Licensing Guides
State Contractor License: How to Become a General Contractor in Idaho
Contractor, ID
Table of Contents
Why Do You Need a Contractor License in Idaho?
How Can You Get a Contractor License in Idaho?
Types of General Contractor Licenses in Idaho
What Are the Requirements of an Idaho Contractor License?
How Long Does It Take to Get a Contractor License in Idaho?
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Contractor License in Idaho?
Idaho Contractor License Training Programs and Schools
Does Idaho Reciprocate Contractor Licenses?
Do I Need to Renew my Contractor License in Idaho?
Are There Any Penalties for Contracting Without a License in Idaho?
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). Idaho employs 1,650 managers and 9,590 laborers and helpers. The national number for managers is projected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033, and 8% for laborers and helpers. In Idaho, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate for laborers is more than triple the national number at 27%, and for managers it’s even higher at 31%. 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 Idaho?
Idaho law requires contractors performing construction costing a minimum of $2,000 in labor and materials to register with the Idaho State Contractors Board. This includes commercial and residential builders and those performing remodeling work.
While contractors register with the state and receive a registration number, they do not obtain state licensure.
Other professions may need to register with the state as contractors. Those licensed as a public works contractor or construction manager with the Public Works Licensing Board may register if engaged in construction outside of their public works license. They are exempt from paying a registration fee.
Other licensed professionals in the construction industry, such as architects, electrical contractors, engineers or surveyors, plumbers, manufactured home installers, service company contractors, or HVAC installers do not need to register unless they are engaged in contracting beyond the scope of their license.
In addition, some Idaho cities require contractors to obtain a city license. For instance, Idaho Falls requires all contractors obtaining a building permit within city limits to hold an active contractor license. This license requires applicants to either pass an International Code Council exam, have a bachelor’s degree in a particular field, or hold a reciprocal license.
How Can You Get a Contractor License in Idaho?
The Idaho Contractors Board within the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL) regulates contractor registration.
To register as a contractor as an individual, you’ll need to obtain general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. The application process consists of providing current information to the board, such as your business name and contact information, and choosing the contractor type that best fits your business.
The contractors board lists answers to frequently asked questions about contractor registration on its FAQ page.
Types of General Contractor Licenses in Idaho
Idaho has four types of general contractor classifications. State law defines a contractor as any person who undertakes or submits a bid to perform construction, or a construction manager.
Contractors are not limited to performing a specific type of work based on the code they choose, and may perform any type of construction allowed under state law, according to the registration application.
Types of contractors include:
General Commercial Builder
General Residential Builder
General Remodel Builder
Supplier
In addition, Idaho has 46 types of subcontractors. These include:
Acoustical ceilings
Alarm/AV/data systems
Appliance Installation
Asphalt paving
Cabinets/countertops
Carports
Cleaning services
Closet systems
Concrete flatwork
Demolition/abatement/mitigation
Decks
Doors/windows
Drywall/plaster
Elevators/dumb waiters
Excavation/trenching/site prep
Fencing/gates/barriers
Finish flooring installation
Finish hardware/mirrors
Finish labor
Fire protection systems
Fireplaces/woodstoves
Footings/foundation
Framing labor and rough carpentry
Gutters
Handyman
Heavy equipment
Insulation
Landscaping/sprinklers
Log structures
Ornamental iron/railings
Painting/wall coverings
Pools/spas
Pre-engineered structures
Roads/driveways
Roofing
Septic systems
Siding/soffits/fascias
Signage
Stairway systems
Structural steel/metal studs
Stucco/masonry/tile
Tanks/containers
Wallpapering
Water well systems
Waterproofing
Welding
Getting a general contractor license
The bottom line is that you need to register in the state of Idaho to do any kind of commercial or residential construction project, remodeling, repair, or demolition if the project costs more than $2,000. Here’s how you go about getting registered.
OBTAIN LIABILITY INSURANCE: Applicants must obtain a general liability insurance policy, including products and continued operations insurance covering the applicant’s construction operations in the sum of not less than $300,000 single limit. The applicant must submit a certificate of general liability insurance with the registration application. The insured needs to be listed as the certificate holder, not the DOPL.
OBTAIN WORKERS’ COMPENSATION INSURANCE: Applicants must show a certificate issued by an insurance company authorized to do business in the state of Idaho that the applicant obtained a workers’ compensation insurance policy or provide a statement of exemption.
APPLY FOR REGISTRATION: Applicants choose either an individual or business entity application. Business entities include general or limited partnerships, LLPs, LLCs, and corporations. Application PDFs are found on this page. Applicants may also call the DOPL’s phone number at (208) 334-3233 to request a mailed application. Completed applications and required documentation must be sent to the division's mailing address: Division of Occupational & Professional Licenses, C/O General Contractors Board, PO Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0063. Applications and documents may also be hand delivered to the office.
PAY APPLICATION FEE: Pay the $50 registration application fee. Make checks payable to the Idaho DOPL.
Getting a residential or specialty license
Idaho contractor registration covers commercial, residential, and specialty contractors.
The DOPL licenses several occupations in the construction trade, including the following occupations formerly licensed by the Idaho Division of Building Safety:
Plumbers and plumbing contractors
Electricians and electrical contractors
HVAC technicians and contractors
Public works contractors and construction managers
Manufactured and modular housing manufacturers, retailers, resale brokers, service companies, salespersons and installers
For more information on license requirements, you can also consult our guides to getting your HVAC license, plumbing license, or electrical license in Idaho.
What Are the Requirements of an Idaho Contractor License?
The Idaho Contractors Board aims to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public and homeowners through the registration of contractors. To that end, there are business and financial prerequisites.
You must be at least 18 years of age to own a business in Idaho.
You must have a Social Security number or an Employer Tax Identification Number.
You must obtain general liability insurance of not less than $300,000 single limit.
You must obtain workers’ compensation insurance or provide a statement of exemption.
Apply for contractor registration.
Pay application fee.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Contractor License in Idaho?
The Idaho Contractors Board processes registration applications once it receives all supporting documentation. The board posts meeting dates on its website. Once contractors are registered, they must prominently display their registration number within 60 days of registration at their place of business and jobsite, and on all advertising, building permits, contracts, letterheads, purchase orders, and subcontracts.
What Business Owners Need to Know
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How Much Does It Cost to Get a Contractor License in Idaho?
It costs $50 to register as a contractor in Idaho, either as an individual or a business. Other trades in the construction industry may require additional licensing and fees.
Idaho Contractor License Training Programs and Schools
There are no specific educational or course requirements to register as a general contractor in Idaho. However, training programs throughout the state 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. There are higher education options throughout the Gem State offering these types of programs.
The following schools offer a Construction Management Bachelor of Science degree.
The state’s system of public community and technical colleges provides many locations throughout the state to pursue a degree or diploma in the areas of construction and the trades.
If you don’t attend any formal schooling or training, but want to learn on the job, you may want to consider an apprenticeship. The Idaho Department of Labor lists official registered apprenticeship opportunities throughout the state.
Other resources for finding Idaho apprenticeships in the skilled trades include:
Through an apprenticeship, you work, accumulate necessary experience, and can earn money all at the same time. The length of time to complete an apprenticeship depends on the trade and program.
The #1 newsletter for the trades.
Does Idaho Reciprocate Contractor Licenses?
Idaho does not hold reciprocity agreements with other states for commercial or residential contractors, but reciprocates plumbing and electrical licenses if the license holder meets certain requirements.
Idaho reciprocity agreements include:
Electrical: Colorado, Maine, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, and Wyoming
Plumbing: Montana, Oregon, and Washington
Do I Need to Renew my Contractor License in Idaho?
Yes, contractors need to renew their registration with the Idaho Contractors Board every year. Registrants receive a renewal notice about six weeks before the expiration date printed on the registration card.
Contractors renew online and upload the required documents. Individual or business entity renewal costs $50. Those renewing late pay an additional $35 fee. Active members of the military may be eligible for a waiver of renewal fees and other renewal requirements.
Those with questions about renewal may email BCRErenewals@dopl.idaho.gov or call (208) 577-2535.
Are There Any Penalties for Contracting Without a License in Idaho?
Yes. Anyone working as a contractor without registering is guilty of a misdemeanor and may be punished by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or jail time of up to six months, according to state law.
Contractors who do not register cannot obtain building permits, waive any right to a lien on real property, and lose the right to sue to collect money for work under contract, according to the contractors board.
In addition, contractors must ensure everyone they engage on the job is registered, including other contractors or subcontractors. Failure to do so is a violation and could result in loss of lien rights.
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
Idaho does not require continuing education to renew commercial or residential contractor registration. Some licenses in the trades, such as journeyman and master electrician licenses, require completion of continuing education before license renewal.
Although there aren’t continuing education requirements for general contractors, 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 to stay in the know is continuing education courses with the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC).
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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