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Contractor License in Washington

State license

Washington does not license or test contractors; instead every construction contractor must register with the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) as either a general or specialty contractor before advertising or performing work. There is no experience or exam requirement to register, but a surety bond and liability insurance are mandatory. Electricians and plumbers hold separate trade certifications.

Quick facts

ExamNo exam is required to register as a general or specialty contractor in Washington.
BondContinuous surety bond required: $30,000 for general contractors and $15,000 for specialty contractors (amounts increased effective July 1, 2024).
InsuranceGeneral liability insurance required: minimum $200,000 public liability plus $50,000 property damage, or a $250,000 combined single limit per occurrence (per RCW 18.27.050).
FeesRegistration fee approximately $150.20.
RenewalRegistration is valid for 2 years and must be renewed before expiration.
Main agencyWashington State Department of Labor and Industries
Official sitehttps://lni.wa.gov/licensing-permits/contractors/register-as-a-contractor/
Requirements, thresholds, and fees change, and local rules can be stricter than the state. Always confirm directly with the board and your local building department before you bid or pull a permit. This page is a starting point, not legal advice.
Apply / official Washington board →

License classifications

How to get licensed in Washington

  1. Decide whether you will register as a general contractor or a specialty contractor (one of 63 specialty classifications).
  2. Obtain a continuous surety bond ($30,000 general or $15,000 specialty).
  3. Obtain a certificate of general liability insurance meeting the RCW 18.27.050 minimums, ensuring the business name matches the bond and application.
  4. Register the business with the WA Secretary of State / Department of Revenue as needed for a UBI number.
  5. Complete the Construction Contractor Registration application (Form F625-001-000), which must be notarized and include an SSN or ITIN.
  6. Submit the application and registration fee (about $150.20) to L&I.
  7. Renew the registration every 2 years and keep the bond and insurance continuously active.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to pass an exam to become a contractor in Washington?

No. Washington does not test general or specialty contractors. You register with L&I after posting a bond and insurance; there is no exam or experience requirement to register.

What bond do I need?

General contractors need a $30,000 continuous surety bond and specialty contractors need a $15,000 bond. These amounts increased on July 1, 2024.

What insurance is required to register?

You must carry general liability insurance of at least $200,000 public liability plus $50,000 property damage, or a $250,000 combined single limit per occurrence.

What is the difference between general and specialty registration?

A general contractor registration covers coordinating a broad range of construction work across trades. A specialty contractor registration covers a single trade or craft, drawn from L&I's 63 specialty classifications.

How often do I renew my registration?

Contractor registration is valid for 2 years and must be renewed before it expires, with the bond and insurance kept continuously in force.

Sources

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Guide compiled from official Washington licensing-board sources. Verify current details with the board before acting; licensing rules change.