Virginia Law

Chapter 30. Individual License and Certification Regulations

Part I
General

18VAC50-30-10. Definitions.

A. Section 54.1-1128 of the Code of Virginia provides definitions of the following terms and phrases as used in this chapter:

"Backflow prevention device worker"

"Board"

"Liquified petroleum gas fitter"

"Natural gas fitter provider"

"Tradesman"

"Water well systems provider"

B. Section 54.1-1140 of the Code of Virginia provides definitions of the following terms and phrases as used in this chapter:

"Accessibility mechanic"

"Certified accessibility mechanic"

"Elevator mechanic"

"Limited use/limited application endorsement"

C. Section 54.1-1144 of the Code of Virginia provides definitions of the following terms and phrases as used in this chapter:

"Accredited residential building energy analyst training program"

"Licensed residential building energy analyst"

"Residential building energy analysis"

D. The following words and terms when used in this chapter have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

"Address of record" means the mailing address designated by the licensee to receive notices and correspondence from the board.

"Applicant" means an individual who has submitted an application for licensure.

"Application" means a completed, board-prescribed form submitted with the appropriate fee and other required documentation.

"Backflow prevention device work" means work performed by a backflow prevention device worker for reconstruction or renewal of any part of a backflow prevention device for the purpose of returning to service a currently installed device. This does not include the removal or replacement of a defective device by the installation of a rebuilt or new device.

"Certified automatic fire sprinkler inspector" means an individual who is certified by this chapter and whose work includes the inspection of automatic fire sprinkler systems as defined in the Virginia Construction Code (Part I (13VAC5-63-10 et seq.) of 13VAC5-63).

"Department" means the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.

"Electrical work" consists of, but is not limited to, the following: (i) planning and layout of details for installation or modifications of electrical apparatus and controls including preparation of sketches showing location of wiring and equipment; (ii) measuring, cutting, bending, threading, assembling, and installing electrical conduits; (iii) performing maintenance on electrical systems and apparatus; (iv) observation of installed systems or apparatus to detect hazards and need for adjustments, relocation, or replacement; and (v) repairing faulty systems or apparatus.

"Electrician" means a tradesman who performs the construction, repair, maintenance, alteration, or removal of electrical systems regulated under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (13VAC5-63).

"Formal vocational training" means courses in the trade administered at an accredited educational facility; or formal training, approved by the board, conducted by trade associations, businesses, the military, correspondence schools, or other similar training organizations.

"Gas fitter" means a tradesman who performs gas fitting-related work usually within the HVAC or plumbing trades regulated under Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. Gas fitting-related work includes the installation, repair, improvement, or removal of industrial gas, fuel gas, gaseous hydrogen, liquefied petroleum or natural gas piping, tanks, chimneys and vents, direct vents, equipment, and appliances annexed to real property.

"Helper" or "laborer" means a person who assists a regulant.

"HVAC tradesman" means an individual who performs the construction, repair, maintenance, alteration, or removal of HVAC systems regulated under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.

"HVAC work" means work that includes the installation, alteration, repair, or maintenance of heating systems, ventilating systems, cooling systems, steam and hot water heating systems, boilers, process piping, backflow prevention devices, and mechanical refrigeration systems, including tanks incidental to the system.

"Incidental" means work that is necessary for that particular repair or installation and is outside the scope of practice allowed to the regulant by this chapter.

"Journeyman" means a person who possesses the necessary ability, proficiency, and qualifications to install, repair, and maintain specific types of materials and equipment utilizing a working knowledge sufficient to comply with the pertinent provisions of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code and according to plans and specifications.

"Master" means a person who possesses the necessary ability, proficiency, and qualifications to plan and lay out the details for installation and supervise the work of installing, repairing, and maintaining specific types of materials and equipment utilizing a working knowledge sufficient to comply with the pertinent provisions of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.

"Plumber" means a tradesman who performs the construction, repair, maintenance, alteration, or removal of plumbing systems regulated under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.

"Plumbing work" means work that includes the installation, maintenance, extension, or alteration or removal of piping, fixtures, appliances, and appurtenances in connection with any of the following:

1. Backflow prevention devices;

2. Boilers;

3. Domestic sprinklers;

4. Hot water baseboard heating systems;

5. Hydronic heating systems;

6. Process piping;

7. Public or private water supply systems within or adjacent to any building, structure, or conveyance;

8. Sanitary or storm drainage facilities;

9. Steam heating systems;

10. Storage tanks incidental to the installation of related systems;

11. Venting systems; or

12. Water heaters.

These plumbing tradesmen may also install, maintain, extend, or alter the following:

1. Liquid waste systems;

2. Sewerage systems;

3. Storm water systems; and

4. Water supply systems.

"Regulant" means an individual (i) licensed as a tradesman, liquefied petroleum gas fitter, natural gas fitter provider, or gas fitter or (ii) certified as a backflow prevention device worker, accessibility mechanic, elevator mechanic, water well systems provider, or fire sprinkler inspector.

"Reinstatement" means the process and requirements through which an expired license can be made valid without the licensee having to apply as a new applicant.

"Renewal" means the process and requirements for periodically approving the continuance of a license.

"Testing organization" means an independent testing organization whose main function is to develop and administer examinations.

"Trade" means any regulated activity.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 17, Issue 26, eff. November 1, 2001; Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; Volume 24, Issue 3, eff. November 15, 2007; Volume 29, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 2013; Volume 30, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2014; Volume 36, Issue 13, eff. April 1, 2020; Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

Part II
Entry

18VAC50-30-20. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 17, Issue 26, eff. November 1, 2001; Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-25. Application procedures.

A. All applicants seeking licensure or certification must submit an application with the appropriate fee specified in 18VAC50-30-90. Application must be made on forms provided by the board or the board's agent.

1. By submitting the application to the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, the applicant certifies that the applicant has read and understands the applicable statutes and the board's regulations.

2. The receipt of an application and the deposit of the fees by the board do not indicate approval of the application by the board.

B. The board may make further inquiries and investigations with respect to the applicant's qualifications to confirm or amplify information supplied. All applications must be completed in accordance with the instructions contained in this section and on the application. Applications will not be considered complete until all required documents are received by the board.

C. The applicant will be notified of receipt of initial application if the application is incomplete. An individual who fails to complete the application process within 12 months of receipt of the application in the board's office must submit a new application.

D. The applicant must immediately report all changes in information supplied with the application, if applicable, prior to the issuance of the license or certificate or expiration of the application.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-30. General requirements for licensure or certification.

In addition to the applicable provisions of 18VAC50-30-40 and 18VAC50-30-41, every applicant to the board for licensure or certification must meet the requirements provided in this section.

1. The applicant must be at least 18 years of age.

2. The applicant must submit documentation of identification, vocational training, and experience.

3. In those instances where the applicant is required to take the license or certification examination, the applicant must follow all rules established by the board with regard to conduct at the examination. Such rules include any written instructions communicated prior to the examination date and any instructions communicated at the site. Failure to comply with all rules established by the board and the testing organization with regard to conduct at the examination shall be grounds for denial of application.

4. The applicant must provide an address of record. A post office box is only acceptable when a physical address is also provided.

5. In accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, each applicant must disclose any conviction in any jurisdiction of any felony or non-marijuana misdemeanor. The board, at its discretion, may deny licensure or certification to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia. The applicant has the right to request further review of any such action by the board under the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq. of the Code of Virginia).

6. The applicant must report any action taken by any board or administrative body in any jurisdiction against a professional or occupational license, certification, or registration issued to the applicant, to include any suspension, revocation, or surrender of a license, certification, or registration, imposition of a monetary penalty, or requirement to take remedial education or other corrective action. The board in its discretion may deny licensure to any applicant for any prior action taken by any board or administrative body in any jurisdiction. The applicant has the right to request further review of any such action by the board under the Administrative Process Act.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; Volume 38, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2021; Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-40. Evidence of ability and proficiency.

A. Applicants for examination to be licensed as a journeyman shall furnish evidence that one of the following experience and education standards has been attained:

1. Four years of practical experience in the trade and 240 hours of formal vocational training in the trade. Experience in excess of four years may be substituted for formal vocational training at a ratio of one year of experience for 80 hours of formal training, but not to exceed 200 hours;

2. Four years of practical experience and 80 hours of vocational training for liquefied petroleum gas fitters and natural gas fitter providers except that no substitute experience will be allowed for liquefied petroleum gas and natural gas workers;

3. An associate degree or a certificate of completion from at least a two-year program in a tradesman-related field from an accredited community college or technical school as evidenced by a transcript from the educational institution and two years of practical experience in the trade for which licensure is desired;

4. A bachelor's degree received from an accredited college or university in an engineering curriculum related to the trade and one year of practical experience in the trade for which licensure is desired; or

5. An applicant with 10 years of practical experience in the trade as verified by reference letters of experience from any of the following: building officials, building inspectors, current or former employers, contractors, engineers, architects, or current or past clients attesting to the applicant's work in the trade, may be granted permission to sit for the journeyman's level examination without having to meet the educational requirements.

B. Applicants for examination to be licensed as a master shall furnish evidence that one of the following experience standards has been attained:

1. Evidence that they have one year of experience as a licensed journeyman; or

2. An applicant with 10 years of practical experience in the trade, as verified by reference letters of experience from any of the following: building officials, building inspectors, current or former employers, contractors, engineers, architects, or current or past clients, attesting to the applicant's work in the trade, may be granted permission to sit for the master's level examination without having to meet the educational requirements.

C. Individuals who have successfully passed the Class A contractors trade examination prior to January 1, 1991, administered by the Virginia Board for Contractors in a certified trade shall be deemed qualified as a master in that trade in accordance with this chapter.

D. Applicants for examination to be certified as a backflow prevention device worker shall furnish evidence that one of the following experience and education standards has been attained:

1. Four years of practical experience in water distribution systems and a minimum of 32 hours of formal vocational training in a school approved by the board; or

2. Applicants with seven or more years of experience may qualify with 16 hours of formal vocational training in a school approved by the board.

The board accepts the American Society of Sanitary Engineers' (ASSE) standards for testing procedures. Other programs could be approved after board review. The board requires all backflow training to include instruction in a wet lab.

E. An applicant for certification as an elevator mechanic shall:

1. Have three years of practical experience in the construction, maintenance, and service/repair of elevators, escalators, or related conveyances; 144 hours of formal vocational training; and satisfactorily complete a written examination administered by the board. Experience in excess of four years may be substituted for formal vocational training at a ratio of one year of experience for 40 hours of formal training, but not to exceed 120 hours;

2. Have three years of practical experience in the construction, maintenance, and service/repair of elevators, escalators, or related conveyances and a certificate of completion of the elevator mechanic examination of a training program determined to be equivalent to the requirements established by the board; or

3. Successfully complete an elevator mechanic apprenticeship program that is approved by the Virginia Apprenticeship Council or registered with the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training, U.S. Department of Labor, as evidenced by providing a certificate of completion or other official document, and satisfactorily complete a written examination administered by the board.

F. Pursuant to § 54.1-1129.1 A of the Code of Virginia, an applicant for examination as a certified water well systems provider shall provide satisfactory proof to the board of at least:

1. One year of full-time practical experience in the drilling, installation, maintenance, or repair of water wells or water well systems under the supervision of a certified master water well systems provider or other equivalent experience as approved by the board to qualify for examination as a trainee water well systems provider;

2. Three years of practical experience in the drilling, installation, maintenance, or repair of water wells or water well systems under the supervision of a certified master water well systems provider or other equivalent experience as approved by the board and 24 hours of formal vocational training in the trade to qualify for examination as a journeyman water well systems provider; or

3. Six years of practical experience in the drilling, installation, maintenance, or repair of water wells or water well systems under the supervision of a certified master water well systems provider or other equivalent experience as approved by the board and 48 hours of formal vocational training in the trade to qualify for examination as a master water well systems provider.

G. An applicant for certification as an accessibility mechanic shall:

1. Have three years of practical experience in the construction, installation, maintenance, service, repair, and testing of wheelchair lifts, incline chairlifts, dumbwaiters, residential elevators, or related conveyances; 80 hours of formal vocational training; and satisfactorily complete a written examination administered by the board. Experience in excess of four years may be substituted for formal vocational training at a ratio of one year of experience for 20 hours of formal training, but not to exceed 60 hours;

2. Have three years of practical experience in the construction, installation, maintenance, service, repair, and testing of wheelchair lifts, incline chairlifts, dumbwaiters, residential elevators, or related conveyances and a certificate of completion of an accessibility mechanic examination of a training program determined to be equivalent to the requirements established by the board; or

3. Successfully complete an accessibility mechanic apprenticeship program that is approved by the Virginia Apprenticeship Council or registered with the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training, U.S. Department of Labor, as evidenced by providing a certificate of completion or other official document, and satisfactorily complete a written examination administered by the board.

H. An applicant for a limited use/limited application (LULA) endorsement shall:

1. Hold a current certification as an accessibility mechanic issued by the board.

2. Have one year of practical experience in the construction, installation, maintenance, service, repair, and testing of limited use/limited application elevators and complete a vocational education program approved by the board; and satisfactorily complete a written examination administered by the board; or complete a limited use/limited application elevator training program determined to be equivalent to the requirements established by the board.

I. Pursuant to § 54.1-1145 B of the Code of Virginia, an applicant for licensure as a residential building energy analyst shall provide satisfactory proof to the board of:

1. The completion of a residential building energy analyst training program approved by the board;

2. The completion of a minimum of five residential building energy analyses under the supervision of a licensed residential building energy analyst;

3. Current membership in good standing with a certifying organization approved by the board; and

4. Maintaining a minimum of $100,000 of general liability insurance from a company authorized to provide such insurance in the Commonwealth of Virginia unless the individual is employed by a company that holds a valid residential building energy analyst firm license issued by the board.

The applicant shall provide information for the past five years prior to application on any outstanding past-due debts, outstanding judgments, outstanding tax obligations, defaults on bonds, or pending or past bankruptcies.

J. Individuals applying for initial licensure as residential building energy analysts who meet the criteria of § 54.1-1145 C of the Code of Virginia are not required to meet the eligibility standards for licensure found in subsection I of this section.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 17, Issue 26, eff. November 1, 2001; Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; Volume 24, Issue 3, eff. November 15, 2007; Volume 29, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 2013; Volume 30, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2014; Volume 32, Issue 1, eff. November 1, 2015; Volume 39, Issue 7, eff. January 1, 2023.

18VAC50-30-41. Evidence of ability and proficiency for automatic fire sprinkler inspector.

Pursuant to § 54.1-1147 B of the Code of Virginia, an applicant for certification as an automatic fire sprinkler inspector must provide satisfactory proof to the board of a Level II or higher Inspection and Testing of Water-Based Systems Certificate issued through the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies or a substantially similar certification from a nationally recognized training program approved by the board.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 36, Issue 13, eff. April 1, 2020; amended, Virginia Register Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-50. Exemptions from examination.

A. An individual certified or licensed by any one of the following agencies shall not be required to fulfill the examination requirement:

1. The Department of Housing and Community Development prior to July 1, 1995;

2. Any local governing body prior to July 1, 1978; or

3. Any Virginia locality backflow prevention device worker certification issued prior to July 1, 1998.

B. Other methods of exemption from the journeyman examination are as follows:

1. Successful completion of an apprenticeship program which is approved by the Virginia Apprenticeship Council for exemption from examination, as evidenced by providing a certificate of completion or other official document.

2. Any tradesman who had a Class B registration in the trade prior to January 1, 1991, and has been continuously licensed as a Class B contractor.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-1102 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 17, Issue 26, eff. November 1, 2001; Errata, 18:4 VA.R. 658 November 5, 2001; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007.

18VAC50-30-60. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007.

18VAC50-30-70. Other recognized programs.

Applicants certified or licensed as a tradesman or backflow prevention device worker by governing bodies located outside the Commonwealth of Virginia are considered to be in compliance with this chapter if the board has determined the requirements and standards under which the license or certificate was issued are substantially equivalent to those established in this chapter. In addition to the requirements set forth in 18VAC50-30-30, such applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. The applicant must have received the tradesman certification or license by virtue of having passed in the jurisdiction of original certification or licensure a written or oral examination deemed to be substantially equivalent to the Virginia examination.

2. Individuals certified or licensed by governing bodies other than the Commonwealth of Virginia may sit for the same level of tradesman examination by completing the required application and providing a copy of a currently valid journeyman or master license or certification.

3. Individuals certified or licensed as backflow prevention device workers by governing bodies located outside the Commonwealth of Virginia may sit for the Virginia backflow prevention device worker examination upon presentation of a currently valid certificate or card from such jurisdictions with their completed examination application and fee.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-1102 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 200; Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-73. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 2013; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-75. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 2013; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-80. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007.

18VAC50-30-90. Fees for licensure and certification.

A. Each check or money order must be made payable to the Treasurer of Virginia. All fees required by the board are nonrefundable and shall not be prorated. The date of receipt by the department or its agent is the date that will be used to determine whether or not it is on time. Fees remain active for a period of one year from the date of receipt and all applications must be completed within that time frame.

B. Fees are as follows:

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 12, eff. May 1, 1999; Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 17, Issue 26, eff. November 1, 2001; Errata, 18:4 VA.R. 658 November 5, 2001; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2003; Volume 21, Issue 20, eff. August 1, 2005; Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; Volume 24, Issue 3, eff. November 15, 2007; Volume 26, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2010; amended, Volume 30, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2014; Volume 32, Issue 1, eff. November 1, 2015; Volume 36, Issue 13, eff. April 1, 2020; Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-100. Fees for examinations.

The examination fee shall consist of the administration expenses of the department resulting from the board's examination procedures and contract charges. Exam service contracts shall be established through competitive negotiation, in compliance with the Virginia Public Procurement Act (§ 2.2-4300 et seq. of the Code of Virginia). The current examination shall not exceed a cost of $100 for the journeyman exam, $125 for the master exam for any of the trades, or $100 for the backflow prevention device worker, elevator mechanic, accessibility mechanic, or water well systems provider exams.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-1102 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 19, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; Volume 24, Issue 3, eff. November 15, 2007; Volume 30, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2014.

18VAC50-30-110. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2010.

18VAC50-30-120. Renewal.

A. Licenses issued under this chapter to electricians, gas fitters, HVAC tradesmen, or plumbers will expire three years from the last day of the month in which they were issued as indicated on the license.

B. All other licenses and certifications issued under this chapter will expire two years from the last day of the month in which they were issued as indicated on the license or certification.

C. As a condition of renewal or reinstatement and pursuant to § 54.1-1133 of the Code of Virginia, all individuals holding tradesman licenses with the trade designations of plumbing, electrical, and heating ventilation and cooling must satisfactorily complete three hours of continuing education for each designation, and individuals holding a license as a liquefied petroleum gas fitter, a natural gas fitter provider, or a gas fitter, one hour of continuing education, relating to the applicable building code changes, from a provider approved by the board.

D. Certified elevator mechanics and certified accessibility mechanics, as a condition of renewal and pursuant to § 54.1-1143 of the Code of Virginia, must satisfactorily complete eight hours of continuing education relating to the provisions of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (13VAC5-63) pertaining to elevators, escalators, and related conveyances. This continuing education must be from a provider approved by the board.

E. Certified water well systems providers, as a condition of renewal or reinstatement and pursuant to § 54.1-1129.1 B of the Code of Virginia, must satisfactorily complete eight hours of continuing education in the specialty of technical aspects of water well construction, applicable statutory and regulatory provisions, and business practices related to water well construction from a provider approved by the board.

F. Certified automatic fire sprinkler inspectors, as a condition of renewal and pursuant to § 54.1-1148 of the Code of Virginia, must satisfactorily complete eight hours of continuing education relating to changes and knowledge of the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code (13VAC5-51). No renewal will be permitted once 30 days from the expiration date have passed. After that date, the applicant must apply for a new certification and meet the current entry requirements.

G. Renewal fees are as follows:

All fees are nonrefundable and will not be prorated.

Tradesman license renewal fees received on or before August 31, 2025, shall be $100. For all other renewal fees received on or before August 31, 2025, the fee shall be $70.

H. The board will mail a renewal notice to the regulant outlining procedures for renewal. Failure to receive this notice, however, will not relieve the regulant of the obligation to renew. If the regulant fails to receive the renewal notice, a copy of the license or certification may be submitted with the required fee as an application for renewal within 30 days of the expiration date.

I. The date on which the renewal fee is received by the department or its agent will determine whether the regulant is eligible for renewal or required to apply for reinstatement.

J. The board may deny renewal of a license or certification for the same reasons as it may refuse initial licensure or certification or discipline a regulant. The regulant has a right to request review of any such action by the board under the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq. of the Code of Virginia).

K. Failure to timely pay any monetary penalty, reimbursement of cost, or other fee assessed by consent order or final order shall result in delaying or withholding services provided by the department, including renewal, reinstatement, or processing of a new application.

L. Residential building energy analysts, as a condition of renewal or reinstatement, must provide documentation of continued membership, in good standing, of a certifying organization approved by the board and proof of insurance as required in 18VAC50-30-40 I 4.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201, 54.1-1102, and 54.1-1146 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 19, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2003; Volume 21, Issue 20, eff. August 1, 2005; Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; Volume 24, Issue 3, eff. November 15, 2007; Volume 26, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2010; Volume 29, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 2013; Volume 30, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2014; Volume 31, Issue 20, eff. August 1, 2015; Volume 32, Issue 1, eff. November 1, 2015; Volume 33, Issue 19, eff. July 1, 2017; Volume 34, Issue 22, eff. January 1, 2019; Volume 35, Issue 21, eff. August 1, 2019; Volume 36, Issue 13, eff. April 1, 2020; Volume 38, Issue 6, eff. December 8, 2021; Volume 39, Issue 21, eff. September 1, 2023; Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-130. Reinstatement.

A. Except as provided in 18VAC50-30-120 F, if all of the applicable requirements for renewal of the license or certification as specified in 18VAC50-30-120 are not completed within 30 days of the license or certification expiration date, a reinstatement fee will be required as established in subsection B of this section.

B. Reinstatement fees are as follows:

All fees required by the board are nonrefundable and will not be prorated.

Tradesman license reinstatement fees received on or before August 31, 2025, shall be $150. For all other reinstatement fees received on or before August 31, 2025, the fee shall be $120. This fee includes the renewal fee listed in 18VAC50-30-120.

C. The date on which the reinstatement fee is received by the department or its agent will determine whether the license or certification is reinstated or a new application is required.

D. A license or certification may be reinstated for up to 24 months following the expiration date of the license or certification. An individual who fails to reinstate the license or certification within 24 months after the expiration date must apply for a new license or certification and meet entry requirements in effect at the time of the submittal of the new application. Such individual will be deemed to be eligible to sit for the examination for the same category and specialty of license as the expired license.

E. Any regulated activity conducted subsequent to the expiration of the license may constitute unlicensed activity and may be subject to prosecution under Chapter 1 (§ 54.1-100 et seq.) or Chapter 11 (§ 54.1-1100 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia.

F. The board may deny reinstatement of a license or certification for the same reasons as it may refuse initial licensure or certification or discipline a regulant. The regulant has a right to request further review of any such action by the board under the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq. of the Code of Virginia).

G. Failure to timely pay any monetary penalty, reimbursement of cost, or other fee assessed by consent order or final order will result in delaying or withholding services provided by the department, including renewal, reinstatement, or processing of a new application.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201, 54.1-1102, and 54.1-1146 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 19, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2003; Volume 21, Issue 20, eff. August 1, 2005; Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; Volume 24, Issue 3, eff. November 15, 2007; Volume 26, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2010; Volume 32, Issue 1, eff. November 1, 2015; Volume 32, Issue 3, eff. January 1, 2016; Volume 33, Issue 19, eff. July 1, 2017; Volume 34, Issue 22, eff. January 1, 2019; Volume 35, Issue 21, eff. August 1, 2019; Volume 38, Issue 6, eff. December 8, 2021; Volume 39, Issue 21, eff. September 1, 2023; Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-140. Status of regulant during the period prior to reinstatement.

A. When a regulant is reinstated, the individual will continue to have the same number and be assigned an expiration date three years from the previous expiration date for tradesman licensees and two years from the previous expiration date for all other licensees and certificate holders.

B. A regulant who reinstates a license or certification will be regarded as having been continuously licensed or certified without interruption. Therefore, the regulant will remain under the disciplinary authority of the board during this entire period and may be held accountable for the regulant's activities during this period. Nothing in this chapter will divest the board of its authority to discipline a regulant for a violation of the law or regulations during the period of licensure or certification.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-1102 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

Part IV
Standards of Practice

18VAC50-30-150. Adding or deleting trade designations.

A. A regulant may add a trade designation to a license by submitting, on a form provided by the board, acceptable evidence of experience, and examination where applicable, in the designation sought. Such regulant must meet the requirements established in 18VAC50-30-30 and the qualifications established in 18VAC50-30-40 applicable to the trade designation being sought.

B. While a regulant may have multiple trade designations on the regulant's license, the renewal date will be based upon the date the license was originally issued to the individual by the board, not the date of the most recent trade designation addition.

C. If a regulant is seeking to delete a designation, then the individual must provide a signed statement listing the designation to be deleted. If the regulant only has one trade or level designation, the deletion of that designation will result in the termination of the license.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-1102 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 19, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; Volume 26, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2010; Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-160. Change of address.

Any change of address must be reported in writing to the board within 30 days of the change. The board will not be responsible for the regulant's failure to receive notices or correspondence due to the regulant's failure to report a change of address. A post office box alone is not acceptable.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-1102 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-170. Transfer of license or certification prohibited.

No license or certification issued by the board may be assigned or otherwise transferred.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-1102 and Article 3 (§ 54.1-1128 et seq.) of Chapter 11 of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-180. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007.

Part V
Standards of Conduct

18VAC50-30-185.  Grounds for disciplinary action.

The board may impose remedial education, a monetary penalty in accordance with § 54.1-202 A of the Code of Virginia or revoke, suspend, or refuse to renew any license or certification when the licensee or certificate holder has been found to have violated or cooperated with others in violating any provision of Chapter 1 (§ 54.1-100 et seq.) or Chapter 11 (§ 54.1-1100 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or the regulations of the board.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201, 54.1-1102, and 54.1-1146 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; amended, Volume 29, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 2013; Volume 30, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2014; Volume 32, Issue 1, eff. November 1, 2015; Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-190. Prohibited acts.

The following acts are prohibited and any violation may result in disciplinary action by the board:

1. Failure in any material way to comply with provisions of Chapter 1 (§ 54.1-100 et seq.) or Chapter 11 (§ 54.1-1100 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or the regulations of the board;

2. Furnishing substantially inaccurate or incomplete information to the board in obtaining, renewing, reinstating, or maintaining a license or certification;

3. Where the regulant has failed to report to the board, in writing, the suspension or revocation of a license or certification by another state or a conviction in a court of competent jurisdiction of a building code violation;

4. Negligence or incompetence in the practice of the licensed or certified profession;

5. Misconduct in the practice of the licensed or certified profession;

6. For licensed tradesmen, liquefied petroleum gas fitters, natural gas fitter providers, or gas fitters performing jobs under $1,000, or backflow prevention device workers, elevator mechanics, accessibility mechanics, or water well systems providers performing jobs of any amount, abandonment, the intentional and unjustified failure to complete work contracted for, or the retention or misapplication of funds paid, for which work is either not performed or performed only in part (unjustified cessation of work under the contract for a period of 30 days or more shall be considered evidence of abandonment);

7. Making any misrepresentation or making a false promise of a character likely to influence, persuade, or induce;

8. Aiding or abetting an unlicensed contractor to violate any provision of Chapter 1 or Chapter 11 of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or this chapter or combining or conspiring with or acting as agent, partner, or associate for an unlicensed contractor; or allowing one's license or certification to be used by an unlicensed or uncertified individual;

9. Where the regulant has offered, given, or promised anything of value or benefit to any federal, state, or local government employee for the purpose of influencing that employee to circumvent, in the performance of the employee's duties, any federal, state, or local law, regulation, or ordinance governing the construction industry;

10. Where the regulant has been convicted or found guilty, after initial licensure or certification, regardless of adjudication, in any jurisdiction of any felony or of a misdemeanor involving lying, cheating or stealing, sexual offense, non-marijuana drug distribution, physical injury, or relating to the practice of the profession, there being no appeal pending therefrom or the time of appeal having elapsed;

11. Having failed to inform the board in writing, within 30 days, that the regulant was convicted of any felony or a misdemeanor involving lying, cheating, stealing, sexual offense, non-marijuana drug distribution, physical injury, or relating to the practice of the profession;

12. Having been disciplined by any county, city, town, or any state or federal governing body for actions relating to the practice of any trade, backflow prevention device work, elevator or accessibility work, or water well systems provider work, which action shall be reviewed by the board before the board takes any disciplinary action of its own;

13. Failure to comply with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (13VAC5-63);

14. Practicing in a classification or specialty service for which the regulant is not licensed or certified;

15. Failure to obtain any document required by the Virginia Department of Health for the drilling, installation, maintenance, repair, construction, or removal of water wells, water well systems, water well pumps, or other water well equipment;

16. Failure to obtain a building permit or applicable inspection where required;

17. Failure to perform a residential building energy analysis consistent with the requirements set forth by the board, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Department of Energy, or the Energy Star Program;

18. Failure of a residential building energy analyst to maintain the general liability insurance required in 18VAC50-30-40 I 4; and

19. Failure of a certified automatic fire sprinkler inspector to continually maintain the certification required in § 54.1-1147 of the Code of Virginia.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; Volume 24, Issue 3, eff. November 15, 2007; Volume 29, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 2013; Volume 30, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2014; Volume 32, Issue 1, eff. November 1, 2015; Volume 36, Issue 13, eff. April 1, 2020; Volume 38, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2021; Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

Part VI
Vocational Training and Continuing Education Providers

18VAC50-30-200. Vocational training.

A. Vocational training courses must be completed through accredited colleges, universities, junior and community colleges; adult distributive, marketing and formal vocational training as defined in this chapter; Virginia Apprenticeship Council programs; or proprietary schools approved by the Virginia Department of Education.

B. Backflow prevention device worker courses must be completed through schools approved by the board. The board accepts the American Society of Sanitary Engineers' (ASSE) standards for testing procedures. Other programs could be approved after board review. The board requires all backflow training to include instruction in a wet lab.

C. Elevator mechanic courses must be completed through schools approved by the board. The board accepts training programs approved by the National Elevator Industry Education Program (NEIEP). Other programs could be approved after board review. Water well systems provider and certified accessibility courses must be completed through education providers approved by the board.

D. Residential building energy analyst courses must be completed through programs that meet or exceed the standards set forth by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Department of Energy, or the Home Performance with Energy Star Program. Other programs could be approved after board review.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201, 54.1-1102, and 54.1-1146 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 19, eff. July 9, 1999; Volume 17, Issue 26, eff. November 1, 2001; Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; Volume 24, Issue 3, eff. November 15, 2007; Volume 30, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2014; Volume 32, Issue 1, eff. November 1, 2015; Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-210. Continuing education providers.

A. Each provider of a building code-related continuing education course must submit an application for approval on a form provided by the board. The application must include:

1. The name of the provider;

2. Provider contact person, address and telephone number;

3. Course contact hours;

4. Schedule of courses, if established, including dates, time, and locations;

5. Name of the instructor.

B. Continuing education providers must have their subjects approved by the board. Correspondence and other distance learning courses must include appropriate testing procedures to verify completion of the course.

C. All providers must establish and maintain a record for each student. The record must include the student's name and address, current individual license number, the course name and clock hours attended, the course syllabus or outline, the name of the instructor, the date of successful completion, and the board's course code. Records must be available for inspection during normal business hours by authorized representatives of the board. Providers must maintain class records for a minimum of five years.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-1102 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-220. Continuing education courses.

A. All courses offered by continuing education providers must be approved by the board and must cover articles of the current edition of the building code, including any changes, for the applicable license or certification. For electrical tradesmen, the National Electrical Code; for plumbing tradesmen, the International Plumbing Code; for HVAC tradesmen, the International Mechanical Code; for gas fitter, liquefied petroleum gas fitter, and natural gas fitter provider tradesmen, the International Fuel Gas Code. Courses offered by continuing education providers for elevator mechanics must cover articles of the current edition of the building code and other applicable laws governing elevators, escalators, or related conveyances. Courses offered by continuing education providers for accessibility mechanics must cover articles of the current edition of the building code and other applicable laws governing wheelchair lifts, incline chairlifts, dumbwaiters, and private residence elevators. Courses offered by continuing education providers for water well systems providers must cover the specialty of technical aspects of water well construction, applicable statutory and regulatory provisions, and business practices related to water well construction.

B. Approved continuing education providers must submit an application for course approval on a form provided by the board. The application must include:

1. The name of the provider and the approved provider number;

2. The name of the course;

3. The date, time, and location of the course;

4. Instructor information, including name, license number, if applicable, and a list of other appropriate trade designations; and

5. Course syllabus.

C. No regulant will receive credit toward the continuing education requirements of renewal until such approval is received from the board.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-1102 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 3, eff. November 15, 2007; Volume 30, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2014; Volume 30, Issue 6, eff. January 1, 2014; Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-230. Reporting of course completion.

All continuing education providers must electronically transmit course completion data to the board in an approved format within seven days of the completion of each individual course. The transmittal must include each student's name, current individual license or certification number, the date of successful completion of the course, and the board's course code.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-1102 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-240. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-250. Reporting of changes.

Any change in the information provided in 18VAC50-30-210 A must be reported to the board within 30 days of the change with the exception of changes in the schedule of courses, which must be reported within 10 days of the change.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-1102 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-260. Withdrawal of approval.

The board may withdraw approval of any continuing education provider for the following reasons:

1. The courses being offered no longer meet the standards established by the board.

2. The provider, through an agent or otherwise, advertises its services in a fraudulent or deceptive way.

3. The provider, instructor, or designee of the provider falsifies any information relating to the application for approval, course information, or student records or fails to produce records required by 18VAC50-30-210 C.

4. Failure to comply with 18VAC50-30-250.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-1102 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 12, eff. April 1, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

18VAC50-30-270. Board authority to audit approved education courses.

The board may conduct an audit of any board-approved education course to ensure continued compliance with this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 40, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2024.

Forms (18VAC50-30)

Education Provider Listing Application, A501-27EDLIST-v3 (rev. 12/2012)

Education Provider Registration/Course Approval Application, A501-27EDREG-v5 (rev. 12/2012)

Tradesman Additional Designation & License Upgrade Application, A501-2710_ADDLIC-v2 (rev. 12/2012)

Tradesman Exam & License Application, A501-2710EXLIC-v2 (rev. 12/2012)

Tradesman Individual Experience Form, A501-2710EXP-v2 (rev. 12/2012)

Tradesman – Inactive/Activate License Application, A501-2710INAT-v1 (eff. 1/2013)

Backflow Prevention Device Worker Certification Application, A501-2717CERT-v2 (rev. 12/2012)

Certified Elevator Mechanic Application, A501-2718CERT-v3 (rev. 7/2013)

Temporary Elevator Mechanic Certification (rev. 4/2010)

Certified Water Well System Provider Application, A501-2719CERT-v2 (rev. 12/2012)

Certified Accessibility Mechanics Application, A501-2720CERT-v1 (eff. 1/2014)

Certified Accessibility Mechanics Limited Use/Limited Application (LULA) Endorsement Application, A501-2720LULA-v1 (eff. 1/2014)

Automatic Fire Sprinkler Inspector Certification Application, A501-2723FSI-v1 (eff. 4/2020)

Residential Building Energy Analyst License Application, Form A501-2722LIC-v4 (rev. 7/2014)

Residential Building Energy Analyst Experience Form, Form A501-2722EXP-v3 (rev. 7/2013)

Documents Incorporated by Reference (18VAC50-30)

NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems (2014 edition), National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471 (http://www.nfpa.org)