General contractor license requirements by state: NEXT Insurance guide

As a general contractor, it’s crucial to meet state license requirements to ensure smooth project execution and client satisfaction.

However, each state has varying requirements for general contractors at both the state and local levels. It’s important to understand the licensing process and everything you need to do before you spend money on an application.

You will also need to ensure you have the right general contractor insurance required to get a license in many states. Insurance helps protect against property damage, injuries, court costs, and legal fees. Our state-by-state list of licensing requirements can help you find what you need.

We also have state guides for other trades, including handypersons, carpenters, electricians, HVAC technicians, landscapers, roofing, painters and plumbers.

The list is in alphabetical order and includes links for additional resources in each state.

Jump ahead:

• States A-E
• States F-J
• States K-O
• States P-T
• States U-Z

Alabama

General contractors must have a state license in Alabama to work on any construction, alteration, maintenance, repair or demolition project that costs more than $50,000 and swimming pools over $5,000.

Alabama requires three references as part of the contractor license application. You’ll also need financial statements prepared by a certified accountant and other proof that your business is registered.

The Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors awards this license. Applicants must pass a trade exam, and a business and law exam. You’ll also need to document your work experience and show proof of general liability insurance in Alabama and workers’ comp if you have five or more employees.

Your application with required fees — $300 for general contractors and $150 for subcontractors — must be submitted at least 30 days before quarterly board meetings.

Learn more about general contractor license requirements in Alabama.

Alaska

General contractors must hold a state license to work in Alaska. The Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing awards three license classifications:

General contractor with residential contractor endorsement

Can oversee new home construction or can undertake residential work that is more than 25% of the value of the structure. You’ll need to complete a 16-hour cold climate course and pass an exam.

General contractor without residential contractor endorsement

Can undertake commercial work or residential remodel work less than 25% of the value of the structure. No exam is required.

General contractor handyman

You’ll be able to undertake residential or commercial work valued at less than $10,000.

All types of general contractor licenses must hold general liability insurance. They must also have workers’ compensation insurance if they have any employees.

Arizona

Any general contractor who builds, alters, repairs, adds to, subtracts from, improves, moves, wrecks or demolishes any structure with project values over $1,000 must hold a state contractor license to work in Arizona. There are a number of different classifications of licenses awarded by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. They include:

• General residential contractors license
• General commercial contractor license
• General dual license contracting (includes both residential and commercial contracting licenses)

To receive a general contractor license, you must pass the trade exam and the business management exam. You must show proof of four years of experience and show proof of a bond. If you have one or more part-time or full-time employees, you must carry Arizona workers’ comp insurance.

Learn more about general contractor license requirements in Arizona.

Arkansas

All general contractors in Arkansas must have a state general contractor license to do any work worth more than $2,000. There are a number of different classifications of licenses awarded by the Contractors Licensing Board. These include:

Commercial license

Allows you to work on projects worth more than $50,000. This allows you to also do residential work in the same classification as your commercial license.

Restricted commercial license

You can only work on commercial projects worth less than $750,000.

Residential builders license

Allows you to do work on any single-family residence where the work is worth more than $2,000.

Residential remodeler limited license

You can do home improvement work worth up to $50,000.

Residential remodeler unlimited license

You can do any size home improvement projects.

For all licenses, you must provide a financial statement, proof of a bond, and proof of workers’ compensation insurance. You need to pass a business and law exam. You’ll need to select your specialty or classification.

A building (commercial or residential) classification does not require a trade exam. You will require references who can provide details about your work experience.

Learn more about general contractor license and insurance requirements in Arkansas.

California

All general contractors in California must hold a state license from the California Contractors State License Board for any work worth more than $1,000. (Up from$500 as of January 2025)

There are four types of contractor licenses in California:

• Class A general engineering contractor: The license for specialized engineering projects
• Class B general building contractor: The license for managing projects involving two or more unrelated trades
• Class B-2 residential remodeling contractor: The license involves any project to make improvements to an existing residential wood frame structure.
• Class C specialty contractor: The license for performing different types of construction work or particular trades. Class C contractors can’t be general contractors on projects that involve multiple trades.

You can apply for a general engineering contractor or general building contractor license. You must have had four full years of experience in the past ten years at a journeyman level or as a foreman, supervisor, or contractor, in the classification in which you’re applying.

You’ll need to show proof of a contractor surety bond or cashier’s check of $25,000 and that you meet all the requirements before you take the trade exam, as well as a business and law exam. You’ll also have to submit your fingerprints and take an Asbestos exam. Next steps include posting your bond and showing proof of insurance — workers’ comp and liability coverages.

There are also fees, including a $450 application fee and a $200 license fee. Once you have a license, you’ll need to renew it every two years, which costs $450.

Learn more about general contractor license requirements in California.

Colorado

General contractors do not need a state license to work in Colorado. However, many local governments have contractor license requirements. A good starting point is to contact the local government in the town or city where you’re going to work.

For example, Denver contractors must pass an exam, have a supervisor certificate and meet other standards set by the Denver Community Planning & Development Office. Several cities require contractors to have active insurance, as well.

A few different types of general contractor licenses are available in Colorado, but only some types are offered in some areas.

The most common types of licenses are:

• Class A license: This license allows contractors to work on any building project, no matter how big or small.
• Class B license: This license allows contractors to work on most residential and commercial building projects.
• Class C license: This license limits contractors to working on residential buildings for single-family dwellings or multi-family dwellings.

To qualify for a license, contractors will need to pass an International Code Council (ICC) exam and already have a Colorado general liability policy with at least a $100,000 policy limit. You must also have workers’ compensation insurance if you have one or more employees.

After you’ve satisfied the requirements and your application is submitted, it usually takes a few weeks for review, depending on the municipality. Applications that were submitted through the mail system may also take longer than applications submitted online or in person.

Learn more about Colorado general contractor license requirements.

Connecticut

Connecticut does not require general contractors to hold a state license. However, if you work on residential properties, you’ll be considered a home improvement contractor and you’ll need to register with the Department of Consumer Protection.

All Connecticut businesses with one or more employees are required by state law to have workers’ compensation insurance.

Learn more about Connecticut general contractor license requirements.

Delaware

General contractors in Delaware do not require a trade license, but you must get a business license and register with the Delaware Division of Revenue.

Florida

You must have a state license to work in Florida as a general contractor. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation regulates these licenses.

There are different types of licenses based on what kind of classification your business falls under:

• A certified license allows contractors to work anywhere in the state
• A registered license allows contractors to only work in specific areas in the state

Choose your license once you’ve decided what type of general contracting work you’ll do:

General contractor – CG and RG

The license is unlimited in terms of the type of work you can perform. You will need to show at least one year of experience constructing structures four stories or higher. You must have experience in four of seven specific categories.

Building contractor – CB and RB

This is limited to the construction of commercial buildings or residential buildings that don’t exceed three stories in height, or the remodeling, repair or improvement of any size structure.

Residential contractors license – CR and RR

This is limited to work on residences that are no more than two stories in height.

You’ll need to show proof of four years of experience, or a combination of education and experience (with up to three years of education can substitute for experience). You must show proof of financial stability, as well as general liability and workers’ compensation insurance in Florida.

You’ll need to pass a trade exam, as well as a business and law exam. You may be able to register with the state and then apply for a trade license at the local, county or city level.

Florida is unique because it requires you to pass your state certification exam before applying for your general contractor license. You need to schedule your exam with Professional Testing, Inc.

Note: Test-takers can only take the exam in February, April, June, August, October and December.

Learn more about Florida general contractor license and insurance requirements.

Georgia

You’ll need a contractor license in Georgia if you plan to work on projects valued at $2,500 or higher. The Georgia State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors takes a tiered approach to licenses based on the projects you’re working on. You’ll also have to meet minimum insurance requirements, as well as education or work experience requirements:

• A diploma or transcript in engineering, architecture, project management, or building construction.
• A diploma or transcript showing college-level coursework and work experience commensurate with at least four years of university experience.
• At least four years of work experience in construction, of which two were working for a general contractor.

There are four different kinds of licenses in Georgia for general contractors:

General contractor

This license is for work that exceeds $2,500 on private, commercial, industrial, public, and other building projects.

General contractor-limited tier

This allows for the same work as a basic contractor license but with contract amounts of $500,000 or less.

Residential-basic contractor

This license is limited to projects with detached one-family and two-family residences and, one-family townhouses (not over three-stories) and adjacent structures.

Residential-light commercial contractor

This license is the same as residential-basic, with the addition of projects related to multi-family and multi-use light commercial buildings and adjacent structures.

Note that for Residential Basic and Light Commercial license applications, your proof of net worth can be a $25,000 surety bond in the individual or business organization’s name. For all other applications, you will need a signed financial letter referenced by a certified accountant. You must provide workers’ comp insurance if you have three or more employees.

Learn more about Georgia general contractor license and insurance requirements.

Hawaii

General contractors must hold a state license in Hawaii to do commercial, residential or public works worth more than $1,000 or require a building permit. The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Professional and Vocational Licensing Board awards a number of licenses, including:

• General engineering contractors (fixed works projects); and
• General building contractors (construction of structures using more than two unrelated trades).

To qualify for a license, you must show proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance. You’ll need to pass a trade exam, as well as a business and law exam.

Learn more about Hawaii general contractor license and insurance requirements.

Idaho

Any general contractor who performs construction work worth more than $2,000 must be registered with the Idaho Contractors Board. There is no state licensing requirement for general contractors in Idaho.

In Idaho, employers with one or more employees are required to obtain and maintain workers’ compensation insurance.

Learn more about general contractor license requirements in Idaho.

Illinois

The state of Illinois does not have a state license requirement for general contractors. However, in many local jurisdictions, you must get a license and insurance before starting work.

For example, the Chicago Department of Buildings requires specific licenses based on the value of projects your business will work on. It also has minimum requirements for contractor business insurance in Illinois.

You might be able to work out a license reciprocity agreement in Illinois if you already have a contractor license in another state. If not, you’ll need to apply for a license from scratch:

• Provide a description of the work and services you aim to perform
• Specify the classification of license for which you are applying for
• Clarify your business structure and provide additional company information
• Identify and verify by affidavit that the applicant or member of your business entity is financially stable
• Submit your certificate of insurance with the City of Chicago as additionally insured and policy limits ranging from $1 million to $5 million depending on the sizes of your projects
• Sign and complete the application

You must also pay all licensing fees, which vary according to license class:

• Class A – $2,000 fee for an unlimited contract amount
• Class B – $1,000 fee for projects up to $10,000,000
• Class C – $750 fee for projects up to $5,000,000
• Class D – $500 fee for projects up to $2,000,000
• Class E – $300 fee for projects up to $500,000

Once you have your license, you need to renew it every year.

Learn more about general contractor license and insurance requirements in Illinois.

Indiana

General contractors don’t need a state license to work in Indiana. Make sure to check the licensing requirements with local governments before you begin work.

Learn more about Indiana general contractor license and insurance requirements.

Iowa

There are no state licensing requirements for general contractors in Iowa. However, any construction contractor (individual or business) who earns at least $2,000 a year doing construction work, must register with the Iowa Division of Labor.

General contractors must carry Iowa workers’ compensation insurance unless they meet one of a few limited exemptions.

Kansas

General contractors don’t need to hold a state license to work in Kansas. However, there are local licensing requirements, so check these before you begin work.

According to the Kansas Department of Labor, a non-agricultural business with a gross annual payroll of more than $20,000 must have workers’ compensation insurance.

Kentucky

You don’t need a state general contractor license to work in Kentucky. All licensing is done at the local city/county level, so check this before you begin work. Workers’ compensation insurance is required for all Kentucky employers with one or more employees.

Learn more about Kentucky general contractor license and insurance requirements.

Louisiana

General contractors must have a state license to work in Louisiana. There are five types of licenses you should consider, all of which are awarded by the Louisiana Licensing Board for Contractors:

Residential contractor license

Covers construction and home improvement projects worth more than $75,000. You’ll need to pass an exam to show a financial statement and proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance.

Commercial contractor license

Covers commercial projects worth more than $50,000. You’ll need to submit a financial statement and must pass the trade exam, as well as the business and law exam.

Home improvement registration

If you plan to do any home repair or improvement projects valued between $7,500 and $75,000, and you don’t have a residential or commercial license, you’ll need this license.

After you figure out which type of license you want, you need to apply for the license itself:

• Fill out your application
• Prepare your notarized financial statements
• Pick a legal representative
• Pass the exam
• Get insurance (you must have proof of general liability insurance coverage and a certificate of insurance for active workers’ compensation insurance)
• Pay relevant fees
• Get approval from the Louisiana State Licensing Board for General Contractors

Once you’ve completed all these steps, submit your application for board approval.

Learn more about Louisiana general contractor license and insurance requirements.

Maine

You don’t need a state license to work as a general contractor in Maine. However, if you undertake home improvement or construction jobs worth more than $3,000 you must provide a written contract. There may be local licensing requirements, so check these before you begin work.

All private and public employers in Maine must have workers’ compensation insurance.

Maryland

As a general contractor, you may or may not need a state license, depending on the work you do. For new home construction, you don’t need a state license, but you do need to register with the Home Builder Registration Unit of the Office of the Attorney General. If you plan to do work on existing residential property, you will need to get your Maryland Home Improvement Contractor’s License (MHIC) from the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.

If you undertake any home improvement projects, you will need a license, which the Maryland Home Improvement Commission issues. In this case, you’ll need proof of two years of work experience in home improvement, construction, or related education.

You’ll also need proof of financial solvency and proof of insurance (at least $50,000 of contractor liability insurance). You must pass a business and law exam.

Commercial contractors must register at the city/county level. You’ll apply for a construction license with the Clerk of the Circuit Court in your county if you plan to work on new construction projects, excavating or curbing and paving streets or sidewalks.

The Marine Contractors Licensing Board handles licensing for general contractors that work on projects involving waterfront structures, such as boathouses, piers, ramps and wetland observation decks.

Most Maryland businesses with employees are required by state law to carry workers’ compensation insurance.

Learn more about Maryland general contractor license and insurance requirements.

Massachusetts

As a general residential contractor in Massachusetts, you must be registered and licensed. You must hold a Home Improvement Contractor registration to perform ordinary repairs to an existing property. To work on larger projects on existing properties, you must also hold a Construction Supervisor License from the Office of Public Safety and Inspections.

You can apply for an unrestricted license, a one- and two-family dwelling license or a specialty license. You must show three years of experience in building construction or design, and you must pass an exam.

Contractors who build new homes or work on commercial buildings only are exempt.

Learn more about Massachusetts general contractor license and insurance requirements.

Michigan

As a general contractor, you’ll need a Residential Builders license or a Maintenance & Alterations Contractors license to construct, repair, alter, add to, subtract from, or improve a residential or combined residential and commercial structure. You’ll need to complete a 60-hour pre-licensure course and you must pass a test.

The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) issues the general contractor license. Commercial construction contractors must contact their local county building offices for permits or licenses.

Learn more about Michigan general contractor license and insurance requirements.

Minnesota

A general commercial contractor does not need a state license to work in Minnesota. However, a residential building contractor or remodeler does need a license. The Department of Labor and Industry awards the Residential Building Contractor license.

You’ll need to show proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance. You must pass a trade exam, as well as a business and law exam.

Learn more about Minnesota general contractor license and insurance requirements.

Mississippi

General commercial and residential contractors must hold a state license to work in Mississippi on more than $50,000 projects. The Mississippi State Board of Contractors awards the licenses.

You’ll need to pass a trade exam, as well as a business and law exam. You must show proof of general liability insurance. If you have five or more employees, you must have workers’ compensation insurance.

Learn more about Mississippi general contractor license and insurance requirements.

Missouri

There is no state licensing requirement for general contractors in Missouri, but there may be general contractor license requirements on a local level that you need to check before you begin work.

In Missouri, employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance if they have five or more employees.

Montana

There are no licensing requirements for general contractors in Montana. However, a construction contractor who has employees must register with the Department of Labor and Industry.

Montana state law requires workers’ compensation insurance coverage for almost all employers with one or more employees.

Nebraska

A general contractor doesn’t need a state license to work in Nebraska — most licensing is done at the local level, so check county requirements. However, if you do any work considered construction, alterations, renovations, additions, installations or repairs, you must register with the Department of Labor.

Nevada

General contractors, defined as “businesses or individuals who construct or alter any building, highway, road, parking facility, railroad, excavation or other structure in Nevada,” must hold a state license. The Nevada State Contractors Board awards the license to individuals who work on property valued over $1,000.

You must show proof of workers’ compensation insurance and proof of a bond. You are required to show proof of four years of experience at a journeyman level or as a foreman, supervising employee or contractor.

You’ll need to pass a trade exam, as well as a business and law exam.

Learn more about Nevada general contractor license and insurance requirements.

New Hampshire

General contractors do not need a state license to work in New Hampshire. However, make sure to check local licensing requirements before you begin work. Even though there is no state-level licensure, businesses with one or more employee are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance.

New Jersey

There are no state licensing requirements for general contractors in New Jersey. However, you will need to register for a home building license with the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs or for a home improvement license with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. Commercial construction contractors are licensed at the city or county level.

If you have an incorporated business you might need to include your trade name certificate, certificate of incorporation, certificate of formation or registration of alternate name with your application. And if you created your business in another state, you’ll also need to show a certificate of authority proving you’re allowed to work in New Jersey.

You’ll receive a registration number when your application is approved, which you must include in all ads, contracts, business documents, messaging to customers, and on your business vehicles.

It’s important to renew your license every year before March 31. If you’re found working without a license in NJ, you could be fined $10,000 the first time and $20,000 for each additional offense.

Learn more about New Jersey general contractor license and insurance requirements.

New Mexico

General contractors must be licensed by the state to work in New Mexico. The New Mexico Department of Regulation and Licensing issues multiple contractor license classifications. These include GB-2 Residential and GB-98 General Building.

You’ll need to show proof of four years of experience. You can substitute up to two years of education for experience. You must pass a trade exam, as well as a business and law exam. Workers’ compensation insurance is required for all businesses in New Mexico with three or more employees.

Learn more about general contractor license requirements in New Mexico.

New York

A general contractor is not required to hold a state license in New York; however, local governments within the state have licensing requirements. Check these before you begin work.

North Carolina

General contractors must have a state license to work in North Carolina if their projects are worth more than $40,000. The North Carolina Licensing Board awards the general contractor license for General Contractors.

There are multiple classifications of licenses for general contractors, and you can be licensed in more than one classification if you meet the qualifications. These include:

• Building contractor
• Residential contractor
• Highway contractor
• Public utilities contractor
• Specialty contractor

There are also licensing limitation classifications: limited, intermediate and unlimited.

In order to become a general contractor in NC, you must:

• Be at least 18
• Answer questions about your background
• Be legally registered to conduct business
• Pass the National Accredited Building Examination given by the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA)
• Have the finances available to back up projects of $30,0000 or more

After you apply online, the licensing board will send you instructions on how to sign up for the right exams. The board will review your exam and send you your license once you’re approved.

Licensing is completed after a clean background check, and the entire process typically takes around 30 days.

While you don’t need liability insurance to gain your contractor license, you must provide workers’ compensation insurance if you have three or more employees.

Learn more about North Carolina general contractor license requirements.

North Dakota

All contractors in North Dakota require a state license to work on projects worth more than $4,000. A contractor is considered any person who constructs, repairs, alters, dismantles or demolishes “bridges, highways, roads, streets, buildings, airports, dams, pipelines, and every other structure, project, development or improvement” of property.

You must apply for Class A, B, C or D according to the scope of the work you plan to do. You must show proof of liability insurance before you’ll be granted a license from the Secretary of State.

Ohio

A general contractor does not need a state license to work in Ohio for small projects that cost less than $1,000. Licenses are only required for electrical, plumbing, HVAC, hydronics and refrigeration, for which you’ll need to get a statewide license issued by the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB).

To apply for a statewide contractor license in Ohio, you’ll need to:

• Be 18 or over
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal alien with proof of residence
• Have worked as a tradesperson for at least five years, be a registered engineer or have equivalent experience
• Not have been convicted of a crime
• Pass the exam
• Prove you have at least $500,000 in contractor liability insurance
• Pay a $25 application fee

You can apply for a general license at the local level if you don’t want to specialize in any trades (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, hydronics or refrigeration).

Be careful to note that different parts of Ohio have different rules for getting a general contractor license, so it’s essential to know the state and city requirements before you apply.

Learn more about Ohio general contractor license requirements.

Oklahoma

General contractors do not need a state license to work in Oklahoma. There may be local licensing requirements, so be sure to check these before you begin work.

Across the state, most employers in Oklahoma with full-time or part-time employees must carry workers’ compensation insurance.

Learn more about general contractor license requirements in Oklahoma.

Oregon

A general contractor must hold a state license to work in Oregon. A contractor is considered any person paid to do any construction work that involves improving real property.

The Oregon Construction Contractors Board awards the license. You can apply for a:

• Residential contractor license,
• Commercial license or
• Dual residential and commercial license

You must complete pre-license training and take a test. You’ll also need proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance.

Oregon’s construction license requirements are stricter than those of other states. To apply, businesses must register and determine their building and work types.

A 16-hour training course is required, which can be taken online, in person, or self-study. A surety bond, insurance, and identification numbers are also required.

If 18 or over, applicants can submit an application to the Construction Contractors Board (CCB) with supporting documents and a $325 fee. The license is valid for two years, and the CCB license number must appear on advertising. Renewal requires continuing education every two years.

Learn more about Oregon general contractor license requirements.

Pennsylvania

General contractors and commercial contractors do not need a state license to work in Pennsylvania. However, if you do more than $5,000 worth of work on home improvement projects per year, you’ll need to register with the Attorney General’s Office.

Learn more about general contractor license requirements in Pennsylvania.

Rhode Island

There is no licensing requirement for general contractors in Rhode Island; however, there is a comprehensive registration process. All contractors and subcontractors involved in commercial construction, home construction, alterations, remodeling or property repairs must register with the Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board.

You must complete five hours of pre-license education and must show proof of liability insurance.

South Carolina

General contractors will require a General and Mechanical Contractors License to work in South Carolina on any commercial construction jobs worth over $5,000. The South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation awards the general contractor license.

You’ll need to show proof of two years of experience in the past five years and pass a trade exam, as well as a business and law exam. South Carolina businesses with four or more employees are required by state law to carry workers’ compensation insurance.

Learn more about general contractor license requirements in South Carolina.

South Dakota

General contractors are not licensed at the state level in South Dakota. Before you begin work, check with local and county governments as there may be local licensing requirements. Though workers’ comp insurance is not required, the state highly recommends this insurance for businesses with employees.

Tennessee

General contractors must hold a contractor license before bidding on or negotiating prices for projects worth $25,000 or more. This applies to any person who oversees or performs any construction, repair or installation for buildings, land, highways, public utilities and more.

You’ll need to show proof of experience and a financial statement. You’ll also need to provide proof of general liability coverage and workers’ comp insurance if you employ five or more people in your business.

You’ll also need to pass a trade exam, as well as a business and law exam. General contractors are licensed by the TN Department of Licensing and Insurance, Board for Licensing Contractors.

Learn more about general contractor license and insurance requirements in Tennessee.

Texas

Texas does not require a general contractor license at the state level. However, some cities have local licensing requirements, so check with your city or county before you start any work.

For example, you must file a contractor registration application in Dallas to operate. However, in Austin, you may only need to file project-based permits.

Unlike most other states, Texas law does not require most businesses to carry workers’ compensation insurance. However it’s a smart idea for individuals in the construction industry to carry this coverage along with general liability.

Learn more about Texas general contractor license and insurance requirements.

Utah

A general contractor requires a state license to do any work in Utah worth more than $3,000. The Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing awards the B-100 General Building and R-100 Residential & Small Commercial licenses.

To qualify, you must show proof of general liability, workers’ compensation insurance, and proof of financial responsibility. You need to show two years of experience in the past 10 years. You’ll need to pass a trade exam and a business and law exam.

Application fees are based on the number of qualifiers and classifications you’re applying for.

Learn more about Utah general contractor license and insurance requirements.

Vermont

General contractors do not need a state license to work in Vermont; however, there may be local requirements, so you’ll want to make sure to check these before you begin work.

Virginia

To work in Virginia, general contractors must have a state license, issued by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.

General contractors may opt for the Commercial Building Contractor or Residential Building Contractor license. There are three license classes (A, B or C), depending on the scope of the work you plan to do:

• Class A licenses: For individual projects worth up to $120,000 with a maximum of $750,000 per year.
• Class B licenses: For individual projects of up to $10,000 with a maximum of $120,000 per year.
• Class C licenses: For individual projects worth over $1,000 but no more than $10,000 with a maximum of $150,000 per year.

For all classes of licenses, you must complete a pre-license education course approved by the Board of Contractors and then pass an exam.

If you’re a Virginia business owner with more than two employees, state law requires you to carry workers’ compensation insurance.

Learn more about Virginia contractor license requirements.

Washington

As a general contractor in Washington, there is no state licensing requirement. Still, you’ll need to register with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.

You’ll need to show proof of a $12,000 surety bond and proof of general liability insurance. You also must pass an exam.

Learn more about general contractor requirements in Washington.

West Virginia

General contractors who work on projects worth more than $2,500 require a license to work in West Virginia. The West Virginia Division of Labor issues the license. There are multiple classifications of licenses, including general building and general engineering.

You’ll need to pass a trade exam, as well as a business and law exam. You must also show proof of workers’ compensation insurance and you may require a wage bond.

Wisconsin

A general contractor must hold a Dwelling Contractor Qualifier license to work in Wisconsin on any construction projects worth more than $1,000. This includes construction, alterations, and improvements on residential, commercial, and public works projects.

You must complete a 12-hour education course approved by the board, pass a test and show proof of liability insurance. To obtain building permits, your business must hold a Dwelling Contractor license.

Learn more about general contractor license requirements in Wisconsin.

Wyoming

General contractors do not need to hold a state license to work in Wyoming. Licensing is done locally, so check with your city or county before you begin work.

Contractor license info by state

Learn more about contractor license requirements in the following states:

Alabama	Kentucky	Oklahoma
Arizona	Louisiana	Oregon
Arkansas	Maryland	Pennsylvania
California	Massachusetts	South Carolina
Colorado	Michigan	Tennessee
Connecticut	Minnesota	Texas
Florida	Mississippi	Utah
Georgia	Nevada	Virginia
Hawaii	New Jersey	Washington
Idaho	New Mexico	Wisconsin
Illinois	North Carolina
Indiana	Ohio

This information has been provided as a service. It is correct and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge; however, it is in no way intended to offer legal advice and you must always consult with local authorities before you make any business decisions. Regulations and requirements may change at any time.