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    Plumbing Journeyman Practice Test — Free IPC/UPC Exam Prep

    Free plumbing journeyman practice test covering both model codes — the International Plumbing Code (IPC, published by ICC) and the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC, published by IAPMO). Five subject areas: Administration & Definitions, Water Supply & Distribution, Sanitary Drainage (DWV), Vents & Traps, and Fixtures, Gas & Special. Every question tells you which code family it applies to, with the IPC or UPC section cited in the answer key. Whichever code your state has adopted, the question set covers it — and the state-specific landing pages below tell you exactly which family applies in your jurisdiction.

    Sample questions

    1. The Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) is published by:

    1. A. ICC (International Code Council)
    2. B. IAPMO (International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials)
    3. C. NFPA
    4. D. ASME
    Show explanation

    IAPMO publishes the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). ICC publishes the competing International Plumbing Code (IPC). A jurisdiction adopts one family (sometimes with amendments) as its governing plumbing code.

    Ref: UPC — IAPMO

    2. The International Plumbing Code (IPC) is published by:

    1. A. IAPMO
    2. B. ICC (International Code Council)
    3. C. ASSE
    4. D. ANSI
    Show explanation

    ICC publishes the IPC as part of the International Codes (I-Codes) family, alongside the IRC, IMC, and IFGC. IAPMO publishes the UPC. Which applies depends entirely on local adoption.

    Ref: IPC — ICC

    3. Where the static water pressure in the building supply exceeds 80 psi, the code requires:

    1. A. A larger water meter
    2. B. An approved pressure-reducing valve (PRV) on the supply to fixtures
    3. C. A second backflow preventer
    4. D. A check valve only
    Show explanation

    IPC 604.8 and UPC 608.2 require a pressure-reducing valve where static pressure exceeds 80 psi, so the pressure to fixtures stays ≤ 80 psi (protecting fixtures, valves, and connections). The PRV is set and may include a bypass per the code.

    Ref: IPC 604.8 · UPC 608.2

    4. Horizontal drainage piping 3 in and smaller must be installed at a minimum slope of:

    1. A. 1/16 in per ft
    2. B. 1/8 in per ft
    3. C. 1/4 in per ft
    4. D. 1/2 in per ft
    Show explanation

    IPC Table 704.1: pipe 2-1/2 in and smaller slopes at 1/4 in/ft; 3 in to 6 in may slope at 1/8 in/ft; 8 in and larger at 1/16 in/ft. Minimum slope maintains a self-scouring velocity (~2 ft/s) so solids do not deposit.

    Ref: IPC Table 704.1 · UPC 708

    Want the full question bank?

    Drop your email and we’ll send the complete study PDF — every question, answer, and code reference.

    Frequently asked

    Does this cover IPC or UPC?

    Both. Every question is tagged with the code family it applies to (IPC, UPC, or "both" for shared concepts).

    How do I know which code my state uses?

    See the state-specific landing pages below — each one names the adopted code, edition year, and any major amendments. IPC and UPC adoption is roughly split coast-to-coast.

    Is this the real journeyman plumber test?

    No — the licensure exam is administered by your state board (often via PSI / Prov / Pearson VUE). This is paraphrased study practice with full explanations.

    Is signup required?

    No. The warm-up question set is ungated and the 25-question study PDF downloads free. Only the full-bank PDF is gated by a newsletter signup.