Licensing Guides
State Contractor License: How to Become a General Contractor in Colorado
Contractor, CO
Table of Contents
Why Do You Need a Contractor License in Colorado?
How Can You Get a Contractor License in Colorado?
Types of General Contractor Licenses in Colorado
What Are the Requirements of a Colorado Contractor License?
How Long Does It Take to Get a Contractor License in Colorado?
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Contractor License in Colorado?
Colorado Contractor License Training Programs and Schools
Does Colorado Reciprocate Contractor Licenses?
Do I Need to Renew my Contractor License in Colorado?
Are There Any Penalties for Contracting Without a License in Colorado?
We all need a place to live and work, and those buildings require upkeep and repair. They’re often the biggest investments we make in our lives, and keeping them in good condition is essential. We count on professionals to know how to fix damage to or wear and tear on our homes and businesses. General contractors are typically the experts we rely on to help us with these repairs, and we need these men and women to know what they’re doing.
Many states require contractors to be licensed. Others simply require solid insurance to back up the essential work they perform. There are 520,900 construction managers and 1,599,800 construction laborers and helpers nationwide, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Colorado employs 12,830 managers and 20,800 laborers and helpers. The national number for managers is projected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033; 8% for laborers and helpers. In Colorado, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate for laborers is nearly double the national number at 14% and for managers it’s even higher at 17%. If you’re thinking about becoming a contractor or you want a job in the field, you need to know the requirements in your state or local jurisdiction. This guide will help you determine what you need before you get started.
Why Do You Need a Contractor License in Colorado?
Colorado doesn’t require a license at the state level for general contractors, but relies on cities and counties to set their own contractor license requirements. That means the licensing process in the city of Denver is different from getting a license in Aurora.
Colorado requires state licenses only for specific types of contractors and trade work. The Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations oversees licenses for electrical contractors, master electricians, journeyman electricians, plumbing contractors, master plumbers, and journey worker plumbers.
How Can You Get a Contractor License in Colorado?
In Colorado, each locality has its own process for getting a contractor license. Typically, cities and counties list the requirements and the application process on their websites.
In Denver, the first step is to apply for a Supervisor certificate. Once you or an employee at your company is a Supervisor certificate holder, you can then apply for a contractor license. To obtain a contracting business license, you’ll need to form a business as a sole proprietor, partnership, corporation, or limited liability company. You’ll also need to pass an exam.
In Colorado Springs, you’ll need to pass an exam before applying, and submit several documents with your license application. This means you’ll need to file business paperwork with the Colorado Secretary of State and meet state insurance requirements before applying, so you can submit the required documents with your application.
Types of General Contractor Licenses in Colorado
Since Colorado doesn’t require contractor licenses at the state level, the types of license classifications and contractor licensing requirements vary in each locality. The following covers the types of general contractor licenses in two of the largest Colorado municipalities.
Denver Construction Supervisor Certificate classifications include:
Class A: To erect, add to, alter, demolish, or repair any building or structure. This certificate requires seven years of notarized experience building commercial buildings. Project manager experience or a project manager diploma can qualify for one year of experience. A bachelor’s degree in structural engineering or architecture from an accredited college may be substituted for up to two years of the required field work.
Class B: To erect, add to, alter, demolish, or repair any building or structure classified as less than a high rise, as defined by the International Building Code (IBC). This certificate requires four years of notarized experience building commercial buildings. Project manager experience, a project manager diploma, or a bachelor’s degree in structural engineering or architecture from an accredited college may be substituted for one year of the required field work.
Class B-2: To erect, add to, alter, demolish, or repair any building or structure with the highest floor level or occupiable roof at a height of 30 feet or less above the lowest level of fire department access. This certificate requires four years of notarized experience building commercial buildings. Project manager experience, a project manager diploma, or a bachelor’s degree in structural engineering or architecture from an accredited college may be substituted for one year of the required field work.
Residential Contractor Class C: To erect, add to, alter, demolish, or repair one- or two-family dwellings, U Occupancy buildings classified as miscellaneous structures by the International Code Council, and attached single-unit dwellings. This certificate requires two years of notarized building construction experience with up to one year of building construction design work submitted for an equal amount of fieldwork.
Specialty Class D: For contractors or subcontractors to work only in a specialty area.
Colorado Springs license classifications include:
Building Contractor A-1 and A-2: For general commercial construction
Building Contractor B-1 and B-2: For limited commercial construction
Building Contractor C: For home construction
Building Contractor D: For specialty trades
Building Contractor E: For certain types of residential repair or remodeling
Getting a general contractor license
The bottom line is that each locality determines whether you need a license. In Denver and Colorado Springs, you need licenses to legally perform commercial or residential contracting work, whether that be initial construction, repair, or additions to properties.
Denver
In Denver, the city’s Community Planning and Development oversees contractor licensing. The city has a two-step licensing process. Contractors must obtain, or employ someone who obtains a Construction Supervisor certificate before they apply for a contractor license. Each Supervisor certificate classification has minimum experience and testing requirements.
Here’s how you go about getting licensed in Denver.
APPLY FOR CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISOR CERTIFICATE: Once you’ve compiled notarized letters of experience to prove you’ve met minimum experience requirements, you can apply for a Construction Supervisor certificate. There are three ways to submit your application:
Online: Complete the form online. You’ll need to scan and upload the notarized letters of experience.
PDF: Print a blank form and mail all documents to the Department of Community Planning and Development in Denver.
In person: Print out the PDF and submit documents in person at the Wellington Webb Municipal Office Building.
PAY CONTRACTOR LICENSE FEE: Once your application is approved, you’ll need to pay a $250 license fee, which is the same for all license classifications. You can pay online through e-permits, mail a payment, or pay in person. A guide for license fees and payment options is found here along with the address for mailing payments.
TAKE LICENSING EXAM: If your Supervisor certificate requires you to pass an International Code Council (ICC) exam, you have 90 days after application approval to submit a copy of your ICC pass letter. Here’s a breakdown of ICC testing exams by license type:
Class A License: ICC Exam #F11 National Standard General Building Contractor A
Class B and Class B-2 Licenses: ICC Exam #F12 National Standard Building B
Residential Contractor Class C License: ICC Exam #F13 National Standard Residential Building Contractor C
The city directs applicants to visit the ICC Contractor/Trades Examination program website to learn more about how to schedule their test.
APPLY FOR CONTRACTOR LICENSE: Once you or someone you employ at your company has received a Supervisor certificate, you can apply for a contractor license. You’ll need to submit the application along with a Supervisor Statement of Responsibility and a list of documents from the Secretary of State, depending on how your business is set up. You can submit your contractor license application by:
Online: Use e-permits to register for a free, online account to submit your application and attach required documents.
PDF: Print a blank form and mail all documents to the Department of Community Planning and Development.
In person: Print out the PDF and submit the documents in person at the Wellington Webb Municipal Office Building.
Colorado Springs
In Colorado Springs, the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department issues building contractor licenses. Here’s how you go about getting licensed in Colorado Springs.
APPLY FOR LICENSE: Applicants must have a Social Security number and a driver’s license or photo ID card. Contractors need to pass an exam and submit several documents, which are listed below, before the license application is considered. There are three ways to apply for a building contractor license:
Online: Fill out an online form.
PDF fillable: Download an interactive PDF document.
PDF print only: Download a blank print form.
PAY APPLICATION PROCESSING FEE: Applicants pay a $50 application processing fee by cash, check, or credit card.
SUBMIT REFERENCE FORMS: The applicant must complete and submit three Pikes Peak Regional Building reference request forms, which are found in the application.
PROVIDE PROOF OF INSURANCE: Applicants must show a certificate of general liability insurance. According to the Pikes Peak Regional building code, contractor licenses A, B, or C, need to show minimum required insurance coverage of $1 million each occurance and $2 million general aggregate. The contractor business name in the license application and on the insurance certificate must exactly match the Colorado Secretary of State records. Applicants must also meet the state of Colorado insurance requirements and show a Workers’ Compensation certificate or rejection of coverage.
SUBMIT CERTIFICATE OF GOOD STANDING: Applicants must submit a Certificate of Good Standing from the Colorado Secretary of State.
PASS JUDICIAL RECORD CHECK: Applicants must pass a name-based judicial record check.
TAKE LICENSING EXAM: Before the licensing committee reviews the application, Class A, B, or C license applicants must pass the ICC National Standardized or ICC Colorado Standard licensing exam. The board accepts exams passed in 2012 or later.
PAY LICENSE FEE: The applicant must obtain the license within 60 days of approval.
License fees are as follows:
Class A: $200
Class B: $175
Class C: $150
The Pikes Peak Regional Building Department offers a free Contractor 101 class the first Wednesday of each month to learn how to work with the department. Visit here to register for upcoming classes.
Getting a residential or specialty license
Many Colorado cities offer specialty construction licenses.
Denver has 45 Specialty Class D certificates that cover specific trades including drywall, concrete and foundations, and masonry. This allows contractors or subcontractors to work only in a specialty area, without obtaining a comprehensive general contractor license. Applicants need to show proof of experience and pay a $250 license fee. Some specialty certificates require applicants to pass an exam. Those performing mechanical (HVAC) work follow a separate application and licensing process.
Colorado Springs has a Building Contractor D specialty license for a single trade, such as foundation repair, masonry, or siding. It also offers a Building Contractor E license for those performing nonstructural remodeling to single-family or two-family dwellings or constructing accessory structures such as decks and fences. Mechanical contractors go through a separate application and licensing process.
The state regulates electrician and plumbing licenses. In Denver, this means electrical and plumbing contractors can skip the first step of applying for a Supervisor certificate and apply directly for a contractor’s license. In Colorado Springs, electrical and plumbing contractors need to register with the building department.
For more information, you can also consult our guides to getting your HVAC license, plumbing license, or electrical license in Colorado.
What Are the Requirements of a Colorado Contractor License?
The requirements for licensure as a contractor in Colorado are intended to demonstrate that an individual who will be serving the public is properly prepared to do the job right. To that end there are experience, business, and financial prerequisites. You’ll need to check the exact requirements and the order they need to be completed, as it varies depending on the locality.
You must be at least 18 years of age.
You must have a Social Security number or a taxpayer identification number.
You must have a driver’s license or state or federal photo identification card.
You need to register a business with the Secretary of State.
You may need to show proof of minimum years of experience or education, depending on city requirements.
Pass a licensing exam.
Apply for a contractor license.
Pay all fees.
Obtain and submit a certificate of general liability insurance.
Obtain and submit a workers' compensation insurance certificate or an exemption from the requirements.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Contractor License in Colorado?
The amount of time it takes to get a contractor license depends on city requirements. In Denver, if you want to apply for a Class A license, you need to show proof of seven years of experience building commercial buildings. For a Class C license for home construction, you need to show proof of two years of experience. Other cities may not have any minimum experience requirements.
Application processing times vary. In Denver, both the Supervisor certificate application and the Contractor license application take 14-20 business days to review. Those submitting online will receive an approval or denial by email. Those submitting an application by mail will receive a phone call notifying approval or denial.
In Colorado Springs, the license and registration process takes 6-8 weeks. Applicants must meet all requirements three weeks before the licensing committee meets. Some licenses require contractors to appear before the licensing committee. If that’s the case, you’ll receive a phone call with that information.
What Business Owners Need to Know
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ServiceTitan features:
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Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app.
Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency.
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Mobile payment acceptance, eliminating lost checks and increasing cash flow.
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Contractor License in Colorado?
The amount of money it costs to get a contractor license in Colorado depends on the local rules where you’re applying. If you need to pass an ICC exam, you’ll pay a fee to take the exam.
In Denver, Contractor licenses cost $250. Renewing a Supervisor certificate costs $60. Denver’s Community and Planning Development lists contractor license fees here.
In Colorado Springs, a license application fee costs $50. License fees in Colorado Springs vary depending on the license classification, and range from $150 to $200. The license renewal fee remains the same.
In addition, many cities and counties also require contracting businesses to obtain business licenses.
Colorado Contractor License Training Programs and Schools
There are no specific educational or course requirements to get a Colorado contractor license. Cities with a minimum experience requirement may allow you to substitute educational training for some of the years of experience, which could help you obtain a license more quickly. There are training programs throughout the state that can help you prepare for a career in construction.
If you choose to start your career path at a college or university, you can pursue a degree in construction management or construction engineering. There are many higher education options throughout the Centennial State that offer these types of programs.
The following schools offer a Construction Management or Construction Engineering Bachelor of Science degree.
There are also many Colorado Community Colleges throughout the state that offer Construction Management programs and Associate degree and certificate options.
If you don’t obtain formal schooling or training, but want to learn on the job, you may want to consider an apprenticeship. Apprenticeship Colorado is the state agency that provides oversight and registration of registered apprenticeship programs. The Construction Education Foundation also lists resources for Colorado trade apprenticeship programs. A full apprenticeship typically lasts two to five years, according to the organization. However, you will work, accumulate necessary experience, and can earn money all at the same time.
Another option is BuildStrong Academy of Colorado. According to its website, it provides industry-driven training programs for youth and adults. It aims to build a highly-skilled labor force to meet the demands of Colorado’s expanding construction industry.
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Does Colorado Reciprocate Contractor Licenses?
Each locality has its own rules for reciprocity. Neither Denver or Colorado Springs reciprocate contractor licenses. You’ll need to check with each locality where you plan to work to determine what licenses you will need.
Do I Need to Renew my Contractor License in Colorado?
Yes, many Colorado localities require you to renew your contractor license within a set time period before it expires. Each city sets its own renewal requirements. In Denver, contractor licenses must be renewed every three years. The fee is $250. The cost to renew a supervisor certificate is $60.
In Colorado Springs, licenses must be renewed annually. Contractors can renew online or submit a notarized paper renewal form by email, fax, or mail. The fee is $200 for Class A, $175 for Class B, and $150 for Class C licenses.
Are There Any Penalties for Contracting Without a License in Colorado?
Working as a contractor without the appropriate licenses is a violation of local code. Each city has its own penalties for contracting without a license. For instance, the Pikes Peak Regional Building Code governing Colorado Springs states anyone violating the building code or a provision of the code is guilty of a misdemeanor and will be fined not more than $500 or imprisoned not more than 90 days for each day of the violation.
National Certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. There are many professional organizations that offer certification. These certifications are not required but can add to your marketability and therefore increase your opportunity to make more money.
Some of the top construction certifications are:
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Safety Certificate
Construction Management Association of America Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
National Association of Safety Professionals (NASP) Certified Safety Manager (CSM) certification
National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER)
Continuing Education
Though Colorado does not require continuing education to renew your license, you will want to stay informed about emerging technology in the industry. There are many ways to keep yourself current in regard to the technology put to use in construction, roofing, energy and environmental designs, efficiency standards, and more. For example, distributors want you to know about their company’s latest offerings and will often hold training sessions about new and changing equipment and parts. Another option is the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) which provides continuing education courses.
Resources
You can stay up to date on contracting industry news several ways:
Check top blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends, and discover ideas on how to grow your business.
Listen to top podcasts like ServiceTitan’s “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast.
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