subject matter, it is the factor that most causes pressure and
stress. To obtain a good score, it is important that you have the time to read and answer all of
the questions. Tests only allow a certain amount of time per questions. Determine what that
time per question is by dividing the time by the number of questions. Pace yourself when taking
the test so that you allow yourself enough time to reasonably be able to read and answer all
questions. You don’t want to work too fast or too slow.
10. Maintain a Good Attitude during the Test – It is important to keep your composure during the
test. Having a good attitude will allow you to get through the challenging parts of an exam and
avoid becoming down or defeatist, which could slow you down or stop you altogether from
finishing the exam. Hang in there and have confidence. If you prepare for the exam following
the preparation and test taking tips discussed here, you can have confidence that you will
succeed.
__________________________________________
50 State
Plumber Licensing
Exam Guide
__________________________________________
Every state is different when it comes to the plumbing licensure. On the following pages you find
answers to the following for all 50 States:
• Need of a License
• Who Grants a License
• Procedures for Getting a License
• How to Apply for the Test
• Test Content for both Journeyman and Master Exams
• Fees
• Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License
• Who administers the test
• Applicable Code (IPC, UPC or NSPC)
• License Renewal and Continuing Education Requirements
Alabama Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Alabama.
Who Grants a License: The plumbing trade is regulated by the Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters
Examining Board.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate must take an exam to obtain either a journeyman or
master plumbing license.
How to Apply for the Test: To apply to take the journeyman or master plumber exams, contact the
following -
Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board

11 West Oxmoor Road, Suite 104
Birmingham, AL 35209
For more information call (205) 945-4857.
Test Content: The journeyman and master plumbing exams have the following content and
specifications:
Journeyman – 70 questions, 3 hours in duration, open book
Master - 100 questions, 4 hours in duration, open book
Fees: There are fees to take the test.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: A candidate for journeyman plumber must have
at least 2 years registered as an apprentice or completed a Board approved apprentice training program.
A candidate for master plumber must have had a journeyman plumbing license for at least 1 year.
Who administers the test: Professional Testing Inc.
License renewal: Licenses must be renewed each year by December 31st. There is no continuing
education requirement.
Applicable Code: Alabama follows the International Plumbing Code established by the International
Code Council.
Alaska Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: A journeyman plumber needs a license to work in Alaska.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce
Development.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a journeyman plumbing license must take and pass
an exam. Information about the exam and fees can be found online at Prometric.
Test Content: The journeyman test has the following content and specifications:
100 questions, 3 hour time limit, open book, 70 % needed to pass
Who Administers the Test: Prometric
How to Apply for the Test : To apply for the journeyman exam, contact Prometric or call (800) 864-
5309.
at least 8,000 hours of experience under the UPC in commercial/residential plumbing. Up to 1,000 hours
of trade related classroom training may be substituted for time in the field.
License renewal: Certificates of Fitness must be obtained every other year. There is no continuing
education requirement.
Applicable Code: Alaska follows the Uniform Plumbing Code established by the International
Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials.
Arizona Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: A plumber needs a contractor's license to work in Arizona.
Who Grants a License: The plumbing trade is regulated by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a plumbing contractor license must take and pass an
exam covering business and trade knowledge unless a waiver is available. Detailed information about
the test is provided in A Candidate Information Bulletin.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: A candidate must have at least 4 years of
verifiable work experience to take the exam.
Who Administers the Test: PSI Exams
How to Apply for the Test: You can register to take the exam online at PSI Exams or by calling 1-888-
733-9267.
Test Content: The Business Management part of the exam consists of 80 questions and the candidate is
given 180 minutes to complete the test. A score of 70% is needed to pass. The exam will have the
following content and number of questions:
Business Management - 6
Licensing Laws and Rules - 6
Estimating and Bidding - 10
Contracts and Agreements - 10
Project Management - 10
Insurance and Bonding - 6
Safety, Record Keeping and Reporting - 5
Labor Laws and Employment Regulations - 6
Financial Management - 8
Tax Laws - 5
Liens - 4
Environmental Laws and Regulations - 4
License renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. There is no continuing education
requirement.
Applicable Code: Arizona has adopted the International Plumbing Code developed by the International
Code Council.
Arkansas Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Arkansas. Plumbing
contractors on projects over $20,000 also need a license.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Arkansas Department of Health and the
Contractor's Licensing Board.
at least 4 years of experience or its equivalent. A candidate for master plumber must have at least 5
years of experience and have held the journeyman plumber license for at least one year.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a journeyman or master plumbing license must take
and pass an exam. Information about the exam and fees can be found online in a DOH publication
covering the rules and regulations pertaining to plumbers.
Plumbing contractors on projects over $20,000 must also take and pass an exam. Information about the
exam can be found online at the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board. See the candidate information
bulletin.
Test Content: The tests have the following content and specifications -
Journeyman and Master - 100 questions, 3 hour time limit, open book, 70 % needed to pass
Contractor - business and law exam, 50 questions, 2 hours to complete, open book, with such subjects
as project management, OSHA recordkeeping and lien laws. 70% needed to pass.
How to Apply for the Test: To apply for the journeyman, master or contractor exam,
contact Prometric or call (800) 864-5309.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year. There is no continuing education requirement.
Applicable Code: Arkansas follows the International Plumbing Code established by the International
Code Council.
California Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: A plumbing contractor that constructs or alters a building or other structure must be
licensed if the project has a combined value for labor, materials and other costs of $500 or more.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing contractors are regulated by the California Contractors State Licensing
Board (CSLB).
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a plumbing contractor license must take two exams,
one covering trade knowledge and another covering law and business subjects. The test is a closed book
exam. Detailed information about the test is provided at the CSLB website.
Content of the Test: The California Plumbing Exam is divided into five major sections as follows:
1. Planning and Estimating (17%)

Planning
Estimating
2. Rough-in Plumbing Systems (32%)

Job site preparation for new installations
Layout, install, and test new plumbing
Install fuel gas systems
Install water plumbing systems
Specialty plumbing installations
3. Finish Plumbing Installations (13%)

Install plumbing fixtures and accessories
Post-installation
4. Service, Repair, and Remodel Plumbing Systems (24%)

Job site preparation for repairs and remodels
Service and repair
Remodel plumbing systems
5. Worker and Job Site Safety (14%)

Job site safety
Worker safety
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: A candidate must have at least 4 years of
experience as a journeyman, foreman, supervisor or owner-builder to qualify to take the test.
Educational credit may be given if the candidate has at least 1 year of practical experience.
Who Administers the Test: CSLB
How to Apply for the Test: You can register to take the exam by submitting the Application for Original
Contractor's License at any CCSL office, by calling (800) 321-2752 or online at CSLB.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. There is no continuing education
requirement.
Applicable Code: The California Plumbing Code is based on the Uniform Plumbing Code developed by
the international Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials.
Colorado Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Residential, journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Colorado.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Colorado Department of Regulatory
Agencies - Examining Board of Plumbers (DORA).
Procedures for Getting a License: Candidates must take an exam to obtain a license unless you have
been licensed in another state and meet Colorado's reciprocity requirements.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: A candidate for the residential plumbing license
must show 2 years or 3,400 hours of practical experience. A candidate for the journeyman plumbing
license must have 4 years or 6,800 hours of practical experience. A candidate for a master plumbing
license is required to have had 5 full-time years of practical experience.
Test Content: The exams have a multiple choice format . A list of subjects the test covers is given
at DORA. Candidates for the residential and journeyman plumber licenses need a 70% score to pass the
exam. Master plumbers need a score of 75% to pass.
How to Apply for the Test: You can access the journeyman plumber application online at DORA.
Mail the completed application to:
Division of Registrations
Office of Licensing-Plumbing
1560 Broadway, Suite 1350
Denver, CO 80202
Who Administers the Exam: Pearson Vue
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed by August 31st of odd numbered years. There is no
continuing education requirement.
Applicable Code: Colorado follows the International Plumbing Code established by the International
Code Council.
Connecticut Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Plumbing contractors (P1) and journeyperson plumbers (P2) need a license to work
in Connecticut.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Connecticut Department of Consumer
Protection.
Procedures for Getting a License: Candidates must take an exam to obtain a license. Information
about the exam can be found in a Candidate Information Bulletin.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: A candidate for the unlimited plumbing
contractor license (P1) must show 2 years of experience as a licensed journeyperson plumber or
equivalent experience and training. A candidate for the journeyperson plumbing license (P2) must have
completed a registered apprenticeship program or equivalent experience and training.
Test Content: The exam for a plumbing contractor license (P1) consists of two exams, a business and
law exam and a technical exam. The business and law exam has 50 questions and the test candidate is
given 2 hours to complete the exam. The technical exam has 80 questions and the duration of the test is
3 hours.
The exam for journeyperson plumbers (P2) consists of only a technical exam, has 70 questions and the
test lasts 150 minutes.
A score of 70% is need to pass all sections on the P1 and P2 exams.
How to Apply for the Test: You can access the application online at PSI Exams.
PSI Licensure: Certification

ATTN: Examination Registration CT CO
3210 E. Tropicana
Las Vega, NV 89121
Who Administers the Exam: PSI
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year. As a condition of license renewal, plumbers
must fulfill the following continuing education requirement each year:
- Plumbing unlimited contractors – 9 hours

- Plumbing limited contractors and unlimited journeyman – 6 hours
- Plumbing limited journeyman – 3 hours
Applicable Code: Connecticut follows the International Plumbing Code established by the International
Code Council.
Delaware Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Delaware.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Delaware Department of State, Division of
Regulation, Board of Plumbing.
Procedures for Getting a License: Candidates for journeyman plumber licenses who do not have a
journeyman certificate from a federally approved apprentice program and candidates for master
plumber licenses must take an exam to obtain a license unless the candidate is already licensed in
another state and meets Delaware's reciprocity standards.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: A candidate for a journeyman plumbing license,
who does not have an approved journeyman certificate, can qualify to take the exam by showing at least
7 years of work experience with a licensed master plumber. Once one qualifies as a journeyman
plumber, one can take the master examination.
Test Content: The exam for journeyman and master plumbers come in two parts, one for business and
law and the other section on trade knowledge. The exams are open book with limited reference
materials permitted. The business and law section has 50 questions with a two hour time limit covering
subjects such as estimating and bidding, safety/OSHA and tax laws.
The journeyman and master plumber technical exams have 100 questions and a 4 hour time limit. The
journeyman and master exams cover the following subject areas with the corresponding number of
questions:
General Knowledge - 18
General Regulations - 26
Plumbing Fixtures - 6
Water Supply Systems - 10
Drainage, Waste and Sanitary Vents - 18
Indirect Waste - 4
Roof Drain Piping - 3
Specialty Plumbing - 5
Isometric Analysis - 10
How to Apply for the Test: You can access the application for the plumbing license online at DPR. You
can register to take the exam by going to Prometric that administers the test.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every other even year (i.e. 2010, 2012..). There is no
continuing education requirement.
Applicable Code: Delaware follows the IPC established by the International Code Council.
Florida Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: A plumber needs a license to work as a contractor in Florida. A "plumbing

contractor" is a contractor whose contracting business consists of the execution of contracts requiring
the experience, financial means, knowledge, and skill to install, maintain, repair, alter, extend, or, when
not prohibited by law, design plumbing. Title XXXII Florida Statutes Chapter 489(m).
Who Grants a License: The plumbing trade is regulated by the Florida Department of Business and
Professional Regulation.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a plumbing license must take and pass an exam
covering business , finance and trade knowledge. The test is an open book exam. Detailed information
about the test is provided in A Candidate Information Booklet for Construction License Examination.
Who Administers the Test: Professional Testing Inc. and Pearson Vue
How to Apply for the Test: You can register to take the exam online at Pearson Vue or by calling 1-888-
204-6230. It is recommended that you register at least 2 business days before the exam, as exam
reservations are taken on a first-come-first served basis.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: A candidate must meet experience and
education requirements to take the test. Candidates must also demonstrate financial responsibility by
providing a credit report and obtain general liability and property damage insurance. Fingerprinting is
also required.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. There is a continuing education
requirement. Certified and registered plumbing contractors must complete at least 14 hours of board
approved continuing education as a condition to renewal.
Applicable Code: Florida has adopted the International Plumbing Code developed by the International
Code Council.
Georgia Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Georgia. A master
plumber license is needed to contract for plumbing services. A journeyman license is required to install,
maintain, alter or repair plumbing under the supervision of a master plumber.
Who Grants a License: The plumbing trade is regulated by the Division of Master Plumbers and
Journeyman Plumbers of the Georgia State Construction Industry Board.
at least 3 years experience. A candidate for master plumber must have at least 5 years experience, 2
years of which were as a licensed journeyman plumber, plumbing contractor, plumbing foreman,
plumbing superintendent or military plumber. A candidate for Class II non-restricted master plumber
must have experience with commercial and industrial plumbing.
How to Apply for the Test: An application for a plumbing license must be received by the Board at least
60 days before the examination date. The application and other information may be found online
at AMP or at the Construction Industry Board website. A candidate information bulletin may be found
online as well.
Test Content: The journeyman test has 100 questions and the candidate has 5 hours to complete the
test. The master plumber exams (Class I and II) have 80 questions and the candidate has 7 hours to
complete the test. A scaled score of 70 is needed to pass the exams.
Test Administrator: AMP
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. Plumbers must complete at least 4
hours of continuing education per year as a condition to renewal.
Applicable Code: Georgia has adopted the International Plumbing Code developed by the International
Code Council.
Hawaii Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman plumbers, master plumbers and plumbing contractors need a license to
work in Hawaii. Only a licensed plumbing contractor can contract to perform plumbing work.
Who Grants a License: Plumbers and plumbing contractors are regulated by the Hawaii Board of
Electricians and Plumbers, of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.
Procedures for Getting a License: Candidates for the journeyman, master or contractor license must
take an exam to receive the license. Detailed information about the tests are provided in the following
Candidate Information Bulletins:
Journeyman and Master
Business and Law
Trade Knowledge
Content of the Test: The tests have the following content and specifications -
1. Journeyman - 100 questions, 3 hours, closed book, with the following content and number of
questions:
General Knowledge - 25 Fuel and Medical Gas Systems - 10
Drainage, Waste and Sanitary Vents - 20 Indirect and Special Wastes - 10
Water Supply Systems - 20 Building Sewers - 5
Sizing and Estimating - 10
2. Master - closed book, 80 questions, 3 hours, 70% to pass, with the following content and number of
questions:
General Knowledge - 25 Fixtures and Trim - 6
Drainage, Waste and Sanitary Vents - 25 Excavation - 6
Sizing and Estimating - 19 Building Sewers - 6
Fuel and Medical Gas Systems - 13
3. Contractor - the test is a two part multiple choice exam, with a business and law exam and trade
knowledge exam as follows:
Business and Law - 80 questions, 3 hours, covering such subjects as estimating and bidding,
project management and safety, 75% to pass.
Trade Knowledge - 80 questions, 3 hours, closed book, 75% to pass, with the following content
and number of questions:
Water Supply and Distribution - 25 Fixtures and Trim - 6
Drain, Waste and Venting - 25 Excavation - 6
Sizing and Estimating - 15 Building Sewers - 10
Fuel and Medical Gas Systems - 13
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: A journeyman plumber candidate must have 5
years but not less than 10,000 hours of plumbing work experience. A master plumber candidate must
have at least 2 years work experience as a journeyman or equivalent.
How to Apply for the Test: The application to take the journeyman, master or contractor exam can be
found online at DCCA. The application can be mailed to:
Board of Electricians & Plumbers
DCCA, PVL Licensing Branch
P.O. Box 3469
Honolulu, HI 96801
or call (808) 586-3000.
After you have been approved to take the exam, you can register to take the exam by sending in your
Examination Registration Form, which you will get upon approval from the Board, to:
Prometric
354 Ulunui St, Suite 308
Kailua, HI 96734
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every three years. Plumbers who got their licenses prior
to June 30, 2009, must complete a continued competency requirement, which can be fulfilled by either
attending a class on the Uniform Plumbing Code at the University of Hawaii Community College or
passing a UPC exam at Thomson Prometric.
Applicable Code: Hawaii follows the Uniform Plumbing Code.
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Idaho Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman plumbers, specialty journeyman plumbers, plumbing contractors and
specialty plumbing contractors need a license to work in Idaho.
Procedures for Getting a License: Plumbing candidates must take an exam to obtain a license.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Idaho Division of Building Safety.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License:
Journeyman – must have at least 4 years of experience as an apprentice making plumbing installations
under the constant on-the-job supervision of a qualified journeyman plumber and 4 years (a minimum
of 576 hours) of approved apprenticeship plumbing class room instruction.
Specialty journeyman – must meet the requirements for the specialty, i.e. appliances, water pumps and
mobile homes. The requirements differ from specialty to specialty.
Plumbing Contractor – must have at least 2 ½ years of experience as a journeyman plumber either in
Idaho or in another state.
Test Content:
Journeyman – 100 questions and practical exam, 3 hours, open book, need 75% to pass, with
the following content:
Administration 5
Definitions 10
General Regulations 7
Traps & Intercepts 7
Cleanouts 4
Fixtures 5
Indirect Wastes 6
Water Supply & Back Flow 10
Water Heater 5
Drainage 3
Drainage Calculations 5
Vents 2
Vent Calculations 4
Storm Drains 3
Developed Length 4
Isometric Analysis 12
Fitting ID 4
Gas Piping 4
Appliance Specialty Journeyman – 25 questions, 1 hour, open book, need score of 75% to pass,
with following content:
Administration 2
Definitions 4
Water Supply 4
Water Heater 4
Gas Piping 3
Appliance Specialty Contractor – 50 questions, 2 hours, open book, 75% to pass, with the
following content:
Administration 2
Definitions 4
Water Supply 4
Water Heater 4
Gas Piping 2
Insurance Laws 4
Tax Laws 2
Safety 2
Management 2
Lien Laws 2
Employment Laws 3
General Accounting 3
Idaho Rules 5
Idaho Statutes 5
Permit Calculations 2
Plumbing Contractor – 100 questions, 3 hours, open book, 75% to pass with following content:
Administration 2
Definitions 2
Traps 2
Cleanouts 2
Interceptors 2
Fixtures 4
Hangers & Supports 2
Indirect Wastes 2
Water Supply 5
Water Heater 2
Drainage 3
Drainage Calculations 2
Vents 4
Vent Calculations 2
Storm Drains 1
Developed Length 4
Isometric Analysis 4
Water Pump Specialty Journeyman – 25 questions, 1 hour, open book, 75% to pass with the
following content:
Administration 2
Definitions 4
Water Supply 4
Drainage 3
Rules & Laws 5
How to Apply for the Test: You can access the applications online with the following links:
Journeyman
Specialty journeyman
Contractor
Specialty contractor
Idaho Division of Building Safety

Plumbing Bureau, Licensing Section
1090 E. Watertower, Street
Meridian, ID 83642
For more information call (208) 334-3442
After you are approved to take the exams, you will be provided information on how to register to take
the exams.
Who Administers the Exam: Gainesville Independent Testing Services and Pearson Vue.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year. There is a continuing education requirement
for plumbers.
Applicable Code: Idaho follows the International Plumbing Code established by the International Code
Council.
Illinois Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Plumbers and plumbing contractors need a license to work in Illinois.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are regulated by the Illinois Department of Public Health. The
City of Chicago also issues plumbing licenses for its jurisdiction.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate must take an exam to obtain a plumbing license at the
state level or in Chicago.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: A candidate for a plumbing license must have
been employed as an apprentice plumber for at least 4 years, completed a trade school program in
plumbing and completed at least two years of high school.
Plumbing contractors must register with the state, pay a fee, obtain a minimum of general liability,
property damage, bodily injury and workers compensation insurance.
How to Apply for the Test: The application for a plumbing license at the state level can be found online
at the Plumbing Program website.
(http://www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/plumbers%20pdf/examforplumberlicenseform.pdf ). Mail the
completed application to:
Illinois Department of Public Health

Office of Health Protection
Plumbing Program
525 W. Jefferson Street, 3rd Floor
Springfield, IL 62761
(217) 524-0791
In Chicago, the application can be found at the trade licensing web page. Mail the completed
application to:
City of Chicago
Journeyman Plumber License
PO Box 388249
Chicago, IL 60638-8249
Test Content: The Chicago plumbing exam is 3 hours in duration. A score of 70 is needed to pass. No
calculators or reference materials can be brought into the testing site. Calculators will be provided. The
test has the following content:
• Plumbing Practice, Theory and Safety

• Code Requirements for Plumbers and Contractors
• Plumbing Systems
• Rehabilitated Requirements
• Drawings, Charts and Plans
• Cutting and Assembling Plumbing System Components
• Troubleshoot, Maintenance and Repair
License renewal: Licenses must be renewed each year. There is a continuing education requirement.
Applicable Code: Illinois has its own plumbing code. Chicago also has its own plumbing code.
Indiana Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman plumbers and plumbing contractors need a license to work in Indiana.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Indiana Plumbing Commission.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a journeyman plumbing license or a plumbing
contractor license must take and pass an exam. Detailed information about the test is provided in
an examination information bulletin.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: A candidate for the journeyman plumbing
license must have at least 4 years of training and successfully passed a practical exam in an approved
apprenticeship program. A candidate for the contractor license must have at least 4 years of experience
working under a licensed plumbing contractor.
Test Content: The journeyman and contractor exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions and there
is a 3 hour time limit. The test will cover the following general areas with a corresponding number of
questions:
General Requirements - 7
Fixtures - 10
Water Heaters - 7
Water Supply Distribution - 14
Sanitary Drainage - 21
Vents - 17
Developed Length/Isometric Analysis - 8
Indiana Business and Law - 6
Who Administers the Test: International Code Council
How to Apply for the Test: You can access the application online.

Indiana Plumbing Commission
402 W. Washington St., Room W072
Indianapolis, IN 46204
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. There is a continuing education
requirement.
Applicable Code: Indiana uses the Indiana Plumbing Code and adopted the Uniform Plumbing Code
developed by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials.
Iowa Plumbing Exams
Need of a License: Master and journeyman plumbers need a license to work in Iowa.
Who Grants a License: Plumbers are regulated by the Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board.
Procedures for Getting a License: Candidates for a journeyman or master plumbing license must take
an exam. For more information about the exams, see a Candidate Information Bulletin.
Content of the Test: The master and journeyman tests have the following content and specifications -
Master - 200 questions, 6 hours to complete, open book, 75% to pass, with the following sections and
number of questions:
General Regulations -20
Drainage, Waste and Vents - 20
Indirect Waste - 4
Fuel Gas Systems - 10
Safety – 2
Journeyman - 100 questions, open book, 3 hours to complete, 75% to pass, with the following subject
areas and number of questions:
General Regulations -20
Drainage, Waste and Vents - 18
Indirect Waste - 3
Safety – 5
Qualifications to take the Journeyman Exam and receive a License: Candidates must provide a U.S.
Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship identification number and sponsor identification number
or have completed at least 4 years of apprentice like or on the job training.
Qualifications to take the Master Exam and receive a license: Candidates must have been a licensed
journeyman plumber for a minimum of 2 years.
How to Apply for the Test: You can find the application and instructions online or call (866) 280-1521.
Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board

Lucas State Office Building
Iowa Department of Public Health
321 E. 12th Street
Des Moines, Iowa 50319
You must be approved before you take the test.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every three years. Plumbers must complete at least 8
hours of board approved continuing education as a condition to renewal.
Applicable Code: Local governments of Iowa have adopted the International Plumbing Code established
by the International Code Council.
Kansas Plumbing Exam
Need of a license: Plumbing licenses are not issued by the state, but at the city and county level.
Procedures for Getting a License: The procedures for getting a license vary from jurisdiction to
jurisdiction. Contact the local municipalities where you wish to work.
Applicable Code: Kansas has adopted the International Plumbing Code established by the International
Code Council.
Jurisdictions:
City of Topeka
City of Wichita
Kansas City and Wyandotte County
City of Alma
Kentucky Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Kentucky.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings
and Construction.
and pass an exam consisting of written and practical sections. Detailed exam information can be found
online.
completed 2 consecutive years as an apprentice plumber. Completion of a 2 year plumbing course
counts as 1 year of experience. A candidate for master plumber must have had a valid journeyman
plumber license for 2 years within the past 5 years preceding the exam and have been employed in the
plumbing trade for the past 2 years or be a registered mechanical engineer.
Test Content: The journeyman and master plumbing exams have the following content and
specifications -
Journeyman - 5 hour practical and written exam, 75% score to pass
Master - 2 ½ hour written test covering basic principles of plumbing and a practical section covering
pipe sizes, 80% score needed to pass
Who Administers the Test: Kentucky State Plumbing Examining Committee
How to Apply for the Test: The application for journeyman and master plumber licenses can be found
online -
Journeyman
Master
An application for a journeyman or master plumbing license must be submitted to the following:
Office of Housing, Building and Construction
Division of Plumbing
101 Sea Hero Road, Suite 100
Frankfort, KY 40601-5405
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year. Master and journeyman plumbers must
complete at least 8 hours of continuing education during the year as a condition to renewal.
Applicable Code: Kentucky follows the Kentucky State Plumbing Code using as minimum standards the
basic principles of the National Plumbing Code Coordinating Committee.
Louisiana Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Louisiana.
Who Grants a License: The plumbing trade is regulated by the State Plumbing Board of Louisiana
(SPBLA).
at least 5 years or 8,000 hours of full-time experience in the plumbing trade and have 3 currently
licensed plumbers, who have known the candidate, sign the candidate's application. A candidate for
master plumber must hold a journeyman plumbing license or a current restricted master plumbing
license or a Louisiana Professional Engineers license with 5 years experience in the plumbing trade.
How to Apply for the Test: Candidates for the journeyman plumbing exam may find the registration
form and other information in the Journeyman Plumber Application Instructions.
Candidates for the master plumbing exam may find the registration form and other information in
the Master Plumber Application Instructions.
Return the application and other documents to:
State Plumbing Board of Louisiana
12497 Airline Highway
Baton Rouge, LA 70817
Test Content: The journeyman and master exams have the following content and specifications -
Journeyman: 80 questions, 3 hours, open book with Louisiana Plumbing Code
Master:
Part I - 80 multiple choice questions on General Plumbing Knowledge - 3 hours
Part II - 25 multiple choice questions on Practical Plumbing Knowledge - 2 hours
Part III - 40 multiple choice questions on Business Law and Knowledge - 2 hours
The Master Plumber exams are open book with Sanitary Code, LA plumbing code and Master Plumber
Guide to Business, Law and Project Management - references can be highlighted and tagged only.
Who Administers the test: SPBLA and the National Inspection, Testing and Certification Corporation
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year. As a condition of license renewal, plumbers
must fulfill the following board approved continuing education requirement each year:
- Journeyman Plumbers – 4 hours

- Master Plumbers – 6 hours
Applicable Code: Louisiana follows the Louisiana State Plumbing Code.
Maine Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: A plumbing license is required for any person, partnership, corporation or other
entity that is engaged in plumbing or performing plumbing installations in Maine.
Who Grants a License: Plumbers are regulated by the Maine Office of Licensing and Registration and
the Plumbers Examining Board.
Procedures for Getting a License: Candidates for a journeyman and a master plumbing license must
take an exam. The exams are closed book. The passing grade on the master examination is 75% and on
the journeyman exam 70%. For more detailed information, see the Candidate Information Bulletin.
Qualifications to take the Journeyman Exam and receive a License: A candidate must have at least 2
years of experience with 4,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing as a licensed trainee under the
supervision of a master plumber to qualify to take the test. Alternatively, a candidate can qualify with at
least 2,000 hours of work as a journeyman-in-training under the supervision of a licensed mater plumber
as long as the work experience is obtained within 4 years of being issued the journeyman-in-training
license. Educational credit may be given if the candidate has at least 1 year of practical experience.
Qualifications to take the Master Exam and receive a License: A candidate must have at least 2,000 of
hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a journeyman plumber or a minimum of at least 4
years with 8,000 hours of work in the field of plumbing installations as a trainee plumber under the
supervision of a master plumber.
Content of the Test: Journeyman and master exams are each composed of 100 questions and the
candidate is give 3 hours to complete the tests. The content of the exams is as follows with the
following number of questions:
General Knowledge - 18 Indirect Waste - 4
General Regulation - 18 Roof Drain Piping - 3
Plumbing Fixtures - 10 Specialty Plumbing - 5
Water Supply Systems - 12 Isometric Analysis - 12
How to Apply for the Test: You can register to take the journeyman or master exam by submitting the
Individual License Application to the following address:
Office of Licensing and Registration
35 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0035
Fees : There are fees to take the test.
requirement.
Applicable Code: Maine has adopted the Maine Internal Plumbing Code.
Maryland Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Maryland.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing
and Regulation (DLLR).
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a journeyman or a master plumbing license must take
and pass a written exam. Exams are given weekly in Baltimore, College Park, Salisbury and Hagerstown.
Qualifications to take the Journeyman Plumber Exam and receive a License: A candidate must have
held an apprentice license for at least 4 years, completed 7,500 hours of training under the supervision
of a master plumber and completed 32 hours in backflow prevention device testing.
Qualifications to take the Master Plumber Exam and receive a License: A candidate must have held a
journeyman license for at 2 years and must have completed 3,700 hours of training under a licensed
master plumber.
Who Administers the Test: PSI Examination Services
How to Apply for the Exam: To apply to take the exams, contact the following:
PSI Examination Services
100 West Broadway, Suite 1100
Glendale, CA 91210-1202
800-733-9267
requirement.
Applicable Code: Maryland has adopted the International Plumbing Code developed by the
International Code Council and local municipalities may use different editions.
Massachusetts Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Massachusetts.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Massachusetts Board of Registration of
Plumbers and Gas Fitters.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a journeyman or a master plumbing license must take
and pass a written exam.
For detailed information about the master exam, see the master candidate information sheet.
For detailed information about the journeyman exam see the journeyman candidate information sheet.
Test Content for both Master and Journeyman: The test is divided into 2 parts including a written exam
and a practical and the candidate is given 160 minutes to complete each part. The test is a closed book
examination. The written test for both master and journeyman has the following general topics with
General Regulations, Inspections and Permits - 9

Gas Piping, Equipment and Appliances - 21
Venting - 12
Traps and Cleanouts - 2
Fixtures, Equipment and Clearances - 2
Water Heaters - 3
Water Supply - 6
Hangers and Supports - 2
Drain, Waste and Vent - 13
Separators, Interceptors and Grease Traps - 5
Joints and Connections – 5
Qualifications to take the Journeyman Plumber Exam and receive a License: A candidate must meet
minimum standards for education and experience to take the exam and qualify for a journeyman
plumber license. See 248 CMR 11.00 Education and Experience Standards and Requirements for
Licensure.
Qualifications to take the Master Plumber Exam and receive a License: A candidate must have held a
journeyman license for at least 1 year and must have completed 1,700 hours of work actively engaged
or in the business of installing, repairing or maintaining plumbing and gas fitting systems, apparatus,
devices, fixtures or other appliances typical of the plumbing and gas fitting industry. The candidate must
also provide the Board with documentation showing the completion of the 110 hour tier five of the five
tier educational program approved by the Board. Candidates who completed this program as an
apprentice do not have to complete any additional educational requirements.
Who Administers the Test: PSI Examination Services
How to Apply for the Exams: To apply to take the exams, contact PSI online or at (800) 733-9267.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. Plumbers must complete 12 hours of
continuing education as a condition of renewal.
Applicable Code: Massachusetts follows the Uniform State Plumbing Code, 248 CMR 10.00.
Michigan Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: A journey and master plumber needs a license to work in Michigan.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and
Economic Growth (DELEG).
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a journey plumbing license must take and pass an
exam consisting of a copper practical, isometric workbook practical and written questions. Detailed
information about the test is provided in a journeyman plumber candidate information sheet.
A candidate for a master plumbing license must take and pass an exam consisting of a material take off
practical, building chart practical and written questions. Detailed information about the test is provided
in a master plumber candidate information sheet.
Qualifications to take the Journeyman Exam and receive a License - A candidate for a journeyman
plumbing license must have at least 6,000 hours of experience gained over not less than 3 years as a
registered apprentice plumber in the practical installation of plumbing under the supervision of a master
plumber.
Qualifications to take the Master Exam and receive a License: A candidate for a master plumber
license must have at least 4,000 hours of experience gained over not less than 2 years as a journey
plumber.
Test Content: The written part of the journeyman and master plumbing tests has 100 multiple-choice
questions and a candidate must get at least a 70% score to pass. The tests have the following content
and number of questions:
Drainage Systems
General Knowledge
Fixtures
Water/Backflow Protection
Storm/Special Waste
Testing
Inspections
Venting
Who Administers the Test: DELEG
How to Apply for the Test: You can download and print out the Application for Journey Plumber
Examination and the Application for Master Plumber Examination.
Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth

Bureau of Construction Codes/Plumbing Division
P.O. Box 30255
Lansing, MI 48909
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every three years. There is a continuing education
requirement if the plumbing code is changed or updated during the previous year.
Applicable Code: Michigan has adopted the International Plumbing Code developed by the
International Code Council.
Minnesota Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Minnesota.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Minnesota Department of Labor and
Industry.
Procedures for Getting a License: Exams are given twice a year (March and September). Applications
for the March exam must be submitted between Jan 1 and Feb 15. Applications for the September
exam must be submitted between July 1 and Aug 15.
license must hold a current apprentice plumbing registration, a restricted journeyman or master
plumber license for a minimum of 2 years and have over 7,000 hours of practical experience over four
years in certain areas. A candidate for master plumber must have 5 years of practical experience and a
journeyman license, a restricted master plumber license for a minimum of 5 years or a master license
from another state that has equivalent standards.
Test Content: The exam is 5 ½ hours long. The exam is open book and the Department of Labor and
Industry provides excerpts of the plumbing code to use during the test.
How to Apply for the Test: You can access the plumber application online.
Department of Labor and Industry

Licensing and Certification Services
PO Box 64222
St. Paul, MN 55164-0222
Call (651) 284-5031 for more information.
Applicable Code: Minnesota follows the Minnesota Plumbing Code.
Mississippi Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Plumbing contractors who do commercial projects over $50,0000 need a license to
work in Mississippi. Commercial projects below $50,000 are regulated by local municipalities. Persons
doing residential renovations will need a Residential Remodeling license from the state.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing contractors on commercial projects over $50,000 are regulated by the
Mississippi State Board of Contractors.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate must take an exam to obtain a plumbing contractor's
license.
How to Apply for the Test: The application to apply for a plumbing contractor's license can be found
online at Commercial Application.
Candidates are required to submit a financial statement with their application. Applications must be
received by the Board at least 30 days prior to a regular Board meeting, which is the second Wednesday
of January, April, July and October. Send the completed application to:
State Board of Contractors

P.O. Box 320279
Jackson, MS 39232-0279
For more information, call (601) 354-6161.
Test Content: A candidate for the plumbing contractor's license must take 2 exams, one covering
business and law and the other covering trade knowledge. The business and law exam consists of 50
questions covering such subjects as estimating and bidding, labor laws and environmental and safety.
The candidate is given 2 hours to complete the business and law exam. The trade knowledge exam
consists of 70 questions covering the following subject areas with number of questions:
General Plumbing Regulations - 4
Safety - 4
Cleanouts - 4
Fixtures and Equipment - 5
Water Heaters - 2
Piping, valves and controls - 3
Water Supply - 6
Drain, Waste and Vent - 15
Backflow - 3
Traps and Interceptors - 4
Developed Length - 2
Joints and Connections - 3
The candidate is given 3 hours to complete the trade knowledge exam. A candidate must get a score of
70% on each exam to pass. Detailed test content information may found online at candidate test
bulletin.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: Anyone can apply.
Who administers the test: PSI
Applicable Code: Mississippi follows the International Plumbing Code established by the International
Code Council.
Missouri Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need to be certified to work in Missouri.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing certifications are not issued by the state, but at the county and city
level.
Need of an Exam: By state statute, candidates for journeyman and master plumber certification must
take an exam to work in a city with a population of 15,000 or more. Missouri Revised Statutes 341.010
and 341.020
Applicable Code: Missouri has adopted the Uniform Plumbing Code developed by the International
Jurisdictions:
Saint Louis County
City of Saint Charles
City of Springfield
City of Cape Girardeau
Montana Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Montana.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Montana Board of Plumbers .
Procedures for Getting a License: Candidates for the journeyman and master plumber licenses must
take an exam to obtain a license. For more information: Gainesville Independent Testing Services.
How to apply: You can find the application online at Journeyman and Master.
If using regular mail, send the For personal delivery, take the
completed application to: application to:
Montana Board of Plumbers Montana Board of Plumbers
PO Box 200513 301 South Park, 4th Floor
Helena, Montana 59620-0513 Helena, Montana 59620-0513
You must get preapproved before taking the exam. For more information, call (406) 841-2329.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License : Candidates to become journeyman or master
plumbers must meet the following requirements -
Journeyman - A candidate for journeyman plumber must 5 years and 7,500 hours of experience
or completion of an apprentice program meeting the standards of the Montana Apprenticeship
and Training Bureau or the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Apprenticeship.
Master - A candidate for master plumber must have 4 years of experience as a journeyman with
3 of the 4 years working either in a supervisory capacity or with a licensed master plumber.
Test Content: The journeyman and master exams have the following specifications -
Journeyman - written and practical exam, 70 % to pass on each part. The written part has 100
questions and is 2 ½ hours long, open book. The practical part includes a hands-on portion
consisting of two parts, isometric drawings and a pressure loop that is limited to 4 hours.
Master - 100 question written exam, 70 % to pass, 3 hour time limit, open book
Who Administers the Exam: Gainesville Independent Testing Services
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year. Master and journeyman plumbers must take a
minimum of 4 hours of continuing education courses. The courses must be code-related and board
approved.
Applicable Code: Montana follows the Uniform Plumbing Code established by the International
Nebraska Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Plumbers are not currently regulated by the state of Nebraska. However,
contractors need to register to do business in Nebraska. A contractor is any person who engages in the
business of construction and includes subcontractors, general contractors, and any other person
arranging for the performance of work on real property.
Construction means work on real property and annexations, including new work, additions, alterations,
reconstruction, installations, and repairs on real property that may be performed at one or more
different sites but does not include the construction of water wells or installation of septic systems.
Who oversees Registration: Contractors are regulated by the Nebraska Department of Labor.
Procedures for Registering: You can start the application online at the Department of Labor.
Fees: There are fees to register.
Applicable Code: Local municipalities of Nebraska have adopted the International Plumbing Code
established by the International Code Council.
Nevada Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Plumbing contractors need a license to work in Nevada. Plumbing contractors are
classified in two ways: as Plumbing and Heating Contractors (C-1) and Plumbing Contractors (C-1D). A
C-1 license allows a contractor to perform any work authorized for the sub-classifications of the C-1
license, i.e. plumbing, boilers, sprinklers and HVAC. The C-1D license is limited to the plumbing sub
classification.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing contractor's licenses are issued by the Nevada State Contractor's
Board.
Procedures for Getting a License:
Plumbers: Candidates for both master and journeyman plumber licenses must pass an exam.
Contractors - Candidates for a contractor’s license must take and pass a 2 part exam, one part
covering business and law, called the Contractor Management Survey Examination and the other a
trade knowledge exam. A candidate may not have to take an exam if the candidate can meet the
requirements for a waiver, i.e. was licensed within the last 5 years in the classification sought or on
reciprocity grounds with California, Utah or Arizona.
Plumbing License
Candidates for journeyman plumber need to have 4 years with 8,000 hours of substantiated
experience in the plumbing trade.
Candidates for master plumber need to have held a journeyman license issued by the NBOPE for a
period of at least 2,000 hours.
Contractor License - A candidate for a contractor's license must have at least 4 years of experience
as a journeyman, foreman, supervisor or contractor. A journeyman is defined as one who has
completed an apprenticeship program or who is otherwise an experienced worker qualified to work
without supervision in the trade. A foreman or supervisor is one who has knowledge and skill as a
journeyman and directly supervises physical construction. A contractor is one who manages the
daily activities of a construction business, including field supervision.
Detailed test information may be found in a Candidate Information Bulletin.
Test Content
Plumbers
Plumbing License – Candidates can choose either to take a paper or computer based exam. The content
is as follows:
50 multiple choice questions, open book, 2 hours to complete
100 multiple choice questions, closed book, 1 hour 45 minutes to complete
Questions will cover all chapters of the Uniform Plumbing Code including;
1. Installation Standards, Administration, Definitions & General Regulations 20%

2. Fixtures and Fixture Fittings, Water Heaters, Indirect Wastes, and Traps & Interceptors 31%
3. Sanitary Drainage, Vents, & Storm Drainage Related Drawings 27%
4. Water Supply & Related Drawings 12%
5. Fuel Gas & Related Drawings 10%
Candidates need a score of 75% to pass.
Contractors
Contractor Management Survey Exam - 62 questions, 2 hours long, open book, including such subjects
as estimating and bidding, tax laws, environmental and safety. Need score of at least 42 to pass.
Plumbing and Heating Contractors (C-1) - 120 question, 5 hours long, open book, need a score of 84 to
pass, with the following subjects and number of questions:
Boilers - 4
Gas systems - 8
Cleanouts - 4
Hydronics - 3
Water Heaters/ Venting - 6
Piping, Valves and Controls - 3
Sheet Metal - 3
Water Supply - 8
Drain, Waste and Vents - 10
Backflow - 4
Isometric Analysis/Plumbing Mathematics - 8
Safety - 5
Solar - 4
General Plumbing Requirements - 7
Fire Sprinklers - 5
Storm Drainage - 5
Industrial Piping - 3
Breathing Systems for Fire Fighters - 3
Chilled Water Piping – 6
Plumbing Contractors (C-1D) - 80 questions, 3 hours long, open book, need a score of 56 to pass,
including:
Gas systems - 8
Cleanouts - 4
Hydronics - 3
Water Heaters/ Venting - 6
Piping, Valves and Controls - 5
Water Supply - 8
Drain, Waste and Vents - 8
Backflow - 4
Isometric Analysis/Plumbing Mathematics - 6
Safety - 5
Solar - 3
General Plumbing Requirements - 3
Storm Drainage – 3
How to Apply for the Test:
Plumber Licenses
A candidate for a journeyman or master license must send an Affidavit of Experience, Official
Application, Applicable Fees, Photo Id and Test Fees to the National Inspection Testing Certification
(NITC) to the following address:
NBOPE c/o NITC

501 Shatto Place, Suite 201
Los Angeles, CA 90020
Master plumbers must also send in proof of holding a NBOPE journeyman license for at least 2,000
hours.
More information can be found at NITC’s website.
Contractor Licenses
You can access the application online. Send the application and other required documents to:
Northern Nevada
Nevada State Contractor's Board

9670 Gateway Drive, Suite 100
Reno, NV 89521
Southern Nevada
Nevada State Contractor's Board

2310 Corporate Circle, Suite 200
Henderson, NV 89074
Who administers the exams:
Plumber Exams - NITC
Contractor Exams - PSI
License Renewal - Licenses must be renewed every three years. Plumbers must either take a code
course from an IAMPO instructor that is at least 4 hours in length or pass a 25 question open book test
online.
Applicable Code: In Nevada, local municipalities adopt the International Plumbing Code established by
the International Code Council.
New Hampshire Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Master and journeyman plumbers need a license to work in New Hampshire.
Who Grants a License: Plumbers are regulated by the New Hampshire Department of Safety, Division of
Fire Safety and the Plumbers Licensing Board.
an exam. The exams are taken on a computer. The exams are open book with limited resources. For
detailed information about the exams, see the Examination Information Bulletin.
Content of the Test: The journeyman and master exams have the following specifications -
The Journeyman exam consists of 75 multiple-choice questions and the candidate is give 3 hours to
complete the exam. The content of the exams is as follows with the following number of questions:
Plumbing Fixtures and Terminology- 4

Plumbing Fundamentals - 10
Water Distribution - 8
Drainage Requirements- 11
Traps, Cleanouts and Interceptors - 4
Special Requirements - 3
Vent Requirements - 11
Plan Reading - 19
Local Amendments – 5
The master exam is composed of 105 multiple-choice questions and the candidate is give 4 hours to
complete the tests. The content of the exams is as follows with the following number of questions:

Plan and Analysis - 23
Qualifications to take the Journeyman Exam and receive a License: Candidates for the journeyman
license must have completed an apprenticeship program and received an official certificate from the
organization conducting the program.
Qualifications to take the Master Exam and receive a license: Candidates for the master license must
have held the journeyman license for at least 6 months.
Who Administers the Test: International Code Council and Pearson Vue
How to Apply for the Test: You can obtain the application by calling the Plumbing Safety and Licensing
Section at (603) 223-4289 or by mail at:
Plumber's Licensing Board
33 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03305
You must be preapproved by the state before taking your test. You can register for the test by calling
Pearson Vue at (877) 234-6082.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year. As a condition to renewal, plumbers must take
a minimum of 3 hours of continuing education.
Applicable Code: New Hampshire follows the International Plumbing Code established by the
New Jersey Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Master and journeyman plumbers need a license to work in New Jersey.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the New Jersey Board of Examiners of Master
Plumbers.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a master plumbing license must take and pass a 4
hour exam on trade knowledge and a 2 ½ hour multiple-choice exam covering business and law related
subjects. Journeyman plumbers do not need to take an exam to get licensed, but must meet education
and experience requirements.
Qualifications to take the Master Plumber Exam: A candidate must have been engaged in an
apprentice program for 4 years and have been a journeyman plumber for at least 1 year. Alternatively,
the candidate can have a bachelor's degree in mechanical, plumbing or sanitary engineering with one
year spent installing plumbing systems as an apprentice or journeyman.
Who Administers the Test: Experior Assessments LLC
How to Apply for the Exams: To apply for the master plumber exam go to the online application.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. Plumbers must complete 5 credits of
continuing education as a condition of license renewal in the two year period. Plumbers applying for
renewal for the first time do not have to meet the continuing education requirement.
Applicable Code: New Jersey follows the National Standard Plumbing Code.
New Mexico Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: A plumber needs a journeyman's certificate or a contractor's license to work in New
Mexico as a plumber. A contractor must have at least one qualified person under the classification it
seeks to work under in New Mexico. Therefore, a contractor must either be a qualified plumber or have
a qualified plumber on its staff to work as a plumbing contractor in New Mexico.
Who Grants a License: The plumbing trade is regulated by the New Mexico Regulation & Licensing
Department.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a plumbing contractor license (MM-I) must take and
pass an exam consisting of two parts - a business and law exam and trade knowledge exam. A
contractor does not have to take the business and law exam if the contractor has taken an approved
course in business and law. Detailed information about the contractor's test is provided in a Candidate
Information Bulletin.
A candidate for a journeyman plumbing certificate must take a written and practical exam. Detailed
information about the journeyman plumbing certificate is provided in a Candidate Information Bulletin.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: To qualify to take the journeyman exam, the
candidate needs a minimum of 2 years and 4000 hours of experience in the trade. To qualify for the
contractor's license, the contractor must be or have a qualified plumber who has at least 4 years and
8000 hours of experience in the trade.
Who Administers the Test: PSI
How to Apply for the Test: Information on how to obtain your contractor's license can be found online
at How to Obtain a New License.
Information on how to obtain your journeyman's certificate can also be found online at How to Obtain a
Journeyman Certificate.
You can register to take the test by contacting PSI.
Test Content: The contractor and journeyman exams have the following specifications -
Contractor exam - The business and law section of the exam has 50 questions covering such subjects as
estimating and bidding, labor laws and safety. The business and law section must be completed in 125
minutes. The trade knowledge part of the exam consists of 100 questions, must be completed in 240
minutes and covers the following areas with numbers of questions:
Drainage Waste and Vents - 25

Backflow Prevention - 7
Storm Drainage Systems - 4
Plumbing Fixtures, including Water Heaters - 10
General Knowledge and Regulations - 12
Interceptors and Traps - 9
Hydronics - 5
Septic and Sewer - 6
Fuel Dispensing Stations – 4
Journeyman - The journeyman plumbing written exam consists of 70 questions, must be completed in
180 minutes and covers the following areas with number of questions:

Plumbing Fixtures, including Water Heaters - 8
General Knowledge and Regulations - 10
Interceptors and Traps - 4
Hydronics - 4
Septic and Sewer – 4
The exams are open book with limited materials. The candidate needs a score of 75% to pass both the
contractor and journeyman exams.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year. Journeyman plumbers must take a minimum
of 16 hours of continuing education coursework as a condition to renewal.
Applicable Code: New Mexico follows the New Mexico Plumbing Code based on the Uniform Plumbing
Code published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials.
New York Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in the state of New York.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued at the county, city and township levels, not at the
state level.
Applicable Plumbing Code: New York has adopted the International Plumbing Code developed by the
Jurisdictions:
Albany
New York City – Journeyman Plumber
New York City – Master Plumber
Putnam County – Master Plumber
City of Rochester
Troy
Westchester County
North Carolina Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: A plumber needs a license to work as a commercial and residential plumber in North
Carolina.
Who Grants a License: The plumbing trade is regulated by the State Board of Examiners of Plumbing,
Heating, & Fire Sprinkler Contractors.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a plumbing license must take and pass a two part
exam, one part covering business and law and the other covering trade knowledge.
How to Apply for the Test: The application to take the test can be found online at Application. The
application should be mailed to:
State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating & Fire Sprinklers
1109 Dresser Ct.
Raleigh, NC 27609
Test Content: The plumbing exam has 100 questions and the candidate needs a 70% score to pass. The
trade knowledge part of the exam is 4 hours long and the business and law section is 1 hour in duration.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: To qualify to take the plumbing exam, a
candidate for a plumbing license in North Carolina needs to have either 2 years (or 4,000 hours) of on-
site fulltime experience in the installation, maintenance, service or repair of plumbing. Up to one half
(2,000 hours) (45 quarter hours or 30 semester hours) of the experience requirement may be in
academic or technical training.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year. Six hours of continuing education classes are
required to renew a license.
Applicable Code: North Carolina has adopted the International Plumbing Code developed by the
North Dakota Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in North Dakota.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the North Dakota State Board of Plumbing.
take an exam to obtain a license.
Qualifications to take the Journeyman Exam and receive a License: A candidate for the journeyman
license needs 4 years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed master plumber. If you
have a valid journeyman license from another state, you can qualify to take the exam. An out-of-state
candidate can qualify the take the journeyman exam without having been a licensed journeyman
plumber if the candidate had 5 years of plumbing experience in a state that does not license plumbers
and passes a screening exam first.
Qualifications to take the Master Exam and receive a License: A candidate for the master license
needs 2 years of work experience as a licensed journeyman plumber in North Dakota or in any other
state that has licensing laws. If you have a valid master license from another state, you can qualify to
take the exam.
Test Content: The test has questions about basic plumbing principles and the state plumbing code. A
candidate is also asked to draw a stacks, vents, wastes and minimum pipe sizes on drawings which
already have the piping fixtures on them.
How to Apply for the Test: To obtain an application, contact the following -
North Dakota State Plumbing Board
204 West Thayer Avenue
Bismark, ND 58501
Who Administers the Exam: North Dakota State Plumbing Board
Applicable Code: Local municipalities in North Dakota adopt the International Plumbing Code
established by the International Code Council.
Ohio Plumbing License Exam
Need of a License: A plumber needs a license to work as a contractor in Ohio.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board
(OCILB).
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a plumbing contractor license must take and pass a
business and law exam, as well as a trade-specific exam. The test is 4 hours long . It is an open book
exam and highlighting is permitted but no writing is allowed in the reference that is used. Detailed
information about the test is provided in a candidate bulletin.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: A candidate must meet experience and
education requirements to take the test. Candidates must also carry contractor's liability insurance
above a minimum level and go through a federal and state background check.
Test Content: The plumbing test has 100 questions and you must get at least a 70% score to pass. The
test has the following content and number of questions:
General Knowledge – 8 Roof Drain Piping - 3
General Regulations – 20 Specialty Plumbing - 5
Plumbing Fixtures – 6 isometric Analysis - 20
Indirect Waste - 4
Who Administers the Test: PSI Exams Online
How to Apply for the Test: You can download and print out the test application packet at
Application. The application must be notarized. Mail the completed application to:
Ohio Department of Commerce

Department of Commerce, OCILB
6606 Tussing Road
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
You must be approved by the OCILB to take the exam.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year. Plumbers must complete 10 hours of
approved continuing education to renew a license.
Applicable Code: Ohio has adopted the International Plumbing Code developed by the International
Code Council.
Oklahoma Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Plumbing contractors and journeyman plumbers need a license to work in
Oklahoma.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board.
and pass an exam. Before taking the exam, the candidate must be approved for examination. Detailed
information can be found in the Plumbing Exam Information sheet. See also the PSI Candidate
Qualifications to receive a License: A candidate for a plumbing contractor's license must have 4 years of
plumbing experience while working for a licensed plumbing contractor. A candidate for journeyman's
license must verify 3 years of plumbing experience while employed by a licensed plumbing contractor.
How to Apply for the Test: You can find the application for the journeyman or contractor license exam
online at Application. For more information, call (405) 271-5217. Submit your application to the
following address:
Construction Industries Board

2401 NW 23rd, Suite 5
Oklahoma City , OK 73107
After you have been approved for the exam, you can contact PSI to register to take the exam by calling
(800) 733-9267 or online at www.psiexams.com.
Test Content: The journeyman and contractor exams have the following specifications:
Plumbing Contractor and Gas - 80 questions, 180 minute test, 75% to pass
Plumbing Journeyman and Gas - 80 questions, 180 minute test, 75% to pass
Content for both contractor and journeyman:
General Plumbing - 10 Vents - 13
Piping, Valves and Control Valves - 8 Isometric Analysis - 7
Fixtures and Equipment -8 Traps, Interceptors, Indirect & Special Waste - 5
Water Supply- 5 Fuel Gas - 10
Drains and Sewers - 10 Safety - 4
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year. Plumbers must take at least 6 hours of
continuing education to renew a license.
Applicable Code: Oklahoma follows the International Plumbing Code established by the International
Code Council.
Oregon Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman plumbers need a license to work in Oregon.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Oregon Building Codes Division.
Procedures for Getting a License: Candidates for the journeyman plumber license must take an exam
to qualify to obtain a license. For licensing information go to License Info.Oregon.gov.
a high school diploma or equivalent and complete an approved 4 year plumbing apprenticeship
program.
Test Content: The journeyman plumbing exam has 64 multiple-choice or true/false questions. The
exam is open book and candidates are given 4 hours to complete the test. Candidates need a 75% score
to pass.
How to Apply for the Test: You can access the journeyman plumber application online at Licenses
Online. Application documents can be sent to:
DCBS Fiscal Services
PO Box 14610
Salem, OR 97039-0445
If your application is approved, you will be sent a letter authorizing examination.
Who Administers the Exam: Oregon Building Codes Division
License renewal: Licenses must be renewed every three years. Plumbers must complete at least 24
hours of approved continuing education to renew a license, 8 hours of which must be code change
related.
Applicable Code: Oregon follows the Oregon Specialty Plumbing Code based on the Uniform Plumbing
Code of the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials.
Pennsylvania Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: A plumber needs a license to work in Pennsylvania.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued at the county, city and township level, not at the
state level.
Applicable Code: Pennsylvania has adopted the International Plumbing Code developed by the
Jurisdictions:
Allegheny County
Scranton
City of Easton
City of Philadelphia
Warwick Township, Lancaster County
Rhode Island Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Master and journeyman plumbers need a license to work in Rhode Island.
Who Grants a License: Plumbers are regulated by the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training.
an exam. For more information about the exams, see a brochure published by the Department of Labor
and Training.
Qualifications to take the Journeyman Exam and receive a License: Candidates must have been a
registered apprentice plumber for 4 years prior to the application, with 8,000 hours of on the job
training during the previous 5 year period, which shall include completion of 576 hours of related
instruction at a training program recognized by the Department of Labor and Training. The candidate
can get credit for 144 hours of training against the 576 hour requirement gained in an approved
vocational school.
Qualifications to take the Master Exam and receive a License: Candidates must have been a licensed
journeyman plumber for a minimum of one year and employed by a licensed master plumber over that
period of time.
Content of the Test: The journeyman and master plumbing exams have 50 multiple choice questions
with the following subjects -
Terminology and Calculations Water Distribution Systems
Materials and Material Standards Sanitary Drainage Systems
Joints and Connections Vent and Venting Systems
Traps and Cleanouts Cross Connections
Plumbing Fixtures Storm Drains
Hangers and Supports Inspecting and Testing
Indirect Waste Piping
Who Administers the Test: Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training
How to Apply for the Test: You can find the application online at Application.

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
Department of Labor and Training
Division of Workforce Regulation & Safety
1511 Pontiac Avenue - Building 70
PO Box 20247
Cranston, RI 02920-0943
For more information, call (401) 462-8580
requirement.
Applicable Code: Rhode Island follows the International Plumbing Code established by the International
Code Council.
South Carolina Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: A commercial and residential plumber needs a license to work in South Carolina. A
commercial contractor's license is required for projects valued at over $5,000.
Who Grants a License: Plumbers are regulated by the South Carolina Contractor's Licensing Board.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate must take an exam to obtain either a commercial
(mechanical) plumbing license or a residential plumbing license.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a Commercial Contractor's License: To sit for the exam,
the candidate for the mechanical commercial contractor's license must be able to document 2 years of
experience within the last 5 years in the field of plumbing.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a Residential Home Building License: A license for
residential home building is required of residential plumbers. The qualifications to sit for the exam may
be obtained by contacting the South Carolina Builders Commission at (803) 896-46967 or online
at Residential Builders.
Test Content: The commercial/mechanical and residential plumber exams have the following
specifications:
Commercial/Mechanical - The exam has two parts, the Business Management and Law section and the
trade knowledge section. The Business Management and Law section is composed of 50 questions and
the candidate is give 2 hours to complete the test. The trade knowledge part of the test has 80
questions and the candidate is given 4 hours to complete the test. A candidate must get at least 35
answers correct to pass the Business Management and Law section and at least 56 questions correct in
the trade knowledge section.
Residential - The test is in two parts, the Business Management and Law section and the trade
knowledge section. The Business Management and Law section is composed of 50 questions and the
candidate is given 120 minutes to complete the first section. The trade knowledge section is composed
of 65 questions and the section must be completed in 180 minutes. A score of at least 68% is needed to
pass the business/law section and a score of at least 67% is needed to pass the trade knowledge section.
How to Apply for the Test: Candidates for the plumbing exam may find the registration form and other
information in the following Candidate Information Bulletins -
Commercial/Mechanical
Residential
Fees: There are fees to take the test. Who Administers the test: PSI
requirement.
Applicable Code: South Carolina has adopted the International Plumbing Code developed by the
South Dakota Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Contractors and journeyman plumbers need a license to work in South Dakota.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by South Dakota Plumbing Commission.
Procedures for Getting a License: Candidates for the contractor and journeyman plumber licenses
must take an exam to obtain a license. For more information, go to plumbing exams.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a Contractor's License: A candidate for a contractor
plumbing license must have at least 6 years of experience as a plumbing contractor, plumber or
plumber's apprentice with at least 2 of those years as a plumbing contractor or plumber and must have
spent at least 1,900 hours per year during the 6 years as a plumbing contractor, plumber or plumber's
apprentice.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a Journeyman's License: A candidate for journeyman
plumber must have at least 4 years of experience as an apprentice and must have spent at least 1,900
hours per year during the 4 years as an apprentice. Credit is given for military plumbing at the rate of 1
year of credit for 2 years of service up to a maximum of 5 years of credit.
How to Apply for the Test: You can access the application for contractor and journeyman plumber
online at Application.
Application documents can be sent to:

South Dakota State Plumbing Commission
308 South Pierre Street
c/o 1320 East Sioux Avenue
Pierre, South Dakota 57501-2017
Who Administers the Exam: South Dakota State Plumbing Commission
License renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year. Plumbers must take a minimum of 4 hours of
continuing education to renew a license.
Applicable Code: South Dakota follows the Uniform Plumbing Code of the International Association of
Plumbing and Mechanical Officials.
Tennessee Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Limited License Plumbers (LLP), doing jobs less than $25,000, and contractors (CMC-
A) working on projects with a total cost of $25,000 or more need a license to work in Tennessee.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for an LLP or CMC-A license must take and pass an exam
to get licensed.
Qualifications to Receive a License: Candidates for both the LLP and CMC-A licenses must first take and
pass the related exams. Test results are submitted with the application. To qualify for the CMC-A
license, the candidate should document 3 years of experience in the field. To qualify for the LLP license,
a candidate must document at least one year of plumbing experience.
Test Content: The CMC-An exam consists of a business and law section and a trade knowledge section.
The LLP exam only covers trade knowledge. A 73% score is needed to pass the exams. The exams have
the following specifications:
LLP - 40 questions, 120 minute written exam, covering the following subjects with corresponding
General Knowledge and Math - 5

Water Supply and Distribution - 4
Fixtures including Water Heaters - 2
Gas Appliance and Piping - 4
OHSA Safety – 2
Detailed information about the LLP exam can be found online in a Candidate Information Bulletin.
CMC-A - The Business and Law exam has 50 questions, 120 minutes is given to complete the test and it
covers such topics as estimating and bidding, labors laws and environmental and safety.
The trade knowledge part of the test has 110 questions and 270 minutes is given to complete the test
within these sections:
General Knowledge and Math - 14

Water Supply and Distribution - 10
Fixtures including Water Heaters - 6
Gas Appliance and Piping - 12
OHSA Safety – 4
Tests are open book with limited materials.
Detailed exam information about the CMC-An exam can be found in a Candidate Information Bulletin.
Who Administers the Test: PSI
How to Apply for the Test: Before applying to the state, the candidate must take the appropriate exams
and submit them with the application. To register for the exams, contact PSI.
The application for the CMC-An exam can be found online at CMC-A Exam Application.
The application for the LLP exam can be found online at LLP Application.
requirement.
Applicable Code: Tennessee follows the International Plumbing Code established by the International
Code Council as adopted by local municipalities.
Texas Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Texas.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners.
and pass an exam. For detailed information about the exams, see the Examination Review Courses:
Journeyman
Master

Journeyman - A candidate for journeyman plumber must have 8,000 hours of experience working under
the supervision of a master plumber while registered as a plumber apprentice or a tradesman plumber-
limited. The candidate must also complete 48 hours of classroom training approved by the Board unless
the candidate is enrolled in or has completed an apprentice program.
Master - A candidate for master plumber must have worked as a journeyman plumber at least 4 years or
worked as a journeyman for at least 1 year and completed training approved by the US Department of
Labor Office of Apprenticeship or another nationally recognized apprentice training program.
Test Content: The journeyman and master exams have the following content and specifications:
Journeyman - 90 multiple choice questions, hands-on shop work and a design project of a two story
drainage and vent system.
Master - 210 multiple choice questions, 1 Fuel Gas Pipe Sizing chart, 1 water pipe sizing chart, 1 gas
fueled appliance vent sizing chart, 1 drainage system pipe sizing chart and design of a 3 story sanitary
drainage and vent system for 16 plumbing fixtures.
How to Apply for the Test: The applications for journeyman and master plumbing licenses can be found
online:
Journeyman / Master
An application for a journeyman or master plumbing license must be submitted to the following:
Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners
PO Box 4200
Austin, TX 78765
Who Administers the Test: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners. Fees: There are fees to take the
test.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year. There is a continuing education requirement.
Applicable Code: Texas has adopted the International Plumbing Code developed by the International
Code Council.
Utah Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Utah.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Utah Division of Occupational and
Professional Licensing .
take a two part exam to obtain a license. The first part is a theory examination and the second part is a
practical examination. For detailed information about the exam, see the Candidate Information Bulletin.
How to apply: You can find the application online at Application.
If using regular mail, send the completed application to:

Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing
PO Box 146741
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6741
If using express mail, send the application to:

Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing
160 East 300 South, 1st Floor Lobby
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
You must get preapproved before taking the exam. You can register for the test at PSI Exams.
For more information, call (801) 530-6628
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a Journeyman's License: A candidate for journeyman
plumber must submit documentation showing completion of an approved apprentice program and at
least 8,000 hours of training under the supervision of a master or journeyman plumber in not less than 4
years. If the candidate did not complete an approved apprentice program, the candidate must submit
documentation showing at least 16,000 hours of training under the supervision of a master or
journeyman plumber in at least 8 years
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a Residential Journeyman's License: A candidate for
residential journeyman plumber must submit documentation showing completion of an approved
apprentice program and at least 6,000 hours of training under the supervision of a master, residential
master, journeyman or residential journeyman plumber in not less than 3 years. If the candidate did not
complete an approved apprentice program, the candidate must submit documentation showing at least
12,000 hours of training under the supervision of a master, residential master, journeyman or
residential journeyman plumber in at least 6 years
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a Master's License: A candidate for master plumber must
submit documentation showing at least 2 years of work as a licensed journeyman plumber and at least
two years of supervisory experience as a journeyman plumber. A year of supervisory experience may
be granted for successful completion of an approved applied science education or certain higher
education degree programs.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a Residential Master's License: A candidate for residential
master plumber must submit documentation showing at least 2 years of work as a licensed residential
journeyman plumber and at least two years of supervisory experience as a residential journeyman
plumber.
Test Content - The exams have the following specifications.
Journeyman
1. Theory - 120 questions, open book with limited resources, 4 hours to complete, 70%
minimum passing score, with the following content and number of questions:
Drainage and Waste - 15

Indirect Waste - 5
Roof Drains and Storm Drainage Systems - 6
General Knowledge and General Regs - 32
Specialty Plumbing, Interceptors and Traps - 5
Fuel Gas - 11
Hydronics - 6
Fire Sprinkler Systems – 4
2. Practical - 3 projects, 3.5 hours to complete, 70% minimum score to pass, with the following
content with number of points:
Copper Brazing - 34 points

Plastic Assembly - 33 points
Copper Assembly - 33 points
Residential Journeyman
Drainage and Waste - 20

Roof Drains and Storm Drainage Systems - 6
General Knowledge and General Regs - 32
Specialty Plumbing, Interceptors and Traps - 5
Fuel Gas - 11
Hydronics - 4
Fire Sprinkler Systems – 6

Master
Project Supervision - 25
Trade Knowledge – 45

If you have previously passed the practical examination for the journeyman license, you do not have to
take the master practical exam.
Residential Master
1. Theory - 120 questions, open book with limited resources, 4 hours to complete, (84) 70%
Project Supervision - 25
Trade Knowledge – 45

If you have previously passed the practical examination for the residential journeyman or journeyman
license, you do not have to take the residential master practical exam.
Who Administers the Exam: PSI
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. Plumbers must complete at least 12
hours of continuing education during the 2 year term to renew a license.
Applicable Code: Utah has adopted the International Plumbing Code established by the International
Code Council.
Vermont Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Vermont.
Who Grants a License: Plumbers are regulated by the Vermont Department of Public Safety, Division of
Fire Safety and the Plumbers Examining Board.
an exam. A candidate can choose to take either a written or computerized test. The exams are open
book with limited resources. For detailed information about the exams, see the Examination
Qualifications to take the Journeyman Exam and receive a License: Candidates must have completed
an apprenticeship in plumbing with includes both instruction and practice in work processes as verified
by the Vermont apprenticeship council or equivalent training and experience in or outside the state
acceptable to the Plumbers Examining Board.
Qualifications to take the Master Exam and receive a License: Candidates must have a valid
journeyman's plumber license in Vermont for at least 12 months or document equivalent training and
experience in or outside the state acceptable to the Plumbers Examining Board
Content of the Test: The exams have the following specifications -
Journeyman - The Journeyman exam consists of 75 multiple-choice questions and the candidate is give 3
hours to complete the exam. The content of the exams is as follows with the following number of
questions:

Plan Reading - 19
Master - The master exam is composed of 105 multiple-choice questions and the candidate is give 4
hours to complete the tests. The content of the exams is as follows with the following number of
questions:

Plan and Analysis - 23
Who Administers the Test: International Code Council and Pearson Vue
How to Apply for the Test: You can find the application online at Application. Mail the application to
the following address:
Division of Fire Safety

1311 US Rte 302 - Suite 600 Berlin
Barre, VT 05641-2351
You must be preapproved by the state before taking your test. You can register for the test by calling
Pearson Vue at (877) 234-6082.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. Plumbers must take a minimum of 8
hours of continuing education to renew a license.
Applicable Code: Vermont follows the International Plumbing Code established by the International
Code Council.
Virginia Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: A plumber needs a license to work as a journeyman and master plumber or as a
Class A, B or C contractor in Virginia.
Who Grants a License: The plumbing trade is regulated by the Virginia Department of Professional and
Occupational Regulation.
and pass two exams, one covering regulatory matters and the other covering trade knowledge. Detailed
information about the test is provided in a Candidate Information Bulletin.
Qualifications to take the Exam and receive a License: Candidates for the journeyman and master
licenses need to meet certain minimum experience and educational requirements. To see the various
combinations of experience and education levels required, see the Application.
How to Apply for the Test: The application to take the test can be found online at Application and the
application should be mailed to:
Experior
3813 Gaskins Road
Richmond, VA 23233
Test Content: The Regulatory part of the exam consists of 10 questions and the candidate is given 30
minutes to complete the test. A score of 70% is needed to pass. The technical part of the exam consists
of 70 questions and the candidate is given 3 hours to complete the test. A score of 70% is needed to
pass. The technical exam will have the following content and number of questions:
Draining Waste and Vents - 24
General Regulations - 5
Interceptors and Traps – 4
Who Administers the Test: Experior
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. Plumbers must complete a minimum of 3
hours of continuing education to renew a license.
Applicable Code: Virginia has adopted the International Plumbing Code developed by the International
Code Council.
Washington Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and residential specialty plumbers need a license to work in
Washington.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Washington State Department of Labor and
Industries.
Procedures for Getting a License: Candidates for the journeyman and residential specialty plumbers
license must take and pass an exam to qualify for the license.
8,000 hours of experience, with a minimum of 4,000 hours in commercial plumbing. A candidate for
residential specialty must have 6,000 hours of experience in residential or commercial plumbing. All
experience must be under a registered contractor and under supervision of a certified plumber.
Candidates must complete a 16 hour continuing education program, with a 4 hour minimum
requirement on industry related electrical, prior to taking the journeyman and residential specialty
exams.
Test Content: The exam is in 3 parts consisting of Uniform Plumbing Code questions, a waste and vent
pipe sizing drawing and a water pipe sizing drawing. The exam generally covers the following areas:
1. General knowledge of technical information and practical procedures which are a necessary part
of the trade; and
2. Specific knowledge of the requirements of the Uniform Plumbing Code.
A candidate must receive a score of 70% or better to pass the exam. The journeyman exam will have
drawings of one, two and more story buildings.
How to Apply for the Test: You can access the application online at Application. Application
documents can be sent to:
Department of Labor and Industries
PO Box 44470
Olympia, WA 98504-4470
Applications must be received by the Olympia office at least 2 weeks before the requested examination
date. There are fees to take the test.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. Plumbers must complete a minimum of
16 hours of continuing education to renew a license.
Applicable Code: Washington follows the Uniform Plumbing Code of the International Association of
Plumbing and Mechanical Officials.
West Virginia Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: A plumber needs a license to work as a journeyman and master plumber in West
Virginia.
Who Grants a License: The plumbing trade is regulated by the West Virginia Division of Labor.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a plumber in training, journeyman or master
plumbing license must take and pass an exam. Detailed information about the tests are provided in
a Candidate Information Bulletin.
In addition, a plumbing contractor who does projects over $2,500.00 must take and pass a two part
exam as well, including a business and law exam and the master exam.
A candidate for the plumber in training status must have an interest and aptitude for working as a
plumber but who alone is not capable of performing plumbing work and less than 8,000 hours of
plumbing experience.
A candidate for the journeyman license must have at least 8,000 hours of plumbing experience and must
be competent to instruct and supervise the work of a plumber in training.
A candidate for the master license must have at least 12,000 hours of plumbing work experience and
who is competent to design plumbing systems and to instruct and supervise the plumbing work of
journeyman plumbers and plumbers in training
How to Apply for the Test: The application can be found at Plumber License Application. The application
should be mailed to:
West Virginia Department of Labor
State Capital Complex
Building 6, Room B-749
Charleston, WV 25305
Test Content: The specifications for the journeyman in training, journeyman and master tests are as
follows -
Plumber in Training - 30 questions, 2 hours to complete, with the following subjects and number of
questions:
Plumbing Math - 7
Plumbing Tools - 7
Safety – 8
Journeyman - 80 questions, 3 hours to complete, with the following subjects and number of questions:
Draining Waste and Vents Systems - 11
Fixtures and Fittings - 5
Isometrics - 7
Plumbing Math - 8
Plumbing Tools - 5
Safety - 6
Storm Drainage - 5
Water Heaters - 6
Water Supply and Distribution – 11
Master - 100 questions, 3 hours to complete, with the following subjects and number of questions:
Draining Waste and Vents Systems - 13
Fixtures and Fittings - 6
Isometrics - 13
Plumbing Math - 9
Plumbing Tools - 5
Safety - 7
Storm Drainage - 6
Water Heaters - 7
Water Supply and Distribution – 14
Who Administers the Test: Prov Inc.
Applicable Code: West Virginia has adopted the International Plumbing Code developed by the
Wisconsin Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Journeyman and master plumbers need a license to work in Wisconsin. Wisconsin
has different restricted levels for both journeyman and master plumbers, including, journeyman,
journeyman restricted appliance, journeyman restricted service, master, master restricted appliance and
master restricted service. All levels need a license.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are issued by the Wisconsin Department of Commerce-
Credentialing.
Procedures for Getting a License: A candidate for a journeyman or master plumbing license at all levels
must take and pass an exam.
license must have completed an approved apprenticeship program. A candidate for the master license
must have one of the following: (1) At least 1,000 hours of plumbing-related work experience per year
for at least three consecutive years as a licensed journeyman plumber; or (2) graduated from an
accredited engineering university or college with a degree in civil engineering, mechanical engineering
or other approved engineering curriculum related to plumbing.
Test Content: The journeyman and master plumber exams consist of true/false and multiple choice
questions . The exams are open book.
How to Apply for the Test: You can access the journeyman plumber application online at Journeyman
Application or call (608) 267-9566.
You can access the master plumber application at Master Application.

State of Wisconsin
Department of Commerce-Credentialing
P.O. Box 78780
Milwaukee, WI 53293-0780
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every four years after the initial renewal, which is done
after the first three years of licensure. Plumbers must fulfill 24 hours of continuing education prior to
renewing a license.
Applicable Code : Wisconsin follows Wisconsin Statues, Comm 81-87, Plumbing Code.
Wyoming Plumbing Exam
Need of a License: Plumbers need a license to work in Wyoming.
Who Grants a License: Plumbing licenses are not issued by the state, but at the local municipal level.
Applicable Code: Local municipalities in Wyoming have adopted the International Plumbing Code
developed by the International Code Council.
Jurisdictions:
City of Laramie
Cheyenne
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Practice Exam Questions

Practice Exam Answers ……………………………………………………………………...………………… 98

Practice Exam Questions with Answers…………………………………..………….………….…… 135

Test Preparation and Test Taking Tips…………………………………………………………….…… 273

50 State Plumbing License Exam Guide……………………………………………….….…….……… 276

Answer Bubble Sheet………………………..…………………………………………………………….…… 342

©2012-2014 Tests.com. Digitally Monitored for Adherence to Terms of Use. TOP 3

have a world of opportunities in front of them.

plumbing exam on the first attempt.

in the plumbing trade.

©2012-2014 Tests.com. Digitally Monitored for Adherence to Terms of Use. TOP 4

address for their own needs and desires.

to prepare a person to step up to the next level of their plumbing career.

©2012-2014 Tests.com. Digitally Monitored for Adherence to Terms of Use. TOP 5

to see if there is a practical section.

include some different types of questions.

©2012-2014 Tests.com. Digitally Monitored for Adherence to Terms of Use. TOP 6

achieve your goal before you take this test.

©2012-2014 Tests.com. Digitally Monitored for Adherence to Terms of Use. TOP 7

professional plumber would want it no other way.

people I have helped to pass their exams.

the answers correct.

your answers being wrong, you are probably prepared.

more accurately measured.

©2012-2014 Tests.com. Digitally Monitored for Adherence to Terms of Use. TOP 8

before your report to the exam site.

need a clear head when you go in for your official exam.

allowed to bring a calculator to the official exam.

©2012-2014 Tests.com. Digitally Monitored for Adherence to Terms of Use. TOP 9

that you made a mistake.

next level of a plumbing license.

©2012-2014 Tests.com. Digitally Monitored for Adherence to Terms of Use. TOP 10

c. A licensed code enforcement officer

©2012-2014 Tests.com. Digitally Monitored for Adherence to Terms of Use. TOP 11

a. Your full name and address

b. A full description of the plumbing work you propose to do

d. All of the above

a. Require a plumbing permit

b. Render the plumbing system unsafe

c. Have any detrimental effect on the plumbing system

©2012-2014 Tests.com. Digitally Monitored for Adherence to Terms of Use. TOP 12

b. Food preparation sinks

e. All of the above since this is a commercial job

c. A description of the use of the building

d. All of the above

e. Both a and b only

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©2012-2014 Tests.com. Digitally Monitored for Adherence to Terms of Use. TOP 14

b. Replacement of plumbing fixtures

c. Additions to a plumbing system

d. All of the above

e. Both a and c only

a. A plumbing permit is not required.

b. In order to replace the sink you will need a permit.

d. An air gap will be required to be installed on the new sink.

b. Once every 3 months

c. Once every 4 months

d. Once every year

©2012-2014 Tests.com. Digitally Monitored for Adherence to Terms of Use. TOP 15

b. Requirements for accessible plumbing fixtures

c. Minimum distance requirements between fixtures