The exam is open book, and the passing score is 70%. Please visit the Trades Examination Information page for additional exam information and dates.
The first updates to Wisconsin plumbing code since 2009 will take effect on October 1, but related licensing exams will not be administered under the new code until November.
The state's Plumbing Code Advisory Committee received input from professional groups to shape these updates, which can now be found in state administrative code.
While the new plumbing code takes effect October 1, DSPS is offering a brief grace period for related licensing exams. Exams will be administered under the old code throughout October. However, exams will be administered under the updated code starting in November.
A link to the plain language document is located at the link below:
Significant Plumbing Code Updates Plain Language
The updated code language can be found on the Wisconsin Legislature's webpage:
Wisconsin Legislature Updated Code Language
Content
The exam will cover information listed below. Pearson VUE and DSPS exam locations will ONLY allow the following reference items into the exam. Up to three binders will be permitted:
- One three-ring binder containing: Wis. Admin. Code § SPS 381 - Definitions, Wis. Admin. Code § SPS 382 - General Plumbing, Wis. Admin. Code § SPS 384 - Plumbing Products, Wis. Admin. Code § SPS 385 - Soil and Site Evaluations, Wis. Admin. Code § SPS 305 - Plumbing Credentials, Wis. Admin. Code § SPS 316 - Proper Plumbing Connections, Chapter 383, Chapter 145 of the WI. State Statutes, (Plumbing, Fire and Swimming Pools)
POWTS Component Manuals
Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Code
***Please note printed code can only be brought into the exam if it is bound together in a three-ring binder ***
Please Note: A thorough knowledge of the electrical code is not required. However, there are a few issues associated with proper electrical connections to pumps and other components.
The major chapters associated with the POWTS exam are based off of the plumbing code, (381-387).
Copies of Wisconsin Administrative Codes may be printed from the Wisconsin State Legislature site or obtained from Document Sales online or by calling (608) 243-2441 or (800) 362-7253. International model codes and accessibility standards can be obtained from the International Code Council (ICC) or by calling (800) 786-4452. When there is a change to Wisconsin codes, exams will cover the new codes three months after the effective date.