Updated October 2026 | Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Exam Prep

Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Contractor Exam Prep

Journey Worker Plumber (PJ) • PSI • 100 Questions • 180 Minutes • Closed Book

Ready to take your plumbing career to the next level in Hawaii? This Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Contractor Exam Prep guide explains state licensing, the PSI examination, qualifying experience, Uniform Plumbing Code study, drainage and venting, water supply, plumbing calculations, reference books, and exam preparation resources.

First, there is an important licensing distinction.

Hawaii officially calls this license Journey Worker Plumber, license type PJ.

Journeyman Plumber is a common name for the same trade qualification.

The license is regulated by the Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers through the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Professional and Vocational Licensing Division.

It is a statewide individual plumbing trade license.

However, a Journey Worker Plumber license does not automatically authorize someone to operate an independent plumbing contracting business.

Hawaii requires a separate contractor license under Chapter 444 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes when someone wants to contract for regulated plumbing work.

The relevant plumbing contractor classification is C-37 Plumbing Contractor.

That classification has a separate application and examination process.

For the Journey Worker Plumber license, applicants must document substantial practical plumbing experience.

Hawaii generally requires at least five years of qualifying full-time plumbing experience or the equivalent, totaling no fewer than 10,000 hours.

The experience must satisfy the Board's requirements and be supported by appropriate verification documents.

These documents normally come from licensed plumbers who supervised the applicant's training or work.

After the Board reviews and approves an applicant, the candidate may register for the licensing examination with PSI.

The Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber examination contains 100 questions.

Candidates are given 180 minutes, equivalent to three hours.

The examination is closed book.

That means applicants cannot depend on bringing a plumbing codebook into the testing room to look up answers.

Instead, candidates must practice plumbing rules, understand the systems being tested, and develop strong problem-solving skills before the examination.

The test includes plumbing materials, general knowledge, water supply systems, drainage, sanitary venting, fuel and medical gas systems, sizing and estimating, special waste, and building sewers.

Plumbing mathematics and isometric drawings also deserve regular review.

Hawaii uses the Uniform Plumbing Code family rather than the International Plumbing Code as its statewide plumbing-code basis.

As of October 2026, Hawaii's State Building Code Council lists the 2018 Uniform Plumbing Code with Hawaii amendments as the adopted state plumbing code.

However, code adoption and professional licensing examination references do not necessarily follow the same schedule.

The current PSI candidate bulletin should be checked for the exact study references used for the examination.

Contractor Exam Preps offers the Journeyman Plumber Exam Study Guide Based on the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code.

The guide contains 990 practice questions with answer keys, trade review, plumbing mathematics, and isometric analysis.

Another useful option is the Journeyman Plumber Test Success Online Course Based on the 2021 UPC.

This course offers simulated computer-based examinations, video instruction, plumbing mathematics review, and downloadable materials.

These products are useful for UPC-based educational preparation, but the 2021 UPC study edition is not automatically the official Hawaii examination reference edition.

The related 1ExamPrep store also offers 2026 Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Study Guide and Online Course materials based on the 2024 UPC.

Those newer materials should be regarded as 2024 UPC study resources, not evidence that the 2024 UPC is currently adopted for all Hawaii construction or licensing examinations.

For candidates who prefer flash cards, Contractor Exam Preps also carries journeyman plumber UPC flash-card products through its Journeyman Study Product Collection.

Remember that Hawaii plumbing licenses renew every three years.

The next regular plumbing-license renewal deadline is June 30, 2027.

The current active-plumber renewal cycle requires approved continued competency training on the 2021 UPC, subject to published exceptions.

This guide explains the examination structure, experience requirements, licensing roadmap, seven exam topic categories, code-edition differences, suggested study references, a plumbing diagram, Contractor Exam Preps products, an educational Hawaii credential illustration, interactive FAQs, and a related 1ExamPrep YouTube video.

HAWAII JOURNEY WORKER PLUMBER • 100 QUESTIONS • 180 MINUTES • 10,000 HOURS • CLOSED BOOK
100

Journey Worker Plumber Exam Questions

180

Minutes Allowed for Examination

5Y

Qualifying Experience in Years

10K

Minimum Qualifying Plumbing Hours

Important Hawaii Journeyman Plumber 2026 Update: Hawaii officially licenses Journey Worker Plumbers under license type PJ. The PSI examination contains 100 questions, allows 180 minutes, and is closed book. Applicants generally need five years of qualifying full-time plumbing experience or at least 10,000 hours, supported by licensed-plumber experience verifications. Hawaii's State Building Code Council currently lists the 2018 UPC with amendments as its adopted plumbing code. Contractor Exam Preps offers UPC-based educational products using the 2021 UPC, while newer 1ExamPrep Hawaii products use the 2024 UPC. Always check the official PSI candidate bulletin for the examination reference edition. The Journey Worker Plumber license alone does not authorize independent plumbing contracting; the C-37 contractor classification is a separate license.

What Is a Hawaii Journeyman Plumber?

A Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber is a licensed plumbing professional who has demonstrated substantial trade experience and passed the state licensing examination.

The official state classification is Journey Worker Plumber, usually abbreviated PJ.

This license recognizes the knowledge and skill required to perform plumbing work under Hawaii's professional licensing laws.

Journeyman-level plumbers work on plumbing systems that provide clean water, remove wastewater, and support the daily operation of homes and buildings.

Common work includes installing water distribution piping, repairing drainage systems, connecting fixtures, servicing water heaters, and troubleshooting plumbing problems.

On a residential project, a plumber may work on sinks, toilets, tubs, showers, water lines, drains, vents, and related equipment.

On a commercial project, plumbing systems may serve kitchens, restrooms, hotels, offices, restaurants, and other facilities.

Hawaii has unique construction environments, including coastal buildings, resorts, multifamily residences, and properties subject to local water and building requirements.

That makes strong plumbing knowledge especially valuable.

The installation of a simple sink may look straightforward.

However, a properly functioning installation depends on the right supply connections, drainage piping, trap arrangement, venting, and fixture requirements.

If a drain is poorly installed, the result may be slow drainage, leaks, odors, or repeated maintenance problems.

Water supply work requires understanding pressure, flow, pipe sizing, valves, and backflow protection.

Drainage and venting work requires understanding waste piping, traps, sanitary vents, cleanouts, and system sizing.

Water heater work involves proper equipment installation, temperature controls, valves, and safety devices.

Fuel gas systems introduce additional requirements involving piping, appliances, testing, and hazardous conditions.

Journeyman plumbers should also understand plumbing drawings and isometric diagrams.

An isometric drawing shows the relationship between pipes, fixtures, vents, and connected systems in a simplified three-dimensional view.

This helps plumbers understand how a system will be installed before work begins.

Trade experience is important, but the PSI examination requires written problem-solving.

Applicants must be able to identify correct plumbing principles and make decisions without using a reference book during the test.

That is why an organized preparation plan is useful even for experienced plumbers.

Licensing also has limits.

Hawaii distinguishes between individual plumbing trade licensing and the separate licensing required to contract independently for plumbing work.

A Journey Worker Plumber license should not be confused with a C-37 Plumbing Contractor license.

Official classification: Journey Worker Plumber (PJ).

Licensing authority: Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers.

Trade license: Individual professional plumbing qualification.

Independent contracting: Requires separate contractor licensing.

Relevant contractor classification: C-37 Plumbing Contractor.

Review the Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers for official licensing information.

Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Licensing Path

Hawaii requires qualifying plumbing experience, appropriate verification, Board approval, and examination passage before issuing a Journey Worker Plumber license.

Step Requirement What to Verify
Confirm License Type PJ Use the official Journey Worker Plumber classification.
Confirm State Board Electricians and Plumbers Apply through Hawaii DCCA Professional and Vocational Licensing.
Experience Duration Five Years Document qualifying full-time plumbing experience or an accepted equivalent.
Minimum Experience Hours 10,000 Hours The qualifying experience must total at least 10,000 hours.
Experience Category Plumbing Work Document plumbing helper or training work acceptable under Hawaii law.
Identify Supervisors Licensed Plumbers Collect information from each licensed plumber who supervised your experience.
Complete Verification Forms Notarized Forms Use the official plumber experience verification forms.
Review Out-of-State Experience Board Evaluation Supply the appropriate license verification and experience information.
Reciprocity No General Reciprocity Hawaii does not simply exchange another state's plumber license for a Hawaii license.
Download Application DCCA Application Use the current Electrician and Plumber examination and license application.
Submit Complete Application Board Review Submit required fees, experience records, and supporting documents.
Board Meeting Deadline At Least Seven Days Before Complete applications must meet the published Board meeting deadline.
Receive Examination Approval Board Authorization Do not schedule the examination before approval.
Exam Eligibility Window Two Years Hawaii plumber examination approval is valid for two years from the approval letter.
Schedule Through PSI PSI Services Use the current PSI Hawaii examination registration information.
Exam Format Closed Book Reference materials are not permitted in the examination room.
Exam Questions 100 Prepare for the published Journey Worker Plumber question count.
Exam Duration 180 Minutes Practice completing 100 questions in three hours.
Passing Requirement PSI Standard Confirm the current passing standard in the examination bulletin.
Complete Licensing Board Procedures Follow the final license issuance instructions after examination passage.
Maintain License Three-Year Renewal Cycle Next regular plumber renewal deadline is June 30, 2027.
Continued Competency 2021 UPC Course Meet the approved continued competency requirement for the current renewal cycle.
Independent Contracting Separate Contractor License Review C-37 Plumbing Contractor requirements before offering independent contracting services.

Hawaii Journeyman Plumber 2026 Exam Snapshot

The Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber licensing examination is administered by PSI after the Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers approves the applicant.

Exam Detail Category Hawaii 2026 Information
Official License Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber
License Type Code Hawaii PJ
Common Name Trade Journeyman Plumber
Licensing Board Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers
Licensing Division DCCA Professional and Vocational Licensing
Exam Provider PSI PSI Services LLC
Exam Format PSI Computer-Based Multiple Choice
Total Exam Questions PSI 100
Exam Time PSI 180 Minutes
Exam Duration in Hours PSI Three Hours
Open Book PSI No, Closed Book
Exam Passing Requirement PSI Check the Current PSI Candidate Bulletin
General Knowledge Topic Outline 25 Questions in Commonly Published Preparation Outline
Water Supply Systems Topic Outline 20 Questions in Commonly Published Preparation Outline
Drainage, Waste and Sanitary Vents Topic Outline 20 Questions in Commonly Published Preparation Outline
Sizing and Estimating Topic Outline 10 Questions in Commonly Published Preparation Outline
Medical and Fuel Gas Systems Topic Outline 10 Questions in Commonly Published Preparation Outline
Indirect and Special Waste Topic Outline 10 Questions in Commonly Published Preparation Outline
Building Sewers Topic Outline 5 Questions in Commonly Published Preparation Outline
Experience Years Licensing Five Qualifying Full-Time Years or Equivalent
Experience Hours Licensing At Least 10,000 Hours
Experience Verification Licensing Notarized Forms from Qualified Plumbing Supervisors
Exam Approval Board Required Before PSI Scheduling
Exam Approval Validity Board Two Years
License Reciprocity Board No General Reciprocity
Current State Plumbing Code Code 2018 UPC with Hawaii Amendments
Contractor Exam Preps UPC Guide Study Product 2021 UPC
1ExamPrep Hawaii 2026 Course Study Product 2024 UPC
UPC Exam Reference Edition PSI Verify Current Bulletin Before Testing
Regular Plumber Renewal DCCA June 30, 2027
Renewal Competency Course DCCA 2021 UPC Update Course for Current Cycle
Independent Plumbing Contracting Separate License C-37 Plumbing Contractor Requirements

Official Hawaii credential: Journey Worker Plumber (PJ).

Exam: 100 questions, 180 minutes.

Format: Closed book.

Experience: Five qualifying years and at least 10,000 hours.

Exam topic categories: The weighting presented below is a commonly published study outline; check the latest PSI bulletin before relying on the exact question allocation.

Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Exam Topic Breakdown

The Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber examination covers practical plumbing knowledge, technical calculations, code-related concepts, and common installation requirements.

The following categories reflect a widely published 100-question preparation outline. They are useful study priorities, but candidates should confirm the latest distribution with PSI.

General Plumbing Knowledge: 25 Questions

General Knowledge is the largest category in the commonly published subject outline.

Review plumbing terminology, materials, fittings, valves, installation practices, tools, fixtures, and common system requirements.

Know how different pipe materials are used and joined.

Practice recognizing the purpose of fixtures, traps, cleanouts, water heaters, and other system components.

Water Supply Systems: 20 Questions

Study potable water supply, water distribution, pressure, fixture demand, backflow protection, and pipe sizing.

Learn how supply systems deliver water to connected fixtures and equipment.

Pressure and available flow affect how a system performs.

Candidates should practice identifying the relevant system conditions before completing calculations.

Drainage, Waste and Sanitary Vents: 20 Questions

Review sanitary drainage, traps, cleanouts, fittings, vents, drainage slope, and pipe sizing.

Understand the relationship between drainage piping and venting.

Proper venting helps maintain trap seals and supports reliable drainage operation.

Practice reading simplified drainage diagrams and recognizing common installation problems.

Sizing and Estimating: 10 Questions

Study plumbing mathematics, pipe quantities, offsets, fixture units, water distribution sizing, and material estimating.

Understand units of measurement and how to convert between them correctly.

Isometric drawings can help with visualizing the piping system.

Medical and Fuel Gas Systems: 10 Questions

Review fuel gas piping, appliance connections, safe installation requirements, medical gas concepts, and special system terminology.

Be able to distinguish between ordinary water distribution work and systems with additional requirements.

Indirect and Special Waste: 10 Questions

Study indirect waste connections, air gaps, special waste systems, and related plumbing protection concepts.

Learn how certain fixtures and equipment discharge wastewater without directly connecting to the sanitary drainage system.

Building Sewers: 5 Questions

Review building sewers, excavation, pipe alignment, cleanouts, testing, and underground drainage connections.

Understand the difference between a building drain and a building sewer.

General Knowledge: 25.

Water Supply: 20.

Drainage and Sanitary Vents: 20.

Sizing and Estimating: 10.

Medical and Fuel Gas: 10.

Indirect and Special Waste: 10.

Building Sewers: 5.

Total: 100 questions in the commonly published study outline.

Verification: Current PSI bulletin controls official testing content.

Article Topic
Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Contractor Exam Prep
Official License
Journey Worker Plumber
License Type
PJ
Licensing Board
Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers
State Department
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
Licensing Division
Professional and Vocational Licensing
Exam Provider
PSI Services LLC
Examination Name
Journey Worker Plumber
Exam Format
Computer-Based Multiple Choice
Exam Questions
100
Exam Duration
180 Minutes
Duration in Hours
Three Hours
Reference Format
Closed Book
Codebooks in Exam Room
Not Permitted
Passing Requirement
Confirm Current PSI Bulletin
Qualifying Experience
Five Years Full Time or Equivalent
Minimum Experience Hours
10,000 Hours
Experience Verification
Notarized Forms
Experience Supervision
Qualified Licensed Plumber
Board Examination Approval
Required
Exam Approval Period
Two Years
License Reciprocity
No General Reciprocity
General Knowledge
25 in Commonly Published Study Outline
Water Supply
20 in Commonly Published Study Outline
Drainage and Vents
20 in Commonly Published Study Outline
Sizing and Estimating
10 in Commonly Published Study Outline
Fuel and Medical Gas
10 in Commonly Published Study Outline
Indirect and Special Waste
10 in Commonly Published Study Outline
Building Sewers
5 in Commonly Published Study Outline
Current State Plumbing Code
2018 Uniform Plumbing Code with Hawaii Amendments
County Code Changes
Verify Applicable County Amendments
Store Study Guide Code
2021 Uniform Plumbing Code
Store Online Course Code
2021 Uniform Plumbing Code
Related 1ExamPrep Hawaii Course
2024 Uniform Plumbing Code
State UPC Renewal Course
2021 UPC for 2027 Renewal Cycle
Next Regular Plumber Renewal
June 30, 2027
Regular Renewal Frequency
Every Three Years
Master Plumber Path
Two Years as Licensed Journey Worker or Equivalent
Independent Contracting Authority
Not Included with PJ License
Plumbing Contractor Classification
C-37
Contractor Licensing Board
Separate Hawaii Contractors License Board
Water Supply Topics
Pressure, Flow, Valves, Backflow and Pipe Sizing
Drainage Topics
Drain, Waste, Vent, Traps and Cleanouts
Calculation Topics
Fixture Units, Measurements, Offsets and Sizing
Special System Topics
Fuel Gas, Medical Gas and Indirect Waste
Drawing Topics
Isometric Piping Diagrams
Hawaii Product Collection

How to Study for the Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Exam

Start by reviewing the official examination requirements for the Journey Worker Plumber license.

Confirm the current PSI candidate bulletin, then identify the plumbing subjects that need the most practice.

Because the exam is closed book, focus on understanding and remembering important rules.

Do not build your entire strategy around searching through a UPC reference during the test.

The books are for studying before test day.

General Knowledge: Materials, fixtures, fittings, tools, valves, definitions and installation practices.

Water Supply: Distribution piping, pressure, flow, backflow prevention, sizing and demand.

Drainage and Vents: Sanitary waste, traps, cleanouts, venting and fixture drainage.

Plumbing Math: Measurements, slope, offsets, area, volume and sizing calculations.

Gas Systems: Fuel gas, medical gas and special piping concepts.

Indirect Waste: Air gaps, indirect connections and special waste conditions.

Building Sewers: Underground drainage, excavation and pipe installation.

Isometrics: Understanding the relationships between fixtures, pipes and vents.

Spend time understanding how complete plumbing systems work.

For water supply, review where the water enters the building, how it is distributed, and how different fixtures receive the necessary supply.

For drainage, trace wastewater from a fixture through the trap and connected drainage system.

Then identify how venting helps maintain proper drainage operation.

Make a simple plumbing diagram and explain what each component does.

Practice using the correct terminology.

In a licensing examination, a small difference in wording may change the correct response.

For example, a question about a building sewer is not necessarily asking about the same piping section as a building drain.

Likewise, an indirect waste connection has different characteristics from a direct drainage connection.

Plumbing math deserves consistent attention.

Work calculations on paper before checking the answers.

For each problem, identify the quantities, units, relevant formula, and final result.

Use the UPC Journeyman Plumber Study Guide to review questions, explanations and trade concepts.

The guide is based on the 2021 UPC, so compare its requirements with the official examination code edition when necessary.

The UPC Test Success Online Course offers a more structured learning option, including practice exams and isometric exercises.

At the end of each study session, answer several questions without your books.

Review every missed answer afterward.

If you missed a question because you misunderstood a plumbing term, study the definition.

If you missed it because of a calculation, repeat the process with different numbers.

That approach helps turn mistakes into useful study material.

Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Water Supply, Drainage and Venting Diagram

Understanding the relationship between water supply, fixtures, traps, sanitary drainage, and vents is an important part of the Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber examination.

WATER • WASTE • VENT SYSTEMS COLD SUPPLY VENT WATER HEATER HOT LINE SANITARY DRAINAGE SUPPLY • FIXTURES • TRAPS • VENTS • WASTE

Simplified educational illustration only. Actual plumbing design, venting, connections and pipe sizing must follow applicable codes.

  • Water supply: Delivers potable water to plumbing fixtures and equipment.
  • Fixtures: Include sinks, lavatories, showers, toilets and other connected appliances.
  • Traps: Hold a water seal that helps prevent sewer gases from entering occupied spaces.
  • Vents: Protect trap seals and support the drainage system.
  • Drainage: Carries wastewater away from fixtures.
  • Cleanouts: Provide access for clearing blockages and maintaining certain piping sections.
  • Water heaters: Supply heated water while requiring suitable valves and safety protection.
  • Pipe sizing: Depends on fixture loads, supply conditions and code requirements.
  • Code compliance: Must reflect the adopted state code and applicable county amendments.

Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Licensing Roadmap

Follow these eight steps to move from qualifying plumbing experience toward the official Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber license.

1

Choose the Journey Worker Plumber Classification

Use the official Hawaii PJ license category and review the Board's application requirements.

2

Complete Qualifying Plumbing Experience

Document five years of qualifying full-time plumbing experience or the equivalent, totaling at least 10,000 hours.

3

Collect Notarized Experience Verifications

Obtain the required forms from the licensed plumbers who supervised your work.

4

Apply Through Hawaii DCCA

Submit the current application, required forms, and fees to the Board of Electricians and Plumbers.

5

Receive Board Examination Approval

Wait for the approval letter before registering with PSI.

6

Study Plumbing Systems and Mathematics

Review UPC concepts, water distribution, drainage, venting, gas systems, special waste and isometrics.

7

Pass the Closed-Book PSI Exam

Prepare for 100 questions in 180 minutes and follow the examination's current passing standard.

8

Complete Licensure and Plan Future Advancement

Maintain your PJ license, prepare for the 2027 renewal cycle, and explore Master Plumber or C-37 contractor licensing when eligible.

Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Exam Prep Topic Weighting

The bars below show the commonly published 100-question Journey Worker Plumber study outline. They are not a substitute for the current PSI bulletin.

General Knowledge25 Questions • 25%

Water Supply Systems20 Questions • 20%

Drainage, Waste and Sanitary Vents20 Questions • 20%

Sizing and Estimating10 Questions • 10%

Medical and Fuel Gas Systems10 Questions • 10%

Indirect and Special Waste10 Questions • 10%

Building Sewers5 Questions • 5%

Illustrative question total: 100.

Largest area: General Knowledge, 25%.

Water Supply and DWV combined: 40%.

Exam duration: 180 minutes.

Official testing authority: PSI's current content outline takes priority over older published preparation percentages.

Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Study Guides and UPC Reference Books

Hawaii plumbing candidates should understand the differences among adopted construction codes, current licensing examination references, retailer study-guide editions, and renewal competency requirements.

These different uses can involve different UPC editions.

Reference or Study Material Edition Purpose
Hawaii State Plumbing Code 2018 Uniform Plumbing Code with Hawaii Amendments The current statewide code identified by the Hawaii State Building Code Council for construction compliance.
Current PSI Journey Worker Plumber Candidate Bulletin Current Testing Edition Controls the official exam questions, reference basis, passing standard, and testing rules.
Journeyman Plumber Exam Study Guide 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code A UPC-based practice guide sold by Contractor Exam Preps with 990 questions, plumbing math, OSHA review and isometric analysis.
Journeyman Plumber Test Success Online Course 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code UPC review, simulated exams, downloadable materials and plumbing calculations.
2026 Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Study Guide and Online Course 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code Hawaii-focused educational preparation offered by the related 1ExamPrep store.
2026 Hawaii Complete Books, Tabs and Course Package 2024 UPC Based A broader Hawaii-specific educational package from 1ExamPrep. Tabs are for studying, not the closed-book test room.
Plumbing Mathematics Applicable Training Reference Measurements, offsets, fixture units, slope, pressure, area and volume.
Plumbing Isometric Drawings Training Resources Visualize waste, vent, supply and fixture connections.
OSHA Construction Safety Applicable Requirements Recognize jobsite hazards and safe work requirements.
Hawaii Plumber Continued Competency Course 2021 UPC Approved update training for the current active-license renewal cycle ending June 30, 2027.

2018 UPC: Current Hawaii state plumbing-code basis.

2021 UPC: Contractor Exam Preps guide and course, as well as the current plumber-renewal update topic.

2024 UPC: Related 1ExamPrep Hawaii-specific educational package.

PSI: Confirm the actual tested reference edition separately.

Exam room: Closed book. No personal codebooks.

How to Prepare for the Hawaii Closed-Book Journeyman Plumber Exam

The Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber examination is closed book.

You can use plumbing codes, study guides, and practice books while preparing, but you cannot depend on them during the exam.

That changes the study strategy.

Learn the concepts first, then practice recalling them without looking at the reference.

Do These Things

  • Read the current PSI candidate bulletin.
  • Verify your correct license classification.
  • Study core plumbing definitions.
  • Review the applicable UPC concepts.
  • Practice water supply sizing.
  • Study drainage and vent relationships.
  • Review fixtures and traps.
  • Practice fuel gas questions.
  • Review indirect waste connections.
  • Practice building sewer questions.
  • Complete plumbing math drills.
  • Take closed-book timed mock exams.

Avoid These Mistakes

  • Assuming the examination is open book.
  • Bringing personal plumbing codebooks.
  • Relying on tabs during the test.
  • Using an unverified code edition.
  • Memorizing answer letters only.
  • Ignoring fixture-unit calculations.
  • Skipping venting requirements.
  • Confusing building drains and sewers.
  • Ignoring special waste systems.
  • Skipping isometric drawing practice.
  • Spending excessive time on one question.
  • Forgetting the three-hour test limit.

Questions: 100.

Time: 180 minutes.

Average time per question: 1.8 minutes.

Format: Closed book.

Recommended method: Study with references, then practice without references.

What Work Can a Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Perform?

A properly licensed Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber may perform plumbing work within the scope established by the state's trade licensing laws and applicable supervision, employment, and contracting requirements.

Journey workers commonly install, service, maintain and repair plumbing systems.

These systems include potable water distribution, water heaters, drains, waste piping, sanitary vents, fixtures, valves, and related equipment.

Plumbing work may involve residences, apartment buildings, resorts, restaurants, public facilities, and commercial properties.

The exact work depends on the project, applicable codes, and the person's role.

For example, a residential plumber may replace damaged water supply piping, connect fixtures, repair a drain, install water heater components, or troubleshoot a recurring blockage.

Commercial plumbing may involve larger fixture groups, specialized equipment, pumps, or more complicated supply and drainage arrangements.

Regardless of project type, safe and code-compliant installation is essential.

The Hawaii State Plumbing Code is based on the 2018 UPC with state amendments.

Individual counties may adopt additional requirements.

A plumber should verify local requirements before performing work in a particular jurisdiction.

Hawaii also has strict licensing rules involving who may perform plumbing work within buildings.

Apprentices and helpers may perform certain work under the qualifying supervision described by state rules.

The licensed plumbing supervisor must be present and available as required.

Holding a Journey Worker Plumber license does not automatically create the legal authority to advertise plumbing contracting services, sign independent plumbing contracts, or operate as a plumbing contractor.

Those activities are regulated separately under Hawaii's contractor licensing law.

The C-37 Plumbing Contractor classification covers plumbing contracting work.

Its scope and qualifications are different from the PJ trade license.

Experienced Journey Worker Plumbers who want to advance may later pursue Master Plumber licensing.

Hawaii's standard Master Plumber experience route generally involves at least two years registered as a Journey Worker Plumber or equivalent experience accepted by the Board.

For someone whose ultimate goal is business ownership, understanding these separate licensing pathways is essential.

Trade license: Journey Worker Plumber, PJ.

Work: Installation, maintenance, service and repair of qualifying plumbing systems.

Contracting: Separate C-37 contractor license needed.

Code: Hawaii state and applicable county plumbing provisions.

Career progression: Journey Worker, Master Plumber and separate contractor licensing pathways.

Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber vs. Master Plumber and C-37 Plumbing Contractor

Classification Licensing Authority Main Purpose
Plumbing Apprentice or Helper Training and Applicable Hawaii Rules Builds plumbing experience under required licensed supervision.
Journey Worker Plumber Board of Electricians and Plumbers Individual plumbing trade license, type PJ.
Master Plumber Board of Electricians and Plumbers Advanced individual plumbing trade license, type PM.
C-37 Plumbing Contractor Hawaii Contractors License Board Separate contractor license for offering regulated plumbing contracting services.
Journey Worker Experience Trade Board Five full-time years or equivalent, at least 10,000 hours.
Master Plumber Experience Trade Board Generally two years as a registered Journey Worker Plumber or equivalent qualifying experience.
Journey Worker Examination PSI 100 questions, 180 minutes, closed book.
Master Plumber Examination PSI Separate examination and qualifications. Refer to current Master Plumber bulletin.
C-37 Examination Contractors License Board and PSI Separate contractor licensing examinations, including business and law requirements.
PJ License Reciprocity Trade Board No general reciprocity with other jurisdictions.
PJ Examination Approval Trade Board Valid for two years from the approval letter.
PJ License Renewal Trade Board Every three years; next regular renewal June 30, 2027.
C-37 Contracting Authority Contractors License Board Required for independent plumbing contracting.

PJ: Journey Worker Plumber.

PM: Master Plumber.

C-37: Plumbing Contractor.

Important: A PJ or PM trade license does not itself replace the contractor license required to offer regulated contracting services.

Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Licensing Requirements

Qualifying Experience

Five Years and 10,000 Hours

  • Qualifying plumbing trade experience.
  • Five years full time or equivalent.
  • No fewer than 10,000 hours.
  • Work under licensed plumbing supervision.
  • Water distribution experience.
  • Drainage and venting experience.
  • Plumbing fixture installation.
  • System maintenance and repairs.
  • Accurate employment records.

PSI Exam Preparation

Closed-Book Testing

  • 100 multiple-choice questions.
  • 180-minute examination.
  • Current PSI examination rules.
  • General plumbing knowledge.
  • Water supply systems.
  • Drainage and vents.
  • Plumbing calculations.
  • Gas and special waste.
  • Building sewers.
  • Isometric drawings.
  • Timed closed-book practice.

Application materials: Available through Hawaii DCCA.

Experience documentation: Essential for Board eligibility review.

Exam authorization: Required before scheduling.

Licensing outcome: Determined by the Board after all requirements are completed.

Six-Week Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Exam Prep Plan

Use this study schedule to develop broad UPC plumbing knowledge and prepare for the three-hour closed-book PSI examination.

Week 1

General Plumbing Knowledge

  • Review the official PSI bulletin.
  • Confirm the applicable code edition.
  • Study plumbing definitions.
  • Review tools and materials.
  • Practice fixture terminology.
  • Take a baseline exam.
Week 2

Water Supply Systems

  • Study water distribution.
  • Review pipe sizing concepts.
  • Practice pressure calculations.
  • Study backflow prevention.
  • Review valves and fixtures.
  • Complete water supply questions.
Week 3

Drainage, Waste and Venting

  • Study sanitary drainage.
  • Review traps and cleanouts.
  • Practice drainage sizing.
  • Study venting principles.
  • Review slope and pipe layout.
  • Draw simple plumbing isometrics.
Week 4

Gas Systems and Special Waste

  • Review fuel gas piping.
  • Study appliance connections.
  • Review medical gas concepts.
  • Study indirect waste.
  • Review special waste conditions.
  • Practice building sewer questions.
Week 5

Plumbing Math and Drawings

  • Practice measurement conversions.
  • Review slope calculations.
  • Practice fixture-unit problems.
  • Study plumbing offsets.
  • Work through isometric drawings.
  • Review previously missed questions.
Week 6

Closed-Book Exam Simulation

  • Complete 100-question mock exams.
  • Use a 180-minute timer.
  • Do not use codebooks during practice.
  • Practice difficult definitions.
  • Repeat plumbing calculations.
  • Prepare PSI identification documents.

How Hard Is the Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Exam?

The Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber examination can be challenging because it combines real-world plumbing experience with written questions that require careful attention to detail.

Someone who has worked in plumbing for five years may understand installation methods very well.

However, a written examination often asks about precise terminology, sizing conditions, safety requirements, and plumbing principles.

One small detail in the question can change the correct answer.

For example, a question about drainage may depend on whether a particular pipe is a trap arm, fixture drain, building drain, or building sewer.

A water supply question may involve pressure, pipe size, fixture demand, or an installation condition.

A fuel gas problem may involve safety requirements that differ from ordinary potable water piping.

That means candidates should study the details behind each plumbing system.

The examination contains 100 questions and allows 180 minutes.

That provides an average of 1.8 minutes per question.

Some answers can be identified quickly.

Others may require a calculation or careful interpretation.

Time management is important because it is easy to spend several minutes thinking about one difficult problem.

The closed-book format is another challenge.

Candidates cannot rely on reading their personal UPC reference during the examination.

Instead, they must develop enough knowledge to recognize and apply the correct rules.

Practice questions are valuable for identifying weak areas.

If you consistently miss water distribution questions, devote another study session to pressure, flow, pipe sizing, and valves.

If drainage and venting are your weak areas, draw simplified diagrams and identify how the parts connect.

If plumbing math causes problems, work through calculations one step at a time.

It is better to understand how a calculation works than to remember one answer from a practice test.

Contractor Exam Preps' UPC Journeyman Plumber Study Guide provides 990 practice questions with answers.

The UPC Online Course adds simulated examinations and guided study material.

These resources can support plumbing education, but their 2021 UPC foundation must be distinguished from Hawaii's currently adopted 2018 UPC and the actual PSI examination reference edition.

Hawaii-focused 2024 UPC materials from the related 1ExamPrep store offer another educational option.

Before testing, make sure your study plan is based on the actual license, current examination bulletin, and applicable code requirements.

Consistent practice and careful review can help turn a difficult examination into a manageable project.

Hawaii Journeyman Plumber PSI Exam Day Checklist

Do These Things

  • Confirm your PSI appointment.
  • Review Board examination approval.
  • Read the latest candidate bulletin.
  • Check testing-center identification rules.
  • Arrive before the required check-in time.
  • Review plumbing formulas beforehand.
  • Practice without personal codebooks.
  • Use the available testing time carefully.
  • Read all answer choices.
  • Review difficult questions when time allows.
  • Follow PSI examination-room instructions.
  • Confirm permitted calculator procedures.

Avoid These Mistakes

  • Assuming the exam is open book.
  • Bringing personal UPC references.
  • Bringing unauthorized notes.
  • Using prohibited devices.
  • Ignoring the three-hour limit.
  • Rushing plumbing calculations.
  • Skipping drainage and vent questions.
  • Confusing different pipe categories.
  • Ignoring fuel gas systems.
  • Assuming a contractor exam is the same test.
  • Forgetting PSI check-in documents.
  • Assuming exam passage immediately authorizes contracting.

Exam title: Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber.

Questions: 100.

Time: 180 minutes.

Reference rules: Closed book.

Important: Verify current PSI test-day procedures and permitted materials.

Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Exam Prep Products from Contractor Exam Preps

Contractor Exam Preps carries UPC-based journeyman plumber study resources, including a printed guide, online course, and digital flash-card options.

The store currently provides these general UPC-based products rather than a separately verified Hawaii-specific 2026 plumber listing.

These products support trade knowledge and test preparation, but candidates should compare their code editions with the official Hawaii examination reference requirements.

Journeyman Plumber Test Success Online Course Based on the 2021 UPC

Online Instruction and Exam Simulation

  • 2021 UPC-based course material
  • Plumbing terminology
  • Water supply study
  • Drainage and vent review
  • 990 practice questions listed
  • Simulated computer-based exams
  • Plumbing mathematics
  • Isometric analysis
  • OSHA review
  • Study and test-taking techniques
  • Downloadable course materials
  • Mobile-friendly access

View UPC Journeyman Plumber Online Course

UPC Journeyman Plumber Digital Flash Cards and Related Resources

Quick Plumbing Topic Review

  • UPC plumbing terms
  • Plumbing fixtures
  • Water distribution
  • Sanitary drainage
  • Plumbing vents
  • Water heaters
  • Traps and interceptors
  • Special waste concepts
  • Fuel gas fundamentals
  • Plumbing formulas
  • Repeated topic review
  • UPC knowledge reinforcement

Browse Journeyman Plumber Flash Cards and Related Products

Hawaii state licensing overview: Explore Hawaii Contractor Exam Prep Information.

Hawaii-related 2024 UPC guide and course: See the Related 1ExamPrep Hawaii Product.

Hawaii 2024 UPC books and course package: See the Related 1ExamPrep Complete Package.

2021 UPC products from Contractor Exam Preps: Useful for trade study but not automatically aligned with the official Hawaii exam code edition.

2024 UPC packages: Educational products from the related store, not proof of state code adoption.

Important: The Hawaii PJ examination is closed book. Tabs and codebooks are for studying outside the test center.

HAWAII JOURNEY WORKER PLUMBER PJ LICENSE PREP UPC • PLUMBING EXAM PREP Educational artwork • Not a state-issued license Journeyman Plumber study guide book cover based on the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code, listed on Contractor Exam Preps

Journeyman Plumber UPC study-guide cover linked to the actual product on ContractorExamPreps.com. This is a general UPC study guide, not a Hawaii-issued license.

Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Exam Prep Credential

This educational illustration features the Hawaiian island chain, a water symbol, plumbing pipes, and a valve fitting.

It represents preparation for the Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber licensing examination.

It is not a state-issued license or proof of examination passage.

The accompanying book-cover image links to a related UPC Journeyman Plumber product sold through ContractorExamPreps.com.

• Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber

• Official License Type PJ

• Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers

• Hawaii DCCA Professional Licensing

• PSI Examination

• 100 Exam Questions

• 180-Minute Testing Time

• Closed-Book Testing

• Five Years of Qualifying Experience

• At Least 10,000 Experience Hours

• Licensed Plumber Verification

• Two-Year Examination Approval

• Plumbing Trade Knowledge

• Uniform Plumbing Code

• Hawaii State Plumbing Code

• Plumbing Fixtures

• Water Supply and Distribution

• Water Pressure and Pipe Sizing

• Drainage and Waste

• Sanitary Plumbing Vents

• Traps and Cleanouts

• Water Heaters

• Backflow Prevention

• Fuel Gas Systems

• Medical Gas Concepts

• Indirect Waste

• Building Sewers

• Plumbing Mathematics

• Fixture Units

• Isometric Drawings

• Pipe Materials and Fittings

• Plumbing Installation Safety

• PSI Practice Examinations

• UPC Education and Review

• Hawaii Plumbing License Renewal

• Master Plumber Career Advancement

• Separate C-37 Contractor Licensing

Build stronger plumbing knowledge with UPC-based reference study, practice questions, calculations, diagrams, and timed closed-book examination preparation.

Explore the UPC Journeyman Plumber Study Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Licensing

The official title is Journey Worker Plumber, license type PJ.

The Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers through the DCCA Professional and Vocational Licensing Division.

At least five years of qualifying full-time plumbing experience or the equivalent, totaling no fewer than 10,000 hours.

Yes. Hawaii requires appropriate experience verification documents, generally completed and notarized by the licensed plumbers who supervised the work.

Experience may be considered when properly documented under the Board's rules. Applicants must submit the required verifications and cannot assume that another state's license automatically transfers.

No. Hawaii's DCCA application materials state that Hawaii does not reciprocate with other jurisdictions.

Yes. The Hawaii Board must approve the application and issue examination eligibility before candidates schedule with PSI.

Two years from the date of the Board's examination approval letter.

PSI Journey Worker Plumber Exam

PSI Services LLC administers the examination after the Hawaii Board approves the applicant.

The examination contains 100 questions.

180 minutes, or three hours.

No. The Journey Worker Plumber examination is closed book.

No. Candidates should follow the closed-book rules in PSI's current examination bulletin.

Use the minimum passing standard published in the current PSI candidate bulletin for the Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber examination.

Study the reference material, answer timed questions without your books, then review incorrect answers against the proper code or study guide afterward.

Hawaii Plumbing Code Editions

Hawaii's state plumbing code uses the Uniform Plumbing Code family, with state amendments.

As of October 2026, the Hawaii State Building Code Council lists the 2018 UPC with Hawaii amendments as the current state plumbing-code basis.

Yes. The linked Journeyman Plumber Study Guide and Test Success Course are based on the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code.

Yes. The related 1ExamPrep store offers 2026 Hawaii Journeyman Plumber packages based on the 2024 UPC. They are educational materials and do not automatically establish the official exam code edition.

No. State adoption is a separate legal process. Candidates should check the state and applicable county code requirements.

Follow the current Hawaii PSI Journey Worker Plumber candidate bulletin and verify its listed examination reference materials.

Plumbing Exam Topics

General plumbing knowledge, water supply, drainage and sanitary vents, sizing and estimating, fuel and medical gas, indirect and special waste, and building sewers.

Water Supply Systems is a major study area. Review distribution, pressure, valves, backflow prevention and pipe sizing.

Yes. Drainage, Waste and Sanitary Vents is one of the larger commonly published exam categories.

Yes. Practice pipe sizing, fixture units, measurements, offsets, pressure and other applied plumbing math.

Isometric drawings help candidates understand the relationship between pipe runs, drainage, fixtures and vents.

Fuel and medical gas system concepts are included in commonly published Hawaii plumber preparation outlines.

Indirect waste is wastewater conveyed to a drainage system through an indirect connection, commonly involving an air gap or other approved separation arrangement.

Yes. Building sewers are included in common Journey Worker Plumber exam topic outlines.

Hawaii Journeyman and Contractor Licensing

No. The Journey Worker Plumber license does not independently authorize plumbing contracting. Hawaii requires a separate contractor license for regulated contracting work.

The separate C-37 Plumbing Contractor classification is relevant to plumbing contracting.

Yes. Hawaii generally requires two years as a licensed Journey Worker Plumber or qualifying equivalent experience before the Master Plumber examination.

No. The Master Plumber license is a separate classification with different eligibility and examination requirements.

Hawaii Plumber License Renewal

Every three years. The next regular plumber renewal deadline is June 30, 2027.

Yes. Active Hawaii plumbers must satisfy the continued competency requirement or an applicable exemption or alternative approved by DCCA.

The 2027 renewal cycle currently identifies a 2021 UPC update course through approved University of Hawaii Community College programs.

Contractor Exam Preps Products

Yes. Contractor Exam Preps offers a Journeyman Plumber Exam Study Guide based on the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code.

The UPC-based product lists 990 practice questions with answer keys.

Yes. Contractor Exam Preps offers a Test Success Online Course based on the 2021 UPC, with practice exams, calculations and isometric review.

Yes. The related 1ExamPrep site offers Hawaii-specific 2026 study guide, course and complete package options based on the 2024 UPC.

No. Applicants must independently satisfy the experience, application, Board approval and examination requirements.

No. Study materials help with preparation, but examination results depend on the candidate's knowledge and the testing authority's requirements.

Watch: Pass the 2026 Journeyman Plumber Exam by 1ExamPrep

Watch this related 1ExamPrep YouTube video discussing journeyman plumber licensing, plumbing systems, water supply, drainage, sanitary vents, fixtures, piping, water heaters, code preparation and study strategies.

The video offers general journeyman plumbing exam guidance. It is not a Hawaii government examination bulletin, and candidates should still follow Hawaii's closed-book PSI requirements and current Board licensing instructions.

Video: Pass the 2026 Journeyman Plumber Exam.

Source: 1ExamPrep.

Published: June 2026.

Topics: Water supply, drainage, fixtures, venting, sewer lines, plumbing codes and exam preparation.

Hawaii examination: 100 questions, 180 minutes, closed book.

Reminder: Use the official Hawaii PSI bulletin for examination-specific information.

Watch the 1ExamPrep Journeyman Plumber Video on YouTube

Read the Related 1ExamPrep Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Guide

Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Books, Courses and Official Licensing Resources

Use these Contractor Exam Preps resources and Hawaii licensing links to plan your exam preparation and verify your legal requirements.

Official state license: Journey Worker Plumber, PJ.

Exam: 100 questions, 180 minutes.

Exam format: Closed book.

Experience: Five years, at least 10,000 hours.

Licensing Board: Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers.

State plumbing code: 2018 UPC with Hawaii amendments.

Store UPC educational products: 2021 UPC.

Related Hawaii-specific 2026 products: 2024 UPC.

Next plumber renewal: June 30, 2027.

Contracting: Separate Hawaii C-37 contractor licensing required.

Ready for Hawaii Journeyman Plumber Contractor Exam Prep?

Preparing for the Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber examination is an important step for experienced plumbing professionals who want to obtain an official state trade license.

Hawaii recognizes the Journey Worker Plumber classification, commonly called Journeyman Plumber, under license type PJ.

The license is regulated by the Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers through the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.

Applicants must demonstrate substantial plumbing experience and meet the Board's examination eligibility requirements.

Hawaii generally requires five years of qualifying full-time plumbing experience or its equivalent, with at least 10,000 hours of experience.

That experience must be supported by appropriate documentation.

Licensed plumbers who supervised the work generally complete the required experience verification forms.

Applicants then submit their application and supporting records for Board review.

Once approved, they receive examination eligibility and can register with PSI.

The Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber examination contains 100 questions and allows 180 minutes.

That means candidates have three hours to complete the examination.

The test is closed book.

As a result, preparation should focus on understanding plumbing systems, remembering key rules, and solving problems without depending on a personal codebook.

Important areas include General Plumbing Knowledge, Water Supply Systems, Drainage, Waste and Sanitary Vents, Sizing and Estimating, Medical and Fuel Gas Systems, Indirect and Special Waste, and Building Sewers.

These subjects connect directly with everyday plumbing work.

Water supply knowledge helps plumbers understand how potable water is distributed to fixtures and equipment.

Drainage and venting knowledge helps ensure wastewater moves safely away from occupied spaces while maintaining appropriate trap protection.

Plumbing calculations help determine pipe sizes, fixture demand, measurements and installation quantities.

Isometric drawings help plumbers understand the arrangement of piping systems and the relationships between individual components.

Special systems, including fuel gas and indirect waste, require additional knowledge of plumbing safety and installation methods.

Because Hawaii uses the Uniform Plumbing Code family, UPC study is an important part of preparation.

However, candidates must understand that several different code editions may appear in study and licensing materials.

As of October 2026, Hawaii's State Building Code Council lists the 2018 Uniform Plumbing Code with Hawaii amendments as its current statewide plumbing code.

Contractor Exam Preps offers a Journeyman Plumber Study Guide and Test Success Online Course based on the 2021 UPC.

The related 1ExamPrep store offers Hawaii-specific 2026 study packages based on the 2024 UPC.

The Hawaii plumbing-license renewal program also currently requires approved continued competency review of the 2021 UPC for the cycle ending June 30, 2027.

These code editions serve different purposes.

Applicants should verify the official examination reference edition through PSI instead of assuming that a newer study guide automatically reflects the test.

Contractor Exam Preps' UPC Journeyman Plumber Study Guide provides 990 practice questions with answer keys, plumbing mathematics, OSHA review, and isometric analysis.

The UPC Journeyman Plumber Test Success Online Course adds structured study resources and simulated examinations.

These products can help reinforce plumbing knowledge, but they do not replace the official Hawaii Board application or examination requirements.

A six-week study plan can help candidates organize their preparation.

Begin with plumbing definitions, fixtures and materials.

Then focus on water supply, drainage, venting, gas systems, special waste, plumbing mathematics and isometric drawings.

During the final week, complete timed closed-book practice examinations.

Use the official three-hour limit to become familiar with the examination's pace.

Review every incorrect answer and return to the relevant code or study material afterward.

That repeated process helps strengthen the knowledge needed for exam day.

Hawaii's licensing structure also includes an important business distinction.

The Journey Worker Plumber license demonstrates an individual's professional plumbing qualification.

It does not independently authorize operating a plumbing contracting business.

Professionals who want to contract directly for plumbing work must review Hawaii's separate C-37 Plumbing Contractor licensing requirements.

Qualified plumbers may also pursue Master Plumber licensing after meeting the applicable experience requirements.

Hawaii Journey Worker Plumber licensing can therefore be an important foundation for future professional advancement.

With qualifying experience, accurate documentation, organized UPC study, plumbing math practice and realistic closed-book examination preparation, candidates can move forward with a clearer understanding of their next licensing step.

Explore plumber study guides, plumbing courses and licensing resources at ContractorExamPreps.com.