Contractor licensing in the United States
Published on September 1, 2009
Licensing laws for contractors vary greatly across the country — depending on the state, municipality and what kind of contractor you’re looking to hire. Nearly 90 percent of states issue licenses for at least a few types of contractors. Some areas require registration, which typically doesn’t require proof of proficiency. Some do both.
Angie's List Magazine surveyed licensing and registration boards nationwide to gauge how “all over the map” the rules really are for some of the List's most popular home-improvement categories, including electricians, heating and A/C, handymen, builders and remodelers.
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State licensing ONLY |
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State licensing AND state registration |
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State licensing AND local licensing |
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State licensing AND local registration |
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Local licensing ONLY |
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State registration AND local licensing |
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State licensing, state registration PLUS local licensing |
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State licensing PLUS local licensing,
local registration |
State and local licensing laws are constantly evolving. Get tips on how to verify that your contractor is in compliance.
Sources: Angie’s List member and company polls, Insurance Information Institute, Angie’s List Magazine staff research