LANSING — The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs has announced changes to the examination process for plumbers seeking licensure.

This includes the opening of two new locations, one in central Michigan and one the Upper Peninsula, along with more options for applicants to show their skills during the exam.

“Reducing barriers to licensure is a key focus for all of us in LARA,” Bureau of Construction Codes Director Andrew Brisbo said. “By providing more locations, along with different options for the actual exam, we are helping increase and strengthen the skilled trades workforce in Michigan.”

Candidates previously have taken exams at Michigan State University in East Lansing. While additional exam dates are being added at the campus as part of these changes, the BCC wants to increase overall accessibility and lessen travel time for Michiganders. As a result, two new locations in Cadillac and St. Ignace will be available for those looking to take a plumbing practical exam.

With the number of skilled trades job openings increasing around the state, Michigan Plumbing Chief Kole Myers is confident these new locations will more than double the opportunities available to take the actual exam, allowing plumbing professionals to get into the workforce as soon as possible.

Noteworthy changes are also being made to the actual plumbing examination process. Beginning in August, applicants will have different options to show their skills through three different types of exams.

These include a chlorinated polyvinyl chloride or CPVC, pro press or a copper sweat project. The BCC looked to make these changes based on previous exam data.

“Our failure rate has not improved with the current practical exam materials,” Myers said. “Giving the candidate the option of choosing from three different materials makes us hopeful that the pass/fail rate will improve significantly and will provide the candidates with the confidence to pass the exam.”

Both LARA and BCC also have confidence that these changes will help attract more Michiganders to careers in skilled trades.

“Better workers make for a better state infrastructure,” Brisbo said. “We believe that this is just the beginning of many improvements that will help get those interested in skilled trades licensed and ready to make a difference.”

To learn more about the plumbing examination and licensure process, go to the BCC website at https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bcc